April YA Releases of 2019

 

• Wicked Saints by Emily A. Duncan [April 2nd, 2019]

“A girl who can speak to gods must save her people without destroying herself.

A prince in danger must decide who to trust.

A boy with a monstrous secret waits in the wings.

Together, they must assassinate the king and stop the war.

In a centuries-long war where beauty and brutality meet, their three paths entwine in a shadowy world of spilled blood and mysterious saints, where a forbidden romance threatens to tip the scales between dark and light. Wicked Saints is the thrilling start to Emily A. Duncan’s devastatingly Gothic Something Dark and Holy trilogy..”

Find out more on Goodreads!

 

• Defy Me (Shatter Me, #5) by Tahereh Mafi [April 2nd, 2019]

(THIS DESCRIPTION WILL CONTAIN SPOILERS)

“The gripping fifth installment in the New York Times, USA Today, and Publishers Weekly bestselling Shatter Me series. Will Juliette’s broken heart make her vulnerable to the strengthening darkness within her?

Juliette’s short tenure as the supreme commander of North America has been an utter disaster. When the children of the other world leaders show up on her doorstep, she wants nothing more than to turn to Warner for support and guidance. But he shatters her heart when he reveals that he’s been keeping secrets about her family and her identity from her—secrets that change everything.

Juliette is devastated, and the darkness that’s always dwelled within her threatens to consume her. An explosive encounter with unexpected visitors might be enough to push her over the edge.”

Find out more on Goodreads

 

• The Meaning of Birds by Jay Robin Brown [April 16th, 2019]

“Before, Jessica has always struggled with anger issues, but come sophomore year that all changes when Vivi crashes into her life. As their relationship blossoms, Vivi not only helps Jess deal with her pain, she also encourages her to embrace her talent as an artist. And for the first time, it feels like the future is filled with possibilities. After In the midst of senior year, Jess’s perfect world is erased when Vivi suddenly passes away. Reeling from the devastating loss, Jess pushes everyone away, and throws out her plans to go to art school. Because art is Vivi and Vivi is gone forever.

Desperate for an escape, Jess gets consumed in her work-study program, letting all of her dreams die. Until she makes an unexpected new friend who shows her a new way to channel her anger, passion, and creativity. Although Jess may never draw again, if she can find a way to heal and room in her heart, she just might be able to forge a new path for herself without Vivi.”

Find out more on Goodreads

 

• The Red Scrolls of Magic by Cassandra Clare & Wesley Chu [April 9th, 2019]

“From #1 New York Times bestseller Cassandra Clare and award-winner Wesley Chu comes the first book in a new series that follows High Warlock Magnus Bane and Alec Lightwood as they tour the world after the Mortal War. The Red Scrolls of Magic is a Shadowhunters novel.

All Magnus Bane wanted was a vacation—a lavish trip across Europe with Alec Lightwood, the Shadowhunter who against all odds is finally his boyfriend. But as soon as the pair settles in Paris, an old friend arrives with news about a demon-worshipping cult called the Crimson Hand that is bent on causing chaos around the world. A cult that was apparently founded by Magnus himself. Years ago. As a joke.

Now Magnus and Alec must race across Europe to track down the Crimson Hand and its elusive new leader before the cult can cause any more damage. As if it wasn’t bad enough that their romantic getaway has been sidetracked, demons are now dogging their every step, and it is becoming harder to tell friend from foe. As their quest for answers becomes increasingly dire, Magnus and Alec will have to trust each other more than ever—even if it means revealing the secrets they’ve both been keeping.”

Find out more on Goodreads

 

• How to Make Friends with the Dark by Kathleen Glaslow [April 9th, 2019]

“Here is what happens when your mother dies.

It’s the brightest day of summer and it’s dark outside. It’s dark in your house, dark in your room, and dark in your heart. You feel like the darkness is going to split you apart.

That’s how it feels for Tiger. It’s always been Tiger and her mother against the world. Then, on a day like any other, Tiger’s mother dies. And now it’s Tiger, alone.

Here is how you learn to make friends with the dark.”

Find out more on Goodreads

 

 

• Hot Dog Girl by Jennifer Dugan [April 30th, 2019]

“Elouise (Lou) Parker is determined to have the absolute best, most impossibly epic summer of her life. There are just a few things standing in her way:

* She’s landed a job at Magic Castle Playland . . . as a giant dancing hot dog.
* Her crush, the dreamy Diving Pirate Nick, already has a girlfriend, who is literally the Princess of the park. But Lou’s never liked anyone, guy or otherwise, this much before, and now she wants a chance at her own happily ever after.
* Her best friend, Seeley, the carousel operator, who’s always been up for anything, suddenly isn’t when it comes to Lou’s quest to set her up with the perfect girl or Lou’s scheme to get close to Nick.
* And it turns out that this will be their last summer at Magic Castle Playland–ever–unless she can find a way to stop it from closing.

Jennifer Dugan’s sparkling debut coming-of-age queer romance stars a princess, a pirate, a hot dog, and a carousel operator who find love–and themselves–in unexpected people and unforgettable places.”

Find out more on Goodreads

 

• Descendant of the Crane by Joan He [April 9th, 2019]

“Princess Hesina of Yan has always been eager to shirk the responsibilities of the crown, dreaming of an unremarkable life. But when her beloved father is found dead, she’s thrust into power, suddenly the queen of a surprisingly unstable kingdom. What’s more, Hesina believes that her father was murdered—and that the killer is someone close to her.

Hesina’s court is packed full of dissemblers and deceivers eager to use the king’s death for political gain, each as plausibly guilty as the next. Her advisers would like her to blame the neighboring kingdom of Kendi’a, whose ruler has been mustering for war. Determined to find her father’s actual killer, Hesina does something desperate: she enlists the aid of a soothsayer—a treasonous act, punishable by death, since magic was outlawed centuries ago.

Using the information provided by the sooth, and uncertain if she can trust her family, Hesina turns to Akira—a brilliant investigator who’s also a convicted criminal with secrets of his own. With the future of Yan at stake, can Hesina find justice for her father? Or will the cost be too high?”

Find out more on Goodreads

 

Unfortunately, Sky Without Stars is a March release that I didn’t realize until after I made this post. If you want to learn more about it, here’s the link!

Are you anticipating any of these releases? I’m looking forward to The Meaning of Birds! It was on my LGBT+ 2019 releases list so I can’t wait to finally read it.

Pre-order any of these at your local bookstore or on Amazon | Book Depository | Books-A-Million | Barnes & Noble!

 

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4 Books I Currently Have Pre-Ordered

Today, I wanted to talk about the books I currently have pre-ordered! If you didn’t know, pre-orders are so important for the authors and books. Pre-order numbers (the more, the better) usually determine if the book is going to be promoted more and the overall success of the book. Publishers often look to pre-order numbers to gain perspective about how well the book will do and if this author is someone they should keep around.

So, I tend to pre-order books for authors I know I already love and have been looking forward to their newest release. I usually don’t do this for debut authors or books but I think that’s where it’s most important. I recommend you watch this video by Ariel Bissett about why pre-orders are so important in the publishing world and what they can do for books. It’s short and an easy watch but you realize how much your simple pre-order can mean.

1.Wayward Son by Rainbow Rowell

I have always auto-bought Rainbow Rowell’s books so this is not surprise. Right whenever this book was announced and I could pre-order it, I did. I love Carry On so much. I can’t believe there was a time when people didn’t think there was going to be a sequel. When I finished Carry On, it felt like there was going to be a book two. Also, Rainbow Rowell’s love for Baz couldn’t deal with one book. I’m so excited for the sequel now that I obviously had to pre-order. The new cover was done by the same artist who did the Carry On paperback (which is beautiful). Definitely check out his art too because wow, he did Simon and Baz some serious justice.

Publication: September 24th, 2019

Pre-order it here.

 

 

2. Call Down the Hawk by Maggie Stiefvater

This is the first book of the brand new Dreamer trilogy. Now, Maggie Stiefvater has been talking about this Ronan trilogy for so long on twitter and she’s been hyping it up day by day. As someone who finished the Raven Cycle last year, I love Ronan and Adam so much. I was so devastated whenever I finished the Raven Cycle because I loved these characters so much and I didn’t want their adventures to end. It’s been so exciting to follow Maggie while she tweets about this trilogy. I remember telling her whenever I met her that the Dream Thieves was my favorite one out of the four and she said it’s hers too! I can’t wait to be able to dive back in to Henrietta and see what Maggie has in store for these characters again!

Publication: November 5th, 2019

Pre-order it here.

 

 

3. Again, but Better by Christine Riccio

Although I received an ARC for this book, I still pre-ordered. The pre-order count on debut novels are so important so I can’t wait to receive this physical copy! I actually pre-ordered right when the description was available because it sounds so intriguing. If any of you are interested in reading my review, it’ll be posted on April 30th, 2019 at 12:00pm eastern standard time! I’m posting it so late after reading because I want to respect the release date and most of the time, authors prefer it closer to the release!

Here’s a short description for those who haven’t heard of Again, But Better yet: “Shane has been doing college all wrong. Pre-med, stellar grades, and happy parents…sounds ideal—but Shane’s made zero friends, goes home every weekend, and romance…what’s that?

