Mini Reviews: A Court of Mist and Fury by Sarah J. Maas, The Rose and the Dagger by Renee Ahdieh, and The Crown's Game by Evelyn Skye

Title: A Court of Mist and Fury
Author: Sarah J. Maas
Series: A Court of Thorns and Roses
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens
Release Date: May 3, 2016

Review

My oh my. I feel like I need an ice cold bath and a nap after every SJMaas book I finish. Her books take me on such an emotional roller coaster and they keep getting steamier and steamier! For those who’ve read her Throne of Glass series, I would say that ACOMAF is similar to Heir of Fire in feel such that it is very character-driven and full of changes. Feyre is going through an incredibly transitional period in her life as she recovers from all that she endured Under the Mountain and adapts to her new life. Since I’ve come to care for her in the first book, my heart went out to her, which made her transformation all the more rewarding. She was always fierce, but now she is fierce in a whole new way. While ACOTAR took place predominantly in the Spring Court, ACOMAF takes place mostly in the Night Court. I loved deepening relationships with old characters (ahem RHYSAND ahem), meeting new characters, and exploring more of this world that SJMaas brilliantly crafted. And there was plenty that happened to set up what I’m sure will be one hell of a next book. Of course, I need it now.

Title: The Rose and the Dagger
Author: Renee Ahdieh
Series: The Wrath and the Dawn #2
Publisher: G.P. Putnam's Sons Books for Young Readers
Release Date: April 26, 2016

Review

*Happy sigh* This conclusion was everything I had hoped it would be and more. It was just as beautifully written, suspenseful, romantic and magical as the first one, if not more so. And I felt that the story had a strong focus on love and forgiveness which I really appreciated. It picks up right where The Wrath and The Dawn left off and expands the world considerably. Yet everything is still wrapped up nicely in the end. Shazi learns quite a few new things about herself and I enjoyed watching her develop her talents, even though it was only a small portion of the story. Most of the story was focused on breaking the curse and saving Khorasan. And while Shazi and Khalid are still the shining stars of this series, there were so many secondary characters that stepped into the limelight. One of which I particularly loves getting to know was Shazi's younger sister, Irsa who grew into quite the young woman. Everything about this book was wonderful.

Title: The Crown's Game
Author: Evelyn Skye
Series: The Crown's Game #1
Publisher: Balzery & Bray
Release Date: May 17, 2016

Review

I had so much fun reading this one… until the ending at which point all I could do was cry! The premise of two magical people competing for a place of power, with only one being able to survive, might not sound like such a novel idea. Variations of this type of story have obviously been done before. And probably 9 times out of 10, the two competitors fall in love because what a convenient layer of complexity that adds! BUT what made this book unique was the historical Russian setting and the magic that was performed, which was intricately woven into the setting and very beautiful. And who cares if the basic plotline isn’t new, it was still fun! I liked the characters and I thought their attraction to each other was sweet, even if it could’ve used more time to develop. I loved the playfulness with which they competed. And I loved the emotional turmoil they each underwent for being torn between wanting to win and not wanting to hurt the other. BUT I DID NOT LOVE THAT ENDING. I stared gape-mouthed at the end of this book not wanting to believe what I just read. I need the next book now because I need this to be fixed! And I want more magical fun.:)

Mini Reviews: My Lady Jane by Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton and Jodi Meadows, And I Darken by Kiersten White,

Title: My Lady Jane
Author: Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton and Jodi Meadows
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: June 7, 2016

Review

My Lady Jane will no doubt put a smile on your face and, if you are anything like me, even make you laugh quite a few times (the horse jokes were amazing). It is just FULL of personality. The characters are charming, the relationships are full of heart and the plot was just plain fun. Readers will especially relate to Jane and the great lengths she will go to for her beloved books. I really liked how her relationship with Gifford developed - – they were an adorable pair - and I really enjoyed the magical twist on this story. I don’t know much about this period of history or if any of it rings true, but it was definitely interesting AND entertaining. I could easily have rated this book 4 stars but If I had to guess why I withheld half a star is that maybe this book read a little young. Or maybe because it failed to live up to its potential just a teeny bit. But if you are a fan of any of the authors on their own, you should definitely read this book. Their voices really shine through.

