Middle Grade

Nightbooks | Book Review

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About The Book
A boy named Alex finds himself imprisoned by a witch and must tell her a new scary story every night to survive. As he runs out of stories, Alex desperately searches for a way to escape. This contemporary fantasy by J.A. White blends suspense and creativity, making it perfect for fans of dark yet accessible tales. Budding writers and readers alike will enjoy its clever twists and themes of storytelling.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/4e4BqY1

My Rating

This fun, spooky story follows Alex, a boy who a witch tricks into becoming her prisoner. From the start, the plot feels creepy and original, moving at a fast pace that kept me engaged the whole time. Even though it’s a middle-grade book, it’s perfect for anyone craving a spine-chilling read that won’t keep them up at night.

Alex is a really likable main character, especially with his love for storytelling. He feels like a real kid—he loves writing creepy tales but doesn’t enjoy living one out. Alex also struggles with feeling different from other kids and thinks he’s weird, which makes him even more relatable. I rooted for him and his friends to escape, and while there were moments I worried for them, the story overall wasn’t too scary.

“And now I realize—so what if I write scary stories?”

The author keeps the story engaging with creepy twists and a few surprises. While middle grade isn’t a genre I usually read, I tend to enjoy it more when it involves fantasy and horror, and this book didn’t disappoint—it entertained me from start to finish, and I’m glad I picked it up. Don’t worry about the horror label; it’s a tame read, so there’s no need to feel nervous if you’re not into sscary books.

Overall, I recommend this book! I’m excited to watch the movie adaptation because I could easily picture it as a film while reading. As much as I enjoyed the book, I have a feeling I might love the movie even more. If you or a younger reader are looking for a great fall read, it’s perfect for spooky season vibes without being too frightening.

If you’ve read the book or watched the movie, I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below! Don’t forget to like this post and share it with fellow readers. You can also listen to the audiobook on Everand, and if you’re interested, grab a free trial using my link [Here]. To stay updated and help support my blog, be sure to hit the follow button so you never miss a post!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Little Witches | Book Review

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About The Book
Jo, Beth, Amy, and Meg March are four sisters practicing witchcraft in secret while living in Concord during the Civil War. When a witchfinder named Mr. Laurence moves in next door, the girls fear for their safety, but he and his grandson, Laurie, turn out to be allies. As winter sets in, missing objects become missing people, and Jo and Laurie discover a powerful magic threatening the town. Together, they must confront it before it’s too late.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3BtPaO5

My Rating

I love retellings, the story of Little Women, and witches, so a graphic novel that combines all three is amazing. I picked up the book on a whim, hoping for a fun and sweet story, and it delivered just that.

The plot wasn’t intense or super exciting, but it was a very original take on the classic. It took the characters I know and love and added this cool magic element to their lives.

I think the author stayed true to the characters’ original personalities, which is something I always appreciate when reading retellings. And while the plot was similar to the original story, it was different enough to feel new and unique.

“We Marches are all very law-abiding.”

It was such a quick read that you can finish it in one sitting, and the artwork is fantastic. The writing didn’t feel too young, which I appreciated since this is more of a middle-grade graphic novel. As an older reader, I enjoyed it, but I can see younger readers liking it as well.

Overall, this isn’t one of the most amazing books I’ve ever read, and it probably won’t stick with me for years to come, but that’s okay. I had a good time reading it, and it’s a book I’d be happy to add to my bookshelf. It’s certainly one of my favorite Little Women retellings.

In the comments, leave me some Little Women retelling recommendations! Don’t forget to like and share this post, and hit the follow button so you never miss an update.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Back To School | Book Recommendations

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Hi Friends,
I can’t believe it’s already back-to-school season! The months have flown by so quickly, but I’m excited for fall. I know some of you might not be thrilled about school starting again, so I thought I’d share some book recommendations to help you get into the back-to-school spirit.

Matilda by Roald Dahl
This middle-grade novel is a quick read about a young girl with a tough home life. Matilda loves to read and is excited about going to school for the first time. I enjoyed both the book and its movie adaptation.

One of Us Is Lying by Karen M. McManus
This book is packed with drama, friendships, and a murder mystery. It starts right at the beginning of a new school year, and it’s a fast-paced read that keeps you hooked.
Related Post: One Of Us Is Lying | Book Review

Truly Devious by Maureen Johnson
This YA mystery kicks off a series about a teenage girl who loves true crime and attends a boarding school where a murder takes place. I didn’t love it, but if you enjoy boarding school settings, it’s worth a read, especially in the fall.

The Ivies by Alexa Donne
Another YA mystery thriller, this book is set in a boarding school and revolves around students aiming for Ivy League colleges, with a murder thrown into the mix. It wasn’t my favorite, but it fits the back-to-school theme.
Related Post: The Ivies | Book Review

Simon vs. the Homo Sapiens Agenda by Becky Albertalli
This contemporary YA novel is great for starting the school year, especially if you’re figuring things out about yourself. The main character has a supportive family and friends but still struggles with his identity. The book has a fantastic ending and a movie adaptation worth watching.

The Atlas Six by Olivie Blake
I haven’t read this one yet, but it’s a dark academia novel involving a secret society and magic. It sounds like a good pick if you’re into fantasy elements.

There you go—some book recommendations for back-to-school reading. If you have an Everand subscription, some of these books are available there. If you want to try out the service, you can use my link (click here) for a free trial. Check out my Amazon Storefront page for all the titles mentioned here. Don’t forget to click follow so you never miss a post!

Raising The Horseman // Book Review

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About The Book
Kat Van Tassel wants nothing to do with Sleepy Hollow’s ghostly history. But when her mother gives her the original Katrina van Tassel’s diary on the two-hundredth anniversary of the Headless Horseman’s haunting, a new legend begins to take shape, weaving together the past and the present in eerie ways.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3uEar4t

My Rating

Honestly, I don’t know what I was expecting out of this book, because even the cover screams “middle grade Headless Horseman retelling”. Although, it is supposed to be young adult I can say that is not how it reads. And if you know me, you know, I’m not typically a fan of the middle grade genre. So it’s not surprising that I didn’t love the story.

In the book, we follow Kat, who is an ancestor of Katerina van Tassel. In her hometown, there’s this legend that the Headless Horseman protects Katerina’s descendants. But, Kat wants more than just to live in Sleepy Hollow forever like Katerina. However, when she’s given Katerina’s diary, she learns a lot more about her and her dreams.

Unfortunately, the characters in this book were basic. There wasn’t much insight into their personalities or motivations. The story lacked any depth in the characters, and there was absolutely no character development whatsoever. The romance aspect was very predictable and insta-lovey, which I am not a fan of.

“Family legend says he always swore it was the Headless Horseman who chased him through the hollow.”

And, don’t even get me started on Kat letting people walk all over her. The book completely brings forth a toxic relationship dynamic, which I was not expecting. However, it does add an interesting layer of complexity to the story, but it left me angry with the protagonist and her choices.

Although, I had issues with the characters, the chapters where we got a glimpse into Katerina’s life through her diary entries were fantastic. This storytelling approach was, for me, the highlight of the entire book. It was enjoyable to read about Katerina’s journey and her character development. I loved how the author showcased that our desires may not always be what we truly want.

Overall, the book fell short of being truly engaging, and the writing style, unfortunately, leans toward juvenile. Still, the story might appeal to a more younger audience looking for a quick read. On a positive note, the book delves into the theme of familial accountability, emphasizing that individuals shouldn’t be solely defined by the actions of their family.

Let me know if this book is on your TBR. Don’t forget to like and share this post with other readers. If you would like to get notified whenever there’s a new post, hit the follow button.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Fall 2023 // To Be Read

- Bunny 2 Comments

Hi Friends,
As you probably know, I am a mood reader. So, I decided instead of sharing a monthly TBR, I would talk about some books that I would like to read this Fall! I have 12 books that I would like to pick up soon. I’m not sure I’m actually going to get to any of these, but they are currently on my radar.

Frankenstein by Mary Shelley: I recently bought a beautiful edition of this book, but I’ve never read it before. Of course, I know the premise of the story and have read a retelling of it. It is one of the only classic novels that insterest me, so I would like to read it sometime this fall.
Related Post: The Dark Descent Of Elizabeth Frankenstein // Book Review

The Daughter of Doctor Moreau by Silvia Moreno-Garcia: This is apparently loosely based on the classic story ‘The Island of Doctor Moreau.’ I have never heard of Doctor Moreau before, but I enjoyed Silvia Moreno-Garcia’s writing in the past.
Related Post: Mexican Gothic // Book Review


New Moon by Stephenie Meyer: What better time to jump back into the Twilight universe than during the spooky season. I have heard that this is probably the worst book in the series, but I would like to read it before the end of the year.
Related Post: Twilight // Book Review

Mere Mortals by Erin Jade Lange: This is a book I have been wanting to read since its release last year. It is a young adult comedic take-on a vampire story, so I am excited to see if I enjoy it. I did not hear a lot of people talking about it last year, but I think it is going to be a fun read.


Coraline by Neil Gaiman: Does this book really need much explanation? I read this book every fall because it is a perfect cozy-spooky read. I love me a good spooky middle-grade book, and this one is my go to every autumn.
Related Post: Coraline // Book Review

The ​Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman: Like I said, I love a good spooky middle-grade read. I have heard that this is a great October read, and since I love Coraline so much, I thought I should pick this book up, too. I do not know much about it, but I cannot wait to see if it will be another must read for me every fall.


Fourth Wing by Rebecca Yarros: Everyone has read this book, and truthfully, I am not sure I am going to get to it before the end of the year. I hear it is a fantasy that will give you ‘Hunger Games’ and ‘Divergent’ vibes. Honestly, that sounds amazing! I just do not know if I am going to be in the mood to start a new fantasy series.

The Wicked Deep by Shea Ernshaw: I believe this is a witchy book and that it is really creepy. Even the title seems spooky. I am not sure if this is a middle-grade or young adult, but I am always up for a good creepy magical witch story. The fall time is when I try to read more books centered on magic and witches, so this book should be perfect.
Related Post: Long Live The Pumpkin Queen // Book Review


The September House by Carissa Orlando: I have been dying to read this since I heard about it. I love me a good creepy haunted house story, so I am very excited to get into this book. It is an adult horror novel where a couple moves into a seemingly normal house, but every September, the walls start to bleed. I have only heard good things about this book, and the cover is eerie.

Clown in a Cornfield by Adam Cesare: I have heard so much about this book in 2023 alone. It sounds like a perfect young adult slasher book, and I cannot wait to pick it up. As someone who loves a good campy horror film, this is right up my alley. I am excited to see if I enjoy it as much as others have.


You, Again by Kate Goldbeck: Since I have become more of an adult romance reader, I l’ve been in the mood for a good fall love story. The concept of this book sounds amazing because it’s frenemies-without-benefits turned possibly lovers. And, it takes place in New York City during the fall season. I am instantly obsessed.

Accidentally Amy by Lynn Painter: This book has been a must read for me since it was released. I am a Stan for Lynn Painter, ever since I read ‘Better Than The Movies.’ If I am not mistaken, this is an office-romance/enemies-to-lovers story. The fact that the blurb mentions Pumpkin Spice Latte automatically makes me think of fall time.
Related Post: Better Than The Movies // Book Review

In the comments, let me know what you are planning to read this fall. Remember that you can always follow the blog to get post notifications and it really helps my blog grow.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Gallant // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment

About The Book
Everything casts a shadow. Even the world we live in. And as with every shadow, there is a place where it must touch. A seam, where the shadow meets its source. New York Times–bestselling author V. E. Schwab crafts a vivid and lush novel that grapples with the demons that are often locked behind closed doors. An eerie, stand-alone saga about life, death, and the young woman beckoned by both.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3Ru38pj

My Rating

I did not know what to expect going into this book because I had not heard much about it. The only thing I knew was that it was supposedly a creepy-haunted house story. However, the first chapter had me immediately intrigued, which is not surprising since V.E. Schwab books are always well written. This is one author who knows how to capture readers’ attention in the first few chapters.

The book follows Olivia, who spent her whole life thinking that she was an orphan with no family. The only personal item she had and cherished was her mother’s journal. However, the journal warns Olivia that she should stay away from Gallant. However, there would not be much of a story if the main character listened to her mother’s warning, so, of course, she receives a letter saying she should return home to Gallant and her family.

As a main character, Olivia was very interesting because I have not read many books with nonverbal characters, let alone a nonverbal protagonist. However, this means that the story is told in a third person, which did not bother me or hinder my reading experience. Because she is mute, there is sign language representation and what I believe is dyslexia representation in one of the other characters.

“Home is a choice.”

Although the characters are the root of the story, we follow Olivia as she learns about her family and all the secrets of Gallant. I would actually say that the book was much more plot driven. Besides Olivia, the story did not dive too much into the background and personalities of the other characters. In addition, the book is not very heavy in terms of it side characters.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the book, and it reminded me a lot of ‘Horrid’ by Katrina Leno. I would say that the book falls more into the middle grade category, for me, but I feel that way about most V.E. Schwab’s young adult work. However, it should be noted that this story might not be for everyone, since it is somewhat unique. Moreover, the plot was quite sad at certain times.

Before you go, hit the follow button to show your support for my blog. In addition, if you do not know, I have a Facebook page as well, where you can get blog updates, post links, and more fun bookish content. If you know any other book lovers, share this post with them.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

 

Séance Tea Party // Mini Book Review

- Bunny 2 Comments

About The Book
Lora wants to stay a kid forever, and she’ll do anything to make that happen including befriending Alexa, the ghost who haunts her house. Lora and Alexa are thrilled to meet kindred spirits and they become best friends but unfortunately, not everything can last forever. Reimena Yee brings to life a story about growing up, childhood, and what it means to let go. A middle-grade graphic novel about growing up that’s perfect for fans of Ghosts and Making Friends.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3QuJRDt

My Rating

This graphic novel has become one of my favorites! It’s a touching ghost story, but it also has elements about growing up, and changing. The book is a quick read that is great for the fall season, but isn’t a scary ghost story. I found it to be a very heartwarming middle-grade read.

