A sweet story about family and community with an underlying message about the power of kindness. This feels a bit like contemporary fiction for a middle grade audience—regular people, living their regular lives, while trying to make the most of a bad situation. It felt slow in places and overly saccharine in others, but the writing was solid.
Such a powerful and emotional read. This is a fast-paced and compelling continuation to the Sir Callie series, with deep, fully-developed characters and a dynamic plot that is full of adventure.
Great use of language. Vivid details create an atmospheric story that is booth eerie and educational. You get to learn about different Halloween customs as you follow a group of boys as they attempt to save their friend on Halloween night.
Such a fun and cute holiday read. This book is a celebration of both Hanuka and Christmas. It is a nod to adoption. It is an exploration of family. And it is a reminder not to let fears stop you from living your best life. Be brave and flourish!
A thoroughly engaging read with great Halloween ambiance. Fast-paced, whimsical, and fun. The light, playful tone set this book apart from most ghost stories while still delivering on the spooky vibes.
Super quirky and rather outlandish.
Unfortunately this was pretty dry and basic. It covers all the broad strokes of Mikaela's skiing career, but that's about it.
This is a lovely, character-driven novel set in a post-apocalyptic world. Tender and emotional, with an array of diverse characters. This book touches on a number of deep topics: gender identity, Indigenous culture, and the corrupting influence of power and greed. It also addresses the burden of being a caregiver—the pressure, the burnout, and the desire to take a break and do nothing (even when it is an impossible wish).
A fantastic debut novel. This book has so much Halloween-inspired fun. It is very reminiscent of The Nightmare Before Christmas both in tone and quirkiness. Fully developed characters that led to a tear-jerker of an ending.
This book celebrates imagination. It immediately reminded me of one of my own childhood favorites, Shel Silverstein. Upbeat and filled with whimsy. Even the art is a fun compliment to the poetry.
This is a very character-driven novel-in-verse that explores the complexities of race, from the point of view of a Chinese girl adopted into a white family. I enjoyed the writing and found sections that completely drew me in. And I was particularly enamored with the life lessons that are tucked inside this book—many of which deeply resonated with me.
Fantastic Halloween vibes. This story resonates creepy. Great characters and very atmospheric. Fast paced and compelling.
