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jennaniho's reviews
85 reviews
Warrior Girl Unearthed by Angeline Boulley
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
This was such a beautifully impactful story, and such a powerful continuation to 'Firekeepers Daughter'. I also loved the narrator, Isabella Star LeBlanc. She made it quite easy to understand some of the Ojibwe pronunciations that I didn’t understand from the first book, because I’m not from the community. And this made the story richer, deeply meaningful. It also made me cry at the end and I think that is something that Angeline does very well in her books. 😅 She always makes me cry.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Cultural appropriation, and Colonisation
Moderate: Mental illness, Racism, Forced institutionalization, Kidnapping, Grief, and Murder
Minor: Eating disorder, Medical content, Car accident, and Abandonment
Parable of the Sower by Octavia E. Butler
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
"There is no end to what a living world will demand of you."
_________________________
To say this book is heavy, eye-opening, and impactful is an understatement. Octavia E. Butler does a good job at vividly showing what many marginalized communities have experienced for decades: non-stop violence. And though I really didn't like the romanticization of an 18-year-old girl with a 50+ year-old man, the rest of the book's focus was on survival from the ongoing violence that Lauren and her group faced daily.
Likewise, I agree that this book is the closest thing to a dystopian reality that we have, but (again) this is a reality that many black and brown folks have experienced before, and still do.
_________________________
To say this book is heavy, eye-opening, and impactful is an understatement. Octavia E. Butler does a good job at vividly showing what many marginalized communities have experienced for decades: non-stop violence. And though I really didn't like the romanticization of an 18-year-old girl with a 50+ year-old man, the rest of the book's focus was on survival from the ongoing violence that Lauren and her group faced daily.
Likewise, I agree that this book is the closest thing to a dystopian reality that we have, but (again) this is a reality that many black and brown folks have experienced before, and still do.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal death, Death, Gun violence, Death of parent, Murder, and Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: Adult/minor relationship, Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, Incest, Sexual assault, Slavery, Blood, Grief, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Racism, Xenophobia, and Cannibalism
The Unfortunate Side Effects of Heartbreak and Magic by Breanne Randall
challenging
emotional
funny
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's quirky, mystical, and lighthearted.
That said, I initially struggled to connect with it, likely because it’s been a while since I’ve read a witchy fictional romance. Also, I'm a witchcraft practitioner and I kinda disliked how the author mixed Christian ideology with magical practices.
That said, I initially struggled to connect with it, likely because it’s been a while since I’ve read a witchy fictional romance. Also, I'm a witchcraft practitioner and I kinda disliked how the author mixed Christian ideology with magical practices.
There were a few minor editorial hiccups (many words were repeated in one paragraphs or one chapter), as well as some trauma that the book glossed over, the slow-burn romance didn’t fully resonate with me until about halfway through, and some scenes were overly explained. Nevertheless, the story was super charming and fairy-like. I really liked Sadie's relationship with her grandmother and how culturally relevant Raquel's family was. I hated her brother Seth and I also hated how "devoted" Sadie was to him. I wanted her to explode earlier in the story, not right at the end. However, I did liked how the author represented depression and anxiety.
Overall, if you are looking for a light read, mystical story with a second chance romance, family secrets and a magical house and bakery, this one is for you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief
Moderate: Death, Mental illness, and Suicidal thoughts
Minor: Domestic abuse and Sexual assault
Anita de Monte Laughs Last by Xochitl Gonzalez
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I truly enjoyed this book.
González masterfully explores the intersection of art, identity, and systemic oppression through the intertwined stories of two Latina artists, Anita de Monte (Cuban) and Raquel Toro (Puerto Rican). Set in different decades, their struggles reveal the unsurprising racism, misogyny, and white privilege that lives, not only in the art world, but also in their personal relationships.
The book's first half feels a bit tedious but, after the second half, this serves the narrative. It blends ghostly horror, humor, heavy social commentary, heartbreak, and a touch of magical realism. The characters are very unlikable, but I think this makes the story more human; reflecting the complexities of toxic relationships and the challenges of navigating oppressive systems in personal spaces.
As a Puerto Rican, I LOVED González's inclusion of Taino and Yoruba spirituality. It adds richness to the story, highlighting our cultural heritage, which is often overlooked.
The only criticism I have is how the book’s inspiration came from real-life Cuban-American artist Ana Mendieta, and I would've liked for González to (at least) mention her as inspiration in the Acknowledgements section, instead of saying it on interviews. This raises ethical concerns about consent and representation, which (ironically) are the very themes of erasure her book critiques.
Other than that, this haunting and thought-provoking novel is a powerful commentary on who controls narratives in art and society, and who gets forgotten. What it takes to be accepted, and what it takes to be liberated.
González masterfully explores the intersection of art, identity, and systemic oppression through the intertwined stories of two Latina artists, Anita de Monte (Cuban) and Raquel Toro (Puerto Rican). Set in different decades, their struggles reveal the unsurprising racism, misogyny, and white privilege that lives, not only in the art world, but also in their personal relationships.
