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naomiysl's reviews
995 reviews
The Creepening of Dogwood House by Eden Royce
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
The second half of this story is wonderful. Creepy, based in real cultural practices, some touching connective family moments, great suspense, it's got everything. Why did I have to wait 150 pages before it got good? I wish the first half of this story were cut down to one chapter and then we got into the good stuff right away.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Religious bigotry and Death of parent
I Can Help in the Neighborhood by David Hyde Costello
hopeful
inspiring
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
very sweet, in a comes-around-goes-around/one good deed causes another kind of way.
Splinter & Ash by Marieke Nijkamp
- 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
5.0
This reads as a love letter to all Tamora Pierce fans. Plus, disabled princess and nonbinary squire save the kingdom, what's not to love? I am a little confused by the author's choice to stick to feminine pronouns for Splinter, but on the whole I'm pleased with the representation of Splinter as a person who everybody except the bad guys are totally fine about. I also like the way the story is fully closed yet leaves enough of the plot lines out there for a potential sequel. Can't wait to read it!
Bookshops & Bonedust by Travis Baldree
3.5
Lovely comfort read of a story, just a warm hug with nothing else.
Iggy Who Breathes Fire by Erika Meza, Carrie Kruck
5.0
I LOVE this book about a girl who breathes fire, and instead of quenching her power learns to use it for good. Such a great story.
When the Stammer Came to Stay by Maggie O'Farrell
3.0
A nice depiction of how a stammer could work, incorporating some tips about how to interact with a person who stammers into the story, but centering the experience in a nice way.
Grown with Love by Valeria Wicker
4.0
Story of community building that is super sweet. Hand to teachers more than directly children, but that's alright.
What I Must Tell The World by Jay Leslie
4.0
Gorgeous telling of how A Raisin in the Sun came to the stage, and including Hansberry's coming out! Love it.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism
Minor: Homophobia