leannarapier's reviews
114 reviews

Here and Now and Then by Mike Chen

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4.0

One of the best time travel books I’ve read. The Time Machine will likely always be my favorite, but this one was a lot of fun. I almost gave it a 5 star. There were a one thing that confused me. It said you could only hold “one time” in your head, which is why when Kin was stuck in the past, he forgot his life in the present. Yet he had no trouble remembering the past while in the present. I don’t think this was ever explained—maybe the metabolizers? I really find that whole concept a little weird, but as long as it’s consistent then fine. It was needed for the story, and it’s a minor thing. The story was fun, fast paced, and great father-daughter tale. Also it was refreshingly clean.
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank

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5.0

Not just an entertaining book but also very moving.
Though young, Anne Frank was intelligent and a deep thinker. Her short life was marked by courage. It’s heartbreaking to think that such a promising life was cut short by evil men, yet she continues to speak through her words in this diary. Everyone ages 12+ should read this book.
The Looking Glass Wars by Frank Beddor

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4.0

A fun retelling of the “true” story of Alice (Alyss) in Wonderland. Thoroughly enjoyed.
Holes by Louis Sachar

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5.0

A humorous, fast-paced book with a good message. I bought it for my son but I thoroughly enjoyed it as well.
The Screwtape Letters: Also Includes "Screwtape Proposes a Toast" by C.S. Lewis

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5.0

I thoroughly enjoyed this book, but don’t read it like a novel. It is saturated with spiritual truths that require you to digest each chapter before moving to the next. I recommend a chapter a day.
Facing the Sun by Carol Beth Anderson

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5.0

Facing the Sun is a beautifully written YA fantasy that opens with a touching birthing scene. I love the way childbirth and magic are linked. It feels like it’s the perfect fantasy for girls ages 13-16, but I think it could be enjoyable for any fantasy lover of all ages. The novel depicts the uncertainties and fears many young girls have as their body changes in a way that is frank yet delicate and appropriate at the same time. The characters are sweet and fun and feel like natural teenagers even with their budding magical powers. I love the light joyful feel of the young people that contrasts well with the sinister nature of the Grays.

The setting is unique from other fantasy I’ve read in that it has the feel of a novel set in the 1700s or maybe 1800s by the description of country life, clothing, and carriages. They have indoor plumbing but that is about as advanced as it gets. Only there doesn’t seem to be firearms of any kind. The only weapons mention are melee type used in ancient times and bows used for hunting. This makes sense that there would be little development of weapons since peace has been kept by magic over the centuries. Except for magic, life seems to be very ordinary. That is until Gray magic is discovered.

I would definitely recommend this book and plan to continue reading through this series.
A Monster Calls by Patrick Ness

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5.0

A story as beautiful as it is terrible. Bitter but sweet. I definitely recommend, but I bawled through the last several chapters—you have been warned.
The Snow Child by Eowyn Ivey

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5.0

A beautifully written, moving tale. I enjoyed every second. I can’t even begin to imagine why anyone would give it a rating of less than 5. I would give it a 6 if I could. The prose was superb, the story moving—a magical tale that brings home truths of the heartache that can come with children, but more importantly, the joy, even amidst sorrow. A truly exceptional book.
Indian Captive: The Story of Mary Jemison by Lois Lenski

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3.0

I enjoyed reading this book with my 11-year-old daughter. This book is based on the true story of Mary Jemison who was taken captive by the Senecas and eventually chose to remain with them for the rest of her life. The book was a little difficult for my daughter to read on her own and the chapters were long. I ended up reading most the book to her, which is fine; it was a good bonding experience. She was disappointed there was not more action. I think she thought it would have battles. She rated it 3 stars. I would perhaps give it 4.
Gretchen and the Bear by Carrie Anne Noble

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4.0

An enchanting story I’d recommend to anyone who enjoys fae fantasies. My only regret is that Gretchen and Author didn’t get to spend more time on Britannia together to get to know each other. That was my favorite part of the story and it felt a bit rushed. I was hoping they’d get lost in the forest together.