Showing posts with label Middle Grade. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Middle Grade. Show all posts

Thursday, 19 June 2014

Review: The Prank List by Anna Staniszewski (@annastanisz)

I read a lot of middle grade novels, and in the past year, I read like 4 novels from this author.  She is good - I have to give her that.


Original Title: The Prank List
Series: The Dirt Diary #2
Author: Anna Staniszewski
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: July 1st 2014
Source: Review copy from the publisher
Genre: Middle Grade

Rachel never thought she'd fight for the right to clean toilets, but she has to save her mom's business. Nothing can distract her from her mission - except maybe Whit, the cute new guy in cooking class. Then she discovers something about Whit that could change everything. After destroying her Dirt Diary, Rachel thought she was done with secrets, but to save her family's business, Rachel's going to have to get her hands dirty. Again

REVIEW

After what Rachel has faced in the last book and how it ended, you would think she will be happy with her 'altered' life.  But, no, she still has no boyfriend, although Evan seems to like her.  And her pastry class seems like a total failure, considering how much she wants to take this class to prove herself.  Her pastry chef thinks she is totally dumb.  And her mom is going to lose her cleaning business, because of the new competitor and a rumour spreading in town..about Rachel.  If they are losing their clients so rapidly, then they are going to sell their house and move elsewhere, where there will be no Evan or her only true friend, Marisol.  She is not ready to give up her only two happy elements in life..no, not yet.  The worst thing is she has not given up on her irresponsible dad.  Her life is a disaster..again..now, even more nastier!

If you remember Rachel from "The Dirt Diary", she seems to have grown up a little in this book.  But, I have to admit she is still childish and still have a lot of growing up to do.  And I also understand it takes time to give up some things and take certain decisions in her age.  But, it's fun to watch her make mistakes and learn from them.  It's sad to watch her trying to do anything to make things and her mom's mood improve.

And then there are these other characters.  Marisol, the 'good' girl of the novel, wants to play bad once in a while and she enjoys it..I liked her. :)  Evan - I want to kick this guy; okay, there is a lot of mistakes from Rachel's end, but can't they just talk?  Anyway, in spite of his irritating shyness, he is a good guy for Rachel.  Other minor characters like Brianna, Rachel's mom and others - they did their parts very well too.

I am not going to ruin the little mystery part for you, although it's not a mystery, once you rule out the one character, we all voted as bad for most of the novel.  And the plot is pretty simple and it's good enough for a middle grade novel.  I enjoyed it and I will definitely be going back to the third installment to see where Rachel ends up again in another light read.

Recommended for middle graders, who want some fun and parents, who want some decent novel for their kids.


SERIES ORDER

2.  The Prank List

Tuesday, 6 May 2014

Review: Maggie Malone and the Mostly Magical Boots by Jenna McCarthy, Carolyn Evans

You know I love middle grade books; but this book is the one I can't recommend to everyone.. Read on!


Original Title: Maggie Malone and the Mostly Magical Boots
Author: Jenna McCarthy, Carolyn Evans
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: May 6th, 2014
Source: Review copy from the publisher
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy

For Maggie Malone every day is Freaky Friday with the help of her very special new boots

When Maggie Malone's Aunt Fi gives her a pair of used, scuffed, plain brown boots for her birthday, she's less than impressed. Why couldn't her life be more like Tween pop sensation Becca Star? Instead Maggie's stuck going to a new school in ugly boots. Until she wakes up in Becca's shoes-literally. Maggie's new boots are magical. They won't make broccoli taste like macaroni and cheese, but they will let her spend a day in the life of anyone she chooses.

REVIEW

Maggie Malone is having the worst day of her life.  Her new school Pinkerton is just the real hell she don't want.  Why does her father has to change her schools all of a sudden?  How is she ever going to make new friends?  This is not getting any better when her best-presents-giving-aunt gives her a battered boots as her 12th birthday gift.

But, these boots are something special.  Wear the boots and enter into someone else's world just as that someone else.  And nobody told Maggie about that and now she is the popular Pop star, Becca Starr!  For one day!  She IS her favorite rock star, Becca!  Literally!  Oh well, things are not always what they seem...

This is a new to me author, so I didn't have any expectations.  And this is a very safe genre - middle grade..you can't go wrong very bad here.  So, when I picked it up, I was open to whatever they throw at me.  Actually, although I was not surprised big time, I really enjoyed this one.  There is no engaging message or plot.  This is a simple one day from a celebrity's life.  And I enjoyed knowing it.  I was always attracted to 'behind the scenes' activities casted on television.  So, this naturally made me enjoy.

I still felt like I still don't know enough of Maggie here.  It's a short read and as I said it's just a sheet in the life of some celebrity.  So, there is not much covered about the main character.  But, in this short span of reading time, I felt like I have known the celebrity, Becca Starr, better than Maggie.

And yeah, about the boots!  Well, it's a middle grade 'fantasy', after all.  And except for moving you to someone else's life, the boots doesn't do anything much.  So, if you expect some sparkling Tinker-Bell fantasy here, please back out.  This is more like Dorothy's shoes, just a very minor version.

The prose style is simple and easy for the kids to enjoy.  Middle graders will devour it, if they are interested in behind-the-scene information.  But, adults can just get this in a library for a short read..this is not a keeper for you.

3.5 STARS!

Friday, 21 February 2014

5 STAR Review: The Magic Mistake (Oh My Godmother #2) by Barbara Brauner, James Iver Mattson, Abigail Halpin

Sometimes, I crave for just a light read.  If you are like me, reading 3-4 books at a time, you will understand me.  This book has been a perfect fit for my light read time.


Original Title: The Magic Mistake
Series: Oh My Godmother #2
Author: Barbara Brauner, James Iver Mattson, Abigail Halpin
Publisher: Disney Hyperion
Release Date: February 4th, 2014
Source: Review copy from the publisher
Genre: Middle Grade

After becoming the most awkward fairy godmother ever, twelve year old Lacey Unger-Ware thought that her magical duties were done for good. In fact, she's just getting started. When Lacey is invited to attend the Godmother Academy it should be a dream come true. But to Lacey it means the total opposite: she'll have to be separated from her friends and family for a hundred years. Um, no thank you! But this is an offer Lacey can't refuse. The fairy godmother Katarina knows that Lacey will be cursed forever if she doesn't complete the magical test. Now Lacey must find the true love for one special lady and arrange the perfect wedding before time runs out. With her best friends Sunny and Paige along to help, there's a glimmer of hope. But where's a fairy godmother to save the day when you need one? Oh, wait... The second book in Barbara Brauner and James Iver Mattson's middle grade series is full of heart and charm, and Abigail Halpin's black-and-white illustrations are irresistible.

REVIEW

Lacey is given a test from Godmother Academy to be a fairy godmother for Gina.  If Lacey doesn't find Gina's true love and get her married by Friday, Gina will be miserable for the rest of her life and Lacey will be hated by everyone forever.  Lacey has no choice, but to agree.  She knows Gina is her best friend, Sunny's mom, who is not ready to come out of her house, still dejected over her recently cancelled wedding.  Even with her friends, Sunny and Paige, ready to help, Lacey is not sure this is not going to work.  But, then things start interesting, when an unexpected proposal comes up to Gina..

Lacey and her friends are one awesome team.  And then there is Katarina, who is checking on Lacey on her godmother performance.  There is Scott, Gina, Lacey's parents - I can keep naming all the characters in this novel and keep telling them I loved them.  There is not even one character that I don't like and that itself is great and awesome.

The authors had built up a perfect regular children's mix with the right amount of fun, action and humour.  It works well for this light read.  The mistakes that Lacey makes every time, like making herself and her friends wear a bridal dress for a whole day, made me love her more.  Lacey is kind, friendly, loyal and true to herself.  Overall, she is a perfect protagonist for this novel.

Did I mention that the occasional illustrations are cute as well?  It is.  When you need a little break, the illustrations fills in your imaginations.

Although this seems like a series, I loved it perfectly as a stand-alone.

This is a great time-out from your busy day.  Fast, humorous, romantic and fun-filled middle grade novel, perfect both for kids and adults.


Monday, 20 January 2014

#Review: The Dirt Diary by Anna Staniszewski (@annastanisz‎)

After reading Anna Staniszsewski's "My Very Unfairy Tale Life" series, I was much looking forward to reading her next book, "The Dirt Diary".  And I had a good experience with it.


Original Title: The Dirt Diary
Author: Anna Staniszewski
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: January 7th, 2014
Source: Review copy from the publisher
Genre: Middle Grade

WANTED: Maid for the most popular kids in 8th grade.

Cleaning up after the in-crowd gets Rachel all the best dirt.

Rachel can't believe she has to give up her Saturdays to scrubbing other people's toilets. So. Gross. But she kinda, sorta stole $287.22 from her college fund that she's got to pay back ASAP or her mom will ground her for life. Which is even worse than working for her mother's new cleaning business. Maybe. After all, becoming a maid is definitely not going to help her already loserish reputation.

But Rachel picks up more than smell socks on the job. As maid to some of the most popular kids in school, Rachel suddenly has all the dirt on the 8th grade in-crowd. Her formerly boring diary is now filled with juicy secrets. And when her crush offers to pay her to spy on his girlfriend, Rachel has to decide if she's willing to get her hands dirty...

REVIEW

This is the story about a girl trying to cope with her parents' separation.  Rachel, who is trying to get her normal life back, is trying to save money to get a plane ticket to her dad and explain him to come back home.  For that, she agrees to help her mom with her house cleaning business.  The problem is she is going to clean the houses of the popular girls at her class, who already think she is a freak.

Rachel is extremely shy; but this cleaning business has not made her life any easier.  She is cleaning the evil queen, Brianna's house along with many others.  She does a lot of bad things in order to save money for the plane ticket.  And, that makes her lose her friendship with her only BFF.  But, Rachel is learning her life lessons and the author has said it in a humor-filled middle-grade drama.

And did I mention that Rachel loves to bake?  For everything..in her happiness, in her anger, in her sadness..she bakes to forget everything and be herself.

Then there were other kids.  Evan is cute.  I love him for his smartness and honesty.

A simple middle grade fun and nothing more!


SERIES ORDER


Monday, 6 January 2014

Review: Glitter Girl by Stephen Webb, Toni Runkle

Just finished reading a book with so less drama..and here another middle grade novel with drama rating as 5/5.. :)


Original Title: Glitter Girl
Author: Stephen Webb, Toni Runkle
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: December 3rd 2013
Source: Review copy from the publisher
Genre: Middle Grade

True Confessions of a Trendsetter

Hi! I'm Kat. Welcome to my blog. I may be from a small town but I'm also Glitter Girl Cosmetics' newest trendsetter. Thanks to my flair for fashion and my popular style blog, I've been chosen to be an Alpha Girl, which means I get to try out all the Glitter Girl products before they hit the stores.

Forty-eight hours after she blogs about the goodies in the new line, every girl at Kat's school is sporting the gear. Kat's popularity skyrockets, but Jules--Kat's BFF--seems to be the only one who's not buying into the Glitter Girl lifestyle. Is Kat willing to sacrifice her friendship for life in the fab lane?

REVIEW

Kat and Jules are best friends from always..they couldn't have remembered a time when they were not friends.  While Kat is a fashionista, Jules is more of a Shakespeare club member.  But, the girls love each other, until their friendship is tested.  Kat is selected as a Alpha Girl for Glitter Girl product promotions.  And suddenly Kat becomes more popular than she can handle and Jules goes out of her 'inner' circle.  And Kat has a crush on Jules' brother.  Kat and Jules get separated little by little and the story drama takes full swing when Jules' birthday party comes as the same day as Kat's final "Face of the Glitter Girl" contest!

I loved both Kat's and Jules' characters.  And the drama that is woven around them is so great.  Both of the girls are good at heart, although they have different interests.  Kat's so-called friends and the Glitter Girl product manager (I think) Chelsea are so shallow, that I want to avoid such characters in real life at all cost. I loved Kat chose to change her mom's life and taught what she learnt from her experience to her parents.  I loved Jules' family too.

Full of drama and excitement!

The writing is good and kept me rooted to the book.  Although shifting of POVs was a bit difficult to understand at first, I got used to it after some time.

One thing I worried about was that very few people can relate themselves to such drama.  When I completed this book, I felt like *huge sigh* "so much drama".  There is not one place in the book where there is no or less drama.

Do kids only fall under these two category?  I don't think so.. When I was a kid, I don't fall under either of these..  But, this book gives the kids a different impression.

If you just want a fun middle grade read, this book might suit you..

3 STARS!

Sunday, 5 January 2014

5 STAR ARC Review: Ava and Pip by Carol Weston

Very few children's books bring education with fun, although many promise the same.  This delivers more than what is promised..


Original Title: Ava and Pip
Author: Carol Weston
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: March 4th 2014
Source: Review copy from the publisher
Genre: Middle Grade

An endearing tween story about friendship, family, identity, and inspiration

Outgoing Ava loves her older sister, Pip, but can't understand why Pip is so reserved and never seems to make friends with others. When Ava uses her writing talents to help her sister overcome her shyness, both girls learn the impact their words and stories can have on the world around them.

REVIEW

Ava and Pip are sisters, belonging to a family of word nerds.  With a beautiful family with members named after palindromes - BOB (DAD), ANNA (MOM), PIP and AVA, the family faces some small issues and that is what the readers know through Ava's diary.

Ava is our normal kid who loves her older sister, Pip.  But, she has her issues.. Pip is an extreme introvert, not speaking with anyone and keeping to herself.  Her family give Pip more care and support, with the result of Ava being ignored.  When Pip has a birthday party, her friends cancel on her at the last minute giving lame excuses and the true reason being Pip's classmate Bea Bates having the first boy-girl party of the year.  When Pip shares this to Ava, Ava writes a story about a rude Bea stung by a queen bee for a competition.  This got 'honorable' mention and soon everyone knows that Ava has written about the real life girl, who we come know is so different than what Ava thought.  When the girls come face to face with each other and everything in life changes...

I am new to Carol Weston's books and I am greatly impressed.  One can't expect a better book for kids, which imbibe good qualities and education in such a perfect way.  Without even knowing that they learn, kids will learn many new words, palindromes and homonyms.  And yes, there is a great story as well...with a moral.

It took me a couple of hours to finish this book, but I can't put this book down.  This is the first children's book that kept me late from sleep.  It's absolutely perfect unadulterated fun.  In author's own words, this is

"about a good kid who does a bad thing and sometimes feels invisible, but who helps her sister find her voice and ends up finding her own"

This is like reading "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" book, but this kid is not wimpy, but smart, funny, kind and intelligent, and of course, a cute word nerd.

If you have a kid, this is a MUST-BUY!  I assure you that they will enjoy this more than you think..


Thursday, 31 October 2013

5 STAR ARC Review: My Sort Of Fairy Tale Ending by Anna Staniszewski

When I read the second book in this series a few days ago, I immediately requested the review copy for the third one.  Not because it can't wait; no, it's not that.  These type of books makes your reading more light, fun and lovable.


Original Title: My Sort Of Fairy Tale Ending
Series: My Very UnFairy Tale Life #3
Author: Anna Staniszewski
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Release Date: November 5th 2013
Source: Review copy from publisher
Genre: Middle Grade, Fantasy

Happily ever after? Yeah, right.

Jenny's search for her parents leads her to Fairyland, a rundown amusement park filled with creepily happy fairies and disgruntled leprechauns. Despite the fairies' kindness, she knows they are keeping her parents from her. If only they would stop being so happy all the time-it's starting to weird her out! With the help of a fairy-boy and some rebellious leprechauns, Jenny finds a way to rescue her parents, but at the expense of putting all magical worlds in danger. Now Jenny must decide how far she is willing to go to put her family back together.

REVIEW

Jenny goes in search of her missing parents to the fairy world.  But, if you imagine fairy world in your mind, just forget it and read on.  It's just a worn out amusement park, where all magical being were - kind of - tortured.  Well, Jenna is a prisoner now in the hands of the completely insane fairy queen.  With some help from a fairy boy, will she bring down the entire rule and also save the magical community as well as her parents?  Tough...

Great world building and great characterization.  In so few pages, I started liking the characters so much.

I liked the way the story winded up.  It was clean, just like a fairy tale.  Nothing to be sad of; I finished it just with fond memories.

If I am still a kid at school, I would want my teacher to read/recommend these type of stories to me.  It's fun and kids will love this.  Highly recommended for those who love middle grade fantasy novels.

5 STARS!

SERIES ORDER

0.5.  Jenny’s First Adventure - Read for FREE at Goodreads
1.  My Very UnFairy Tale Life - Amazon | Goodreads
2.  My Epic Fairy Tale Fail - Amazon | Goodreads | My review
3.  My Sort of Fairy Tale Ending - Amazon | Goodreads

Thursday, 8 August 2013

Lulu in LA LA Land by Elisabeth Wolf | ARC Review

Have you ever doubted that you are not spending enough time with your family?  Worse, do you have your priorities wrong - something over family?  You should read this...


Original Title: Lulu in LA LA Land
Author: Elisabeth Wolf
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: August 6th 2013
Source: ARC from publisher
Genre: Middle Grade

Lights! Camera! ACTION! Lulu, a soon-to-be 11-year-old living in Los Angeles, prefers gardening to primping and homemade guacamole to five-star restaurants. You'd never know that Lulu is the daughter of Hollywood's A-List power couple. This year Lulu is determined to throw the kind of birthday party her glamorous parents might actually attend (which means Watson the pug is not invited). But it's so not Lulu. Should she morph into the Tween Queen of Tinseltown or stay true to her book-loving, mis-matched socks self?

Fall in love with Lulu as she tells her story in an innovative script-novel hybrid. After all, everyone is LA is writing a screenplay!

REVIEW

11-year old Lulu has everything.  She is the second daughter of Hollywood's most famous director mom and actor dad. Obviously, she have no problem with money as well.  Lulu don't like all this LA things like shopping, make-up, etc.  She is content with cleaning the beaches, gardening with her best friend Sophia, dressing all things orange and reading every possible book at hand.

But, her one problem is her time with her parents.  So, when her birthday arrives, she is so determined to make her parents come for her birthday party, which they have never attended so far.  She is even ready to work with her Queenbee sister, Alexis, to plan the Spa-tacular party, which her parents will like; even accepting to give up her favorite color, orange, for the invitations.  But, everything shatters, when her parents were nominated for Oscar and the Oscar award ceremony is happening right on her birthday.  So, how is smart Lulu and the Queenbee Lex going to pull out this thing?

I loved this plot.  It's more important to today's men and women.  They never understand that "spending time with children is more important than spending money on children".

Source: http://godisheart.blogspot.com

I know money is important; but not more than your family and definitely not more than your children.  That message was well provided and received as well.  It will be a whip-lash to the parents who leave their children at home without proper care and a reminder to others that this situation should never occur to our own children.

The characters were so adorable.  All of them.  Lulu, Lex, Sophia, Jenna, Elena (Lulu's momny - mommy+nanny), Lulu's parents and her dog, Watson.  I left a few, because I don't want to explain the whole story here, but I like those characters too.  Everybody has that bond of family and friendship in them, that I can't help loving.

The writing is okay for me; not so good or bad.  It could be improved; but seeing this is a debut, this is a good effort on her writing.

I especially loved loved loved the ending.  It was written so delightful that I felt so happy even hours later. Keep it coming, Lulu!

Verdict:
This is not just a children's read.  It's for adults as well, adults who 'should' care more about their family more than anything -- ANYTHING.

Recommended for all ages!


Wednesday, 31 July 2013

The Strange Gift of Gwendolyn Golden by Philippa Dowding | ARC Review

Another dose to my fun read craving..  To say the truth, if I had written this review just after reading this book, I would have give it 5 stars.  But, now...


Original Title: The Strange Gift of Gwendolyn Golden
Author: Philippa Dowding
Publisher: Dundurn
Release Date: February 18th 2014 
Source: Review copy from publisher
Genre: Middle Grade

"This morning, I woke up on the ceiling ..."

So begins the strange story of Gwendolyn Golden. One perfectly ordinary day and for no explicable reason, she wakes up floating around her room like one of her little brother’s Batman balloons.

Puberty is weird enough. Everyone already thinks she’s an oddball with anger issues because her father vanished in a mysterious storm one night when she was six. Then there are the false rumours about her being a drug addict. On top of all that, now she’s a flying freak.

How can she tell her best friend, or her mother? How can she live her life? After Gwendolyn almost dies one night flying too high and too fast, help arrives from the most unexpected place. And stranger still? She’s not alone.

REVIEW

Gwendolyn can fly.  All of a sudden, she wakes up in the ceiling and she don't know how to face this. Is this normal when puberty hits?  She feels already weird in the school, and is confused when this new ability shows up.  Should she even tell this to her mother and her only best friend?

But, there were other people aware already about her abilities, although she has no idea how.  And she soon learns she is a Night Flyer and there are people out to help her and things that will destroy her as well, just like they did her dad.  Dealing with emotional problems of losing her dad and new found Flyer status, Gwendolyn is faced with situations, that she isn't ready to handle yet.

When I read the first few lines of the book, I couldn't pick another book.  It's what a good middle grade book can be.

The easiness of the plot and the characters pulled me right in.  The author could have done a better job at expanding the story though.

The inner voice of Gwen was hilarious and amusing to listen.  The Midnight Summer’s party was brought out well and I could just imagine the scene.  And the scenes where she is scared of her flying right in the middle of a class or during a friend's party made me laugh.  All these are the good parts.

The bad parts are that Gwen never seem to grow up.  Even at the end of the book, I still feel like she is a kid; but that's okay, I can wait if she grows in the next novel at least.  And the character development is not full.  So, the readers cannot get more involved with them.

The writing has some problems.  Considering this is the first book in the series, there could have been more explanations, instead of simple questions and answer format type manual.  I want to know more about the fantasy part.  It might have been exciting.

Gwendolyn is your regular kid, with anger management issues and problems with fitting in at school. Gwen hasn't grown much and don't act like a eighth grader; but come on, not all kids have the maturity to act right when a situation presents itself.  And losing her dad might have everything to do with that.

I liked all the characters including the sweet shop and Gwen's sister and brother, but there is not a complete development of the characters' world.  It makes it difficult for the readers to sustain them in memory.

Strengths: I liked it maybe because at recent times, I crave for more fun-filled easy reads than emotional ones.  And I suppose that is the main strength.

Weakness: The slow pace and the improper character development may bore some of the audience.

Final Verdict:
Gwen's adventures is not your Harry Potter or Percy Jackson style adventures; but more like her dealing with life and her Flyer abilities.  And if you like children's book, I will definitey recommend it to you.  Adults, who are not into children's books, may find problem in liking it as much as I did.  But, at least, you could read it to your kids. :)  I had a good time with a middle grade novel after a long time.

Note: There is one place where Gwen's crush tries to kiss her; but nothing happens.



Wednesday, 17 July 2013

Review: My Epic Fairy Tale Fail by Anna Staniszewski

I am not sure whether you know this..but recently, I am craving for fun, light reads.  It's like seeing some middle grade novel and I feel like I see a chocolate.  I NEED to have it, no matter what, especially if it's some fun read.  This novel sounded right up my alley.


Original Title: My Epic Fairy Tale Fail
Series: My Very UnFairy Tale Life #2
Author: Anna Staniszewski
Publisher: Sourcebooks Jabberwocky
Release Date: March 1st 2013
Source: Review copy from the publisher
Genre: Fairy tales, Fantasy, Middle Grade

Fairy tales do come true. Unfortunately.

Jenny the Adventurer is back, and this time she's off to the Land of Tales: the crazy place that all fairy tales come from. If she can defeat an evil witch and complete three impossible tasks--all without getting eaten by blood-thirsty monsters--Jenny might finally get some answers about what happened to her parents.

This is one adventure Jenny can't afford to fail.

REVIEW

Jenny is an adventurer.  She has been one, since her parents disappeared seven years before.  She is going to solve a problem, again.  This time, it was in "Land of Tales", where Jenny's parents had last seen.  The Council is sending her to solve a problem: an evil witch sucking all of the magic in "Land of Tales" and if Jenny doesn't complete the three impossible tasks set by the evil witch within three days, the magic will completely be lost.  And so will be Jenny's parents. 

The characters were so relatable; Trish and Melissa's (Jenny's besties) made me laugh at a lot of places.  Those two were contantly thinking the more dangerous the events are, the more cooler it is.  I can totally understand it.  Being a fan of fantasy, that is how my brain works too. ;)  Anthony, Jenny's gnome guide, who will anything for a candy, is adorable.  And I love the "Sleeping Beauty" part in it; the author has some cool imagination.

Yeah, I didn't read the previous novel, but I have absolutely no problem in understanding this one.  Actually it was pretty cute and simple.  Have you read "Fairy-Tale Detectives" from The Sisters Grimm series?  If you loved that, you will definitely love this one.  And actually, I liked that this novel has more of a brighter approach..literally.  I felt like I was out in the sun (told you it was bright) with Jenny and seeing her adventures (this is usual to all readers, as far as I know, but I can feel the environment part only in very few novels).  This novel made me happy and satisfied and I cannot ask for more.

Perfect for kids! And adults who just love to have a fun read!

Waiting for more!

SERIES ORDER

0.5.  Jenny’s First Adventure - Read for FREE at Goodreads
1.  My Very UnFairy Tale Life - Amazon | Goodreads
2.  My Epic Fairy Tale Fail - Amazon | Goodreads
3.  My Sort of Fairy Tale Ending - Amazon | Goodreads | My review


Thursday, 16 May 2013

Mini-Reviews: The Spindlers by Lauren Oliver and My Unfair Godmother by Janette Rallison

Due to time constraints and piling up review copies, I thought I would post some reviews short.  Because these are the books, which already has many reviews for you to choose from in Goodreads and Amazon.

THE SPINDLERS


Series: (Standalone)
Author: Lauren Oliver
Publisher: HarperCollins
Release Date: October 2nd 2012
Source: Review copy from publisher
Genre: Fantasy, Middle Grade

One night when Liza went to bed, Patrick was her chubby, stubby, candy-grubbing and pancake-loving younger brother, who irritated and amused her both, and the next morning, when she woke up, he was not. In fact, he was quite, quite different.

When Liza's brother, Patrick, changes overnight, Liza knows exactly what has happened: The spindlers have gotten to him and stolen his soul.

She knows, too, that she is the only one who can save him.

To rescue Patrick, Liza must go Below, armed with little more than her wits and a broom. There, she uncovers a vast world populated with talking rats, music-loving moles, greedy troglods, and overexcitable nids . . . as well as terrible dangers. But she will face her greatest challenge at the spindlers' nests, where she encounters the evil queen and must pass a series of deadly tests--or else her soul, too, will remain Below forever.

From New York Times best-selling author Lauren Oliver comes a bewitching story about the reaches of loyalty, the meaning of love, and the enduring power of hope.

REVIEW

A nice fantasy world which reminded me of Alice's wonderland, although this is more like terror world.  I liked the second half of the novel much better than the first.

I read this long ago, but its like I have nothing to say about it.  I had this "its neither good nor bad" feel.  Don't get me wrong..I like Lauren Oliver's writing, but I am not able to enjoy this one well.  Maybe because its slow, maybe I didn't expect such a plot, maybe its the boring first half..  Well, whatever! 

A simple but a good children's story!  So, I recommend this for children..as for the adults, this would not be 'my' recommendation.  But I still know many who will..  So, give it a try and see for yourself! :)



MY UNFAIR GODMOTHER



Series: My Fair Godmother #2
Author: Janette Rallison
Publisher: Walker Books for Young Readers
Release Date: April 12th 2011
Source: Bought
Genre: Fairy tale retelling, Fantasy, Young-adult

Tansy Miller has always felt that her divorced father has never had enough time for her. But mistakenly getting caught on the wrong side of the law wasn't exactly how she wanted to get his attention. Enter Chrysanthemum "Chrissy" Everstar, Tansy's fairy in shining, er, high heels. Chrissy is only a fair godmother, of course, so Tansy's three wishes don't exactly go according to plan. And if bringing Robin Hood to the twenty-first century isn't bad enough for Tansy, being transported back to the Middle Ages to deal with Rumpelstiltskin certainly is. She'll need the help of her blended family, her wits, and especially the cute police chief's son to stop the gold-spinning story from spinning wildly out of control. Janette Rallison pulls out all the stops in this fresh, fun-filled follow-up to the popular My Fair Godmother.

REVIEW

As its predecessor, this novel is also fun, fairy-tale-ish and adorable.  People need these kind of books once in a while.  It makes reading more light and safe from emotions.

This novel is about Tansy whose life is about messed up in the fairy tales of Robinhood and Rumpelstiltskin.  As much as I liked this novel, I loved "My Fair Godmother" more!

Loved it and recommending both the books in the "My Fair Godmother" series!

So readers, have you read or heard about any of the above two books?  What do you think about them?


Wednesday, 27 March 2013

ARC Review & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway: Lords of Prophecy (The Prophecies #3)

Original Title: Lords of Prophecy
Series: The Prophecies #3
Author: Michael A. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing, LLC
Release Date: March 1st 2013
Source: From the author
Genre: Fantasy, Middle Grade


The Riverton brothers have completed their training, and despite their own personal skills, they worry about the forces arrayed against them. Knowing the barrier that's kept the people of Trimoria safe for over five centuries is weakening, the brothers ready their ragtag army of humans, dwarves, and elves for battle.

In the meantime, on the other side of the ancient barrier, a growing army of demons have readied themselves for the final battle against the people of Trimoria.

As the barrier weakens, Ryan is struck by bouts of debilitating madness. As the barrier crumbles, so does the hope of Trimoria's citizens.

Friday, 10 August 2012

ARC Review: Tools of Prophecy by Michael E. Rothman

Original Title: Tools of Prophecy
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #2
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: August 1st 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy


The TOOLS OF PROPHECY is the second volume in an epic saga which describes a prophecy that has placed the Riverton brothers in the lead roles of a struggle to save their world from being overrun by unspeakable horrors. This destiny requires that they face off with the demons that nearly destroyed their world over five centuries ago.

In the first book, the population of wizards had been practically eradicated by the former tyrant. The Rivertons are now charged with creating an Academy of Magic, recruiting qualified students, and furthering their own training with secrets that have long been held by the reclusive elves.

Despite their youth, a mysterious spirit has engaged them in an epic struggle to gain mastery of their newfound skills, help raise and train two armies, and stay alive long enough for their final showdown with destiny.

The only things that stand in their way are the assassins hired to destroy them and the Demon Lord’s minion who holds a personal grudge and intends to witness the young boys’ deaths.

REVIEW

*** I received an advanced review copy of this book from the author in exchange for honest review. ***

In a war against Gods, the Riverton family has a job to do.  For those who are new to this series, there might be some spoilers in this review.

The story starts right where "Heirs of Prophecy" ended - after the Riverton family, along with their friend, Throll, killed the evil wizard, Azazel.  Everyone is busy.. Throll is now the King of Trimoria.  Ryan and Aaron Riverton are no longer kids..they are more mature now.  They are both facing more menacing things than Azazel, which makes more training of their abilities - a necessity.  The Riverton brothers are trained by elves and they discover more about their powers.  Jared Riverton (head of the Riverton family) is busy forming the proper school for new wizards, which will train them for the war.

Meanwhile, The evil God sends new minion again (as Azazel is now dead) in Trimoria.  That minion has set up two assassins to finish off the Riverton family.  How are the brothers going to face this new threat?

This book feels like a gentle friend, who will tell you old stories, just to enjoy being the time with you.  I am happy that the author has brought out the characters of this novel as so polite and good-hearted, because it will really help kids realize, how things SHOULD be.  As decades come and go, the bonding within most families is reduced to nothing.  That is the one thing that I want people to consider from the author's view - family bonding!  The Riverton family is the perfect family anyone would want.  Their manners, their politeness, respect towards each other - everything amazed me.

Okay, apart from the learning that is achieved from the book, the plot was really good.  It was simple, but gentle and strong.  The characters are endearing.  The book was printed in good line spacings and clear font, making it easier for the eyes.

My only small complaint is its slow pace.  But, this shouldn't be a problem for younger readers.

Cover thoughts:  Excellent front and back cover design.  Happy to have received the paperback ARC..I keep looking the covers every time I take a break from reading.  Here are the cover snaps for you!


Quote Time
"I wonder my counselor would have predicted "wizard" as a career path, when I was in high school."
- Jared Riverton

Satisfying read.. Highly Recommended!


SERIES ORDER

1.  Heirs of Prophecy - Read review here
2.  Tools of Prophecy - Read review here
3. Lords of Prophecy

Tuesday, 10 July 2012

Review & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway: Heirs of Prophecy by Michael E. Rothman

Original Title: Heirs of Prophecy
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #1
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: April 3rd 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy


The Riverton family had been enjoying a simple summer vacation when, through a fluke of nature, they found themselves in a strange new land.

The Riverton brothers quickly realize that in this world, they have gained unusual powers. Powers that their parents fear will attract the attention of Azazel himself – the merciless wizard who brutally controls this world.

The two brothers soon learn that an ancient prophecy has finally been initiated by their arrival in Trimoria. As the heirs of this prophecy, they are destined to lead the armies of men, dwarves, elves, and even a misfit ogre against the prophesied demon horde.

Only one thing stands in their way.

The evil wizard who has learned of their presence, and has sent assassins to wipe them from existence.

REVIEW

The beautiful family of Rivertons - Dad Jared, Mom Aubrey and sons Ryan and Aaron - had planned to enjoy their summer vacation in Arizona (their father's 'surprise' place to the family).  When they were camping in Arizona, by some unexpected accident that none of them understands, they land in a strange land called Trimoria.  As soon as the family arrives there, they each seem to have gained some magical powers, which they didn't yet realize.  Soon, they were given shelter by the town's Protector, Throll, in his house.  Throll and his family become very close to the Rivertons.

In between all this, there is a evil Wizard, Azazel, who has been living in Trimoria for five centuries and have killed all the wizards, as soon as they are born.  If Azazel knows about the Rivertons' magical powers, will they be Azazel's next target?  Oh yeah, to make it even better, there is also a prophecy concerning the Rivertons family.  According to the prophecy, the boys Ryan and Aaron, will bring all the magical population together and beat the evil out of the land.  How is this going to be possible, when there is such a grave danger ahead?

A middle-grade fresh and simple fantasy read!  There is nothing special about this book, but that's what makes it feel good.  Its simple and light, just ready to be enjoyed by children.

It was fun reading the snippets in the title of each chapter about how a major character felt about their life at that time.  It was new and I was looking forward to read them, everytime I start with a new chapter.

The only problem I had with this novel was, it became predictable after some time.  But, that doesn't mean I didn't enjoy the novel..I thoroughly did.

If you want a simple middle-grade read with no big drama, I would readily recommend this book to you.

"Narnia" meets "Percy Jackson".. in a more gentler and slower pace!


SERIES ORDER

1.  Heirs of Prophecy
2.  Tools of Prophecy - Read review here
3. Lords of Prophecy - Read review here


GIVEAWAY

Michael will be awarding a $50 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour, and a $25 Amazon GC to the host with the most comments.

To enter this awesome giveaway, all you have to do is comment in this post WITH YOUR E-MAIL ID.  Anonymous and Name/URL comments without email IDs will not be considered for giveaway.  So, please leave your e-mail ID in the comment.

Open INTERNATIONALLY!  Giveaway ends July 13th!  Shares of this post is appreciated!


Friday, 29 June 2012

Guest Post & $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway: Heirs of Prophecy by Michael Rothman

Original Title: Heirs of Prophecy
Series: Heirs of Prophecy #1
Author: Michael E. Rothman
Publisher: M & S Publishing
Release Date: April 3rd 2012
Genre: Middle Grade Fantasy



The Riverton family had been enjoying a simple summer vacation when, through a fluke of nature, they found themselves in a strange new land.

The Riverton brothers quickly realize that in this world, they have gained unusual powers. Powers that their parents fear will attract the attention of Azazel himself – the merciless wizard who brutally controls this world.

The two brothers soon learn that an ancient prophecy has finally been initiated by their arrival in Trimoria. As the heirs of this prophecy, they are destined to lead the armies of men, dwarves, elves, and even a misfit ogre against the prophesied demon horde.

Only one thing stands in their way.

The evil wizard who has learned of their presence, and has sent assassins to wipe them from existence.


A DAY WITH MY PROTAGONIST

- Guest post by Michael A. Rothman


"A day with Ryan and Aaron Riverton"

Since there are two main protagonists in the novels that are brothers, it is hard to separate them.

A typical day in Ryan and Aaron's life in the beginning of the first book is going to be one which starts in the modern world that we are all very familiar with.

They are students who are relatively young, 14 and 12 years old respectively. They grudgingly wake up in the morning to attend school, they are both bright and do well in their subjects, though Ryan has a much more subdued and quiet personality, while Aaron is a bit more brash and boisterous. After school, they both attend regular Karate lessons - in which they both excel. They have been in Karate since they could barely walk, and the martial arts are now somewhat second nature to them.

Ryan also is one of those people who is musically inclined, though it has yet to be shown in this novel - I promise there will be a moment in the series that it does come into play. Aaron has shown a lot of natural talent for sports while in school and while Ryan prefers to curl up with a good book, Aaron is very interested in risking his neck doing dangerous things that stretches his physical abilities.  Both of these traits serve them well as the novel transports them into a new world that involves, warriors and wizards.

In the land of Trimoria, I do not want to give too much away, but Ryan does follow a path which leads to his strong suit, which is a preternatural disposition for wizardly powers. He loves to study the art, though finds some of the practice that he is forced to undergo tedious at best.  Aaron, after learning that his strength has multiplied many times over in this new world, delights in the knowledge that he will follow a path which lets him practice more with the swords and the traditional uber-warrior facilities that he has at his disposal.

As far as a typical day in the author's life - that is truly a mundane and boring thing. As some might now, I am an engineer by trade. My day usually starts early in the morning, before any sane person would will themselves to normally wake and I write. I usually write for a couple of hours in the morning, every day. Afterwards, I trudge along and enjoy my mainstay of engineering work that I do on a day-to-day basis. On a day off, I might enjoy relaxing with the family, fishing with the kids, or cooking something elaborate that I hadn't done before. Yes, I am a recovering chef.

I suppose if I were to relate most to another characters in the first book, it would certainly be Jared. My wife assures me that my personality has definitely leaked into that character, so once you read the book, you'll get an appreciation for who and what I am.

That being said, I am a big believer in children's education. As a parent, I feel it is our duty to understand the abilities our children have and strive to get them to achieve to their capabilities. Oftentimes I find people who approach things with a hands-off attitude toward their child's education and end up with someone who doesn't learn the meaning of real work or real study habits. You can imagine if a child's goal ends up being higher education, those children are oftentimes not prepared - at least that is my personal observation.

You can imagine that my children might seem harried and under the onslaught that is my eye of Sauron. Not really. It is simply setting expectations and not allowing there to be excuses. Once rules are set that are known to be attainable by the children, and they KNOW that for them to get what they want, they must achieve those goals. Children are resilient and strive to meet the challenge. Or at least I can say that of my children.  I might even say they might become good little warriors or wizards if they ever were faced with a trip to Trimoria.  :-)

I hope that has given you a little insight into the characters and myself.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

I am an Army brat and the first person in my family to be born in the United States. This heavily influenced my youth by instilling a love of reading and a burning curiosity about the world and all of the things within it. As an adult, my love of travel allowed me to explore many unimaginable locations. I participated in many adventures and documented them in what will be a series of books, the first of which you have just read.

Some might put these books in the Fantasy genre, and I never had issues with this label. After all, the adventures were, without any doubt in my mind, fantastic. I simply quibble with the label of “Fiction” that some might put on these tales. These tales should be viewed as historical records, more along the lines of a documentary.

I’ve learned one thing over the years. Magic is real. Keep exploring, and you too will find your magic. 

AUTHOR ONLINE: Website | Goodreads | Twitter | Facebook


GIVEAWAY

Michael will be awarding a $50 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour, and a $25 Amazon GC to the host with the most comments.

To enter this awesome giveaway, all you have to do is comment in this post WITH YOUR E-MAIL ID.  Anonymous and Name/URL comments without email IDs will not be considered for giveaway.  So, please leave your e-mail ID in the comment.

Open INTERNATIONALLY!  Giveaway ends July 6th!  Shares of this post is appreciated!


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