Title: And I Darken
Author: Kiersten White
Series: The Conquerors Saga #1
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Release Date: June 28, 2016

Review

THIS BOOK WAS SUCH A PLEASANT SURPRISE. It wasn’t really even on my radar (granted that’s not saying all that much considering how MIA I’ve been) but then I was looking up reviews for some books I had on my shelves to help me decide what to read next and this book was getting some serious attention so I decided to read it. First, I am so so glad that I did. Second, this book deserves all the praise. It’s a slower moving book, and I wasn’t really sure where the plot was going while reading most of it, but god damn was it captivating. It’s very character driven and Lada is such a different character than we are used to seeing. She did what she had to do to take care of herself and those she loved even if it made her appear cold and distant to those around her. She always thought two steps ahead and didn’t really let her emotions cloud her judgment. She also battled with being considered equal to men. She constantly resisted and fought back against the limitations that were placed on her by society for being a woman. Another thing I loved about this book was the political focus and "conquer or be conquered" theme. There was really so much I loved about this book and I honestly can’t do it enough justice. Just read it. You won’t regret it.

Title: The Dark Days Club
Author: Alison Goodman
Series: Lady Helen #1
Publisher: Viking Books for Young Readers
Release Date: January 26, 2016

Review

My feelings for The Dark Days Club is definitely a case of, “It’s not you, it’s me”. Or maybe we can take joint responsibility, I don’t know. There was nothing overtly wrong about this book - it even had quite a few surprises that impressed me while reading it. But overall, I think I’ve either outgrown this type of story/time period (and I mean preference wise, not age wise!) or I just wasn’t in the mood for it. It felt like a story I had already read countless times and there was very little about it that marked it as different. As a result, I started getting restless to finish the story and almost didn’t but I realized I was close enough that I might as well just power through. I felt very little for the characters so I highly doubt I will continue with the story. But if you want to read about Historical London and underground Demon-fighting clubs than you should give it a shot.

Mini Reviews: Ruined by Amy Tintera, The Chapel Wars by Lindsey Leavitt, and Maid of Wonder by Jennifer McGowan

Title: Ruined
Author: Amy Tintera
Series: Ruined #1
Publisher: HarperTeen
Release Date: May 3, 2016

Review

I had a lot of fun reading this book! I love plots that involve infiltrating enemy territory and Em was a total badass despite her perceived weakness among her people for having no power. I love how Tintera proved that there are more ways to be useful and powerful besides what is expected. I was also a total sucker for the romance. It might not have been THAT moving and sure, it was a trope that I had seen before but it just worked for me. I liked Em, I liked Cas, and I liked Em and Cas together. I also loved the ending to this book. Like LOVED. The last third was non-stop action and holy hell, Em’s sister is a force to be reckoned with. I can’t wait to see what mayhem she causes in the next book.

Title: The Chapel Wars
Author: Lindsey Leavitt
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Childrens
Release Date: May 6, 2014

Review

The Chapel Wars wasn’t quite the book I hoped it would be but since I had been meaning to read this book for over 2 years now my expectations probably got the best of me. I expected MORE from it – more laughs, more playfulness, more war, more romance – so what I got fell a teeny bit flat. Sure, it had it’s cute moments and I think it was interesting. I also think Leavitt handled some important topics well – like divorce and first love and all the fun growing up that comes with those teen years. But it didn’t leave that strong of an impression on me. And while I appreciated the honesty of the ending, it kind of let me down at the same time. Points for uniqueness though! The Vegas Wedding Chapel premise was a great idea!

Title: Maid of Wonder
Author: Jennifer McGowan
Series: Maids of Honor #3
Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
Release Date: August 25, 2015

Review

Unfortunately for Maid of Wonder, it is the 3rd book in a series and the previous two books are, what I consider, some of the best YA Historical Fiction has to offer. So while Maid of Wonder had its merits, it paled in comparison, impression-wise. I enjoyed learning more about Sophia and her Seer abilities. And I enjoyed being back in this world and diving even deeper into the bigger picture. But unlike the previous two books, the mystery wasn’t quite as captivating, the romance wasn’t quite as shippable, and the overall emotional response I had to the writing wasn’t quite as strong. Also, Sophia herself just wasn’t as dynamic of a character as Meg or Beatrice. So this is why I didn't love it, only liked it. But I do still hope that S&S publishes the final book about Jane or I am going to be PISSED.

