Graphic Novel Review of Pumpkinheads by Rainbow Rowell & Illustrated by Erin Faith Hicks

Read for: Graphic Novel Challenge & Borrowed Books

Synopsis: "Deja and Josiah are seasonal best friends.

Every autumn, all through high school, they’ve worked together at the best pumpkin patch in the whole wide world. (Not many people know that the best pumpkin patch in the whole wide world is in Omaha, Nebraska, but it definitely is.) They say good-bye every Halloween, and they’re reunited every September 1.

But this Halloween is different—Josiah and Deja are finally seniors, and this is their last season at the pumpkin patch. Their last shift together. Their last good-bye.

Josiah’s ready to spend the whole night feeling melancholy about it. Deja isn’t ready to let him. She’s got a plan: What if—instead of moping and the usual slinging lima beans down at the Succotash Hut—they went out with a bang? They could see all the sights! Taste all the snacks! And Josiah could finally talk to that cute girl he’s been mooning over for three years . . .

What if their last shift was an adventure?"

My Review: I have been seeing this book all over the internet and was lucky enough to find a copy at my local library. It was such a cute and perfect fall read. You get all of the classic pumpkin patch/ fall festival goodness in a single book and to go along with it a sweet story about growing up and moving on; friendships and relationships. It was a fun read with very likable characters and it was a perfect quick read during a busy fall week!

My Rating: I was hesitant to buy this one even though the artwork looked amazing because I have a rocky history with Rainbow Rowell stories, but this one was great. It was light and fun but still had a great story about friendship and changing points in ones life.  I give it a rating of Four Paws!

Bedtime Story: Postcards from the War by Vanita Oelschlager & Illustrated by Mike Blanc & Colonel Wilfred Bauknight

Read for: Requested Reviews/ Netgalley

Synopsis: "Postcards from a War is about a boy whose mother has recently been deployed overseas to a war. His grandfather, who was about the same age when his father left to serve in World War II, helps him understand why she has gone away. He shares with his grandson postcards and letters sent by his father from the Philippines. The grandfather and grandson collaborate on building a scrapbook that will include these, plus the letters and emails and other communications the boy will get from his mother. Postcards is intended for 4-8 year olds, ones who are old enough to understand that a parent in the military may have to go to a dangerous place, but maybe not why. It shows the important intergenerational bonding that families often experience during times of war.

The postcards and letters in the book were received by the author from her father during World War II."

My Review:  I was instantly drawn to this book with the vintage looking cover and the title. I am so glad I was able to pick this book up and read it. I love the way that this book is not only able to give a link to the families with soldiers overseas but also to link the experiences of past generations with those of this generation. While the method and location of war has changed over the years, the impact to those both abroad and those at home has not. Even though we have the technology to connect instantaneously around the world, there is still nothing quite like having something to hold in your hand that has been held by your loved one far away. This was a beautiful story and a great book for all ages.

My Rating: I thoroughly enjoyed this book, the illustrations are great and the soft edges fit well with the sentimental/memory feel of the story. It has a great message and I think many others will really enjoy it.  I give it a rating of Four Paws!!

I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley.  The above is my honest review and opinion.

To find out more about this book  or others you can visit Vanita Oelschlager's Goodreads Page or Website.

You can obtain your own copy of Postcards from the War in print from Amazon or Barnes & Noble or you can request it at your local library.

Good Night! Sweet Dreams!

TBR Thursday (5)

So I stumbled upon this feature at Purple People Readers (I am totally in love with the blog name LOL) and was originally created by Kimberly Faye Reads.

As you may know, I like so many other book lovers out there am struggling with a towering TBR.  I have been currently working on narrowing it down a little. But I thought I would also bring that idea to my blog, where you can get a bit of a say in what stays on my TBR and what books it may be time to let go.

So let me know, should I keep it on my TBR, prioritize it, or let it go.  Have you read it? Let me know your thoughts on . . .

Title: The Girl of Fire and Thorns

Author: Rae Carson

Series: Fire and Thorns Series - Book 1 of 4 (4th book due out next year)

Genre: YA Fantasy

Format: Paperback

Length: 423 pages

Average Rating on Goodreads: 3.80 Stars

Time on TBR: Since June 15, 2011

Synopsis: "Once a century, one person is chosen for greatness. Elisa is the chosen one. But she is also the younger of two princesses. The one who has never done anything remarkable, and can't see how she ever will. Now, on her sixteenth birthday, she has become the secret wife of a handsome and worldly king—a king whose country is in turmoil. A king who needs her to be the chosen one, not a failure of a princess.