Her life has been dorm, dining hall, class, repeat. Time’s a ticking, and she needs a change—there’s nothing like moving to a new country to really mix things up. Shane signs up for a semester abroad in London. She’s going to right all her college mistakes: make friends, pursue boys, and find adventure!

Easier said than done. She is soon faced with the complicated realities of living outside her bubble, and when self-doubt sneaks in, her new life starts to fall apart.

Shane comes to find that, with the right amount of courage and determination one can conquer anything. Throw in some fate and a touch of magic—the possibilities are endless.”

Publication: May 7th, 2019

Pre-order it here.

 

4. Tunnel of Bones (City of Ghosts #2) by Victoria Schwab

I recently just pre-ordered this because I finally got around to reading City of Ghosts this month and I absolutely loved it. I missed reading middle grade so it’s so nice that one of my favorite authors, V.E. Schwab, has written some herself! I will buy anything that she writes anyway but I really enjoyed this one. I would share a description but this is a sequel so I don’t want to spoil anything. Unfortunately, I don’t have a review for this first book either because I don’t feel comfortable reviewing middle grade. I just read it for fun, not to review.

Publication: September 3rd, 2019

You can pre-order it here.

 

 

And that’s it! Those are the four books I currently have pre-ordered. I’m sure this list will get longer as we get farther into the year. I like to pre-order books closer to the release date (a few months) so I remember about the money being taken out. Amazon is amazing and they don’t charge you until the book has shipped. This is why I prefer to pre-order on there because other online retailers tend to charge right away and I don’t like that. I would prefer pre-ordering books from independent shops or bookstores but I don’t know any that don’t charge right away for pre-orders. If you do, let me know!

Do you have anything pre-ordered right now? I’d love to know.

 

 

 

ON MY RADAR → Where I End and You Begin by Preston Norton

On My Radar is a series I’ve been doing since I started blogging in 2016. I share with you books that may not have as much hype that I’m excited to read. I like sharing debut novels or books I just don’t think enough people are talking about. I usually find these books on Edelweiss and try to provide a review closer to the release date. I love doing these posts so I can boost some great books and help others find their next read!  So, today, my On My Radar book is Where I End and You Begin by Preston Norton. Here’s a little bit about the book:

“Ezra Slevin is an anxious, neurotic insomniac who spends his nights questioning his place in the universe and his days obsessing over Imogen, a nerdy girl with gigantic eyebrows and a heart of gold.

For weeks, Ezra has been working up the courage to invite Imogen to prom. The only problem is Imogen’s protective best friend, Wynonna Jones. Wynonna has blue hair, jams to ’80s rock, and has made a career out of tormenting Ezra for as long as he can remember.

Then, on the night of a total solar eclipse, something strange happens to Ezra and Wynonna–and they wake up in each other’s bodies. Not only that, they begin randomly swapping back and forth every day! Ezra soon discovers Wynonna’s huge crush on his best friend, Holden, a five-foot-nothing girl magnet with anger management problems. With no end to their curse in sight, Ezra makes Wynonna a proposition: while swapping bodies, he will help her win Holden’s heart…but only if she helps him woo Imogen.

Forming an uneasy alliance, Ezra and Wynonna embark on a collision course of mistaken identity, hurt feelings, embarrassing bodily functions, and a positively byzantine production of Twelfth Night. Ezra wishes he could be more like Wynonna’s badass version of Ezra–but he also realizes he feels more like himself while being Wynonna than he has in a long time…

Wildly entertaining and deeply heartfelt, Where I End and You Begin is a brilliant, unapologetic exploration of what it means to be your best self.”

Edition: Hardcover / ARC

Release Date: June 4th, 2019

Page Count: 304

Publisher: Disney Hyperion

I was kindly sent a copy of this book by Disney Hyperion so I will have a review closer to the release date. Stay tuned for that!

 

 

Pre-order it on Amazon | Book Depository | Books-A-Million | Barnes & Noble!

The Art of Sleeping Alone [REVIEW]

Instead of explaining the book since I read it a few weeks ago, here’s the description given on Goodreads:

“Sophie Fontanel, bestselling novelist and iconic editor of French Elle, tells the provocative story of her decision to stop having sex—a choice that profoundly changed her view of herself and her place in the world.

At the age of twenty-seven, after many years of having (and, for the most part, enjoying) an active sex life, beloved French author, journalist, editor, and fashion blogger Sophie Fontanel decided she wanted to take a break. Despite having it all—a glamorous job, plenty of dates and boyfriends, stylish clothes, and endless parties to attend—she still wasn’t happy, and found herself wanting more. She chose to give up her sex life, and in so doing shocked all of her friends and colleagues. What she discovers about herself is truly liberating and raises a number of questions about the expectations of the society in which we live. As she experiences being the only non-coupled one at dinner parties, weekend getaways, and summer vacations, she muses inspiringly on what it means to find hap­piness and fulfillment alone.

