Picture Book Wednesday: Curtain Up!

Take a tour behind the curtains at the Royal Opera House with Figaro the Cat. (You can find him on every page.) 

While this isn't strictly a Christmas book, this does showcase the Nutcracker performance. This is a super cute book - lots of information about the theater and all the work that goes into the performances. There's also a glossary for harder words and an encore for how to get creative yourself. This is a perfect book for older readers, especially for dance lovers.

* This book was sent for review 

Top Ten Tuesday: Cozy Feeling

 This week's topic is all about the books that give you that warm cozy feeling. After you've finished - sort of like a book hangover. 

Sometimes it's the setting of snow that makes me feel cozy, but often it's the characters. 

When the book ends, it's like being wrapped in a warm hug. 

Middle Grade Review: Charlie Thorne and the Curse of Cleopatra

 

* Book 3 in the series *

Charlie Thorne is back - and this time she's checking in Cleopatra's history.  She's rumored to have left behind an ancient treasure. Charlie is on the case and she's determined to uncover it before anyone else - and before anyone can stop her. She might need the help of her favorite CIA agents - her half-brother and his girlfriend. Can they uncover the clues and find the treasure?

My Thoughts: This one does not disappoint. Lots of action, danger, and adventure. I loved traveling the world looking for treasure with Charlie. I loved watching her figure out the clues. I had to read this one quickly, because I needed to know what happened. I loved the banter between Charlie and her enemies. I loved learning more about Ancient Rome and Ancient Eygpt - especially all the dirt of Cleopatra. I can't wait for the next book in the series - on to Newton. 

Cover Thoughts: Cool

Source: My Library

Library Recommendation: This is a must have series for your school and public library. 

Christmas Movie Reviews (3)

Watched a few more movies this week...

From Hallmark:

In Merry Measure:

High school rivals

Teen singing competition

Family

Chasing Dreams

This one was cute. The actor lost his glasses half-way through, which was strange.

A fun movie - especially if you like music. 

Three Wise Men and a Baby

Three estranged brothers must come together to take care of a baby left at the firehouse. This remake was fantastic - I laughed so hard. It was funny, charming, and heartwarming.

Oh - and that dance! 

I hope there's a sequel next year because this is the must watch movie of the season. 

Spirited

A re-telling (Sort-of) of a Christmas Carol as a musical.

I'm actually not a Dickens fan, but this was really good. I loved the idea of exploring can people really change. And I loved the friendship. 

Also very funny. 

This one is not to be missed either.

Small Business Saturday: In My Etsy Shop

It's Small Business Saturday, so I'm showcasing a few items from my Etsy shop

Card Making Kit: stickers and supplies to make 5 cards

Christmas Soaps:

Christmas Gift Tags

Christmas Ornament: 

Christmas Cards

Holiday Gift Ideas: Adult Books

This is my last list (go back and see the other ages breakouts if you missed one). Here are some adult books that would make great gifts.

Romance Books:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

  

 

 

 

 

Women's Fiction

 

 

Fantasy:

 

 

Historical Fiction

 

Cozy Mysteries:

Thrillers:

Holiday Romances

 

 

 

 

And that's a wrap on all ages for holiday book gift ideas!