And he's not the only one who seeks her. Savage enemies, seething with dark magic, are hunting her. A daring, determined revolutionary thinks she could be his people's savior. Soon it is not just her life, but her very heart that is at stake.Elisa could be everything to those who need her most. If the prophecy is fulfilled. If she finds the power deep within herself. If she doesn't die young. Most of the chosen do."

So I haven't heard many people talk about this series, probably because it is such a backlist book, but those that do talk about it absolutely rave about it!

Should I give it a try? Should I binge this series in anticipation of the 4th book coming out next year?

Review of A Thousand Roads Home by Carmel Harrington

Read for: Recently Added - Book Club Book Box

Synopsis: "‘Where is home?’ DJ asked.

‘Wherever the people you love are.’ Ruth replied.

Single mother, Ruth, and her son, DJ, have never truly fitted in, but that didn’t matter, so long as they were together. When their home comes under threat, their quiet life will change forever.

DJ meets Tom, a man who ten years ago walked out of his house and never looked back. Ruth, DJ and Tom have all felt like outsiders. Burdened with grief and insecurities, they are not living their best lives. But together, these three ordinary people will do an extraordinary thing…"

My Review: I received this book in the Once Upon A Book Club Box and thought it sounded really interesting. I am so glad that I picked it up right away and didn't leave it sitting on the shelves forever. I seem to be picking up more and more books lately that portray a character with Asperger's Syndrome, I don't know if it is simply because there are more books out there or if I am just more attracted to these books, either way I really appreciate them. I love the main theme throughout the story of it only takes one person to make a change. It was so uplifting, even in the darkest parts of this story. I adore the relationship between Ruth and DJ, it is full of so much love and support. I thoroughly enjoyed this story and the characters.

My Rating: I don't often reach for this genre of book but I am so glad I received this one! It had such an impact on me while I was reading it and have been recommending it to as many people as possible! I give it a rating of Four Paws!

Review of The Sasquatch Escape by Suzanne Selfors & Illustrated by Dan Santat

Read for: Recently Added/ Audio Book

Synopsis: "Ben Silverstein is set for boredom in his grandpa's rundown town of Buttonville. Until he and reckless Pearl Petal take a wounded baby dragon to the only veterinarian, Dr. Woo at her "Worm Hospital" -- actually for creatures from an imaginary world. After Ben leaves the front door unlocked, the intrepid pair must rescue the escaped giant stingy and very hairy sasquatch."

My Review: I just happened to find this book on Book Outlet and thought it would be a fun book to read with Munchkin. We are back to school so I downloaded the audio book from the library to listen to on the ride to school. Munchkin absolutely loved this book and couldn't wait until the ride home to start listening again. It was quirky and fun, the touch of fantasy and a bit of mystery and a whole lot of funny. We had a great time reading this one and of course had to pick up the next book right away!

My Rating: We had such a good time with this book. It was silly and quirky, perfect for kids who like to laugh.  We give it a rating of Four Paws and a Stump Wag!


We also really enjoyed the next book: The Lonely Lake Monster

Monday Reading List

It is Monday again, and time to update with what I read last week, what I am currently reading and what to look forward to next week.

Reviews Posted Last Week:

Links will take you to my review

The Resurrectionist: The Lost Works of Dr. Spencer Black by E. B. Hudspeth
Frankenstein by Mary Shelley, Adapted by Rosie Dickins
Mr. Putter & Tabby Catch the Cold by Cynthia Rylant (Early Reader)
Secret Hunger by Satin Russell (After Dark/Date Night)

 Books Finished Last Week:

Reviews will be posted at a later date

Christmas Calendar Girls - DNF
Sandcastle Empire
Pumpkinheaads
Lore of Olympus

Currently Reading:

Fireborne by Rosaria Munda - Ebook - on page 83 of 448

Pages Read/ Time Listened
541:33 Hours Listened (11:03 listened this week)
29,734 Pages Read (423 this week)

Books Added to Shelves Recently: TBR
WarDance
Warsong

Year One
Girl Who Drank the Moon
King of Scars
Dactyl Hill Squad
The Darkdeep
Lord of the Fading Lands

