August Book Haul 2023

    It's time for an August Book Haul! Here are all the Books I got in August.

Video

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 Rebel Rose: The Queen's Council Book Review

Book Name: Rebel Rose

Author Name: Emma Theriault

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: November 10, 2020

Number of Pages: 352 pages

Review:

    The spell is broken and now Belle and the Beast, going by the name Lio, have begun their life together. One of the things they must do is meet with the King of France to restore the ties between them. But when Belle and Lio arrive a revolution starts, with Belle witnessing a riot firsthand. Belle and Lio return home in hopes of stopping the revolution from spreading into their kingdom. Lio’s cousin, Bastien, accompanies them and proposes the kingdom cut all ties with France. This would lead Belle and Lio to become King and Queen. Though unsure, Lio accepts, while Belle declines the position. After the ceremony, Bastien urges Lio to spend time with the kingdom’s nobles while Belle believes the best path for their kingdom is to listen and help the commoners.

    With enough convincing, Lio does what Bastien says leaving Belle to work with the king’s assembly to take care of day-to-day duties. But Bastien and the assembly go against Belle at every turn. Then the enchantress who cured Lio returns, revealing that the kingdom could be destroyed, and Belle is the only one to stop it. Will Belle find the courage to stand up at take her rightful title as Queen? Or will her kingdom go up in flames? Find out in Disney’s The Queen’s Council book one: Rebel Rose.

    As a huge fan of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast seeing a continuation of the story is wonderful. I love how Belle feels she is not the right person to take the title princess, then eventually queen. She also learns how to trust her feelings and stand her ground. As a commoner before the curse, she sees differently than everyone around her and she tries to show that to everyone. I loved reading about her verbal battles with Bastien and reading about how she seemed so unsure about things. It made me love Belle as a character even more.

    I liked how the enchantress was woven back into the narrative and how the author made her into a character that will most likely be used in future installments of the Queens Council books. Also, the book did have me wondering if the character Bastien was good or bad throughout the story, but I think the author needed to give some more backstory on him. This could easily be fixed by having Belle use the magic mirror, which was established to still exist, to see why Bastien was the way he was. The mirror is shown in this story to see the future, so why not the past?

    I wish Lio had more page time as the original Beauty and the Beast animated movie is as much his movie as it is Belle’s. Maybe they could have thrown in a few more interactions between Belle and Lio. Lastly, I loved that Belle found a friend in a new character named Margaret. It was great to have Belle interact with another girl who had tons in common with her. Overall Rebel Rose is a good read and I give this book four out of five stars.

Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐✰

Song like this Book:  Brave by Josh Groban

 Cinder & Glass Book Review

Author Name: Melissa De La Cruz

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release Date: March 8, 2022

Number of Pages: 336 pages

Review:

    In France in 1682, Cendrillon lives happily with her father as she starts her life at the French court. Then one day, her father meets and marries Lady Catherine which starts changes in Cendrillion’s life. She now has two stepsisters and the members of the house staff whom Cendrillion thought of as family are dismissed. Then suddenly, her father passes away. Now Cendrillion is no more than a servant in her own home, being treated horribly by her stepfamily. But hope comes in the form of her dying godmother, who whisks Cendrillion away and takes her to the grand ball held by the King. There she encounters both Prince Louis and his half-brother Augustu. She’s unsure of the former but feels sparks with the latter.

    Later that night an announcement is made: twenty-five ladies of the court will be courted by Prince Louis and he will choose one for his bride. Even more surprising; Cendrillion’s name is called as one of the suiters. Panicking and scared of what her stepmother will do, she flees the ball, leaving behind her slipper. The next day she is confronted by Lady Catherine, who forbids Cendrillion from participating in the prince’s courting. But Cendrillion does anyway as it seems it might be the only way to escape her stepfamily for good.

    Cendrillion works hard to impress Prince Louis to be chosen as his bride, but as she sees Augustu more, the more she falls for him. Now as the prince’s courting event winds down to an end, Cendrillion must make a choice; marry Louis and be free from her stepfamily or be with Augustu, the man she loves.

    Cinder & Glass was a very interesting and entertaining read. I really enjoyed how the story of Cinderella was adapted and changed to fit in the real world of 1682 in France. I feel the book set up Cendrillion’s story from a noble lady to her stepmother’s servant at a good pace. I really felt for Cendrillion at times as she faces the hardships her stepmother puts her through and how she finally has enough of her is great to read. I also liked how she didn’t fall in love with the prince but the prince’s half-brother. This leads to fun interactions Cendrillion has with both, especially Cendrillion’s and Augustu’s romantic scenes. The two are so cute together. This book has the trope of one of the stepsisters being nice but has her stand up to her mother in the end, which was a nice change of pace.

