Maddie
As with the original fic 'All the Young Dudes', the retelling from Sirius' perspective cemented just how obsessed I am with these characters. I adored seeing how the events of the original took shape in Sirius' mind, and especially him dealing with his abusive parents and homophobic upbringing. James' character also gets built up even more in this and seeing how he supports Sirius will stay with me forever. If you enjoyed ATYD, I implore you to read 'Sirius' Perspective'. Everyone in this book just needs a hug and I wish I could give it to them :( Instead, I salute you, Rollercoasterwords, and thank you for building on an already wonderful story.
This was my first Ashley Herring Blake book and it was an exceptional (queer) romance. Her writing paints the characters in such lovely detail, and I really felt at home in their little world. It was great to read about queer friend groups too, and also commenting on queer stereotypes and showing more of reality. The theatrical setting was an excellent choice. ‘Iris Kelly Doesn’t Date’ is one of the few romance books of a similar vibe that I didn’t really cringe at because it felt grounded in reality. I can’t wait for my other queer friends to read this book!
If you enjoyed the TV series (excusing the ending), then I think you will definitely enjoy this book. I listened to the audiobook and I was immersed all throughout - it really is classic fantasy. It is heavy on the politics and it can be hard to remember names at times, but it is worth pushing through. I am excited to continue reading more of George R.R. Martin's work.
Jennette, I'm glad your mum died too.
The book that has gotten me back into reading - easy to read but a hard hitter for sure. Makes you question parenting and the entertainment industry, but also how powerful the human mind is. Massive trigger warning for victims of emotional abuse, eating disorders, religious trauma, substance abuse, and OCD. As someone who has been through a few of those things myself, it marked an unexpected milestone in my recovery where I can read about such things and be proud of my progress and even cry with joy at hers! Jennette you have been dragged through life, but you've come out the other side running, and it is a wonderful thing that you have shared your story with the world.
In short: I loved this book. Baldree continues to impress with his inspired characters and slice of life storytelling. Bookshops & Bonedust has a sprinkle more physical conflict than Legends & Lattes, but don't let that fool you into thinking that it doesn't provide you with the same warm and cosy embrace of L&L. I really enjoyed learning more about Viv's past and watching new friendships bloom - not to mention the coastal setting adding a new depth to the world. Despite this being a prequel, I would still recommend reading L&L first, as I think that really helps set the tone. The books complement each other wonderfully. And for those who have already read B&B but not L&L: you are going to love the story after the story.
For a book ‘written’ (recorded) so long ago, it remains poignant and summarises a lot of the self-help industry’s messaging succinctly. Obviously it lacks nuance (and you have to look past the male-centricism which is understandable for a 1950s work), but it was still a rapid reminder of basic self-help principles.
My edition also included a bonus book “How To Create Million Dollar Ideas” also by him, which I found introduced more new ideas to me. I particularly enjoyed his prompts inviting the reader to reflect on creativity in their lives.
I enjoyed this book but it took a long while for me to get into - mostly because I do not enjoy reading about politics that much. That being said, I did really enjoy the book the further I got into it. In particular, I loved the emails that Alex and Henry exchange. I think the politics in particular felt a little too close to home seeing as the US presidential election just concluded, and once the main drama of the book happened, I felt like I was just reading the last chapter knowing exactly what would happen (I didn't mind that too much though). Overall it was an enjoyable read - it had good LGBTQ+ representation, it doesn't take itself too seriously, and the characters were varied and had depth. I think I would've preferred reading this from Henry's perspective more, but again that might just be because I am British myself and feel more interested in Henry's coming out than Alex's because more seemed at stake.
A great book for people studying for standardised exams such as GCSEs and A-Levels. Jade’s voice is strong throughout the book which I enjoyed, as a long-time fan of her YouTube career. Though I didn’t really encounter anything new to me in this book (having read a lot about this subject before), I still found the content engaging and a helpful reminder. If I’d had this in year 9, I think it would’ve changed my life in such a positive way!
For those of you who love Miriam, you will love this book. As you read it you can hear her voice saying everything in her own eloquent and sometimes naughty way. Overall, it is an enjoyable and lighthearted read with great insights into the acting profession and charming anecdotes on being a woman who is gay, Jewish, British and fat. I feel as though I want to give her a big hug!
Took me over a year to get past the start of this book, but once I did I really enjoyed it. I listened to the audiobook alongside reading it and I was impressed by its range of topics. 'Stolen Focus' tells the story of the author's interest in attention span and focus and his tech-free life for a while. He then goes on to interview many scientists and researchers about various causes for increased attention deficiency in modern society. I particularly enjoyed his sections about sleep and free play for children. I also was surprised to hear about how some people have exaggerated role of genetics regarding ADHD with twin studies.
Thoroughly enjoyed my first SJM book! Despite the trope of quirky small adventurer girl, the magic and story that unfolds engrossed me entirely. The author does an excellent job at describing the wonder of the faerie world from the eyes of a human, and making you feel like you're there with the characters. Especially as the book reaches its climax - you really feel it. Looking forward to book 2!
Contains spoilers
SPOILERS!!
I really enjoyed reading about Nesta and Cassian throughout the book, but I must admit, I found Nesta insufferable at the start. The middle part of the book was my favourite for sure once Nesta starting being a better human being. The ending was great, though felt very rushed. I feel like it should've been spread out by at least three chapters more. Other than that, a fun time and I hope SJM writes the next book ASAP!
SJM continues to throw me into the most beautiful world, and I especially loved seeing some of the other courts and the romance developing. My best friend and I had a whale of a time reading this and sending voice notes back and forth as we did so!!
This little book is an excellent intro to writing systems, with alphabetic systems as the focus. Davies' illustrations and clear style kept me engaged and left me feeling informed by the end. I know this will be a fantastic reference book for me - especially with the more specific A-Z section.
Heart wrenching, screaming, crying, throwing up. One of the best books I've ever read. Idc if this is a fan fiction it's canon in my friendship circle. MissKingBean89 you have touched so many people's souls and ripped out their hearts in the best way <3
Read this over the span of two days. 'Show Your Work' presents a nice approach to sharing your creative work, with actionable steps on how to do so. I enjoyed the photography and poetry also featured in this book, and enjoyed how Kleon highlights the importance of useful accreditation. A nice little read for anyone who wants to make a portfolio in an organic way.
This YA book was so fun to read - I demolished it in two days! It was a joy to read about characters who share my interests, and witness the fantastic friend group that formed. The community at the game store was a beautiful thing too. Have already pre-ordered Kristy Boyce’s second game themed book that comes out early 2025.
Started with very cringy very clearly YA targeted writing, but as the book went on I fell more and more in love with all of the characters. Chess was a great background to set this story against as it kinda felt like what I imagine a sports romance would feel like (as of yet I have not read any). I really enjoyed this book overall, though the ending left a bit more to be desired. I wanted more in the last chapter before the epilogue!
Very bored to start with but picked up about 60% through. The end really got me! Beautiful and sad.