 Crown of Feathers

 Argos: The Story of Odysseus as told by his Loyal Dog

Shadow of Doubt
Gates of Stone
A Conspiracy of Truths
Viper
Vortex Visions
Through the White Wood
Descendant of the Crane
Dark Harmony
The Sea Queen
The Mountain of Kept Memory
Metamorphica
Misfits of Avalon Vol. 1
Misfits of Avalon Vol. 2
The Sea King
Ride Hard
Ride Rough
Ride Wild
Force of Attraction
Primal Force
Rival Forces
A Rogue by Any Other Name
A Scot in the Dark
The Day of the Duchess
The Pirate Bride
Man Made Boy
Dear Santa
An Endless Christmas
Christmas Magic
Falling Softly
Christmas Town
The Christmas Star
We Hunt the Flame
Romanov
Dreaming the Bear
Monsters
Ghostly Tales from the Lost Summer of 1816
Storm and Fury
Honeybees and Frenemies
Master & Apprentice
The Chosen
The Readers of Broken Wheel Recommend
Mortal Engines
Evvie Drake Starts Over
Merciful Crow
The Bridge Kingdom
Darkdawn
A Crash of Fate
Black Spire
The Testaments
The Warrior Moon
Ink
Klaus Vol. 2
Molly and the Cat Cafe
Plum Crazy Vol. 2
Plum Crazy Vol. 3
Plum Crazy Vol. 4
A Walk One Winter Night
Loving My Actual Christmas
The White Christmas Inn
There Will Come a Darkness
Shadow Frost
How to Love a Duke in 10 Days
How to Catch a Wicked Viscount
Faker
Three Days on a Train
Destiny of the Wolf
Leave the Lights On
Marshmallows and Mistletoe
Cocoa & Carols
The Prince's Son
At Last
The Last Huntsman
Forgotten Love
Mae's Cafe
Within the Captain's Hold
Elusive Dreams
Christmas & Cannolis
Fated Mates
Take My Breath Away
Stolen by the Viking
Destroyed by Magic
Abducted by Magic
Rise Like a Goddess
Out Like a Goddess
Finding Her Dragons
Freeing Her Dragons
When the Lady Lies
Nocturnal

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Can you believe it is November already? While I can't believe it is already here, I am already headed toward Christmas full steam ahead. Probably because I have been reading holiday books and making Christmas cards for a month now! Even though the holidays always get really stressful, I feel like November is going to be a good month for me.  I am nearly done Christmas shopping, the construction on the house is nearing its end, I am almost done with my card making for the year. So I plan on putting on some cozy audio books and giving the house a good purge and clean to prepare. 

As I said last Monday and in my monthly wrap up post, I am taking a bit of a step back from the blog this month.  I do have some posts scheduled already and I will be checking in each Monday, but there may be days that there are no posts up. I am hoping that with a month to get back to square one, that I will be able to start fresh in December and be better prepared and less stressed for the future.

With all of that said, are you following me on Instagram? I have been so inspired this month to take beautiful Bookstagram photos and have been posting far more often than usual.  I hope to keep that momentum going with all the beautiful Christmas books coming up.  I also hope to be posting a little more often with updates in general instead of being on here constantly. So if you aren't following me already, come check it out @EasternSunset9

Tome Topple Sign Up

The end of the year is looming and so is my stack of big books to read before the end of the year! Thank goodness it is time for another Tome Topple Readathon!

I am rather excited to find out that instead of being over the Thanksgiving Holiday this year, it will be a bit before, from November 9th to November 22nd, which works out better for me and my schedule.

 I discovered the Tome Topple Challenge through Sam at Thoughts on Tomes on Youtube and the Readathon is hosted as a Goodreads Group. The goal for this challenge is to tackle the Tomes on your shelf, books over 500 pages.

There are a few challenges to help you along, but are not a requirement.  Those updated challenges are A) read an Adult tome, B) read the tome that has been on your TBR the longest, C) read a tome in a genre you don't usually read, D) read a tome that is part of a series, and E) read more than one tome.  (There is also a photo challenge this time around on Instagram, check it out @ThoughtsonTomes)

I will try to post updated at the bottom of this post every few days but I will also be posting on Instagram @EasternSunset9

So here is my Tomes to be Toppled:

The Phoenix Empress by K. Arsenault Rivera - 544 pages

Valor by John Gwynne - 688 pages

and if by some miracle I finish those two I will start on

Ruin by John Gwynne -

Are you participating in the Tome Topple? If yes what are you reading?  What is your nemesis Tome?


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Updates: