5 stars A fantastic story featuring a clever and mischievous princess, a kind and understanding prince, and beautiful artwork. Four princesses tell their father how they love him. But when Princess Amal compares her love to humble and common salt, the king banishes her from the kingdom. She finds a new home and comes up…
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5 stars Absolutely fantastic. Easily one of my new favorite books of all time. I wish I had this book as a kid. Jane has learned to accept her plainness. But after her parents’ death, her cousin is set to inherit everything including the house she lives in. Her only chance is to find someone…
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Illustrated by Cornelia Li 5 stars A gorgeous retelling of the story of Chang’e and how she became the moon goddess. The story focuses on Chang’e’s courage, kindness, and love of the Earth, and her relationship with her husband, Hou Yi. Well-told. The book wonderfully presents the tale’s action, romance, and lessons of kindness, selflessness,…
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Edited by Amber McBride, Taylor Byas, and Erica Martin 4 stars A fantastic collection of poetry from a variety of poets from past and present. I loved the showcase of different styles, formats, and topics. It was wonderful to read poems from familiar modern favorites like Ibi Zoboi and Kwame Alexander; famous poets throughout history…
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Illustrated by Steve McCarthy 5 stars The sweetest book about banshees that I have ever read. Bansheenies (baby banshees) typically bond with the first person they see, allowing them to learn when that person will die. Through happenstance, Beanie’s story is not quite so straightforward. Instead of simply telling her human, Rose, when her death…
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3 stars A Gothic fantasy with cozy Polish charm. This is an interesting read in its duality with the blending of Slavic folklore and Polish culture. On one side is baking, found family, and homemaking, and the other is magic, bargains, spirits, and demons. I didn’t particularly care for either of the main characters or…
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Illustrated by Kay O’Neill 4 stars A fascinating read following the history, legends, and pop culture surrounding unicorns. With gorgeous illustrations from O’Neill, this is a wonderful read. The book is broken down into sections that cover history, pop culture, how stories and representations have evolved over time, legends, related creatures and beings, tips on…
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Illustrated by Mae Waite 5 stars A poetic celebration of hula and Hawaiian culture and history. Follow a young girl’s journey to become a hula dancer, learning about her heritage, culture, folklore, and the natural world of her island home through dance. Absolutely gorgeous. The artwork is breathtaking. Each page is packed with color, emotion,…
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by Shinobumaru Translated by Kevin Ishizaka 4 stars Another fantastic adventure in the spirit realm featuring the human daughter of a spirit, an ex-exorcist turned apothecary, and the power of found family. It’s autumn in the spirit realm and the season is alive with good food, friends, and celebrations. But Shinonome is keeping a secret…
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3 stars An interesting examination of sightings related to the Beast of Bray Road, the history of werewolves and other creatures in the Midwest, and possible explanations for the slew of sightings. The author provides various stories told to her throughout the years. She explores the possibility of the unexplained with an open mind and…
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