Tag Archives: book reviews

The Spellshop by Sarah Beth Durst: A Cozy Fantasy Starring a Librarian with Unexpected Adventures

Posted on August 1, 2024 by Katy K.

As soon as I heard about this book, I was hooked. I’ve enjoyed lots of books by Sarah Beth Durst in the past, but a cozy fantasy starring a librarian – with jam and a sentient plant friend – was … Continue reading →

Posted in Adult, Books, Fantasy, Print | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

Werewolves and Selkies: Benji Zeb is a Ravenous Werewolf and The Selkie’s Daughter

Posted on July 17, 2024 by Katy K.

Here are two tales of fantastical creatures rarely covered in middle grade literature, one contemporary, one historical, both excellent. Continue reading →

Posted in Books, Fantasy, Middle Grade | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

2023 Cybils Young Adult Speculative Fiction Finalists

Posted on June 30, 2024 by Katy K.

I always like to see what my counterparts on the Cybils young adult speculative fiction panel have chosen as finalists! I started listening to these first thing in January, and only realized when I went to start writing reviews that … Continue reading →

Posted in Books, Lists, Reviews, Teen/Young Adult | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , | 5 Comments

The Cookie Crumbles by Tracy Badua and Alechia Dow

Posted on June 11, 2024 by Katy K.

In this closed-building mystery, two best friends must work together to identify the criminal behind an attempted murder before one of them is unjustly blamed for it – or the would-be murderer strikes again. Continue reading →

Posted in Middle Grade, Mystery, Print, Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

BLOG TOUR! Keep It Like a Secret by John David Anderson

Posted on May 21, 2024 by Katy K.

“Keep It Like a Secret” by John David Anderson is a touching tale of sibling bonds tested by family turmoil. As Morgan tries to bring his family together, he joins his sister Claire on an unexpected adventure, revealing hidden secrets and strengthening their bond. This heartwarming story skillfully balances light-hearted moments with deeper emotional themes. Continue reading →

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A Game of Noctis by Deva Fagan

Posted on May 4, 2024 by Katy K.

I’d been taking an unplanned break from middle grade fantasy when Ms. Fagan emailed me to ask if I’d like to review her latest book.  As I really enjoyed some of her past books, including her 2021 superhero story Nightingale … Continue reading →

Posted in Books, Fantasy, Middle Grade, Print | Tagged , , , , , , , | 3 Comments

My Top 12 Posts: #12 – Desk Tales

Posted on March 13, 2024 by Katy K.

Hello, dear readers! As requested, in honor of my 20th blogging anniversary, I’m reblogging my top posts. Rather than going with the posts with the overall highest hits, I’m going with the ones with the highest hits by age to … Continue reading →

Posted in Blog, Books, Reviews | Tagged , , | 1 Comment

2023 Cybils Middle Grade Graphic Novel Finalists

Posted on February 28, 2024 by Katy K.

The hard-working 2023 Cybils panel picked out their 7 favorite elementary and middle grade graphic novels. Here are my takes, with notes on my kid’s favorites. Continue reading →

Posted in Books, Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Lists, Middle Grade, nonfiction, Realistic | Tagged , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

No Time Like Now by Naz Kutub

Posted on February 7, 2024 by Katy K.

No Time Like Now by Naz Kutub Bloomsbury, 2024 ISBN 9781547609284 Review copy kindly sent by the publisher. 16-year-old Hazeem has spent this year following his father’s death wallowing in depression, getting out of bed to make sure his mom … Continue reading →

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Cruzita and the Mariacheros by Ashley Granillo for MCBD 2024

Posted on January 25, 2024 by Katy K.

It’s time to celebrate Multicultural Children’s Book Day again! I’m reviewing this book here – be sure to head over to the website for lots of book giveaways, hundreds of reviews, and for information about the online party.  Cruzita and the … Continue reading →

Posted in Books, Middle Grade, Print, Realistic | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments