Friday, May 22, 2026

Booklist: Books set in Paris

 


Earlier this week, I talked about a book set in Paris and realized it would be a great time to make a booklist.

There are so many more books set in Paris. It's a wonderful place to read about. Here are a few that I chose:

Two I'm excited to read and the others I have enjoyed

I had more fun creating some bookmarks:
 

 

All this makes me want to wander the streets of Paris.

Thursday, May 21, 2026

Graphic Novel Review: Princess Academy

 



A graphic novel adaptation of the novel with the same name. Miri is sent to a Princess Academy where the girls are given instructions on how to behave like a princess. The prince will be choosing one girl from the group as his bride. Miri wants to create a better life for herself and her townspeople. Is marrying the prince the only way?
My Thoughts: I've never read the novel even though it's been on my list for years. I adored the graphic novel from the hardships in town, to the struggles at the academy, to the rankings with the other girls. I loved how Miri wanted to keep learning and improving. I love how she stood up for everyone. The illustrations were charming. I know feel like I should go back and read the trilogy.

Have you read it?
 What did you like of the adaptation?

Wednesday, May 20, 2026

Picture Book Wednesday: Cantaloupe and HoneyDo Bake a Cake



Two friends decide to bake a cake together - with some funny results.

Following a recipe isn't always easy as these two friends discover. And having something look nice and taste great is also hard. I love the messy funny moments in this book and how everything turned out. A fantastic story that's perfect to share. 

Tuesday, May 19, 2026

Top Ten Tuesday: Authors I'd Love to Meet

 This week's topic is about secondary characters, which I've talked about before. In light of news from earlier this month, I'm changing it to authors I'd like to meet.


While I have met a bunch of wonderful authors, there are STILL MORE I'd love to meet.

Previous lists: Author list 1 and author list 2

  1. Barbara Dee 
  2. Kate Messner
  3. Sarah Adams
  4. Rhys Bowen
  5. Raina Telgemeler
  6. Misty Wilson
  7. Alexa Martin
  8. Lindsey Currie
  9. Fleur Bradley 
  10. Emily Charlotte
Who would you like to meet?

Monday, May 18, 2026

Middle Grade Review: Each and Every Spark

 


Penny's family moved to Paris for a year. Instead of being excited, she's miserable and lonely. Her mother has a new job and Penny misses the time they spent together. When her mother and Penny see a hidden painting, Penny spies a letter. She steals the letter, which leads her to research the sender.

Penny discovers the story of two sisters during WWII in France who were scared, hungry, cold, and missing their father. These girls joined the Resistance. Life was never the same.
My Thoughts: I loved this dual POV and dual timeline. The two different timelines kept me turning the pages. I loved the story about the two sisters trying to survive the war. I felt terrible for them and all they experienced. i loved seeing Paris and wandering the streets. I love how the two stories came together in the end.

Cover Thoughts: I love how they captured both characters
Source: My Library
Library Recommendation: Highly recommended for your school and public library.

Warning: This book might make you want to wander the streets of Paris too!

Sunday, May 17, 2026

Movie Review: The Devil Wears Prada 2

 




I saw this movie opening weekend and I have thoughts. But not too spoilery.

1. I really enjoyed it, but it wasn't as good as the first one
2. I wish Gisele was in it
3. I loved Emily Blunt and the range of her character
4. That Nigel Moment
5. I didn't love the fashion as much as the first movie
6. I wish Andy really did have more confidence 
7. I loved the friendship moment
8. I loved the nods to the first movie
9. Charlie was great!
10. The SNARK!

I'm really glad they made a sequel.
If you liked the first one, you'll enjoy this one too. 

Saturday, May 16, 2026

Picture Book Review: Underwearwolf



When his uncle sends him to coolest pair of underwear for his birthday, the boy fails to follow the instructions. He wears them during a full moon. And something strange happens.

This is a super fun story that readers will really enjoy. Even though the boy knows the underwear is helping cause ALL the mischief, he can't take it off. This silly book will lead to some interesting discussions with kids.

Give this to readers of who love underwear books and during the Halloween season.

* Book sent for review