    The biggest negative I had with the story was how Cenderillion’s godmother was handled. She’s friends with Cendrillion’s father and even though she says his death affected her so bad that she had to leave court for over a year only sending Cendrillion letters did not sit right with me. I feel like the author should have had a point where she tried to come back for Cendrillion, but was tricked by Lady Catherine in some way before she arrived when the stepfamily was away at the ball.

    I also did not like how she came back only to die off the page a few chapters later. The author could have thought of another way to make it so that she could no longer help Cendrillion. Maybe still have her godmother die and have her inherit her gowns. Then when she wants to go to the ball the people who used to work at her home return, dress her up, and get her to the ball. Either way I still really enjoyed Cinder & Glass. I give this book four out of five stars.

Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐✰

Song like this Book: Safe & Sound by Jackie Evancho

 Currently Reading: September 20th to September 26th, 2023

    These will be the three books I will be reading/listening to for the week of September 20^th to the 26^th. I read a physical book, a Kindle book, and Listen to an audiobook so I can switch between the three at any time. 

Audiobook:

Book Title: The Martian

Author Name: Andy Weir

Genre: Science Fiction

Release Date: September 27, 2011

Number of Pages: 384 pages

Book Description:

    Six days ago, astronaut Mark Watney became one of the first people to walk on Mars.

    Now, he’s sure he’ll be the first person to die there.

 

    After a dust storm nearly kills him and forces his crew to evacuate while thinking him dead, Mark finds himself stranded and completely alone with no way to even signal Earth that he’s alive—and even if he could get the word out, his supplies would be gone long before a rescue could arrive.

 

    Chances are, though, he won’t have time to starve to death. The damaged machinery, unforgiving environment, or plain old “human error” are much more likely to kill him first.

 

But Mark isn’t ready to give up yet. Drawing on his ingenuity, his engineering skills — and a relentless, dogged refusal to quit — he steadfastly confronts one seemingly insurmountable obstacle after the next. Will his resourcefulness be enough to overcome the impossible odds against him?

Kindle:

 

Book Title: Mirror, Mirror – A Twisted Tale

Author Name: Jen Calonita

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: April 2, 2019

Book Number: 6 of 15

Number of Pages: 344 pages

Book Description:

    What if the Evil Queen poisoned the prince?

 

    Following her beloved mother's death, the kingdom falls into the hands of Snow White's stepmother, commonly referred to as "the Evil Queen" by those she rules. Snow keeps her head down at the castle, hoping to make the best of her situation.

 

    But when new information about her parents resurfaces and a plot to kill her goes haywire, everything changes for Snow. With the help of a group of wary dwarfs, a kind prince she thought she'd never see again, and a mysterious stranger from her past, Snow embarks on a quest to stop the Evil Queen and take back her kingdom. But can she stop an enemy who knows her every move and will stop at nothing to retain her power... including going after the ones Snow loves?

Physical Book:

Book Title: Singer

Author Name: Jean Thesman

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: April 7, 2005

Number of Pages: 280 pages

Book Description:

    Having been hidden in an abbey for years in order to be protected from her evil mother Rhiamon, Gwenore is forced to flee the abbey and change her name after her whereabouts are discovered, but despite a new identity, a king for a husband, and several beautiful children, Gwenore knows that her mother is still out there somewhere and so has to find a way to keep her family safe at all costs.

Books Like Avatar: The Last Airbender

 Long Ago the Four Nations Live Together...

    On February 21, 2005, a show about a boy named Aang who just wanted to go penguin sledding but was destined to save the world premiered. Along the way, he teams up with siblings Katara and Sokka, the little but fierce Toph, and once foe Zuko to defeat the evil Fire Nation. The series was called Avatar: The Last Airbender. The show had an amazing magic system: those known as benders could control one of the four elements water, earth, fire, and air. One could control them all, known as the Avatar. 

    The series was a hit and a sequel series aired in 2012 called The Legend of Korra a failed live-action movie released in theaters. Now after many years, a live-action adaptation of the series will premiere on Netflix in 2024, and an animated movie along with a second sequel series is planned for 2025. For those who need something to hold them over until then here are five books with similar magic systems to read.

Book One: The Rise of Kyoshi

    This first book is a prequel to Avatar the Last Airbender, following one of the past Avatars, Kyoshi, as she discovers her identity and sets out for revenge.

Book Name: The Rise of Kyoshi

Author Name(s): F.C. Yee, Michael Dante DiMartino

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: July 16, 2019

Book Number: 1 of 4

Number of Pages: 442 pages

Book Description:

    F. C. Yee’s The Rise of Kyoshi delves into the story of Kyoshi, the Earth Kingdom–born Avatar. The longest-living Avatar in this beloved world’s history, Kyoshi established the brave and respected Kyoshi Warriors but also founded the secretive Dai Li, which led to the corruption, decline, and fall of her own nation. The first of two novels based on Kyoshi, The Rise of Kyoshi maps her journey from a girl of humble origins to the merciless pursuer of justice who is still feared and admired centuries after she became the Avatar.