Provocative and illuminating, The Art of Sleeping Alone, which spent eight weeks on the bestseller list in France, offers advice on love and sex while challenging modern-day conven­tions of marriage and motherhood, making this an ideal read for anyone who has chosen to do things a little differently.”

Review

Edition: Hardcover

Page Count: 160 pages

Publication: August 13th, 2013

Publisher: Scribner

My Rating: ★★/★★★★★ (2.7/5)

I bought this on a whim because I saw Whitney had recently read it and it seemed to fit that “feminist memoir” I had been looking for. Not to mention, I  really loved the idea of this book from just reading the title and the description. Also, the cover is so cute! But while reading it, I feel like the writing style was just too much for me? I wanted something much more straight forward which you don’t get while reading this. I don’t know if this is because of the way it was translated but it seemed almost too focused on word choice and what not rather than getting the actual point across. Not only that, but sometimes she came off kind of offensive which I didn’t get offended by personally but some other people might. (men hating talk if you will)

While the premise was fantastic because she did focus on how she went without sex because she felt almost suffocated by the men in her life, it felt lost near the end of the book. The book is very short (like 150 pages?) but she walked the line most of the book. I got bored and kind of confused through out it because she would tell stories that kind of related but not really? This also was worse due to the writing style I just couldn’t get around.

But the most disappointing part to me was the ending. I felt like that short book was a waste of my time. I didn’t understand how that ending was supposed to mean anything and it didn’t make me feel anything as a reader so it just seemed pointless. It made me give this book a lower rating, sadly.

 

**This is an archived review. I’m transferring old reviews from my previous blog. If you want to see whenever I first wrote it, here’s a link**

Book Haul (2019 So Far)

Listen, I have an excuse for buying all these books.. kind of. I started working at a bookstore in December and I’ve been exposed to more books than ever. I finally have a steady paycheck, so, of course I’m buying more and more books. I’m not only buying them, though. Some of these books were kindly sent to me, I got ARCs from work, etc. Either way, let’s not judge, okay? Instead, let’s talk about all the books I’ve received and bought since January of 2019!

January

• Becoming by Michelle Obama

It only makes sense to start from the beginning of this year so in January, I received Becoming by Michelle Obama by my mom. She knew how well the book had been selling at work and how badly I wanted to read it but didn’t want to spend money on it yet. I felt guilty for going to Amazon for cheaper prices and it was expensive at work so I just waited. But, my lovely mom surprised me with it one day and I’m so thankful. I’ve already read this book and wrote a little review on it.

To read my review, click here.

• Difficult Women by Roxane Gay

I picked this up because it was discounted at my local bookstore that’s closing soon. It hurts to say that I didn’t shop here often but I would occasionally come in and buy books here whenever I was feeling like going out. Whenever I was upset and having a bad day, I would force myself to come out here. I also love Roxane Gay’s books and I know this is one of her earlier ones so I can’t wait to get into it!

• Watch Us Rise by Renee Watson and Ellen Hagan

I requested this book from Bloomsbury shortly before February without realizing how close the release date was. I planned to read this for Feminist February but if you saw my reading challenge in February, I didn’t read much. I was going through a lot and ended up not getting to this book which sucks but I’m currently reading this and will be posting a review soon! To let you know what it’s about, here’s the description: “Jasmine and Chelsea are sick of the way women are treated even at their progressive NYC high school, so they decide to start a Women’s Rights Club. They post everything online—poems, essays, videos of Chelsea performing her poetry, and Jasmine’s response to the racial macroaggressions she experiences—and soon they go viral. But with such positive support, the club is also targeted by online trolls. When things escalate, the principal shuts the club down. Jasmine and Chelsea will risk everything for their voices—and those of other young women—to be heard.”

 

February

• This Will Be My Undoing by Morgan Jerkins

Onto February! It was #FeministFebruary so I went a little ham on the feminist reads. I bought three books at the beginning of the month all at once. The first one was This Will Be My Undoing by Morgan Jerkins. I already listened to this on audiobook and I ended up giving it five stars. It was delightful! If you want to read my review, I have one here.

• The Independent Woman by Simone De Beauvoir

Listen, I love small new editions of older books. I saw this one in the social science section and just had to buy it. I thought it would make for a great, light read before bed. I love short books and couldn’t say no. I also haven’t read Simone De Beauvoir yet which is surprising but now, whenever I want to, I have this!

• How to Date Men When You Hate Men by Blythe Roberson

This cover just kind of spoke to me. It’s supposed to be a witty and humorous take on dating. It was recently released and I thought it would make for another great short read but unfortunately, I haven’t read it yet!

• The Bold World by Jodie Patterson

I didn’t know we could take home the ARCs from work until they were taking about it in the break room so I decided to take this one since no one else had. From the Bold World‘s Goodreads page, “Inspired by her transgender son, activist Jodie Patterson explores identity, gender, race, and authenticity to tell the real-life story of a family’s history and transformation.” I can’t wait to get to this one. I would’ve reviewed it in advance but it was already released by the time I picked it up.

• Heads of the Colored People by Nafissa Thompson-Spires

This was an ARC I also received from work. I’ve yet to pick it up but the blurbs and description made me want to take it home. To quote Goodreads, “Calling to mind the best works of Paul Beatty and Junot Díaz, this collection of moving, timely, and darkly funny stories examines the concept of black identity in this so-called post-racial era.” It sounds so lovely and I can’t wait to read it! I plan to do it soon and post a review.

March

• A Gathering of Shadows by V.E. Schwab (Deluxe Edition)

So, I saw this and had to buy it. A Darker Shade of Magic has become one of my favorite books and trilogies of all time. I plan to collect V.E. Schwab’s books because I love her so much. I, unfortunately, didn’t write reviews for these books when I read them last year. But, let it be known: I loved these books so much, maybe even too much.

• Wicked Saints by Emily A. Duncan

Whenever I saw this ARC at work, I kind of had to have it. I’ve been seeing reviews here and there. The hype on Bookstagram is so real and I love a good fantasy so I grabbed it. I’ve started it but I put it down for some reason. I’m going to try and review it before the release date (April something) so look forward to that if I get around to it!

• Daisy Jones & the Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid

This could’ve been an ARC I got from work but unfortunately, I let it stay because I felt I already had too many. I eventually bought the book whenever it came out because so many people were talking about it. I haven’t even Evelyn Hugo by Taylor Jenkins Reid but I finished Daisy Jones in three days (I just finished today) and I loved it so much. There’s nothing like a story set in the 70s about a rock band. Also, the best feminism content I could’ve asked for. I’ll have a mini review for it soon and once I do, I’ll link it here.

• Water Runs Red by Jenna Clare

I’ve been following Jenna on social media for so long. I started watching her Youtube videos back when I first got into Booktube and I’m so thankful. Since I follow her on most social media, I’ve been seeing her updates about her writing this poetry book. I was so excited for the paperback to finally be released that I bought it the day it was. I’ve read some of the poems and they’re absolutely beautiful. You can tell the amount of hard work Jenna put into this and I have to say, this book is definitely worth more than the price on Amazon. So well done!

• The Life Changing Magic of Tidying Up by Marie Kondo

I read this book last year on Audiobook and loved it. I did the Kon Mari method before and it worked wonderfully. I found this book in a thrift store recently and just had to pick it up for like $1. If I ever need to refer back to it, I can.

• All the Light That We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr

This book has been on my TBR for so long and I was lucky enough to find a hardcopy in the thrift store the other day. If you don’t know what it’s about, here’s a short description:

“From the highly acclaimed, multiple award-winning Anthony Doerr, the stunningly beautiful instant New York Times bestseller about a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths collide in occupied France as both try to survive the devastation of World War II.”

 

 

 

Alright, I know. This was a lot of books. But, I’m so excited to talk about all of them with you and have truly enjoyed the ones I’ve already read. Not to mention, I recently did a pretty big unhaul that I forgot to report to you all. I can’t even remember half the books I got rid of but so glad these wonderful books have taken the spots!

I’ve also received and read some lovely ARCs through NetGalley and have reviews for those up as well so check them out!

 

 

If you want to buy any of these books, buy them at your local bookstore or at Barnes & Noble!

What Makes Girls Sick and Tired [MINI REVIEW]

“What Makes Girls Sick and Tired is a feminist manifesto that denounces the discrimination against and unfairness felt by women from childhood to adulthood. The graphic novel, illustrated in a strikingly minimalist style with images of girls with varied body types and personalities, invites teenagers to question the sexism that surrounds us, in ways that are obvious and hidden, simple and complex.

The book’s beginnings as a fanzine shine through in its honesty and directness, confronting the inequalities faced by young women, everyday. And it ends with a line of hope, that with solidarity, girls will hurt less, as they hold each other up with support and encouragement.”

Edition: Paperback / ARC

Release Date: March 18th, 2019

Page Count: 48

Publisher: Second Story Press

My Rating: 4/5 stars ★★★★

I was sent an e-book by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

I immediately requested this book on NetGalley after reading the description and seeing that it’s a shorter book. I mean, who doesn’t like short books about feminism?

It did not take me long to finish this book because I was reading an e-copy of this book and of course, it’s only 48 pages long. This book is literally the title — it’s what makes girls sick and tired. It’s an ongoing list of the things we deal with for just being women. All women face some kind of sexism daily and it’s not any easier for women of color, women in the LGBT+ community, disabled women, etc. This book covers that it’s not only white women who deal with this, but all women and it’s important to recognize that.

I can’t say much for the art because I, unfortunately, was reading this on an older kindle that only displays in black and white. I’m sure the art is amazing based on the illustrations I saw and the cover. The entire time I was reading this book, I could only imagine how nice the reading experience probably is with a physical copy. I can’t say it’s great to read all the bad things women, including myself, have gone through but it is empowering to say, this is what makes us sick and tired. Here’s an entire list of the things people do to us and we’re TIRED.

I ended up giving this book four out of five stars. It was an enjoyable, quick read and I would recommend to someone who likes reading empowering feminist books. This definitely was added to my feminism list on Goodreads!

This book is currently out today so buy this book for yourself at your local bookstore or at Barnes & Noble!

Find my Instagram post about it: @uponthepages

 

 

 

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Saga Vol. 9 [MINI REVIEW]

“The multiple Eisner Award-winning series returns with a spacefaring adventure about fake news and genuine terror. Get ready for the most shocking, most impactful SAGA storyline yet.”

Edition: Paperback, #49-54

Page Count: 152 pages

Published: October 2nd 2018

Publisher: Image Comics

NO SPOILERS!

Well, I decided on whim to finally pick up the latest Saga while I was on my lunch break at work. Then, I got embarrassed because there’s definitely nudity within two pages. It feels good to be reading Saga again, but God, why wasn’t I expecting that? I left the Cafe to the back corner of the bookstore to read. I read it all during my lunch break, probably coming back later than I was supposed to.

I love Saga for so many different reasons but one of them is that it never leaves you unsatisfied. There’s always something going on and it’s never boring. It’s far from boring, actually. I usually leave Saga comics feeling kindly overwhelmed and waiting for what’s next.

While I finished this one, it definitely gave me a heavy feeling in my chest. This comic covered layers and layers of emotion and showed character development in the most heartbreaking way. I hate that I have to wait after Brian K. Vaughan’s year long planned hiatus. It sucked having to wait so long for this volume to come out but I don’t know what I’m going to do while I wait an entire year. I guess I’ll just pick up his other comics for now.

As always, the art in Saga is stunning. This one was no let down. The coloring is beautifully done and makes the story feel so much more lively. I loved all the cliff hangers at the end of every chapter but this ending didn’t seem to feel like one in a good way. I can’t wait for whatever’s next but I’m definitely hoping for some serious magic.

If you’ve recently read Saga Vol. 9, PLEASE let me know. I totally need someone to cry to.

Buy this book for yourself at your local bookstore or at Barnes & Noble!

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6 Feminist Children Books to Educate Your Little One

After working at a bookstore and finding myself shelving in the children’s section a lot, i’ve found some incredibly cute feminist children’s books. I obviously haven’t read these but I see others picking them up often so I thought I might recommend them to you! If you want to know more about how people feel about the inside content of the books, check out Goodreads for reviews!

So, here’s a little of empowering children’s books. Happy International Women’s Day!

1. Feminist Baby by Loryn Brantz

 “Feminist Baby likes pink and blue.
Sometimes she’ll throw up on you!

Feminist Baby chooses what to wear
and if you don’t like it she doesn’t care!

Meet the irrepressible Feminist Baby in this refreshing, clever board book about a girl who’s not afraid to do her own thing, and wants to make as much noise as possible along the way!”

 

Edition: Board Book

Page Count: 22

Published: Disney Hyperion

 

2. Dress Like a Girl by Patricia Toht

“What’s the right way to dress like a girl? In this timely picture book in the vein of Princesses Wear Pants, a slumber party full of girls enacts their own playful, empowering twists on several stuffy, old-timey rules of fashion.

What does it mean to dress like a girl?

Many will tell you in this big wide world

that there are strict rules that must be addressed,

rules you will need when looking your best.

But when you are given these rules to obey,

the secret is heeding them—in your own way.

In these beautifully illustrated pages, a diverse cast of slumber-party participants considers the most time-honored traditions for how to dress. If a lady should wear white in summertime, then how about donning a space suit? If team colors are apropos at sporting events, why not wear the helmets and play ball?

Empowering and resonant and with a variety of interests ranging from sports to science to politics, this gorgeous book is sure to inspire any young girl, instilling the idea that the best way to dress like a girl is the way that makes you feel most like YOU!”

Edition: Hardcover Picture Book

Page Count: 32

Published: Harper Collins

 

3. She Persisted by Chelsea Clinton

“Throughout American history, there have always been women who have spoken out for what’s right, even when they have to fight to be heard. In early 2017, Senator Elizabeth Warren’s refusal to be silenced in the Senate inspired a spontaneous celebration of women who persevered in the face of adversity. In this book, Chelsea Clinton celebrates thirteen American women who helped shape our country through their tenacity, sometimes through speaking out, sometimes by staying seated, sometimes by captivating an audience. They all certainly persisted.

She Persisted is for everyone who has ever wanted to speak up but has been told to quiet down, for everyone who has ever tried to reach for the stars but was told to sit down, and for everyone who has ever been made to feel unworthy or unimportant or small.

With vivid, compelling art by Alexandra Boiger, this book shows readers that no matter what obstacles may be in their paths, they shouldn’t give up on their dreams. Persistence is power.

This book features: Harriet Tubman, Helen Keller, Clara Lemlich, Nellie Bly, Maria Tallchief, Claudette Colvin, Ruby Bridges, Margaret Chase Smith, Sally Ride, Florence Griffith Joyner, Oprah Winfrey, Sonia Sotomayor—and one special cameo.”

Edition: Hardcover Picture Book

Page Count: 32

Published: Philomel Books

 

4. Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History by Vashti Harrison

 “Featuring forty trailblazing black women in American history, Little Leaders educates and inspires as it relates true stories of breaking boundaries and achieving beyond expectations. Illuminating text paired with irresistible illustrations bring to life both iconic and lesser-known female figures of Black history such as abolitionist Sojourner Truth, pilot Bessie Coleman, chemist Alice Ball, politician Shirley Chisholm, mathematician Katherine Johnson, poet Maya Angelou, and filmmaker Julie Dash. Among these biographies, readers will find heroes, role models, and everyday women who did extraordinary things – bold women whose actions and beliefs contributed to making the world better for generations of girls and women to come. Whether they were putting pen to paper, soaring through the air or speaking up for the rights of others, the women profiled in these pages were all taking a stand against a world that didn’t always accept them. The leaders in this book may be little, but they all did something big and amazing, inspiring generations to come.”

Edition: Hardcover Picture Book

Page Count: 88

Published: Little Brown Books for Young Readers

5. A is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara

“A is for Activist is an ABC board book for the next generation of progressives: Families that want their kids to grow up in a space that is unapologetic about activism, environmental justice, civil rights, LGBTQ rights, and so on.”

Edition: Board Book

Page Count: 32

Published: Kupu Kupu Press

 

6. I Am Enough by Grace Byers

“I Am Enough is the picture book everyone needs

This is a gorgeous, lyrical ode to loving who you are, respecting others, and being kind to one another—from Empire actor and activist Grace Byers and talented newcomer artist Keturah A. Bobo.

This is the perfect gift for mothers and daughters, baby showers, and graduation.

We are all here for a purpose. We are more than enough. We just need to believe it.”

Edition: Hardcover Picture Book

Page Count: 32

Published: Balzer + Bray

 

 

Buy these books for yourself at your local bookstore or at Barnes & Noble!

 

 

Becoming [MINI REVIEW]

“In a life filled with meaning and accomplishment, Michelle Obama has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era. As First Lady of the United States of America—the first African-American to serve in that role—she helped create the most welcoming and inclusive White House in history, while also establishing herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls in the U.S. and around the world, dramatically changing the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lives, and standing with her husband as he led America through some of its most harrowing moments.

Along the way, she showed us a few dance moves, crushed Carpool Karaoke, and raised two down-to-earth daughters under an unforgiving media glare. In her memoir, a work of deep reflection and mesmerizing storytelling, Michelle Obama invites readers into her world, chronicling the experiences that have shaped her—from her childhood on the South Side of Chicago to her years as an executive balancing the demands of motherhood and work, to her time spent at the world’s most famous address. With unerring honesty and lively wit, she describes her triumphs and her disappointments, both public and private, telling her full story as she has lived it—in her own words and on her own terms. Warm, wise, and revelatory, Becoming is the deeply personal reckoning of a woman of soul and substance who has steadily defied expectations—and whose story inspires us to do the same.”