Mini Reviews: A Book of Spirit and Thieves, The Piper's Son, Persuasion & Under a Painted Sky

Title: A Book of Spirits and Thieves
Author: Morgan Rhodes
Series: Spirits and Thieves #1

Publisher: Razorbill

Release Date: June 23, 2015

Summary from Goodreads:

Modern-day sisters discover deadly ancient magic in book 1 of this Falling Kingdoms spin-off series!

Worlds collide in this suspenseful, page-turning Falling Kingdoms spin-off series, which explores a whole new side of Mytica—and an even darker version of its magic.

Crystal Hatcher, Modern-day Toronto: It’s a normal afternoon in her mother’s antique bookshop when Crys witnesses the unthinkable: her little sister Becca collapses into a coma after becoming mesmerized by a mysterious book written in an unrecognizable language.

Maddox Corso, Ancient Mytica: Maddox Corso doesn’t think much of it when he spots an unfamiliar girl in his small village. Until, that is, he realizes that she is a spirit, and he is the only one who can see or hear her. Her name is Becca Hatcher, and she needs Maddox to help get her home.

Farrell Grayson, Modern-day Toronto: Rich and aimless Farrell Grayson is thrilled when the mysterious leader of the ultra-secret Hawkspear Society invites him into the fold. But when he learns exactly what he has to do to prove himself, Farrell starts to question everything he thought he knew about family, loyalty, and himself….

Fate has brought these young people together, but ancient magic threatens to rip them apart.

Review

If you like magic,secret societies, action, adventure and trickery then A Book of Spirits and Thieves is the book for you.  I had so much fun reading this one - with the story weaving between Mytica and present day and so many powers at play, all because of this ancient text. But what I love most about Rhodes' stories are her characters. She really excels at characterization and is exceptionally good at creating strong women. She also knows how to write multiple POV really well to craft a well-rounded story. As of now, I am still a bigger fan of the Falling Kingdoms series but this spin-off was pretty solid and I can't wait for more. Who knows which series will hold a bigger piece of my heart in the end!

Title: The Piper's Son
Author: Melina Marchetta
Publisher: Candlewick Press
Release Date: August 14, 2012

Summary from Goodreads:

Award-winning author Melina Marchetta reopens the story of the group of friends from her acclaimed novel Saving Francesca - but five years have passed, and now it’s Thomas Mackee who needs saving. After his favorite uncle was blown to bits on his way to work in a foreign city, Tom watched his family implode. He quit school and turned his back on his music and everyone that mattered, including the girl he can’t forget. Shooting for oblivion, he’s hit rock bottom, forced to live with his single, pregnant aunt, work at the Union pub with his former friends, and reckon with his grieving, alcoholic father. Tom’s in no shape to mend what’s broken. But what if no one else is either? An unflinching look at family, forgiveness, and the fierce inner workings of love and friendship, The Piper’s Son redefines what it means to go home again.

Review

The Piper's Son was not my favorite Marchetta book but there is something about her work that makes it impossible for me not to love. They are always so raw and honest, almost unpolished in a sense, which makes them feel so real. It was both a joy and struggle to be back with Tom and the gang from Saving Francesca. A joy because I love these characters and will always want more time with them but a struggle because Tom was a mess. It wasn't easy to read this book but was ultimately worth it to see Tom get his life back under control. I also loved the part of the story that focused on his Aunt Georgie's story. Georgie had to get over her anger and her pride so that she could live happily. I could definitely relate to Georgie's story in the sense that I often care too much about what people think and I feel like that gets in the way of my own happiness. Simply put, I recommend all of Marchetta's work. There is no one else like her.

Title: Persuasion
Author: Martina Boone
Series: The Heirs of Watson Island #2

Publisher: Simon Pulse

Release Date: October 27, 2015

Summary from Goodreads:

Grieving the death of her godfather and haunted by her cousin Cassie’s betrayal, Barrie returns from a trip to San Francisco to find the Watson plantation under siege. Ghost-hunters hope to glimpse the ancient spirit who sets the river on fire each night, and reporters chase rumors of a stolen shipment of Civil War gold that may be hidden at Colesworth Place. The chaos turns dangerous as Cassie hires a team of archeologists to excavate beneath the mansion ruins. Because more is buried there than treasure.

