This week the local school had Thursday off for Yom Kippur so, we were able to take Gage’s friend with us to his weekly nature camp. The boys had fun and I was lucky enough to spend 30 minutes on the way home with them talking about girl crushes, lol. Here’s the photo they let me take when we dropped off his friend…
This was emotional, tragic and hopeful at the same time. Lizzie is a Shakespeare professor (much like the author) and Romeo and Juliet play a pert in the storyline (hence the title?). I knew nothing about it going in, basing my reading decision in the beautiful cover and knowing it was an author I enjoyed, so I won’t say any more about it. Well, except that I’m glad that I read it 😁
Alpha: Abidjan to Paris is the story of a man who has tried to get visas for him and his family to travel to Paris to stay with his sister-in-law. When that becomes impossible he sends his wife and son to make the dangerous and illegal journey, hoping that when they arrive they’ll send money so he can join them. Heartbreaking and informative, this graphic novel shouldn’t be missed. The first two pics are from this book. Translated from French.
We”re Going to be Friends is a charming kids picture book made from the song by the White Stripes. The artwork is fantastic and, the ‘story’ is sure to please kids and adults. It was the illustrations that won me over. The last two pics are of this book.
There’s nothing prettier than a Kleypas cover! This is the third book about the Hathaways and I loved catching up with them all.
When Poppy runs into the reclusive Harry Rutledge in a secret passage in his hotel his desire for her changes the course of her life. It’s up for debate about whether it’s for the better.
Historical romance fans can do no better than Kleypas. This wasn’t a favorite, Harry wasn’t my speed, but I did love my time spent with the rest of the Hathaway clan.
It was different and I wonder what kids actually think of it since it’s labeled juvenile. Annie is different and that will appeal to many kids, but it felt written for someone older. I think it would be a lovely book to read with your pre-teen child, especially if they love mermaids 🧜♀️ the illustrations were lovely.
It’s 152 pages of black and white illustrations full of horror, history, and heartwarming and heartbreaking stories. This covers her life from 6-14, when she was then sent to Vienna without her parents.
I’m late to the game, but this is a must read. I’m already looking to get my hands on book 2! ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
As good as Long Bright River was, it wasn’t cheery like the puzzle. It’s about bad beginnings, drug abuse, and the ties that keep families together. BUT it is a thriller, with clues told at just the right pace to keep this almost 500 pager racing to the finish.
Mickey, always the good sister, is worried because she hasn’t seen her sister on the streets for awhile and women are being murdered in the neighborhood. She’s a policewoman with a new partner and a boss who doesn’t like her. How will she find her sister? And if she does will she still be alive?
This book had a little bit of everything (except cheerfulness) and I thought it was very well done. This is my first by Liz Moore, but I’ll be looking for more.
I loved this book for kids (Gage just started it) and will definitely be looking for more of the series. Two siblings try to outdo each other with the interesting and obscure facts they know about the famous boxer. At just over 100 pages and with short chapters and paragraphs this is sure to appeal to even a reluctant reader. It’s told in a fun way with recognizable interactions between the siblings.
Along with the facts and stories there were quotes and the poetry he recited. The illustrations were great too. I loved reading some of the facts out loud to Jason since he hadn’t heard most of them either. Muhammad Ali paid someone to lick his sweat? Those kind of facts combined with more biographical information make this a winner for the late elementary set ❤️❤️❤️❤️
Stacy's Books 
Alpha sounds good – I hadn’t heard of it before so I’m going to see if I can get a copy. You make me want to reread Persepolis. It was the first graphic memoir I read (12 years ago) and I remember being so enamored by the illustrations and just how clever the whole idea of telling a story in pictures targeted for adults was.
Have a great week!
Persepolis sounds fascinating! I’ll have to look it up. You had several other interesting reads as well.
Oh, what fun to talk about girl crushes with late elementary boys 🙂.
Have a good week!
Lizzie and Dante seems like an emotional read. Love your bookish photos!
Have a good week and happy reading.
Elza Reads
Always enjoy hearing your reading, Gage’s reading, school stuff, etc. I shelved Persepolis a million times at the library, but I never read it. Maybe before long. However, I’ve been on a roll with RIP books lately and I’m hesitant to make any changes. It feels really good to have my reading normality mostly back. Sigh.
Gage’s friend looks like he’s having a fun time! And Gage, I LOVE that face 🙂
I checked out Persepolis and both book 1 and 2 look good.
I hope you have a great week!
I love the photo of your son reading. You were busy this week with lots of books and good insights. Thanks for dropping by my blog and helping cheer me about the COVID quarantine I’ve been under for a week. I am ready for this disease to go away.
What a great photo. 🙂 Gage’s expression is priceless.
I haven’t read any fiction by Mary Bly, but Lizzie & Dante sounds like a great read. I loved Eloisa James’ memoir (Paris in Love), so maybe this has a similar feel.
Love Gage’s expression in that first photo. Glad he has such a good friend. I remember Annie Lumsden:) Have a good week Stacy.
I am glad Gage was able to spend time with his friend! Lizzie & Dante sounds very moving. I am glad you liked it. I love Persepolis books. I am glad you finally read the first one! I hope you have a great week, Stacy!
What a great pic! I’ve never read Lisa Kleypas but heard so many good things. I probably should add her to my list.
Have a great week!
Love the boys poses!
I too thought Long Bright River was very good.
Wishing you a great reading week
Oh, Lizzie & Dante sounds great. Happily it’s at my library, so I look forward to reading it.
I read Annie Lumsden, too, and I, too, wondered what kids think of it. Wouldn’t it be great to just have more kids reading the Cybils, with parents overseeing the process?
The circle puzzle is beautiful. It’s been a while since I’ve done a puzzle. I hope to do more once the weather cools down.