Forest of Ancestors

DNF at 10%.

I wanted to like this because the premise sounds like a hoot. Sampled a few chapters and unfortunately, the writing and the plot are not for me, they're not grabbing my attention. Won't add this to my TBR.

2.5 stars

Like a very bland meal also very confusing at times. Contemplated DNF'ing it.
Characters didn't do it for me either.

It was cute. Definitely look into for future children. I borrowed this from a coworker who absolutely loves the author's work. Maybe she will allow me to continue.

Truly excellent! The amount of imagination in this story made me sail through the pages. Despite being based on childhood stories that everyone knows, the material feels original and fresh. The characters are quite amazing.

I did read the picture book Man in the Moon before I read this one, and because of that I felt I had a better handle on the side story that is mentioned in this larger one. I recommend other readers look into that.

As for librarians, I feel we can really work with this. I am thinking of reading one of the picture books or perhaps doing a shadow puppet theater with Pitch's origin story and then having the kids create origin stories for other childhood “guardians”. Or a sand craft for the sandman or a moon sand craft for the Man in the Moon, etc.
The possibilities are kind of endless.

As for the steampunk princess in me, check out the amazing artwork. I am so looking forward to the second book, E. Aster Bunnymund. Check out his little googles!!!!