The book's first half feels a bit tedious but, after the second half, this serves the narrative. It blends ghostly horror, humor, heavy social commentary, heartbreak, and a touch of magical realism. The characters are very unlikable, but I think this makes the story more human; reflecting the complexities of toxic relationships and the challenges of navigating oppressive systems in personal spaces.
As a Puerto Rican, I LOVED González's inclusion of Taino and Yoruba spirituality. It adds richness to the story, highlighting our cultural heritage, which is often overlooked.
The only criticism I have is how the book’s inspiration came from real-life Cuban-American artist Ana Mendieta, and I would've liked for González to (at least) mention her as inspiration in the Acknowledgements section, instead of saying it on interviews. This raises ethical concerns about consent and representation, which (ironically) are the very themes of erasure her book critiques.
Other than that, this haunting and thought-provoking novel is a powerful commentary on who controls narratives in art and society, and who gets forgotten. What it takes to be accepted, and what it takes to be liberated.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Infidelity, Misogyny, Racism, Toxic relationship, Grief, Murder, Gaslighting, and Classism
Moderate: Body shaming, Bullying, Cursing, Death, Eating disorder, Racial slurs, and Blood
Minor: Body horror, Homophobia, Grief, Cultural appropriation, and Alcohol
Social Movements: The Structure of Collective Mobilization by Paul Almeida
hopeful
informative
reflective
slow-paced
4.5
This book is imperative for anyone trying to understand, and even feel inspired to support social movements. It is a text book at the graduate level, so many higher education terminology is included and you might want to be patient when reading this book. Likewise, I'm personally thinking of buying to keep it as a resource book.
Furthermore, the book was released in 2019; so, it takes in the social movements of Black Lives Matter and the Women's March in the late 2010s as the biggest in the country at of that date. We all know that those two impactful events set the ground for what we are currently experiencing in the 2020s.
Furthermore, the book was released in 2019; so, it takes in the social movements of Black Lives Matter and the Women's March in the late 2010s as the biggest in the country at of that date. We all know that those two impactful events set the ground for what we are currently experiencing in the 2020s.
Firekeeper's Daughter by Angeline Boulley
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This was the first book I read about the Ojibwe community and culture by an Ojibwe author. Angeline's writing is riveting and beautiful. I couldn't put this book down because it is so good! You could read how she loves her culture through the character of Daunis Fontaine. It's the kind of book that deserves a TV series (which I think it's already in the works!).
What I love the most about this book is how the story flows seamlessly from beginning to end. Daunis is a character that you instantly connect with because of her authenticity and strong spirit. Though there were moments in the book where the story felt a bit long and overly descriptive, it was quickly picked up by the thrill of a clue, a newly discovered secret, or even a new betrayal.
What I love the most about this book is how the story flows seamlessly from beginning to end. Daunis is a character that you instantly connect with because of her authenticity and strong spirit. Though there were moments in the book where the story felt a bit long and overly descriptive, it was quickly picked up by the thrill of a clue, a newly discovered secret, or even a new betrayal.
Another element I love about the book is how it explores the relationship between Native and Non-Native folk in current times, showing mature themes, but not in a graphic way. This adds to Daunis' relatability, because these issues continue to impact people of all ages, especially Indigenous communities, and I feel they were treated realistically in this book.
Firekeeper's Daughter can be viewed as a coming-of-age story, but I see it more as a hero's journey. Daunis Fontaine has all the traits of a heroine: she is courageous, cunning, empathetic, intuitive, and capable of learning from her mistakes. Her story mirrors that of many Indigenous women who have faced unimaginable—and often unjust—challenges in their desire to be authentically themselves in a world that continues to push them to believe they can't. While we often admire Greek heroes, I admire Native women even more. Because their stories are not myths...they are living proof that you can overcome adversities no matter what comes at you.
Firekeeper's Daughter can be viewed as a coming-of-age story, but I see it more as a hero's journey. Daunis Fontaine has all the traits of a heroine: she is courageous, cunning, empathetic, intuitive, and capable of learning from her mistakes. Her story mirrors that of many Indigenous women who have faced unimaginable—and often unjust—challenges in their desire to be authentically themselves in a world that continues to push them to believe they can't. While we often admire Greek heroes, I admire Native women even more. Because their stories are not myths...they are living proof that you can overcome adversities no matter what comes at you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Drug abuse, Gun violence, Grief, and Murder
Moderate: Infidelity, Racial slurs, Racism, Rape, Toxic relationship, and Classism
Minor: Misogyny and Medical trauma
This book does not shy away from the violence against native/indigenous women. It is an empowering fictional story that highlights these very real topics.
What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
I was so happy when our book club picked What the River Knows by Isabel Ibañez because I had already bought it a few weeks before we started, and I couldn’t wait to dive in! The story turned out to be quite different from what I expected, but it surprised me in the best way.
The author described this book as 'The Mummy' meets 'Pride & Prejudice', with both movies serving as inspiration, alongside her trip to Egypt. The vibes and aesthetics are exactly so. Ibañez does an amazing job at balancing just the right amount of history, adventure, thrill, and enigma with complex characters and my favorite slow-burn romance subplot: the 'I hate you' but 'touch her or die' type. Her writing style kept us so entertained, that the amount of theories our book club came up with was enough to write a whole new saga.
Though there were times when Inez's character annoyed me, I think that was the overall point of her story. She acted like any late teenager would in her situation, especially in the late 1800s. And I do like it when the characters' personality matches their actual age. Also, I was happy with the inclusion of 1800s Argentina. It gave the book a different cultural background and unknown history, especially for those who love stories centered around archeology and adventure; stepping away from usual English or American settings. Lastly, I liked that the author doesn't allow you to get too comfortable with a character or an arc. The plot twists were plot-twisting! Arriving at moments in the book that enhance the story instead of confusing it.
One of the things I was excited about in this book was how Ancient Egyptian history was woven in as a secondary character. Like the author, I’ve been fascinated by Ancient Egypt since childhood. Yet, so much of its history is often shrouded in myth or fantasy, that I was afraid this book was going to continue that trope. But Ibañez gives us just enough historical facts to ground the story in reality with vivid descriptions, and enough fantasy to allow our imagination to run wild. I felt the magical realism was too light for my liking, and I wished the book explained a bit more about Inez's magical connection with an ancient queen, but maybe it's something that will be explored in book two.
What the River Knows is both a coming-of-age of sorts, and a historical adventure with a splash of magical realism in it. It's filled with family secrets drama, suspense, and mystery. I can't wait to read the second book of this duology!
What the River Knows is both a coming-of-age of sorts, and a historical adventure with a splash of magical realism in it. It's filled with family secrets drama, suspense, and mystery. I can't wait to read the second book of this duology!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Alcoholism, Sexism, Toxic relationship, Grief, and Death of parent
Minor: Gun violence and Kidnapping
Becoming a Matriarch by Helen Knott
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
5.0
As someone just beginning to understand the painful and complex history Indigenous people have endured, this book resonated with me on a deeply personal level. Knott's storytelling is masterful, forcing me to confront my own biases—within myself, my family, and especially toward my Indigenous ancestors. I found myself in tears throughout the book and felt an overwhelming urge to embrace the author multiple times.
The book is deeply personal and will challenge you in many ways. Helen shares her raw emotions as she navigates the loss of her mother to cancer and, soon after, her grandmother to dementia. It’s a story about grief, letting go, and the uncertainty we often feel with our choices. Knott beautifully connects with her foremothers through her pain, receiving drops of wisdom along the way. I especially appreciated how she captures the difficulty of facing the present while still disentangling ourselves from the past.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Dementia and Death of parent
Moderate: Racial slurs, Racism, and Sexual violence
Minor: Domestic abuse and Drug use
El invencible verano de Liliana by Cristina Rivera Garza
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
4.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Emotional abuse, Sexual violence, and Murder
The Nature of Witches by Rachel Griffin
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
This book is not just about self-discovery, is also about self-acceptance. And have the bravery to fight for what you want.
This book felt like a love letter to our planet Earth in the most magical way possible. Rachel’s writing style feels fresh and easygoing, but still capable of projecting deep emotions and thoughts through her characters. I identified with Clara in many ways and I loved how the author connected different areas of all the characters’ personalities with what their season represents, making you understand even some of the unlikeable ones. Yet, Clara’s self-isolation and insecurity were a bit of a stereotype. However, her overall nature is an archetype for women who are deemed too emotional, too much, or too dangerous. She represents those who are struggling with their personal power, but learn that the only way to be happy and free is to show and embrace all sides of themselves.
This leads us to Sang, Clara’s mentor and romantic interest. Sang was probably my favorite character in the book. His quiet and calming personality clashed against Clara’s stubbornness and self-loathing and he was the perfect mirror for her to look at herself and face her fears. Sang reminded me a lot of my grandfather and how his gentle love soothes my abuela’s fiery and passionate personality. And just like my grandparents, Clara and Sang’s romance was not rushed or forced, but it was very present from the beginning. Furthermore, I liked how the author gently treated Clara and Paige’s love story breakup without eliminating Paige from Clara’s life.
Though the details of the magical system in the book are a bit vague, it still shows you how it works and how it is deeply connected with everything in the story. So much so that one of the characters researches how to take out harmful plants without the witch or the plant feeling pain. Or how clouds have a mind of their own when manifesting rain and thunder. Likewise, I love how the author has the witches loyal to the Sun rather than the traditional Moon veneration without demonizing the latter; as well as, referencing the Sun as a she (probably honoring sun goddesses hardly mentioned in modern witchcraft and paganism).
Finally, my favorite element of this story is how it tackles climate change by cleverly linking it to the essence of a witch. Throughout history, witches have been deeply connected to the earth, acting as stewards of the planet and utilizing its resources for healing and sustainability. This said, the book also highlights the pressing issue of how human greed is deeply detrimental to our environment. The term "shaders" is used in the book to describe non-magical people; which, I think is fitting because it can symbolize how this greed has cast a dark cloud over our world's climate and our lives. Despite this, the book offers a sense of hope by emphasizing the importance of working together as the only way to make a positive difference in restoring balance to our environment and our lives.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief
Moderate: Death
Minor: Death of parent