Book Two: Set Fire to the Gods

     This book follows two teens participating in the same elemental tournament. One to avenge her mother, the other to save his family from homelessness.

Book Name: Set Fire to the Gods

Author Name(s): Sara Raasch, Kristen Simmons

Genre:  Fantasy

Release Date: August 4, 2020

Book Number: 1 of 2

Number of Pages: 432 pages

Book Description:

    Ash is descended from a long line of gladiators, and she knows the brutal nature of war firsthand. But after her mother dies in an arena, she vows to avenge her by overthrowing her fire god, whose temper has stripped her country of its resources.

    Madoc grew up fighting on the streets to pay his family's taxes. But he hides a dangerous secret: he doesn't have the earth god’s powers like his opponents. His elemental gift is something else—something that hasn't been seen in centuries.

    When an attempted revenge plot goes dangerously wrong, Ash inadvertently throws the fire and earth gods into a conflict that can only be settled by deadly, lavish gladiator games. The fights put Madoc in Ash's path, and she realizes that his powers are the weapon her rebellion needs—but Madoc won’t jeopardize his family, regardless of how intrigued he is by the beautiful warrior.

    But when the gods force Madoc’s hand, he and Ash uncover an ancient war that will threaten more than one immortal—it will unravel the world.

Book Three: Children of Blood and Bone

    This book is full of adventure and action, set in a world based in Africa!

Book Name: Children of Blood and Bone

Author Name: Tomi Adeyemi

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: March 6, 2018

Book Number: 1 of 3

Number of Pages: 544 pages

Book Description:

    Zélie Adebola remembers when the soil of Orïsha hummed with magic. Burners ignited flames, Tiders beckoned waves, and Zélie’s Reaper mother summoned forth souls.

But everything changed the night magic disappeared. Under the orders of a ruthless king, maji was killed, leaving Zélie without a mother and her people without hope.

    Now Zélie has one chance to bring back magic and strike against the monarchy. With the help of a rogue princess, Zélie must outwit and outrun the crown prince, who is hell-bent on eradicating magic for good.

    Danger lurks in Orïsha, where snow leoponaires prowl and vengeful spirits wait in the waters. Yet the greatest danger may be Zélie herself as she struggles to control her powers and her growing feeling for an enemy.

Book Four: Air Awakens

    This book follows a girl working in a library as she discovers her hidden powers, leading to a grand and dangerous adventure.

Book name: Air Awakens

Author Name: Elise Kova

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: August 27, 2015

Book Number: 1 of 5

Number of Pages: 342 pages

Book Description:

    A library apprentice, a sorcerer prince, and an unbreakable magic bond...

    The Solaris Empire is one conquest away from uniting the continent, and the rare elemental magic sleeping in seventeen-year-old library apprentice Vhalla Yarl could shift the tides of war.

    Vhalla has always been taught to fear the Tower of Sorcerers, a mysterious magic society, and has been happy in her quiet world of books. But after she unknowingly saves the life of one of the most powerful sorcerers of them all—the Crown Prince Aldrik—she finds herself enticed into his world.

    Now she must decide her future: Embrace her sorcery and leave the life she’s known or eradicate her magic and remain as she’s always been. And with powerful forces lurking in the shadows, Vhalla’s indecision could cost her more than she ever imagined.

Book Five: Red Queen

    The last book sees two groups of people; those with powers and those without and one girl who will change the kingdom forever.

Book Name: Red Queen

Author Name: Victoria Aveyard

Genre: Dystopian

Release Date: February 10, 2018

Book Number: 1 of 4

Number of Pages: 388 pages

Book Description:

    The Reds are commoners, ruled by a Silver elite in possession of god-like superpowers. And to Mare Barrow, a seventeen-year-old Red girl from the poverty-stricken Stilts, it seems like nothing will ever change.

    That is until she finds herself working in the Silver Palace. Here, surrounded by the people she hates the most, Mare discovers that, despite her red blood, she possesses a deadly power of her own. One that threatens to destroy the balance of power.

Fearful of Mare's potential, the Silvers hide her in plain view, declaring her a long-lost Silver princess, now engaged to a Silver prince. Despite knowing that one misstep would mean her death, Mare works silently to help the Red Guard, a militant resistance group, and bring down the Silver regime.

    But this is a world of betrayal and lies, and Mare has entered a dangerous dance—Reds against Silvers, Prince against Prince, and Mare against her own heart.

Conclusion

      I hope these books scratch your Avatar the Last Airbender itch. If there are any more books that give off the same vibes, let me know in the comments below!

 Artist Nook: Scarlet from the Lunar Chronicles

     Artist Nook is where I take book characters and draw them in my own style. For this Artist Nook, I drew Scarlet from the book series The Lunar Chronicles. If you want to see any other book characters drawn, let me know in the comments below.

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 Huge Book Haul! 25 Books!

    I bought 25 books from multiple thrift stores and Barnes and Noble!!! Let's see what I got!!!

Video

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Classic Book Recommendations

New Spins on Classic Books

    Phantom of the Opera, Little Woman, and The Tree Musketeers. These are just a small number of books considered classics today. Most were written after most fairy tales and are also known to inspire authors to create their own versions of these stories. In this post, I will be recommending five books where the authors take their own spin on classic books.

Book 1: A Blade So Black

    This first book twists Wonderland even further with nightmares roaming through its field and finding ways to our world!

Book Name: A Blade So Black

Author Name: L.L. McKinney

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: September 25, 2018

Book Number: 1 of 3

Number of Pages: 384 pages

Book Description:

    The first time the Nightmares came, it nearly cost Alice her life. Now she's trained to battle monstrous creatures in the dark dream realm known as Wonderland with magic weapons and hardcore fighting skills. Yet even warriors have a curfew.

    Life in real-world Atlanta isn't always so simple, as Alice juggles an overprotective mom, a high-maintenance best friend, and a slipping GPA. Keeping the Nightmares at bay is turning into a full-time job. But when Alice's handsome and mysterious mentor is poisoned, she has to find the antidote by venturing deeper into Wonderland than she’s ever gone before. And she'll need to use everything she's learned in both worlds to keep from losing her head . . . literally.

Book 2: Phantom Heart

    This next book takes The Phantom of the Opera and sets it in the modern day with a Ghost Hunters twist!

Book Name: Phantom Heart

Author Name: Kelly Creagh

Genre: Paranormal

Release Date: August 17, 2021

Book Number: 1 of ???

Number of Pages: 528 pages

Book Description:

    Seventeen-year-old Stephanie Armand doesn’t believe in ghosts or spirits. Despite her six-year-old sister, Charlie, insisting a masked figure is hiding in her closet, and the rumors at school, Stephanie isn’t convinced her father’s latest renovation project–a crumbling Victorian mansion–houses the soul of a monster.

    So, when the very charming (and paranormal-obsessed) Lucas Cheney takes an interest in both Stephanie and her notorious home, the supernatural and romantic activity escalates to an all-time high. And that doesn’t even take into account the dashing, British-accented eighteen-year-old boy, Erik, who’s taken up residence in Stephanie’s nightly dreams. A boy who may have something to do with the man in the mask, and the strange occurrences taking place at Moldavia.

Book 3: Legendborn

    This book takes the Arthurian legend and brings it to the modern day with great action and mystery.

Book Name: Legendborn

Author Name: Tracy Deonn

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: September 15, 2020

Book Number: 1 of ???

Number of Pages: 501 pages

Book Description:

    After her mother dies in an accident, sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews wants nothing to do with her family memories or childhood home. A residential program for bright high schoolers at UNC–Chapel Hill seems like the perfect escape—until Bree witnesses a magical attack on her very first night on campus.

    A flying demon feeding on human energies.

    A secret society of so-called “Legendborn” students that hunt the creatures down.

    And a mysterious teenage mage who calls himself a “Merlin” and who attempts—and fails—to wipe Bree’s memory of everything she saw.

    The mage’s failure unlocks Bree’s own unique magic and a buried memory with a hidden connection: the night her mother died, another Merlin was at the hospital. Now that Bree knows there’s more to her mother’s death than what’s on the police report, she’ll do whatever it takes to find out the truth, even if that means infiltrating the Legendborn as one of their initiates.

    She recruits Nick, a self-exiled Legendborn with his own grudge against the group, and their reluctant partnership pulls them deeper into the society’s secrets—and closer to each other. But when the Legendborn reveals themselves as the descendants of King Arthur’s knights and explains that a magical war is coming, Bree has to decide how far she’ll go for the truth and whether she should use her magic to take the society down—or join the fight.

Book 4: One for All

    Ever wanted to read a gender-bent version of the Three Musketeers? What about one with a main character with a disability? Then One for All is for you!

Book Name: One for All

Author Name: Lillie Lainoff

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release Date: March 8, 2022

Book Number: Standalone

Number of Pages: 389 pages

Book Description:

    Tania de Batz is most herself with a sword in her hand. Everyone in town thinks her near-constant dizziness makes her weak, nothing but “a sick girl”; even her mother is desperate to marry her off for security. But Tania wants to be strong, independent, a fencer like her father—a former Musketeer and her greatest champion.

