Erica Talks Books(and sometimes other things!)

Quirky and lively art. This book champions the idea that if at first you don't succeed, try try again---because you never know when your efforts might be rewarded.

Another amazing book by Klune—further proof that he is a master of character development. The characters are all unique, deep, and very human. I loved their quirks and interpersonal relations, which all feel fluid and unforced. You can't help but laugh with them, love them, and cry for them—for both their losses and their joys.

Just wow. I'm not usually a fan of biographies, but this book hooked me right from the start. What a beautiful story. So raw and real. And while Jewel's experiences are entirely her own, I found myself surprised by just how relatable this book is.

Vivid and quirky art. The story however, felt a bit flat for me. And, worse, the matriarchal main character is essentially defined by the crumbs on her clothes. The whole thing had a subtle ridiculing / bullying / condescending vibe, which I didn't like. I actually felt sorry for the main character.

An otherworldly romance set in Paris. I loved the diversity of magical/supernatural creatures. And I also loved the diversity of the characters sexual and romantic identities—a very good representation of different identities.

A fictional story that is based on historic events. Educational and moving. This story is a great way to communicate the role that braids played during the Transatlantic slave trade. Age appropriate and culturally significant.

Interesting main character and story set in space. This book had a lot of exciting elements. There were even dinosaurs!

Based on a traditional Korean folktale. Vibrant, animated art and a story that celebrates the power of the mind—both its effect on our health, as well as thinking outside the box when it comes to problem solving.

A quick and joyous read that celebrates the magic of Christmas and the power of the imagination. A great book for the Christmas season. This one left me smiling.

This book reminds readers to celebrate the spirit of Christmas.

Creepy and unsettling. This book is filled with mystery and intrigue. And it has some serious haunted house vibes.

This is an interesting and thought-provoking read. Despite it being over 50 years old, it is still relevant. It touches upon so many important issues—overpopulation, environmental contamination, race relations—all while challenging the reader to form their own opinions about what changes would make humanity better; or if humanity, as a whole, is even capable of grasping the far reaching implications of how these changes would actually impact humanity.