Category: YA/MG/Children’s Books Page 9 of 42

Grandpappy’s Corner at 1 Year

On February 19, 2024

In Grandpappy's Corner, Miscellany, News/Misc., YA/MG/Children's Books

Grandpappy's Corner Birthday
The first Grandpappy’s Corner post went up a year ago, and I’ve posted an average of 2 books a month in that series since then–I expected to do more, but I’m happy with what has come from it. Hopefully you’ve enjoyed them, too (if you’ve taken the time to look at them).

To commemorate the day/take advantage of the time the holiday gave me, I’ve finally gotten around to putting together an index of sorts for those posts and the posts that would’ve been part of the series had I started it 7 or 8 years ago. Boy howdy, have I talked about a lot of books for infants/toddlers (more toddlers/pre-readers, truth be told). Also, yeah, I know the formatting needs a little tweaking…sometime soon.

A good number of these try to teach something–and many of those things are worth learning. Some are just pretty to look at. But the ones that primarily appeal to me are the silly ones that you–and, sure, the kid you’re reading to–can have fun with. The art for those as well as the very strange text just makes me happy and I wish I spent more time reading books like that. (the Grandcritter is approaching his first birthday, and I’m looking forward to his longer attention span so we can spend more time reading together, so that’ll help.)

Anyway, one year down, 24 books posted about, more to come!!

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Cake Image by marcos101 from Pixabay

Grandpappy’s Corner: Bush-turkey Needs a Friend by Ann Göth: He’s a Strange Bird (At Least a Little Different)

By HCNewton

On February 8, 2024

In Fiction, Grandpappy's Corner, YA/MG/Children's Books

Bush-turkey Needs a Friend

by Ann Göth

DETAILS:
Publisher: Natural Publishing
Publication Date: November 13, 2023
Format: eBook
Length: 34
Read Date: February 7, 2024

What’s Bush-turkey Needs a Friend About?

This is the tale of Tom, an Australian brush-turkey (aka bush-turkey), and his quest to meet someone like him–or at least enough like him to befriend him.

It doesn’t go well for him, most birds deciding that Tom’s a bit too strange for them. But he carries on, grows up, and eventually meets another bush-turkey and, yes, makes a friend.

The Author

Göth is a Science teacher and a Brush-Turkey researcher, who has written a book for adults on the Brush-Turkey. So she comes at this with a dual expertise and a mission to teach accurate lessons about the bird.

It reminded me of Valerie D. Johnson’s 1 2 3 Count with Me on Granddad’s Farm, where you get an expert on an area coming along to teach young readers (in her case, math). We could use more things like this in the world (they probably exist, I just need to learn about them).*

* If I was in a snarkier mood, I’d say that we need more things like this than children’s books written by celebrities. But I’m not in that kind of mood.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Eh…this is the biggest stumbling point with this book. It’s pretty obvious that Göth is not a professional illustrator, and won’t be anytime soon. This is not to say that the art is bad–it’s just not good. It’s fine. A little inconsistent, a touch sloppy, but good enough.

I don’t know that a young reader is going to have a problem with it–I don’t see most of them being as snobbish as we grown-ups can be.

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s a simple, straightforward style–no rhyme, no rhythm, no tongue-twisters, no made up words. That can be a nice change of pace, really. The nice short sentences should work well for reading aloud or coaching someone through early sentences on their own.

So, what did I think about Bush-turkey Needs a Friend?

This was a pretty nice book and a good introduction to a bird I’d like to know a little more about.

The life lesson isn’t a particularly novel or groundbreaking one–but it’s one that needs to be repeated throughout a child’s life (and many adult lives, too), so bring it on. Add that to the ornithological lessons, and this is a good read.

Disclaimer: I received this book from BookSirens in exchange for this post and my honest opinion.

3 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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Clearing the Deck III: Tweet-length thoughts about books I can’t find time to write about

By HCNewton

On February 5, 2024

In Audiobook, Comics, DC Smith & Kings Lake, Don Winslow, Faith Hunter, Fantasy, Fiction, Fletch, General Fiction/Literature, Gregory Mcdonald, Harry Bosch, Harry Dresden, Humor, Jim Butcher, M. W. Craven, Michael Connelly, Michael R. Underwood, Mystery/Detective Fiction/Crime Fiction/Thriller, Non-Fiction, Renée Ballard, Science Fiction, Theology/Christian Living, Urban Fantasy, Washington Poe, YA/MG/Children's Books

I did this last month to catch up up to 2023, but the backlog I’d accrued last year was too big for me. So here we go again. This doesn’t get me totally cuaght up, but it’s close enough. Hopefully it’ll be years before I have to resort to this again.

I frequently mention how looming Mt. TBR is getting for me, but what’s worse is my “To Write About” pile, I know I’m never going to catch up with that properly and it bugs me to no end. But in the interest of something being better than nothing, a dash of realism, and a heavy dose of self-care, I’m cutting myself some slack. This was painful to do, I was looking forward to writing about most of these, and I have so much that I want to say. But I’m just not going to get to them—and other books are starting to pile up, too. So, in 144 characters or less, here’s me cutting myself some slack.

(Click on the cover for an official site with more info)

	If I Understood You, Would I Have This Look on My Face?: My Adventures in the Art and Science of Relating and Communicating by Alan Alda Not sure how helpful this was–but it was quite entertaining & interesting. Hours of Alda’s narration–it almost doesn’t matter what he said.
	The Librarian of Crooked Lane by C.J. Archer, read by: Marian Hussey Great idea. Okay (ish) execution. Had to push myself to keep going more than once.
	The Bittlemores by Jann Arden So strange at times. The ending made all of the “why am I bothering” parts worth it. Capital Q-quirky and emotionally effective. Give it a try.
	Things My Son Needs to Know about the World by Fredrik Backman, read by: Santino Fontana Hilarious and touching. Backman seems more down-to-earth than expected–a great writer & a relatable dad. Should give this to my grandkid’s dad.
	That Old Cloak and Dagger Routine by Anne Louise Bannon Ummm…a cozy and fairly self-consciously chaste spy novel. Who knew that was possible? Wasn’t wowed, but intrigued enough to read more.
	The Deal Goes Down by Larry Beinhart A compelling, self-aware, action read. Really dug it, but not sure I’m 100% into the story’s wrap-up, but the denouement helped.
	Endangered by C.J.Box, read by: David Chandler Ehhhh…I liked this, I think. I’m not sure what to say about it (hence the months of silence from me, I guess)
	Strong Female Character by Fern Brady Funny and helpful look at one woman coming to terms with an ASD diagnosis, and how she got to it.
	Hammered by Lindsay Buroker, read by: Vivienne Leheny Good world, great protagonist/narrator. Decent introductory novel. I’ll be back for more.
	Vampire Weekend by Mike Chen Heckuva read. Words have failed me for a year with this one. The premise, execution, characters, plot–all typical Chen greatness.
	Spider-Man’s Bad Connection by Preeti Chhibber Not as good as book 1, but filled with everything I liked about it. Seemed more concerned about setting up the series arc than this book’s plot.
	Blue Like Me by Aaron Philip Clark, read by: Preston Butler III The mystery/police aspect of this series is great. The personal life material is less so. This author/narrator combo makes it worthwhile.
	Once Upon a Tome: The Misadventures of a Rare Bookseller by Oliver Darkshire If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to work in an antiquarian bookshop or if you like quietly charming people talk about unusual occupations…
	The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin, read by: Scott Brick So sweet, so heartwarming, so charming. This novel about booksellers in love–and Firkney’s adorable daughter–will steal your heart.
	Killing Me by Michelle Gagnon Great take on vigilante serial killers. Great turns and twists.
	Teen Titans: Robin by Kami Garcia, Art by: Gabriel Picolo Not the best in the series, but Garcia’s take on these characters is good enough to overcome that. I just wish these came out faster.
	Charlie Thorne and the Last Equation by Stuart Gibbs, read by: Emily Woo Zeller The problem with an impossibly smart characters is that the creators behind them aren’t that smart. The results are disappointing.
	Evil Valley by Simon Hall I like this series, I like the characters…didn’t think this was up to the author’s standards. Some great scenes and a compelling killer.
	Summer Hours at the Robbers Library by Sue Halpern, read by: Josh Bloomberg, Dara Rosenberg, Allyson Ryan Meandering. The major reveal was a major letdown. It was just intriguing enough to keep me listening, but I wish it hadn’t been.
	The Stench of Honolulu: A Tropical Adventure by Jack Handey What a waste of time (mine and the authors) and talent.
	Pieces of Eight by Peter Hartog I <3 this universe. I think this case was weaker, but the character moments, growth, and magic were so great that it didn't matter. I need more.
	Posthumous Education by Drew Hayes, read by: Kirby Heyborne Good to be back in Fred’s world. Not the best collection of episodes for the Vampire Accountant, but pleasant enough.
	The Last Ranger by Peter Heller, read by: Mark Deakins Feels like a CJ Box standalone that he abandoned because he couldn’t come up with an ending. Heller couldn’t either, but called it good anyway.
	The Door-to-Door Bookstore by Carsten Henn, read by: Raphael Corkhill, translated by Melody Shaw Schmaltzy but pure-of-heart. One central character’s motivation makes no sense. Ignoring that, it’s a sweet celebration of books/readers.
	Murder Your Employer: The McMasters Guide to Homicide by Rupert Holmes, read by: Simon Vance, Neil Patrick Harris Possibly too clever for its own good. I vacillated between reveling in it and utter disdain. It’s a mixed-bag that won me over in the end.
	Fixit by Joe Ide IQ and Dodson are back and better than ever. Who needs to say more than that?
	Thornhedge by T. Kingfisher, read by: Jennifer Blom Great prose in service of a solid modern take on Cinderella.
	Flood and Fury: Old Testament Violence and the Shalom of God by Matthew J. Lynch Helpful work on Divine Violence (how to think of it, how not to think of it or avoid the idea, either) and about the conquest of Canaan.
	But Have You Read the Book?: 52 Literary Gems That Inspired Our Favorite Films by Kristen Lopez How can a book with this premise be so dull? And snobbish, too.
	The Chinese Groove by Kathryn Ma, read by: James Chen Great characters, an okay story, but the payoff wasn’t there. The ending was bad enough to make me wish I hadn’t spent the time.
	Noirville: Tales From The Dark Side by Chris McVeigh 15 of the best short stories I’ve ever read. This is how Crime Fiction should always be.
	Grand Theft Astro by Scott Meyer, read by: Elizabeth Evans The Stainless Steel Rat with a contemporary twist. Meyer is capable of better, but I had enough fun (not sure I’m sold on the ending)
	The Eternity Fund by Liz Monument Dynamite dystopian adventure. Worth the $ just for the worldbuilding. The story and characters were even better–I’d relish a sequel.
	The Mostly True Story of Tanner and Louise by Colleen Oakley, read by: Hillary Huber It took me a long time to decide what this book was really about, but I enjoyed the trip. The destination was okay, too.
	The Raven Thief by Gigi Pandian See what I said about Spider-Man’s Bad Connection.
	Killers of a Certain Age by Deanna Raybourn, read by: Jane Oppenheimer, Christina Delaine Who doesn’t enjoy an octogenarian assassin? Who doesn’t love female assassins? A group of them out for revenge? Sure-fire fun.
	Vanished by Kat Richardson, read by: Mia Brown Good story, but felt underwhelmed by it all. I think it was me and my timing. not Richardson. I need to get back on this horse.
	She-Hulk, Vol. 1: Jen, Again by Rainbow Rowell A real winner from Rowell. I knew I should’ve started reading this series earlier. Good art, interesting arcs, & some real smiles were induced.
	How to Examine a Wolverine: More Tales from the Accidental Veterinarian by Philipp Schott, read by: Geet Arora A fun Veterinarian Memoir, with a lot of heart. James Herriot with more laughs and technology.
	The Green Ember by S.D. Smith, read by: Zach Franzen Maybe too much like Wingfeather Saga, but with rabbits instead of humans. Still, a good fantasy for the MG crowd.
	Don’t Hang Up by Benjamin Stevenson, read by: Luke Arnold, Sybilla Budd I can’t do better than Mike Finn did. Go read what he said. It’s why I listened.
	How I Won a Nobel Prize by Julius Taranto, read by: Lauren Fortgang Some good writing, but squandered for…I’m not sure really.
	The Marlow Murder Club by Robert Thorogood, read by: Nicolette McKenzie Decent cozy with an intriguing cast of oddball slueths.
	Questland by Carrie Vaughn Jurassic Park for RPG, SF, Fantasy, etc. fans. Been a Vaughn fan for years, but don’t know that I’ve had this much fun with one of her novels.
	All Systems Red by Martha Wells, read by: Kevin R. Free Oh, wow. I understand all the fuss over this series. I shouldn’t have slept on this–or the sequels like I have.
	Self Help by Ben H. Winters, read by: Wil Wheaton, Ron Perlman Cool concept. Great cast. Entertaining but not-entirely satisfying result. Worth the time. But not much more.