A stranger filled with magic arrives at Watson’s Landing claiming that the key to the Watson and Beaufort gifts—and the Colesworth curse—also lies beneath the mansion. With a mix of threats and promises, the man convinces Barrie and Cassie to cast a spell there at midnight. But what he conjures may have deadly consequences.

While Barrie struggles to make sense of the escalating peril and her growing and forbidden feelings for Eight Beaufort, it’s impossible to know whom to trust and what to fight for—Eight or herself. Millions of dollars and the fate of the founding families is at stake. Now Barrie must choose between what she feels deep in her heart and what will keep Watson’s Landing safe in this stunning addition to a series filled with “decadent settings, mysterious magic, and family histories rife with debauchery” (Kirkus Reviews, on Compulsion).

Review

How I feel about Persuasion pretty closely mirrors how I feel about Compulsion. There are many elements of this story that I really like -  the Southern Gothic vibe, the history between the founding families, the magic and mystery surrounding the plantations and more - yet it continues to fall victim to some trivial things that weigh the plot down - like all the secret keeping/lack of communication and making decisions for others. The relationship drama is a little too repetitive and much for my liking. But the setting and plot keep me coming back for more and Persuasion definitely upped the ante. I have so many questions that I can't wait to have answers to. SO suffice it to say, I am looking forward to the next book despite some of my grievances.

Title: Under a Painted Sky
Author: Stacey Lee
Publisher: Simon Pulse
Release Date: March 17, 2015

Summary from Goodreads:

Missouri, 1849: Samantha dreams of moving back to New York to be a professional musician—not an easy thing if you’re a girl, and harder still if you’re Chinese. But a tragic accident dashes any hopes of fulfilling her dream, and instead, leaves her fearing for her life. With the help of a runaway slave named Annamae, Samantha flees town for the unknown frontier. But life on the Oregon Trail is unsafe for two girls, so they disguise themselves as Sammy and Andy, two boys headed for the California gold rush. Sammy and Andy forge a powerful bond as they each search for a link to their past, and struggle to avoid any unwanted attention. But when they cross paths with a band of cowboys, the light-hearted troupe turn out to be unexpected allies. With the law closing in on them and new setbacks coming each day, the girls quickly learn that there are not many places to hide on the open trail.

This beautifully written debut is an exciting adventure and heart-wrenching survival tale. But above all else, it’s a story about perseverance and trust that will restore your faith in the power of friendship.

Review

Under the Painted Sky is quite a beautiful story. The friendships in this book are really quite special and will likely win many of you over. There are also some incredibly important themes in this book relating to gender, race, good vs bad, basic human rights, and more. Honestly, it's an extremely impressive debut. But it was just a little too slow for my liking and the Oregon Trail adventure was not as captivating to me in the wake of reading Walk On Earth a Stranger by Rae Carson. My rating reflects more of how it made me feel than how I view this book, which is actually very highly.

Graphic Novel Mini-Reviews

Graphic Novel Mini-Reviews

I recently posted a Thoughts for Thursday on my new enjoyment of graphic novels.  I read and loved I am Princess X which has a web comic throughout the story of the book. I then followed that up with The Cute Girl Network which was also enjoyable.  I wanted more so I went to the library and just picked things off the shelf.  I plan to continue checking out graphic novels, so if you have any suggestions let me know!

The Cute Girl Network

By M.K. Reed, Greg Means Art:Joe Flood

This was my very first full graphic novel. The Cute Girl Network is about a social network where girls can let other girls know about guys that are not worth dating or guys they have had bad experiences with. It was a very interesting premise and at the end I really like the message the author left with the reader.

El Deafo

by Cece Bell

El Deafo has a very different kind of art, it has a much younger feel to it which compliments the character very well. The overall message is a great one; this graphic novel addresses living with a hearing problem. The story is told through a young girl. Her emotions and reactions to things felt very honest and heartfelt.  I definitely recommend it (just be aware it is also geared for a younger audience).

Through the Woods

by Emily Carroll

The illustrations and the artwork were so dark and creepy. This book was a collection of short graphic novels/stories. While I thought the overall mood and setting was creepy with some hits of horror, I thought the stories themselves felt a bit short. I would flip to the next page and be like uhh, that was it and that happened a couple times.

Lumberjanes

by Noelle Stevenson, Grace Ellis, Brooke A. Allen

Lumberjanes was a cute story, focusing on girl power and strong friendships. I really enjoyed the crazy adventures the girls embarked on. Some of my favorite artwork. I do feel like the story was cut a bit short and should be read back to back with Lumberjanes #2 (out this fall!)

Nimona

by Noelle Stevenson

I really really enjoyed this graphic novel, it is probably my favorite so far. I love the villain and sidekick dynamic. The artwork was awesome but so was the plot. There was a solid conclusion plus there is humor and action as well! I highly recommend Nimona!

Will & Whit

by Laura Lee Gulledge

This one is a bit heavier of a story line, cool art with quite a few whole page spreads. Focuses more on the plot and character development. There is an overall theme of feeling good in one's own skin and coming to term with inner ghosts.

Page by Paige

by Laura Lee Gulledge

This one I think feel a bit flat. I thought the underlying story was a boring. The main character, I found to be a tad unlikeable. I do not have much to say about it besides, meh.  Overall, I would just pass on this one.

Ms. Marvel #1-3 

by G. Willow Wilson Artists: Adrian Alphona, Jacob Wyatt, Takeshi Miyazawa, Elmo Bondoc

I love the diverse characters and female super heroes! While I have been enjoying the series, it does have a tendency to get a bit slow at times. I do really enjoy the cameos from other superhereos.

MINI-REVIEW- Brooke (Under the Never Sky #2.5) by Veronica Rossi

Title: Brooke
Series: Under the Never Sky #2.5
Author: Veronica Rossi
Publisher: Harper Collins
Release Date: November 26th 2013
Pages: Kindle 82 Pages
Source: Bought

Summary from Goodreads:
Set just before the events of Into the Still Blue, the conclusion to Veronica Rossi's Under the Never Sky trilogy, this breathtaking novella is a satisfying stand-alone for new readers as well as an exciting glimpse at favorite characters from the trilogy. Pulsing with romance and danger, Brooke will leave readers desperate for the conclusion to this epic and unforgettable saga.

The only fight she can't win is the one for Perry's heart. Following the stunning climax in Through the Ever Night, the Tides have been forced to seek shelter from the Aether storms in a dismal, secluded cave. But Brooke's memories of the cave go back much further, to when she and Perry used to come here together. That was before Perry fell in love with Aria and before Vale's dealings with the Dwellers altered the course of the Tides forever.

Now, with her sister back from a haunting year in captivity and Aria lying unconscious in the sick bay, Brooke struggles to put the pieces of her life back together. Without Perry, who is she? And what is her role in this frightening new world? As these questions swirl about her, an old threat to the Tides resurfaces, and Brooke is forced to put the lives of her people before her own. But in taking this step outside of herself, Brooke may finally discover what she truly wants.

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• The new perspective.  I really enjoyed hearing the story through Brooke's point of view
• I liked how Brooke evolved and changed through the story.  She had such honest and harsh feelings made me hate her and like her at the same time.  
• The story was well developed for a novella.  Of course I wanted more but I did actually feel like the novella added to the series. 

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• Nothing :)  It was a great short story
• I do wish I had read a recap though.  There is no summary, the story jumps right in. 

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I cannot wait for Into the Still Blue!  If you want to read a story from Brooke's perspective and jump back into the Aria and Perry's world then I highly recommend!

MINI-REVIEWS #142 & #143: The Truth About Forever and This Lullaby by Sarah Dessen

Title: The Truth About Forever

Author: Sarah Dessen

Publisher: Penguin Group

Release Date: May 11, 2004

Pages: 374, Paperback
Source: Audiobook, Library

Summary from Goodreads:

A long, hot summer...

That's what Macy has to look forward to while her boyfriend, Jason, is away at Brain Camp. Days will be spent at a boring job in the library, evenings will be filled with vocabulary drills for the SATs, and spare time will be passed with her mother, the two of them sharing a silent grief at the traumatic loss of Macy's father.

But sometimes unexpected things can happen—things such as the catering job at Wish, with its fun-loving, chaotic crew. Or her sister's project of renovating the neglected beach house, awakening long-buried memories. Things such as meeting Wes, a boy with a past, a taste for Truth-telling, and an amazing artistic talent, the kind of boy who could turn any girl's world upside down. As Macy ventures out of her shell, she begins to wonder, Is it really better to be safe than sorry?

I can definitely see the appeal of Sarah Dessen books! She is a great contemporary writer and knows how to weave stories that involve more than just a cute romance. Her stories, as well as her characters, have incredible depth and they evolve in such a way that makes you feel good by the end. I am definitely a fan! 