    Then Papa is brutally, mysteriously murdered. His dying wish? For Tania to finish school. But L’Académie des Mariées, Tania realizes, is no finishing school. It’s a secret training ground for a new kind of Musketeer: women who are socialites on the surface, but strap daggers under their skirts, seduce men into giving up dangerous secrets, and protect France from downfall. And they don’t shy away from a swordfight.

    With her newfound sisters at her side, Tania feels for the first time like she has a purpose like she belongs. But then she meets Étienne, her first target in uncovering a potential assassination plot. He’s kind, charming, and breathlessly attractive—and he might have information about what really happened to her father. Torn between duty and dizzying emotion, Tania will have to lean on her friends, listen to her own body, and decide where her loyalties lie…or risk losing everything she’s ever wanted.

    This debut novel is a fierce, whirlwind adventure about the depth of found family, the strength that goes beyond the body, and the determination it takes to fight for what you love.

Book 5: So Many Beginnings

    Finally, a twist on the classic Little Women from a new book series known as Classic Remix!

Book Name: So Many Beginnings

Author Name: Bethany C. Morrow

Genre: Historical Fiction

Release Date: September 7, 2021

Book Number: 2 of 8

Number of Pages: 304 pages

Book Description:

    North Carolina, 1863. As the American Civil War rages on, the Freedmen's Colony of Roanoke Island is blossoming, a haven for the recently emancipated. Black people have begun building a community of their own, a refuge from the shadow of the old life. It is where the March family has finally been able to safely put down roots with four young daughters:

    Meg, a teacher who longs to find love and start a family of her own.

    Jo, a writer whose words are too powerful to be contained.

    Beth, a talented seamstress searching for a higher purpose.

    Amy, a dancer eager to explore life outside her family's home.

    As the four March sisters come into their own as independent young women, they will face first love, health struggles, heartbreak, and new horizons. But they will face it all together.

A Conclusion

    Have you read any of these books? Do any of these books sound interesting? Which will you be picking up? Let me know in the comments below!

 Mid-Year Book Freak Out Tag

    In this video, I answer the Mid-Year Book Freak Out Tag question!

Questions:

1.  Best book you’ve read so far in 2022?
2. Best sequel you’ve read so far in 2022?
3. New release you haven’t read yet but want to?
4. Most anticipated release for the second half of 2022?
5. Biggest disappointment?
6. Biggest surprise?
7. New favorite author? Newest fictional crush?
8. Newest favorite character?
9. Book that made you cry?
10. Book that made you happy?
11. Favorite book-to-movie adaptation you’ve seen so far this year?
12. Most beautiful book you bought this year?
13. Most beautiful book you bought this year?
14. What books do you really need to read by the end of this year?

Video

    What are your answers to some of these questions? Let me know in the comments below. It would also help if you went on YouTube and liked and commented there as well!

 If The Fates Allow: Owl Crate June 2023 Unboxing

    Now that it is June, a new Owl Crate has arrived on my doorstep! This month's theme is If the Fates Allow including the book Threads That Bind and other goodies. 

Video

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 The Wizard of Oz Book Review

Book Name: The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

Author Name: L. Frank Baum

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: May 17, 1900

Page Number: 154 Pages

Artist Name: W.W. Denslow

Review:

    One moment she’s at home in Kansas, the next she is in the beautiful land of Oz! The magical country is full of beauty and magic, but all Dorothy wants to do is go back home to her Uncle Henry and Aunt Em. So, with the blessing of the Good Witch of the North, Dorothy sets out on a journey to the Emerald City. Along the way, she meets the Scarecrow, the Tin Man, and the Cowardly Lion. Each wants something and all hope the Great Wizard of Oz can give it to them; the Scarecrow's brains, the Tin Man a heart, and the Cowardly Lion's courage. Along the way, they must face horrible beasts, giant chasms, and the deadly poppy fields. Finally, they make it to the Emerald City, but will the Wizard grant them each their wish?

    The Wonderful Wizard of Oz might only be 154 pages, but it has so much more happening in those pages than was shown in the 1939 film. Such as how Glinda the Good Witch of the South does not appear at the Emerald City after the wizard leaves, Dorothy and her friends travel to her kingdom in the South, and the winged monkeys are not under the complete control of the Wicked Witch of the West; they are cursed to a golden cap and once they are given 3 commands, they are free. The only well-known difference between the book and the film is the magic shoes Dorothy wears. In the book, the shoes are silver, while in the movie they are ruby. Why? To show off the stunning effect of technicolor! So, to take full advantage of this they decided to make the shoes ruby red.

