Review: Holly Claus

The Legend of Holly Claus by Brittney Ryan and Laurel Long

The land of Forever (land of the Immortals) is ruled over by King Nicholas, better known to the world as Santa Claus. In the winter of 1878 Santa receives a letter from a young boy that asks Santa what he wants for Christmas. This simple act allows Santa to have his dearest wish granted, and the King and Queen of Forever soon have a daughter, Princess Holly Claus.

Holly's heart is the purest and gentlest in all the world, but a jealous sorcerer curses her heart to become frozen in ice, sentencing Holly to be forever kept in cold climates lest her heart melt. The gates of Forever are closed shut, and Santa can no longer bring Christmas joy to the world. It's up to Holly to take the matter in her own hands as she escapes to Victorian New York with her animal friends to once more bring joy to the world.

This book is has a very fairy-tale feel to it, which I think adds to the story. It can be a little cliche at times, but not necessarily in a bad way. I think that particular aspect would not be noticed so much by children readers. It is a hefty read though (600 pages) so it's not a great book for reluctant readers.

Despite its flaws, the premise is original and interesting and adds the perfect blend of magic and romance to the magic of the Christmas legend. Definitely a great read for fantasy readers looking for something a little different around the holidays.

Shady Glade Rating: 8/10

Now, the absolute best, best thing about this book are the illustrations that are sprinkled throughout the book. They are wonderfully beautiful. So when I found out shortly after getting the above book that there was also a picture book, I was ecstatic. My favorite thing about the book, the illustrations, were to be reproduced larger and in full color. Was there a disadvantage?

Keep in mind that I hadn't read the book yet at this point, just flipped through it. I went to Amazon to buy Holly Claus: The Christmas Princess (the picture book) and was surprised to find that although the novel had pretty much all 5 star reviews, the picture book had lots of negative press. Most of these had to do with the fact that there were gaps left in the plot of the picture book and too many questions were left over when it was over. But the full color illustrations were too much of a pull, so I bought the book anyway.

Keeping in mind the negative reviews I decided to read the picture book first. I'm so glad I did. Rather than be disappointed with the gaps in the picture book (yes, there are some gaps) I was delighted to find them filled in by reading the book. So I would definitely recommend if you're going to pick up the picture book at all, do it BEFORE reading the novel.

I'm not going to deny that there aren't problems with the picture book version, because there are. Mostly the plot gaps. That being said, the design of the picture is breathtaking. Seeing the illustrations larger made them all the more magical and they are stunning in color. I can see children falling in love with this book (the picture version) as a child and then discovering the magic of the full novel as they get older.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

Review: Magic Trixie

Magic Trixie by Jill Thompson

Poor Magic Trixie! Her little sister Abby Cadabera is ruining her life. Her sister steals her parents’ attention, her chance for cloudberry pancakes, and even her lunch. Now she has to figure out what to bring to school for show and tell that will outshine her classmates. But her family won’t let her near any real big magic. What’s a little witch supposed to do?

This is a book I went into with low expectations and came out pleasantly surprised. Magic Trixie is a book that is Halloween-y only in its setting. Trixie is, as you may guess from her name, is a witch and goes to school with vampires, werewolves, mummies, etc. But the problems she faces are those of a normal girl her age. (Especially the sibling jealousy. I struggled with that myself quite a bit when I was younger.) In the end Trixie is just a normal kid with missing front teeth… and color-changing hair. But you still get the idea.

This would be a great way to introduce younger readers to the graphic novel format. The book isn’t that long, so it would be a great read for those who are working on short chapter books. As a graphic novel it’s more graphics than text, and the graphics are full of all the zany, gross, and quirky touches that are so popular with kids. The back cover says 8-12, but I think 12 years old is pushing it a little bit. They can still enjoy it, certainly, but Trixie’s character seems like it would be a little immature to a `12-year-old (think annoying little sister).

I can see myself loving this book if I had read it when I was younger. I think there are currently three books out in this series, and I will probably pick up the other two. More for curiosity’s sake, since it wasn’t to die for good, but still a cute book.