Grandpappy’s Corner: What’s in Your Howl? by Douglas Gamble, Illustrated by: Steve Humke, Terri Isaacson: If Only Ylvis Had Asked This Question Instead…

By HCNewton

On January 29, 2024

In Blog Series, Fiction, Grandpappy's Corner, Literary Locals, YA/MG/Children's Books

What’s in Your Howl?

by Douglas Gamble, illustrated by: Steve Humke, Terri Isaacson

DETAILS:
Publisher: Xulon Press
Publication Date: January 1, 2023
Format: Paperback  
Length: 36 pg.
Read Date: June 24, 2023

What’s What’s in Your Howl? About?

Alberto (an armadillo) is fascinated by Carlos (a coyote)–the way he runs and leaps, the way his fur looks, and especially his howl. But he doesn’t understand why Carlos howls–what’s he trying to say or accomplish by it?

So he asks–and Carlos answers, “It depends.” (not in the trickster coyote way, although that would be fun in a different way) He then explains some of the many things his howl can mean, depending on the circumstance. As he does so, Alberto takes it in and compares it to some of the things he does in similar circumstances. These two might be very different kinds of mammals, but they do have a lot in common after all.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Oh, this is very nice. The art is fairly realistic, there’s a good southwest flavor to it all. The close-ups of the armadillo and the coyote are really eye-catching, and…well, if I keep going, I’m going to just do a poor job of describing each image.

Rather, than my continuing to fumble around, you can see a few samples on the author’s Facebook page.

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s a little wordier than most books I’ve talked about as part of this series–that’s not a bad thing, it’s just a description. This isn’t a “fun” read with tongue twisters or rhymes, it’s simply nice, straightforward text that’ll work well for a time to settle down–or for someone who’s already settled and wants to hear “another story.” This isn’t really one to goof around with.

So, what did I think about What’s in Your Howl??

I heard of this book on Episode 137 of Let Me Tell You a Story Podcast, Gamble was talking about the creation of it, how the art was worked on, and so on. It was an interesting discussion and it prompted me to get this book. You might want to give it a listen.

I enjoyed this on several levels–the art, even the typeface, and the message. It’s a good combination of earnestness, cuteness, and scenery. If you’re looking for more in a book for toddlers, you might want to lower your expectations.

A sequel would be very welcome. Or an expanded edition, anyway. I know my 20-something daughter would appreciate it, she uttered an annoyed gasp after the last page, because she was really expecting an answer to Carlos’ question to Alberto.

Give this a shot.

3 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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Silly Rhymes for Belligerent Children by Trace Beaulieu, Len Peralta (Illustrator): Wonderfully Weird Poems for Children of Most Ages

By HCNewton

On January 22, 2024

In Humor, YA/MG/Children's Books

Silly Rhymes for Belligerent Children:
A Yucky Big Book of Rainy Day Fun for Belligerent
Children & Odd Adults
with Nothing Better To Do

by Trace Beaulieu, Len Peralta (Illustrator)

DETAILS:
Publisher: Amorphous Productions
Publication Date: January 1, 2010 
Format: Paperback
Length: 45 pg.
Read Date: July 13, 2023

What’s Silly Rhymes for Belligerent Children?

The back of the book says:

You certainly don’t need to be a belligerent child to appreciate these silly rhymes by Mystery Science Theater 3000’s and Cinematic Titanic’s Trace Beaulieu – but you may learn a thing or two about handling infected pets or living dangerously through sledding. While the subject matter may make you a bit queasy, you’ll delight in the perfect storytelling encapsulated in each poem. Each selection is a dark and distasteful delight – a fascinating collection of raw honesty, cool understatement and looming tragedy, all brought to life by the whimsical illustrations by Len Peralta. Silly Rhymes for Belligerent Children isn’t the book you’ll keep on the bookcase for decades. It’s the book you’ll keep under your bed within easy reach so you can page through it long after you’ve committed all the poems to memory.

That’s pretty much what the book is—in the forward/Author’s Note, Beaulieu says these poems were inspired by daydreaming, and what better source could there be?

Well, these rhymes are meant for the kind of child I was, and frankly still am.

So don’t come here looking for nice little poems with fuzzy-wuzzy pictures of fluffy cute animals or impossibly happy youngsters fetching pails of water.

This book is intended for kids who hate that kind of stuff: older kids, of course, and adults with… well nothing better to do.

Some are short…some are longer (at least when it comes to page count), they’re all a great mixture of fun rhymes, great images, and eccentric (to say the least) ideas. Some are morbid (in a kid-friendly way), some are just strange, some are gross (in a kid-friendly way).

My One Complaint

There aren’t enough poems.

Or illustrations.

Or anything else.

I want more of everything in this book.

A Quick Word about the Art

WOW. The art is fantastic. Can you go through this book, ignore all the words in black type, and still enjoy it? Probably—some of the pictures won’t make sense without the black text, but yeah, I can see the book working if you think of it as a collection of odd illustrations (I’ve tried this twice, but keep slipping and ended up reading the poems, so I can’t promise).

They are the perfect augment/supplement/accompaniment to Beaulieu’s quirky rhymes and sensibilities.

So, what did I think about Silly Rhymes for Belligerent Children?

This is just silly fun. I, apparently, am an odd adult with nothing better to do, because I’ve read this a handful of times from cover to cover in the last few months and am pleased I did so each time.

You know how there are certain movies/shows that when you’re just mindlessly flipping through the channels (assuming you still do that) you have to stop and watch for at least a few minutes? This book is kind of like that. I cannot tell you how many times since I first read it that I’ve stopped to read a poem or two when I see this book. I’ve yet to pick it up without reading at least three poems. Generally more. And not always the same ones, either.

From the poems to the illustrations and all points in-between, I had a blast with this. I wish I knew about this back when it was first published, my kids would’ve loved it then. I probably can’t get them to slow down enough for it now. Hopefully in a few years.

Track down a copy and lose yourself in these pages. Your inner child (and inner odd-adult) will thank you.

3 Stars

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Grandpappy’s Corner: How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide by Ame Dyckman, Jennifer Harney (Illustrator): A Clever Father Teaches Safety (and Some Bad Paleontology)

By HCNewton

On January 18, 2024

In Grandpappy's Corner, YA/MG/Children's Books

I cannot believe it took me 6 months to get around to writing this. It is nice, however, because I just didn’t have the energy to write up anything on the grown-up books on my list. Don’t take my delay as anything other than time management, it’s not a reflection on my enthusiasm.

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How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide

by Ame Dyckman, Jennifer Harney (Illustrator)

DETAILS:
Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers
Publication Date: April 18, 2023
Format: Hardcover
Length: 32 pgs.
Read Date: June 24, 2023

What’s How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide About?

On a trip to a museum, while looking at dinosaur skeletons, a child asks how they went extinct. Their mom (or maybe an older sister—she has a Candace Flynn energy if you ask me) starts to give an accurate answer, covering some basic theories. But then the child’s dad cuts them off.

Dad explains how various species went extinct due to poor safety habits. The Anklyosaurus, for example, “tipped in their chair;” The Microraptor, “played with matches;” the Brachiosauraus “swallowed their gum.” And so on. Dad goes on for a while, covering a few vital life lessons while his kid is open and listening.

I don’t want to spoil anything…but Dad’s quick thinking may have paid off (at least temporarily).

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

If the cover image of a T-Rex in tighty-whities and roller-skates with a rocket tied to their back doesn’t grab your attention…I don’t know what will. It also gives you a pretty thorough idea of what you’re going to find inside.

The dinosaurs are drawn fairly accurately—and very cartoony. And doing some clearly dumb/reckless things. The word “dynamic” doesn’t seem like it’s quite strong enough to describe this. The pictures scream movement, energy, and a sense of mirth. You don’t need the words to be able to flip through this and have fun (it’s better with them, of course).

How is it to Read Aloud?

First, Dyckman included a pronunciation guide, so people like me can get through all the tricky names of dinosaurs. Is it just me, or do we lose the ability to rattle off names of dinosaurs that weren’t featured in a Spielberg movie (or the sequels) after the age of 16 or so? Anyway, having these (with a note that there will be some local variations) is a major treat and wonderful aid.

With that aid—this becomes a blast to read. It’s filled with nice rhymes and goofy ideas and how do you not have fun reading that?

So, what did I think about How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide?

I picked this up in the bookstore while looking for something else—the cover image/title grabbed me, and when I flipped through it quickly, I just knew we needed it on our shelves. I dug the art and what little I skimmed appealed to me. When I got home and sat down to read it, I saw that my first impression was spot-on. This was fun for me, and I’m sure it’ll be fun for the grandcritter in a few months.

The jokes are great. I love the style of art—it just explodes off the page. You’re able to talk about common sense safety/manners in a way that a toddler will be able to have fun with (and hopefully learn from). What’s not to like?

I initially jotted this down as a 3-Star read, and I tend to trust my initial impulses. But 1. I didn’t remember that, so I gave it a 4 on my 2023 Favorites list and 2. I just re-read it, and don’t understand what I was thinking back in June. This is too much fun to give any less.

4 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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PUB DAY REPOST: Grandpappy’s Corner: Saint Valentine the Kindhearted by Ned Bustard: …Violets are Blue, I Liked this Book, and You Will, Too.

By HCNewton

On January 11, 2024

In (Auto)Biography, Grandpappy's Corner, History, Theology/Christian Living, YA/MG/Children's Books

Saint Valentine the Kindhearted:
The History and Legends of
God’s Brave and Loving Servant

Written and Illustrated by Ned Bustard

DETAILS: 
Publisher: IVP Kids
Publication Date: January 16, 2024
Format: eARC
Length: 32 pgs.
Read Date: October 5, 2023

What’s Saint Valentine the Kindhearted About?

Why do we call our celebration of love on February 14th (St.) Valentine’s Day? Why do we use February 14th, for that matter?

Ned Bustard brings us another picture book Biography to teach young readers about Valentine, who was martyred under Claudius on February 14.

Granted, we don’t know a lot about Valentine and his work, but we have enough to fill this book (and, as I recall from wordier historical treatments, not much more). We get a touch of his early life, a look at his ministry (and the Roman culture), a notable miracle that’s ascribed to him, and a bit about the events leading to his martyrdom. All told in a child-appropriate rhyme.

Let’s Talk about the Art for a Minute

Bustard’s cartoon-y art is as great here as it was in his Saint Patrick the Forgiver. The thing that stands out to me is his inking. (at least that’s what we called it back when I was really into comics and talked about the art, hopefully, it still counts). The way he uses bold lines around his character’s faces/bodies (particularly Valentine’s), really makes them pop off the page and almost look like wooden puppets. (that’s the best I can do as far as describing the pictures)

He’s also able to convey a certain amount of unpleasantness and threat with Roman soldiers without changing the overall feel of the story and its appropriateness for young readers.

Now, in the Patrick book, he worked in a lot of Celtic knots and whatnot to give it a more Irish feel. Here he goes for a lot of differently colored hearts all over the pages. It didn’t even occur to me while reading the book to pay attention to that—it fit the overall Feb. 14th vibe. I should’ve known better—thankfully, he explained it in “A Note from the Author,” so when I read this with the Grandcritter I can seem more knowledgeable. He works in these hearts in different colors to represent the four types of love (eros, storge, philia, and agape) from ancient Greek thought (and a pretty good book by C.S. Lewis), showing how Valentine displayed and interacted with these types of love in various episodes in the book.

You can check out the Publisher’s site for a glimpse at the art and layout as a preview. This will probably give you a better idea than anything I tried to convey.

How is it to Read Aloud?

It’s a nice little bit of rhyming text, and starting off with “Roses are red,” as often as he does, you’re going to get right into the rhythm reflexively, which is a nice touch. Some of the rhymes feel like a stretch to me*, but when you’ve got a good head of steam going as you read you probably won’t notice.

* “ago” and “van Gogh”, really? Also, that only works if you use the American pronunciation—sorry, British readers.

So, what did I think about Saint Valentine the Kindhearted?

I enjoyed this. I do wish we had more history to draw from for Bustard to use here (and, well, other historians writing for older audiences, too), just to fill out some of the details reliably. But this is a good introduction to the figure that’s had such a cultural impact so that even younger readers can know there’s basis to the celebration beyond chalky candies and silly drawings.

I don’t have a lot to say about this beyond that. It’s a fun read for the little folks, it has details and layers that older readers can appreciate and use to talk about bigger ideas with the little ones, too. Color me impressed yet again by Bustard and I’m eager to see what holiday/figure he picks next. Anyone trying to bring Early Church figures to the attention of the pre-K crowd deserves some applause and I’m happy to keep giving it, while gladly recommending you jump on board.

Disclaimer: I received this eARC from InterVarsity Press via NetGalley in exchange for this post—thanks to both for this.

3.5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.
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Clearing the Deck II: Tweet-length thoughts about books I can’t find time to write about

By HCNewton

On January 11, 2024

In Audiobook, Comics, DC Smith & Kings Lake, Don Winslow, Faith Hunter, Fantasy, Fiction, Fletch, General Fiction/Literature, Gregory Mcdonald, Harry Bosch, Harry Dresden, Humor, Jim Butcher, M. W. Craven, Matthew Norman, Michael Connelly, Michael R. Underwood, Mystery/Detective Fiction/Crime Fiction/Thriller, Non-Fiction, Renée Ballard, Science Fiction, Theology/Christian Living, Urban Fantasy, Washington Poe, YA/MG/Children's Books

I did this back in January 2020, and need to do it again.

I frequently mention how looming Mt. TBR is getting for me, but what’s worse is my “To Write About” pile, I know I’m never going to catch up with that properly and it bugs me to no end. But in the interest of something being better than nothing, a dash of realism, and a heavy dose of self-care, I’m cutting myself some slack. So I’m clearing the deck of everything from 2020-2022 that I haven’t made time for. This was painful to do, I was looking forward to writing about most of these, and I have so much that I want to say. But I’m just not going to get to them—and other books are starting to pile up, too. So, in 144 characters or less, here’s me cutting myself some slack.

How bad am I at keeping up with my To-Write-Titles? I put together the list of books for this post in January 2023. And am just now getting to it. I wish that was a joke.

(Click on the cover for an official site with more info)

	Battle Ground by Jim Butcher I just can’t talk about this one yet. I need more time. (yeah, they’re fictional characters, but I’ve spent too long with them to not be reeling)
	Desert Star by Michael Connelly Loved it while reading it. But I have more and more questions about all of it the longer I think about it. Not Connelly’s best but well worth it
	Dead Ground by M. W. Craven Not a typical Poe and Tilly case, just as good and gripping as the rest though.
	The Posthumous Memoirs of Brás Cubas by Machado de Assis, Flora Thomson-DeVeaux (Translator) A strange and somewhat humorous look at a ghost’s POV on his life. I want to read it a few more times to really get a handle on it. Heckuva read
	Nightwing: Year One Deluxe Edition by Chuck Dixon If there’s a better Nightwing writer out there, I’d like to see it. A great, great, great telling of his origin.
	Mythos by Stephen Fry Drags a little. Wish he could pick a tone for his retellings/commentary on the classic stories. Still, it’s Stephen Fry talking—worth the time.
	Heroes: Mortals and Monsters, Quests and Adventures by Stephen Fry See above, but felt it dragged a bit more.
	Teen Titans: Beast Boy by Kami Garcia, Gabriel Picolo (Penciller) A solid, believable update of Gar Logan’s backstory. Very promising follow-up to the Raven book. Really impressed with Picolo.
	Teen Titans: Beast Boy Loves Raven by Kami Garcia, Gabriel Picolo (Penciller) Bring the two together and it’s even better. I’m curious about the overall story, but would read just them being awkward together. Like the art.
	Missing Pieces: A Kings Lake Investigation by Peter Grainger, Gildart Jackosn (Narrator) The Murder Squad tackles a cold case and is as excellent as ever. I don’t know how to talk about this series w/o being redundant. I want more!
	Junkyard War by Faith Hunter, Khristine Hvam (Narrator) This was utterly fine. A lot didn’t go the way I expected. But I’m still in this series for the long haul.
	The Dime by Kathleen Kent One of the best first chapters ever. The rest is pretty good. Not sure I buy the motive for the murders, nor that I want to see what comes next.
	Batman: City of Crime by David Lapham If you buy (I can’t) Batman losing sight of his mission, this story about him recovering it is great. If you can’t…well, it’s pretty good.
	Bluebird, Bluebird by Attica Locke, J.D. Jackson (Narrator) A stunning work of fiction. Words fail me. A deeply compromised Texas Ranger tries to solve a potential hate crime and keep his job.
	Flynn by Gregory McDonald, Donald Corren (Narrator) I expected the Fletch narrator for some reason, but Corren won me over in minutes. One of my favorite novels of all-time. Great audio version.
	Son of Fletch by Gregory McDonald, Dan John Miller (Narrator) Oh, I wanted to love this. But I just liked it. I’ll probably hear Miller in my head anytime I read Fletch in print.
	Fletch Reflected by Gregory McDonald, Dan John Miller (Narrator) This is not the way the series should’ve ended. Some fantastic moments, but not sure it was worth it. Miller was solid as always.
	Last Couple Standing by Matthew Norman Norman’s best female characters (to date). Stupid premise, but it almost convinces me to like it by the end. Lots of great moments.
	Weakness Is the Way: Life with Christ Our Strength by J.I. Packer Packer’s great on 2 Corinthians and what Paul tells about weakness as a way of life for the Christian.
	The Monster in the Hollows by Andrew Peterson I’m not sure I loved the way the story went in this one, but I grew to appreciate it. Characters are still great.
	The Warden and the Wolf King by Andrew Peterson Whatever my misgivings about the last one, this was the right way to end the series. Just what I wanted (if mildly predictable)
	Deathstroke, Vol. 1: The Professional by Christopher J. Priest I prefer the version Wolfman and Perez initially told about his origin, but this ain’t a bad version. And I see why it was necessary. Good ’nuff
	There Goes The Neighborhood by S. Reed I stopped working with a book tour company because they wouldn’t let me be honest about this book ever. So I won’t be. Loved ALL of it. <3<3<3<3
	Percy Jackson’s Greek Gods by Rick Riordan, Jesse Bernstein (Narrator) If Percy Jackson edited D’Aulaires’s book you’d get this. A great way to introduce the myths to young readers. Bernstein is a spot-on Percy.
	Percy Jackson’s Greek Heroes by Rick Riordan, Jesse Bernstein (Narrator) See above, but with heroes.
	I Will Judge You by Your Bookshelf by Grant Snider If someone looked into my brain, took all of my ideas and feelings, and improved them, you’d get this book. But only one-third as good as this.
	All These Worlds by Dennis E. Taylor, Ray Porter (Narrator) Taylor and Porter are unbeatable together. This is funny (duh), and the grief and sadness are real. As is the anger. Is the ending too easy?
	The Fellowship of the Ring by J.R.R. Tolkien, Andy Serkis (Narrator) Serkis nails the narration (as you’d expect). Is there a better first book of a series in Fantasy?
	The Two Towers by J.R.R. Tolkien, Andy Serkis (Narrator) Serkis is tremendous here. This whole book is ridiculously good.
	The Return of the King by by J.R.R. Tolkien, Andy Serkis (Narrator) One day the pacing on this won’t surprise me. The book gets better every time. Serkis was phenomenal.
	Annihilation Aria by Michael R. Underwood Found family stars in this fun, space opera about archeologists fighting an empire.
	The Cartel by Don Winslow The best of the trilogy. Shocking. Moving. Gripping. All-too-real—if you told me this was non-fiction, I’d almost believe it. A true classic.

Miles Morales Suspended (Audiobook) by Jason Reynolds, Narrated by Guy Lockard & Nile Bullock: Who Needs a Mask? Miles Can Carry a Story on His Own

By HCNewton

On January 9, 2024

In Audiobook, Comics, Fiction, YA/MG/Children's Books

Miles Morales Suspended

by Jason Reynolds, Narrated by Guy Lockard & Nile Bullock

DETAILS:
Series: Miles Morales, #2
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Audio
Publication Date: May 2, 2023
Format: Unabridged Audiobook
Length: 3 hrs., 53 min.
Read Date: January 8, 2024

What’s Miles Morales Suspended About?

In the shadow of his victory against The Warden (see Miles Morales for details), Miles finds himself the brunt of his History teacher’s antagonism. Miles is sure it’s a prejudice against him, his skin color, his background, or…any number of other things. There’s a small chance it’s just his teacher being a jerk. It’s probably a combination of the two.

Regardless, Miles stands up for himself—and a few classmates have his back. And they end up serving an in-school suspension for it. The bulk of the novel focuses on that day—the doldrums of serving it, the homework assignments Miles has to try to focus on during the day, and all the ways his mind wanders through the day (his crush sitting in the desk behind him doesn’t help him focus at all).

Little by little, however, Miles becomes aware of a threat to him and others present that day. And eventually, suspension or not, Miles’ alter-ego has to step in and save the day.

The Narration

We have Guy Lockard back from the first book and this time he’s joined by Nile Bullock. I think the former handles the narration and the latter handles the parts of the book from Miles’ POV. Feel free to correct me.