    The Wonderful Wizard of Oz is a fun and cute book. All the events not in the 1939 movie make this worth reading alone, as it feels almost like an entirely different story. The imagination in creating this lore is interesting to read, even if it is simplistic because it is aimed at a young audience. Like how the Scarecrow tells the story of how he was created and the reason why he wants brains. The author Baum intended this to be a fairy tale for children growing up in the 1900s and I believe he succeeded.

    The main problem I had with this book was the constant repeat of dialogue by the characters. Every time an obstacle gets in the way of Dorothy and her friends, they each have to say if they don’t find a way through they will not get what they wish for. It gets on one's nerves very quickly and I found myself skipping these parts toward the end. Also, since this was written in 1900 there is language used in this book that has a different meaning today. All in all, I feel this is a sweet and short book, perfect for anyone wanting a quick read. I give The Wonderful Wizard of Oz a four out of five!

Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐✰

Song Like This Book:

Breakaway by Kelly Clarkson

 Crafting Spot: Collage Bookmarks

    In this video I make a bookmark out of a sticker collage. To make one is simple, you will just need: stickers, clear tape, scissors, and a bookmark you do not mind changing up. Then follow these steps.

1. Put stickers all over the bookmark at different angles and overlap them over other stickers.
2. next cut off any and all stickers that go over the edges of the book mark.
3. Now flip the bookmark over and repeat the prosses on the back.
4. Lastly cover the bookmark with clear tape to protect the stickers and strengthen the bookmark.

    Tada! You have a new bookmark! watch the video for help and inspiration!

Video

    I Hope you enjoy this video. If there are any kind of book related crafts you want to see, put them in the comments below. It would also help if you like and comment on YouTube as well!

Ms. Marvel Vol. 2: Generation Why Book Review

 Ms. Marvel Vol. 2: Generation Why Review

Book Name: Ms. Marvel- Generation Why

Author Name(s): G. Willow Wilson

Artist Name(s): Adrian Alphona (Illustrator), Jake Wyatt (Artist)

Genre: Superhero

Release Date: April 7, 2015

Page Number: 134 pages

Review:

    The Inventor is growing in power in Jersey City and has his eye on a certain superhero: Ms. Marvel! It does not help that Kamla’s parents have told Sheikh Abdullah about her acting strangely. She tries her best to explain without reviling her hero identity and lets it slip that she feels she not very good at doing it. Sheikh Abdullah shocks her by giving her some advice. She needs a teacher. When Kamla asks were to find one, he says “When the student is ready the master will appear”. What master appears? The Superhero Wolverine!

    While the newbie hero is investigating one of the Inventor’s creations in the Jersey City sewers, she bumps into the six clawed mutant. OMG! It’s the one and only wolverine! Stop it Kamla! It’s not the time to fan girl! Wolverine is look for a missing student and they decide to work together. While searching he gives her some hero tips and Ms. Marvel is even able to impress the old grouch. Then the two find the missing student; inside one of the Inventor’s machines! Is he using them as batteries? Why? Ms. Marvel is going to find out and put a stop to the Inventor once and for all!

    This is a great volume two in Ms. Marvel’s superhero journey. She’s still learning the robes and having some realizations. This is another identity, and she needs to be careful. This volume tackles the issue of how society perceives Kamla’s generation, nothing more than zombies glued to their phones. The Inventor is shown to feel the same. he even brainwashes teens into thinking his way is the only way to have a better future. Ms. Marvel realizes the best way to not just have a better future, but also do her superhero duties, is for others to work together. I feel this is a great message, especially in a world that seems so divided now a days.

    This volume also has Kamla in her first superhero team up! It was fun to read Kamla’s reaction to meeting Wolverine and how she goes on about writing fanfiction featuring him. She is a true fan girl! The volume also gives some info about what was going on in Wolverine’s series at the time without giving to much that might confuse the reader. This really makes me want to read more team ups featuring Kamla. It’s also revealed that Kamla is part of a group known as the Inhumans. I can’t wait to learn more and I give this Volume a four out of five!

Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐✰

A Song Like This Book: 

Hall of Fame by The Script

Part Of Your World: A Twisted Tale Book Review

 Part Of Your World: A Twisted Tale Review

Book Name: Part of Your World: A Twisted Tale

Author Name: Liz Braswell

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: September 4, 2018

Page Number: 482 pages

Review:

    What if Ursula had won?

    Five years after Ariel went to the above world and was defeated by the sea witch, Ursula. She has lost everything; her father, her voice, her carefree life, and Eric… Now she rules the Mer-people of Atlantica voiceless. But one day a message arrives from Scuttle; Ariel’s father, King Triton, is alive! He is being held hostage by Ursula.

    Using the powers of the trident, Ariel returns to land to save her father. As she looks for a way to free him, Ariel learns that Ursula has turned Eric’s peaceful land into a military force.  The sea witch also plans to conquer surrounding countries. It doesn’t help that in a rash decision, Ariel gets her voice back by smashing Ursula’s necklace. Now Ursula knows she has returned, putting everyone Ariel loves in danger, but it also releases Eric from Ursula’s spell. Eric and Ariel team up to end the sea witch; but will they succeed?

    This is author Liz Braswell’s best Disney Twisted Tale book in my opinion. I was interested and excited throughout the book, hoping Ariel would get her father back. I also had fun with Ursula’s schemes. I feel the characters are slightly changed for the better while keeping their movie selves intact.

    Ariel is still Ariel but acts more mature thanks to ruling Atlantica for the past five years. She has times when she still does things even if it might turn out bad. Like how she smashes Ursula’s necklace to get her voice back even though she loses the element of surprise over the sea witch. Also, it’s cute to read her thoughts about her feelings for Eric. It’s fun to read Eric’s and Ursula’s interactions as well. The dinner scene is just hilarious! Seeing Eric’s super-good guy ways and how it makes Ursula underestimate him is also sweet. I wish there were more parts where we read his feelings for Ariel as they were adorable what little was there.

    The new characters were fine, but they needed more page time. Argent is a fun tattoo artist and a ‘not what she seems’ granny character and Jona gave some interesting interactions with both Ariel and Eric. Vareet as Ursula’s maid was a good concept but needed more exploration. There are some things that are brought up that mess with both this story and the original. For this story, it’s that Ursula says Ariel’s power wains due to the tides and moon. This leads to thinking Ariel leaves when her power is weakest and comes back when it's strong again many times, making this plot point a bit worthless. It also messes with the original movie plot. Does this mean Ariel would not be able to be with Eric as a human-like she wanted? This version does say Ariel will spend time in both worlds, but it still affects the original poorly.

    Though Conceal, Don’t Feel is still my favorite Disney Twisted Tale book, I feel Part of Your World has become my second! It’s a good twist on The Little Mermaid and I give this book four out of five stars.

Rating:

⭐⭐⭐⭐✰

I Song Like This Book: 

Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush

 Owl Crate May 2023: Against All Odds

    In this video I unbox the May 2023 Owl Crate: Against All Odds! the book is so beautiful!!!

Video

    I hope You enjoy this video! Let me know what you think in the comments below! It would also help if you like and comment on YouTube as well!

Mulan Book Recommendations

She Took Her Father’s Place

    Believed to have origins in the Northern Wei dynasty of China, the Ballad of Mulan has captured the imaginations of millions around the world. The story depicts the journey of Hua Mulan as she disguises herself as a man to take her father’s place in the Chinese army as the country fights the Rouran nomads. In some versions, she fights for many years with no one discovering her identity and declines a position of high office offered by the emperor. She retires to live with her family, only then revealing her true gender to her fellow soldiers. In other versions, she is captured by the enemy and to avoid being forced into servitude she takes her life.

    Though there have been many adaptations over the years, the most well-known is the 1998 adaptation by Disney. This and the original ballad have inspired others to write their own versions of the tale or been inspired by having the element of a girl disguised as a boy for one reason or another. We will explore five book adaptations of the story in this post.

Book 1: Flame in the Mist

    This first book recommendation has a young woman concealing her gender to better investigate why a group of bandits want her dead.

Book Name: Flame in the Mist

Author Name(s): Renee Ahdieh

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: May 16, 2017

Book Number: 1 of 2

Number of Pages: 392 pages

Book Description:

    The only daughter of a prominent samurai, Mariko has always known she’d been raised for one purpose and one purpose only; to marry. Never mind her cunning, which rivals that of her twin brother, Kenshin, or her skills as an accomplished alchemist. Since Mariko was not born a boy, her fate was sealed the moment she drew her first breath.

    So, at just seventeen years old, Mariko is sent to the imperial palace to meet her betrothed, a man she did not choose, for the very first time. However, the journey is cut short when Mariko’s convoy is viciously attacked by the Black Clan, a dangerous group of bandits who’ve been hired to kill Mariko before she reaches the palace.

    The lone survivor, Mariko narrowly escapes to the woods, where she plots her revenge. Dressed as a peasant boy, she sets out to infiltrate the Black Clan and hunt down those responsible for the target on her back. Once she’s within their ranks, though, Mariko finds for the first time she’s appreciated for her intellect and abilities. She even finds herself falling in love—a love that will force her to question everything she’s ever known about her family, her purpose, and her deepest desires.