Shady Glade Rating 7/10

Review: A Practical Guide to Vampires

A Practical Guide to Vampires by Lisa Trutkoff Trumbauer

So before those of you who are Twilight fans get super excited, you should know this: no sparkly vampires in this book. Instead, this is filled with the traditional Dracula-type vampires. Those who suck your blood, turn into bats, use mind control, burn in the sun, and can usually be killed with a wooden stake to the heart.

As its name suggests, A Practical Guide to Vampires is written as an all about vampires kind of book, with an emphasis for those who are aspiring vampire hunters. It covers vampires basics, vampire haunts and social structure, vampire magic, vampire allies, you get the idea. Apparently this is part of a series of other guides, but I haven’t read any of those so I don’t know how they compare.

The book is interesting, although the writing is nothing to be raved about. The thing that really makes this book is the design. It feels like a guide in the way it’s organized, formatted, the handwritten notes in the margins, even down to the yellowed paper it’s printed on. Not as great as the "ology" books, but very, very close. And the illustrations are fantastic! That alone makes the book worth picking up.

My one complaint was the setting. As soon as it starts mentioning magic you know it’s meant to be a fantasy world, but yet it’s written as though talking to a modern reader. To me it felt like the book couldn’t decide between being a real-live modern “actual” practical guide or a “this would be useful if this sort of thing actually exists” guide. Not even sure if that explanation makes sense to anyone other than me. This bugged me, but it was such a small thing I doubt most people would notice.

Overall, an interesting read, especially if you’re into vampires. Great for Halloween, certainly. And check out the illustrations!

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

If you’d like your own copy of A Practical Guide to Vampires, remember every comment you make this month gets you closer to winning it in the Comment Contest for October.

Review: The Queen of Hearts

Queen of Hearts by Mary Engelbreit

So most of you know that I normally review young adult (and occasionally middle grade) books. But I'm going to deviate into the realm of picture books today, because someone took the time to send me a special Valentine's Day book.

Queen of Hearts is an Ann Estelle Story about Ann Estelle's classroom Valentine's party. Each member of the class is decorating a special box to hold thier valentines in during the party. Ann Estelle is especially excited about the box and spends all week decorating the best box ever. But she works so hard on The Box that she forgets to make valentines for her friends. The solution she comes up with is completely expected, but sweet nonetheless.

I'm not the kind of person who usually goes crazy about picture books. There are definately some I get excited about, especially if the story is especially unique. Queen of Hearts is more of your generic picture book feel good story. The back says "ages 4 to 8" and I think that pretty much hits the age range right on the dot. Don't get me wrong, the story was very cute, but it's the kind of story you would expect.

However, I have long loved Mary Englebreit's illustrations. That factor alone saves the book for me. I love way that she captures emotion in her pictures. This is the first Ann Estelle book I've read, but I'm glad to see Engelbreit doing things for children's books beyond just illustration. It's a wonderful way to introduce her artwork to new readers.

By the way, has anyone seen the covers for Mary Engelbreit's Classic Library? They are so lovely! Those are the classics I want for my children. It makes me wish I could get my hands on them in person. Le sigh...

But back to the review at hand. Bottom line, if you're looking for a great Valentine's Day book to add to your picture book library, Queen of Hearts would make a wonderful addition. It's exactly what you would expect for Valentine's Day, but it's sure to be a hit with little girls.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

Review: The Keepers: A Wizard Named Nell

The Keepers: A Wizard Named Nell by Jackie French Koller

Eldearth is a land divided. Many years ago the evil Lord Graieconn rebelled against his brother, forever diving the land between dark and light. Now, a thousand years later the Imperial Wizard, Keeper of the Light, is dying and darkness is creeping across the land. If a new apprentice is not found soon, the Keeper will die and Graieconn and his forces will control the land. Time is running out, and quickly. Many young men have undertaken the Apprentice Quest and failed. A prophecy has guaranteed the appearance of a new Imperial Wizard, but will one come forward before it is too late?

Princess Arenelle (Nell for short) of Xandria has just turned 11, the age of magic. Rather than being shipped off to Madame Sofia’s Academy of Magic to start her Witch training, she decides to undertake the quest. Her father expressly forbids the action since no woman has ever been an Imperial Wizard. Determined to save her failing land Nell switches clothes with a boy named Owen and sends him to school in her place.

Nell soon learns the quest is not an easy one. Wandering the land in order to find the Palace of Light, home of the Keeper, is a difficult task. As Nell travels with her demi-dragon Minna, she meets new friends and finds new enemies. As she grows closer to her goal she becomes more and more convinced that Eldearth is in bad shape. Nell is close, but will she complete the quest and become the first female Keeper?

Behind the wonderful story is a deeper message of doing what you feel is right, even in the face of great adversity. Nell’s determined and fiery personality is sure to win over any reader, although many of the adult characters can be somewhat two-dimensional. Koller has crafted a new and exciting fantasy world in Eldearth, and the history of the peoples is fully developed.

With a delightful cast of witches, wizards, dragons and other magical creatures, A Wizard Named Nell is sure to be a hit with young fantasy lovers. Older readers will enjoy it too, especially if they can easily overlook the more shallow characters. The book ends in a cliffhanger, so be sure to follow the rest of the story in The Wizard's Apprentice and The Wizard's Scepter. Welcome to the land of Eldearth!

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

*Please note* This was originally posted off-site. Clicking on the below link will take you to the full body of my review found at http://www.yabookscentral.com/

Click here to read the original review.

Review: Wicked Dead: Lurker

Wicked Dead: Lurker by Stefan Petrucha and Thomas Pendleton

Every night, four ghostly girls gather in an abandoned orphanage to tell their ghostly stories. With each roll of their magic bones, a new story is revealed, with the hope the each one will eventually find their own story.

Tonight’s story is about Mandy, a normal high school with a perfect little town life. But Mandy’s world is completely shattered when popular Nicki Bennington is found murdered (with her insides hacked to pieces) behind the town library. Everyone is shocked by this turn of events. After all, how could such a grisly murder happen in their safe little hometown?

After a few weeks of mourning, the town is ready to move on. Mandy wants to get on with her life, but Nikki’s fate has shocked her to the core. So when she gets an instant message from a boy named Kyle Nevers, Mandy decides it’s time to branch out. Partly out of friendliness, and partly out to make her recently ex-boyfriend Dale jealous, Mandy begins to chat with Kyle.

It isn’t long before Mandy is fully involved with Kyle’s life. She’s never seen him in person because he’s home schooled, but Mandy can’t help but be drawn to this boy that she has so much in common with. Despite her friends’ warnings, Mandy gets in deeper and deeper with Kyle. But then she starts getting mysterious phone and text messages. Could Kyle not be all he seems?

Anyone who knows my reading tastes well will know that horror is not one of my big things. I don’t like being scared out of my wits. That being said, I’m not really sure where to place Lurker genre-wise. Except for the last few chapters, it really reads more like regular teen fiction than horror. But the end definitely creeped me out enough (bad idea for me to read it moments before falling asleep…).

Mandy’s story was truly that of a teen girl trying to find herself in an uprooted world, and readers who’ve experienced similar situations will probably relate to her feelings. Despite my horror misgivings, the book is interesting enough. The premise of the whole Wicked Dead series is to hear a new story each book (each “night” if you will), and I was engaged enough in Mandy’s story to pick up the next book in the series. Horror fans may find this one a little light, but it makes a great read for Halloween.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

If anyone would like a free copy of this book, I have one I am willing to trade. Email me at shadyglade@mail.com if you are interested. Or, if you are a member of Bookmooch.com, you can simply go and order it there (see below for an example of some of the books I have). If you have questions, just let me know!



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Review: Doomed Queen Anne

Doomed Queen Anne by Carolyn Meyer

At the young age of 13, Anne Boleyn declares her ambition to someday become Queen of England. The only problem is that King Henry VIII is already married. This story examines the life of Anne as she maneuvers through political intrigues and court games to work her way into power. Although she ultimately achieves her goal, the ambition that led her there could also prove to be her greatest weakness…

This book is one of the installments from Meyer’s Young Royals series, detailing the early lives of many of the famous Tudor women. Although this wasn’t my favorite book, it is quite good. Once again, Meyer creates a wonderful picture of the Tudor court. Her ability to bring historical figures such as Anne to life is amazing. Don’t miss out on the other wonderful books in this series either.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

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Review: Kristy's Great Idea

The Baby-Sitters Club: Kristy's Great Idea by Ann M. Martin and Reina Telgemeier

The Baby-Sitter’s Club series by Ann M. Martin was easily one of my favorite reading pleasures growing up. Now a whole new generation can experience the adventures of Kristy, Mary Ann, Claudia, and Stacey … in graphic novel format!