The Truth About Forever was my first Sarah Dessen experience. And it was a fantastic one! I loved the book and I felt like it had a certain flare that makes it stand out in the contemporary genre. 

The game of Truth played between Macy and West is exactly what i'm talking about. It was adorable and a refreshing way for two people to connect. Dessen connected the game to the story beautifully and made it a steady element throughout. I really enjoyed this. And I loved their romance to pieces. The build-up was slow and the execution was sweet and believable. They were wonderful together.

And all the little details that surrounded Macy and Wes were wonderful additions to the story. The secondary characters were great, even the ones that I was less than charmed by. They each added a little something to the story. Even Jason and his peculiarities. And the catering job was a fun and amusing tidbit. 

Suffice it to say, I was completely bewitched by The Truth About Forever. So I immediately picked up This Lullaby. 

Title: This Lullaby

Author: Sarah Dessen

Publisher: Viking Juvenile

Release Date: May 27, 2002

Pages: 345, Hardcover
Source: Audiobook, Library

Summary from Goodreads:

When it comes to relationships, Remy doesn't mess around. After all, she's learned all there is to know from her mother, who's currently working on husband number five. But there's something about Dexter that seems to defy all of Remy's rules. He certainly doesn't seem like Mr. Right. For some reason, however, Remy just can't seem to shake him. Could it be that Remy's starting to understand what those love songs are all about?

Well this book was certainly unconventional! And in stark contrast to The Truth About Forever. But I enjoyed the change of pace with this one.

Remy is not your typical YA protagonist. She doesn't believe in love or happy endings. She doesn't get attached. She's very logical when it comes to relationships. Actually, she's kind of a heartless b when it comes down to things. But all things considered, I don't blame her. It's hard to believe in something when you've seen it fail so many times. And I did like that she was a blunt, don't mess with me kind of girl. It was refreshing and a bit amusing watching her lay into Dexter. 

Gosh I just loved Dexter. Yes he was a mess but he was a hot mess. And hilarious. This is a guy who came rocketing through her a girl's bedroom window because she didn't say goodbye. Just something about him was so endearing. I loved watching him get under Remy's skin.

And the friendships in the story was great. Particularly the soda-throwing shenanighans. These girls had each others backs through thick and thin. It was a nice.

Again, this is not your typical romance story but it was a lot of fun. This Lullaby shows the depth of Sarah Dessen's talent. I can definitely understand all of the hype surrounding her work and I will gladly recommend her books to other contemporary fans.

MINI-REVIEW #111: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak

Title: The Book Thief

Author: Markus Zusak

Publisher: Knopf Books for Young Readers

Release Date: March 14, 2006

Pages: 550, Hardcover
Source: Audiobook

Summary from Goodreads:

It’s just a small story really, about among other things: a girl, some words, an accordionist, some fanatical Germans, a Jewish fist-fighter, and quite a lot of thievery. . . .

Set during World War II in Germany, Markus Zusak’s groundbreaking new novel is the story of Liesel Meminger, a foster girl living outside of Munich. Liesel scratches out a meager existence for herself by stealing when she encounters something she can’t resist–books. With the help of her accordion-playing foster father, she learns to read and shares her stolen books with her neighbors during bombing raids as well as with the Jewish man hidden in her basement before he is marched to Dachau.

This is an unforgettable story about the ability of books to feed the soul.

 

I am not going to say much about this book, because I don't think much needs to be said. I think The Book Thief has made quite a name for itself already and with due cause. This book is  special, which is evident from the very first page. 

Two things really stood out to me while reading The Book Thief - the narration and the writing. The story is narrated by Death, but it's not just Death's perspective alone that is so great, it's how Death tells the story that is truly beautiful. The words that are used, the way they are strung together. The story is not told in a linear manner, but rather jumps around a bit. Everything about the delivery of this story is transcendent and I don't think this book would have quite the impact it has had without these two elements going for it. 

The story itself is so many things it's hard to describe. It is so much more than it's broken down pieces that I can describe for you here. It is not just about Nazi Germany, or a girl who discovered the power of words. It is profound. It is multifaceted. It is inspiring. It is condemning. It is love. It is hate. It is humanity. 

I highly recommend this book and I hope it leaves a mark on your heart as it did mine.