Book 2: Crown of Feathers

Book Name: Crown of Feathers
Author Name(s): Nicki Pau Preto
Genre: Fantasy
Release Date: February 12, 2019
Book Number: 1 of 3
Number of Pages: 496 pages
Book Description:

    I had a sister, once…

    In a world ruled by fierce warrior queens, a grand empire was built upon the backs of Phoenix Riders—legendary heroes who soared through the sky on wings of fire—until a war between two sisters ripped it all apart.

    “I promised her the throne would not come between us.”

    Sixteen years later, Veronyka is a war orphan who dreams of becoming a Phoenix Rider from the stories of old. After a shocking betrayal from her controlling sister, Veronyka strikes out alone to find the Riders—even if that means disguising herself as a boy to join their ranks.

    “But it is a fact of life that one must kill or be killed. Rule or be ruled.”

    Just as Veronyka finally feels like she belongs, her sister turns up and reveals a tangled web of lies between them that will change everything. Meanwhile, the new empire has learned of the Riders’ return and intends to destroy them once and for all.

Book 3: To Best the Boys

    This book has a girl disguising herself as a boy to participate in a boy’s only competition for a chance at higher education.

Book Name: To Best the Boys

Author Name(s): Mary Weber

Genre: Dystopia

Release Date: March 19, 2019

Book Number: Standalone

Number of Pages: 314 pages

Book Description:

    The task is simple: don a disguise. Survive the Labyrinth. Best the boys.

    In a thrilling new fantasy from the bestselling author of the Storm Siren Trilogy, one girl makes a stand against society and enters a world made exclusively for boys.

    Every year for the past fifty-four years, the residents of Pinsbury Port have received a mysterious letter inviting all eligible-aged boys to compete for an esteemed scholarship to the all-male Stemwick University. The poorer residents look to see if their names are on the list. The wealthy look to see how likely their sons are to survive. Rhen Tellur opens it to see if she can derive which substances the ink and parchment are created from, using her father’s microscope.

    In the province of Caldon, where women train in wifely duties and men pursue collegiate education, sixteen-year-old Rhen Tellur wants nothing more than to become a scientist. As the poor of her seaside town fall prey to a deadly disease, she and her father work desperately to find a cure. But when her mum succumbs to it as well? Rhen decides to take the future into her own hands—through the annual all-male scholarship competition.

    With her cousin, Seleni, by her side, the girls don disguises and enter Mr. Holm’s labyrinth, to best the boys and claim the scholarship prize. Not everyone is ready for a girl who doesn’t know her place. And not everyone survives the deadly maze.

Book 4: Princess of Thorns

    This next book recommendation has the daughter of Sleeping Beauty trying to save her kingdom with the help of a cursed prince.

Book Name: Princess of Thorns

Author Name(s): Stacey Jay

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: December 9, 2014

Book Number: Standalone

Number of Pages: 388 pages

Book Descriptions:

    Game of Thrones meets the Grimm's fairy tales in this twisted, fast-paced romantic fantasy adventure about Sleeping Beauty's daughter, a warrior princess who must fight to reclaim her throne.

    Though she looks like a mere mortal, Princess Aurora is a fairy blessed with enhanced strength, bravery, and mercy yet cursed to destroy the free will of any male who kisses her. Disguised as a boy, she enlists the help of the handsome but also cursed Prince Niklaas to fight legions of evil and free her brother from the ogre queen who stole Aurora's throne ten years ago.

    Will Aurora triumph over evil and reach her brother before it's too late? Can Aurora and Niklaas break the curses that will otherwise forever keep them from finding their one true love?

Book 5: Reflection-A Twisted Tale

    This last book Recommendation asks the question: What if Disney’s Mulan had to travel to the underworld?

Book Name: Reflection-A Twisted Tale

Author Name(s): Elizabeth Lim

Genre: Fantasy

Release Date: March 27, 2018

Book Number: 4 of 13 (more in Development)

Number of Pages: 408 pages

Book Description:

    What if Mulan had to travel to the Underworld?

    When Captain Shang is mortally wounded by Shan Yu in battle, Mulan must travel to the Underworld, Diyu, in order to save him from certain death. But King Yama, the ruler of Diyu, is not willing to give Shang up easily.

    With the help of Shang's great lion guardian ShiShi, Mulan must traverse Diyu to find Shang's spirit, face harrowing obstacles, and leave by sunrise⁠—or become King Yama's prisoner forever.

    Moreover, Mulan is still disguised as the soldier called Ping, wrestling with the decision to reveal her true identity to her closest friend.

    Will Mulan be able to save Shang before it's too late? Will he ever be able to trust her again? Or will she lose him—and be lost in the Underworld⁠—forever?

Conclusion

     Do any of these books sound like interesting reads? Have you read any of them? Let me know in the comments below!