The idea came to Kristy one night as she watched her mom calling person after person looking for a sitter. What if there was one number that parents could call and get several experienced baby-sitters all at the same time? And thus the Baby-Sitter’s Club is born. All four girls not only go through the trials of starting a new business, but test their friendships as well.

As I mentioned earlier, this series was one of my favorites when I was little. This new format has breathed new life into the series, and is sure to bring all sorts of new readers. The art is simple, but makes a nice blend between Japanese and American illustration styles. Great for readers 8 and up.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

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Review: Kat & Mouse Vol. 1

Kat & Mouse Volume 1: Teacher Torture by Alex de Campi

Kat’s Dad has just gotten a job at a posh private school, so Kat and her family are moving to New England. Their new home seems too good to be true…which turns out to be the case when Kat’s new classmates dump her on the bottom of the social ladder because she’s smart. Kat’s willing to struggle through anyway, but soon as series of accidents threaten her dad’s job. When a blackmail notice shows up, Kat’s determined to find out who’s framing her dad. With her computer-savvy friend Mouse by her side, this duo is on the case!

Teacher Torture is the first book in the Kat and Mouse series and is a great introduction to the series. With art that is a little more realistic-looking than traditional manga, you can almost see yourself at Kat’s school. The book deals with issues today’s teens will be familiar with (such as school cliques) and also includes a mini science experiment in the back. A quick, fun, read perfect for readers age 10 and up.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

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Review: We Goddesses

Okay, so I'm taking a break from the Cybils reviews for today. So here's a new scoop:

We Goddesses: Athena, Aphrodite, Hera by Doris Orgel

These three goddesses were the biggest rivals in Greek mythology. Now they combine to each tell their versions and motives behind they myths that made them famous. Although none of the myths are repeated, each one offers insights into happenings in another section of the book. Read about the story of the Golden Apple, Athena’s birth, Hera’s marriage to Zeus and so many more.

Although this is a wonderful retelling of the myths, the best thing about this book is the illustrations. Done in full color paintings, they are absolutely beautiful. This book is an excellent way for readers of Greek mythology to read new versions of old tales. Even if you aren’t a mythology veteran, each story is explained fully enough that new readers will enjoy them just as much as everyone else.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

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Review: An Aquaintance with Darkness

An Acquaintance with Darkness by Ann Rinaldi

After 5 bloody years of conflict, the Civil War finally has come to an end. But the day the war ends is not a happy one for Emily Pigbush. While the rest of Washington is celebrating, Emily is mourning the death or her mother, leaving her an orphan. Following her late mother’s wishes, Emily moves in with her Uncle Valentine, a successful doctor in Washington DC. However, she soon learns of several suspicious acts occurring around her uncle’s practice. Could Uncle Valentine really be an illegal grave robber?

Meanwhile, Annie Surratt, Emily’s best friend, has her own problems. Annie’s mother has been accused of being involved with the people who planned Lincoln’s assassination. Since Annie’s mother runs the boarding house where the accused lived, the government suspects she also planned Lincoln’s murder. Can Emily help her friend while finding out what Uncle Valentine is up to?

For those of you who read this blog regularly, you know I’m a big Ann Rinaldi fan. This book has been one of my favorites since I read it a few years ago. It became really hard to find, but has recently been re-released with a new cover (which I think is better than the old one). This book satisfies my cravings for a good Rinaldi novel, but also offers something different. Rather than focusing on the historical events (in this case, Lincoln’s assassination and the criminal trial that followed), the book offers us a look at a time period in general. Emily’s life reflects the uncertainty and turmoil that was rampant in Washington DC at the close of the Civil War. Overall, a great historical read, especially if you are interested in the time period.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

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Review: Waiting for Odysseus

Waiting for Odysseus by Clemence McLaren

We've all heard the story of Homer's Odyssey: The Greek hero Odysseus is on his way back from the Trojan wars and ends up spending 10 years fighting his way back to his home on Ithaca. This book takes that story to a whole new level.

This is the Odyssey told through the eyes of the women who knew him best. First Penelope, Odysseus' wife tells the story of how they met and fell in love. Next Circe, the sorceress who turns men into swine recounts how she fell for the great hero. Greek goddess Athena recounts how she watches after her favorite mortal, and the story ends with the account of Eurycleia; Odysseus' old nurse who has raised his son in his absence and is the first to recognize him when he comes home.

I have always loved Greek mythology, and I was eager to read this when I first saw it. It turned out not to be the best mythology retelling I've ever read, but it was enough to keep me interested. It is a little more appropriate for female readers (mostly because of the viewpoints) but everyone can enjoy it. It tends to center more around the romance of the story, which gives it a very different feel than the Odyssey. Greek society was very male-oriented and women are often neglected or overlooked in many Greek myths.

Overall, and interesting take on a traditional story.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

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Review: Wren to the Rescue

Wren to the Rescue by Sherwood Smith

Wren has lived her entire life in a boring orphanage. Expecting nothing more than to work hard her entire life, she is shocked to learn her best friend Tess is really Princess Teressa of a neighboring kingdom. Tess's parents hid her in the orphanage to keep her safe from the evil King Andreus who wants nothing more than to get his hands on the princess. But now that she’s old enough Tess’ parents are finally letting her come home, and she's taking Wren with her!

Two days later Tess is kidnapped by Andreus, an act that nearly causes a civil war in the neighboring kingdoms. Wren is determined to find her friend, even if it means she has to go alone. She soon meets up with a novice magician and a young prince who agree to accompany her on the dangerous trip across the mountains to Andreus's kingdom. The journey is not easy, and Wren must deal with all sorts of magic spells, evil creatures, and even being turned into a dog. All the while she gets closer to her friend, but can she make it in time?

Smith wrote this book (and the two that come after it) for a younger audience than her Court Duel series. Although the story was at points very obviously written for children, overall it is still a good book. It starts off a little slow, and family relations between royal families can be a bit confusing because many are never fully explained. After the first few chapters I got involved enough to not want to put it down and I finished it fairly quickly. Several points are not fully tied up, leaving room for the two sequels. Tess's character remained somewhat flat so I'm hoping that she might play a bigger role in the next two. Overall the plot and the exploration of Wren's character were very intriguing. A good light read for both young and older readers.

Shady Glade rating: 7/10

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Review: Rising Star

Rising Star by Cari Gelber

Meet Nikki Bellinger, the hottest rising new manager in the music industry. After managing 3 different bands over the past few years, she’s become an expert and she’s ready to help someone make it big. But Nikki is unlike any other manager: she’s only 18, and she’s still in High School.

When Nikki first meets with the band Long Story Short she knows she’s found something extraordinary. Lead singer Casey has a knack for stardom, and it doesn’t hurt that bass player Ryan is super-cute as well. It isn’t too long before Nikki has taken on the band, and Long Story Short is on its way up.

But it isn’t all play in the music world. The band is struggling to promote itself and gain enough fans to financially survive. Meanwhile, Nikki’s life is becoming more and more hectic. In addition to helping the band she has to juggle friends, school, and college applications. To complicate things even further, she’s starting to get more and more involved with Ryan, the before-mentioned cute bass Torn between love and her professional relationship, Nikki more confused than ever.

When Long Story Short has the opportunity to make it big, Nikki is ecstatic. But can she keep her place as manager when she’s up against the most experienced men in the Music Industry?

Rising Star is the perfect book for anyone who has ever dreamed of becoming a singing star. From accounts of the band’s road life to Nikki’s experience with record label executives, the book presents a wonderful view of life in the business. Combine those elements with realistic and unique characters and Nikki’s realistic teenage struggles, and you have a great read.

Recommended for readers age 14 and up. Appropriate for younger readers too, although they may have trouble grasping the full reality of some situations.

Shady Glade Rating: 7/10

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*Please note* This is an off-site review. Clicking on the above link will take you to the full body of my review found at www.yabookscentral.com