Edition: Hardcover

Release Date: November 13th, 2018

Page Count: 426

Publisher: Crown (Imprint of Penguin)

My Rating: 5/5 stars ★★★★★

Mini Review

I was only 9 years old whenever Obama was sworn in as President of the United States. I don’t remember the election at all and unfortunately, didn’t start truly learning about him and his family until I was about fifteen. But, I did know about Michelle Obama. I watched her speak out about children’s health on TV and I saw her changes whenever it came to school lunches. She worked hard to improve the health of children across America and as a child, I could tell.

I picked up this book out of pure admiration for the former first lady. I loved seeing how laid back, independent and strong she was. She was unapologetic and always herself — that’s why I loved her. In her book, she goes through her life in chronological order from when she was younger growing up in Chicago to her position as first lady. Hearing her talk about living is Chicago was humbling. It was so nice to hear someone so influential talk about the hard things they had to overcome in order to get to where they are. I loved hearing about her experiences in college too. As a college student myself, I saw bits and pieces of myself in her. Her ambition was mutual and I wish I worked as hard as she did.

I think the most interesting part about this book for me was listening to her speak about whenever Barack Obama was getting into government work. She was already working for Chicago’s government at the time as an assistant to Richard Daley. Quick note, I had no idea she worked in the government at the time of Daley’s career. I read a book about him once and can’t believe the things he did. Anyways, back to what I was saying! I loved hearing about how Barack Obama took off so much time to finish writing his book, taking it as far as leaving the country to isolate himself for work. I loved how Michelle decided that corporate law wasn’t for her and went into something that’s more community oriented like city government work. Hearing her speak about her intentions as the First Lady and what she wanted for our country was so heart warming. I can’t believe the things people said about her and her family. It broke my heart whenever she talked about how it made her feel.

Overall, I gave this book five out of five stars because I was never bored. I listened to her talk about growing up in the space above her aunts, going to Princeton and Harvard Law, her family, and her time as First Lady. I would recommend this to anyone, honestly. I think anyone could learn from this book while also learning about Michelle Obama’s life as well.

I apologize if this review isn’t too in-depth. I was reading this book for pure enjoyment and ended up finishing it all in one night so my thoughts are completely scattered. I just thought I’d let you know some of my thoughts anyway!

 

Buy this book for yourself at your local bookstore or at Barnes & Noble!

This Will Be My Undoing [REVIEW]

 

“From one of the fiercest critics writing today, Morgan Jerkins’ highly-anticipated collection of linked essays interweaves her incisive commentary on pop culture, feminism, black history, misogyny, and racism with her own experiences to confront the very real challenges of being a black woman today—perfect for fans of Roxane Gay’s Bad Feminist, Rebecca Solnit’s Men Explain Things to Me, and Chimamanda Ngozie Adichie’s We Should All Be Feminists.

Morgan Jerkins is only in her twenties, but she has already established herself as an insightful, brutally honest writer who isn’t afraid of tackling tough, controversial subjects. In This Will Be My Undoing, she takes on perhaps one of the most provocative contemporary topics: What does it mean to “be”—to live as, to exist as—a black woman today? This is a book about black women, but it’s necessary reading for all Americans.”

Edition: Paperback

Release Date: January 30th, 2019

Page Count: 258

Publisher: Harper Perenial

My Rating: 5/5 stars ★★★★★

Mini Review

I originally picked This Will Be My Undoing at work on a whim. I hadn’t heard of it but I often scan the social sciences section for new feminist non-fiction because it’s my favorite. I want to embrace reading more diversely, especially in terms of feminist lit, because it’s incredibly important to me to learn, read and share these stories with you. I bought this book because Roxane blurbs it and states Morgan Jerkins is, “a writer to be reckoned with.” So, of course, I bought this book immediately.

I think this might be one of the first feminist non-fiction books I’ve read that focused solely on life as a black woman. I ended up listening to this on audiobook and couldn’t stop. I love the way Morgan Jerkins writes. She’s incredibly talented and lyrical when it comes to writing. Her way of describing situations and memories is so captivating.  Her writing is definitely the first thing I noticed whenever I started this book and it’s why I ended up giving it five stars.

Her story was beyond interesting, emotional, and deeply personal. She’s able to tell her story throughout separate essays that still relate to each other. This book has so much depth to it and I would only hope that people are able to listen to her write and to learn. It hurt knowing the things she goes through daily just because she is both black and a woman. One of the parts that truly got me was listening to her speak about elementary/middle school. I believe this part is in the very beginning but everything she said just resonated with me.

I’m looking forward to reading more of her work because I truly loved this book. I ended up giving it five stars because none of it was ever boring, the writing was brilliant, and her story was so, so, important. I would highly recommend you pick this up if you’re into this genre of feminist non-fiction or are looking for more diverse reads!

 

Buy this book for yourself at your local bookstore or at Barnes & Noble!