Both of these performers brought this to life—the narration is very in-your-face (as is fitting, also reminiscent of Stan Lee’s voiceovers in various projects), and the characterization of Miles and the rest ring true.

I don’t really have anything to say about the narration other than I would listen to these two (together or apart) narrate an audiobook anytime

So, what did I think about Miles Morales Suspended?

There is very little plot to this (and not just because it’s just shy of 4 hours in length). What’s more, there’s very little Spider-Man action. Both of these are actually good things—at least this time. What we do get is a lot of Miles Morales action, we see the young man behind the mask just trying to survive high school, make connections, and grow up. These are the aspects of the characters that have helped people connect with Peter Parker and Miles since the 60s.

Now, don’t get me wrong—if this had all been Miles serving detention, it’d have been hard to put up with (not necessarily impossible). So I’m glad that Reynolds gave us a fun bit of Spider-Man action at the beginning and a pretty epic fight scene to wrap things up.

But that’s not the heart of the book—nor is it the heart of the character. Reynolds understands what drives Spider-Man (whoever is behind the mask), particularly Miles. Although, I’d like to see him tackle Peter just for fun, too.

Including so much poetry took me aback initially (or, at least when I figured out that’s what he was doing). But it fits Miles, it fits the girl he’s trying to impress, it fits this world, the themes of this particular book…and Reynolds knows what he’s doing in verse (unlike so many fantasy writers that litter their novels with questionable poetry). The same should be said for Lockard and Bullock—they know their way around reading verse so that it hits.

Is this the book I wanted and/or expected about Spider-Man or based on the previous novel by Reynolds? Nope. Do I care? Nope. Because it was fun, inventive, thought-provoking, and true to the character (yeah, a little heavy-handed, too—but that also sort of fits the classic Marvel modus operandi)

3.5 Stars

This post contains an affiliate link. If you purchase from it, I will get a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, the opinions expressed are my own.

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Grandpappy’s Favorites of 2023

By HCNewton

On January 3, 2024

In Grandpappy's Corner, News/Misc., YA/MG/Children's Books

Grandpappy's Corner 2023 Favorites
I’ve posted favorite Picture or Children’s books before, but now that I’m a Grandfather, I’m thinking about these things more. So, it’s not unusual for me to read these kinds of books, but I’m doing more of it. I fully expect this post to grow in the years to come.

I practically guarantee these will tickle you and/or warm your heart.

(in alphabetical order by author)

Farmhouse

by Sophie Blackall

My original post
It’s not the text of this book (not that there’s anything wrong with it), it’s largely the art that makes this stand out. The combination of the two…the whole experience of this book is what makes this makes this one memorable. I’m not sure what about the book will appeal to the Picture Book crowd, but the adults in their life are going to love spending time with this.

3.5 Stars

Saint Patrick the Forgiver:
The History and Legends of Ireland’s Bishop

by Ned Bustard

My original post
I kicked off this series with this book, so there’s a little bit of sentiment going for it. I really appreciated the way that Bustard dealt with a lot of history and some pretty serious topics in an age-appropriate way. He avoided moralism, too. All while giving the reader a fun experience, with some eye-catching art. A great introduction to Patrick that will hopefully spur a child’s interest in him for a long time to come.

5 Stars

How Dinosaurs Went Extinct: A Safety Guide

by Ame Dyckman, Jennifer Harney (Illustrator)

I can’t believe I forgot to write about this book. It’s one I stumbled across on the shelves while shopping for something else, and after a quick flip through it, I added it to the stack. It’s silly, the colors are loud, the illustartions practically leap off the page. It’s really impressive just how much Harney squeezed into each drawing. Parents will have a lot of fun reading this one, and I think it’ll be catching.

4 Stars (at least, I don’t have a post to check and I don’t have time to re-read it now.)

Noodle Conquers Comfy Mountain

by Jonathan Graziano, Dan Tavis (Illustrator)

My original post
The illustrations are adorable (and yes, you should pronounce it that way when talking about this book). The story is super-cute. While the first one was a nice intro to Noodle and his person, this is just a story about Noodle. It’s not a cuteness overload, but you’ll get close.

4 Stars

Every Dreaming Creature

by Brendan Wenzel

My original post
This book about a child’s dream looks and feels like one. It’s comfy, it’s cozy, it’ll help an adult and (hopefully!) a child calm down and think about drifting off to their own dreamland. I cannot say enough about this art.

4 Stars

Sophie and the Heidelberg Cat

by Andrew Wilson, Helena Perez Garcia (Illustrator)

My original post
Very possibly the best and clearest (definitely most succicinct) presentation of the Gospel and the assurance that is promised to those who have been bought by Christ I read this year. It’s an explanation of the first question and answer of the Heidelberg Catechism, which helps a lot. A nice bit of imagination, a dash of whimsy, good art, and a fantastic message. My wife and I have given away so many copies of this so far, it’s kind of mind-boggling.

5 Stars

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