Nen and the Lonely Fisherman by Ian Eagleton

Illustrated by James Mayhew 5 stars A richly illustrated fairy tale of the love shared between a merman and a human. While marketed as an “update to The Little Mermaid story”, that doesn’t feel quite right. A merperson falls in love with a human and his father thinks humans are too dangerous. That’s where the…

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The Subtle Art of Folding Space by John Chu

4 stars Delightfully strange. This book offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people who keep the universe working properly as they go up against sabotage, covert operations, and family struggles. Fascinating characters. Unique dynamics. Such an interesting story. Honestly, there were parts of the science and interworking that went right over my head, but it…

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Fros, Fades, and Braids: A Brief History of Black Hair in America

by Sean Qualls 5 stars A fantastic read. Explores the history of Black hair in America, from pivotal Black figures in the haircare industry to views of Black hair through time and different styles and trends. Well written. This was such an interesting read. Includes sections on different styles such as afros, Jheri curl, locs,…

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Between the World and Me by Ta-Nehisi Coates

4 stars A powerful exploration of what it is to be a Black man in modern America. Through a letter to his son, Coates lays out the different worlds Black men inhabit and the never-ending assessment of risk as they navigate those worlds daily. Through an examination of history and reflections on his own personal…

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The Rabbits’ Wedding by Garth Williams

3 stars A sweet story showcasing the joy of two rabbits spending time together. The text is simple and sweet with soothing repetition and soft illustrations. I do feel that parts of the book were a bit dated. The marriage plotline felt odd to me to be honest because we never really see the rabbits…

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Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy by Rey Terciero

Illustrated by Bre Indigo 4 stars A fun modern retelling of Little Women. I am always drawn to Jo as a character and this one was no exception. Join the Marches, a blended family living in New York, as they take on life’s battles. The sisters deal with missing their father during his deployment, their…

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Strega Nona by Tomie dePaola

3 stars A humorous story in the tradition of “The Magic Porridge Pot” with important lessons about paying attention and following rules. When Strega Nona leaves to visit a friend, Big Anthony seizes the opportunity to try out her magic pasta pot. The pot begins to produce pasta for all the townspeople. Unfortunately, Big Anthony…

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