The story follows Lora, who is struggling with her fading friend group. She meets Alexa, a young ghost around her age that is haunting her house. They form a bond and become the best of friends. But, as readers we know that ghosts always have to move on. Still, Lore and Alexa were great characters, and the side characters, though few, were also very likable.

“To childhood, and growing up, and growing old, and magic – whatever age we are.”

I loved the writing, story, and artwork. It is such a beautiful story, and I think that is reflected really well in the art style. I loved watching Alexa and Lora create this friendship, but it was sad to see Lora grow and change while Alexa stayed the same. And, don’t get me started on the ending.

Overall, this book is so cute and sad. I’m not going to lie, I sobbed at the ending of this book. The thing is, you can tell how the story is going to end, because it only makes sense. But, that doesn’t make it any less heart breaking. Nevertheless, the story as a whole was wonderful, and such a quick read.

In the comments, tell me your favorite ghost graphic novel. Don’t forget to share this post with other bookish people. And, if you want to stay up to date with my blog, hit the follow button.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Reading Wrap-Up // Summerween 2023

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Hi Friends,
The Summerween readathon is over, and if you have no idea what I’m talking about, you should go read my Sunmerween TBR post. But, for the week of Summerween, I ended up reading 3 books, and completing all the prompts.

‘Lying in the Deep’ by Diana Urban
I was originally going to read ‘Every Last Fear’ by Alex Finlay for the ‘Read a Thriller’ prompt, but I had this audiobook on my Libby, so I decided to pick this one up. It’s a YA thriller/mystery, more mystery than thriller, but it is categorized as a thriller, so it counts. I did end up finishing this book, but it wasn’t my favorite read.

‘Fence’ Vol. 2 by C.S. Pacat and Johanna the Mad
I have become a big fan of this graphic novel series, so for the ‘Read a Graphic Novel, Manga, or Novella’ prompt I knew that I had to read volume 2. I finished this quickly, and enjoyed it.

‘The Haunting of Aveline Jones’ by Phil Hickes
This book filled two prompts: ‘Read a Book That Takes Place in the Fall’ and ‘Read a Book With Black and/or Orange on the Cover’. I really like this spooky middle-grade, and I can’t wait to read the other books in this series.

On the last day of the readathon, I ended up starting ‘Every Last Fear’. I only got about 20% into the audiobook, but so far it has me intrigued.

Let me know in the comments, if you participated in Summerween. Also, I vlogged each day of the readathon over on my TikTok account (@BooksWithBunny). Before you go hit the follow button, so that you never miss a post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

The Magician’s Elephant // Book Review

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About The Book
 What if? Why not? Could it be? When a fortuneteller’s tent appears in the market square of the city of Baltese, orphan Peter Augustus Duchene knows the questions that he needs to ask: Does his sister still live? And if so, how can he find her? The fortuneteller’s mysterious answer (an elephant! An elephant will lead him there!) sets off a chain of events so remarkable, so impossible, that you will hardly dare to believe it’s true.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/3NnQVyy

My Rating

This book follows a young boy on a mission to find his sister. Honestly, I had no idea this book existed until I saw the trailer for the Netflix animated film adaptation for the movie. Than I discovered that it was written by the author of ‘Because Of Winn-Dixie’ and ‘The Tale of Despereaux’.

I’ve actually seen both of those movie adaptations and I read ‘The Tale of Despereaux’ book. Yet, I didn’t particularly love either of the stories. And, truthfully, ‘The Tale of Despereaux’ creeped me out a little. So, I didn’t have high hopes for this book.

There are a lot of different characters within the story, and most of them have sad backstories. I did find that there was a found family component with the book, which I really enjoyed.

“Magic is always impossible…. It begins with the impossible and ends with the impossible and is impossible in between. That is why it’s magic.”

Although the story wasn’t as magical or fantastical as I would have liked, I did enjoy it. I was just hoping for more of this adventure filled journey about this boy and an elephant looking for his sister.

However, the book is a quick read, and a simple children’s novel. I would say this is perfect for kids between the ages of 9 and 13. For me wasn’t anything that particularly stood out about the plot.

Overall, it is a book that you could read in one sitting, and I’m looking forward to seeing the film. But, I wouldn’t say you necessarily have to read it before watch the movie.

In the comments, let me know if you will be reading the book or watch the Netflix adaptation. Don’t forget to support my blog by giving it a follow!

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny

Wretched Waterpark // Book Review

- Bunny 1 Comment


About The Book
A middle-grade mystery series that’s spooky, creepy, and filled with gothic twists! Meet the Sinister-Winterbottom twins, who solve mysteries at increasingly bizarre summer vacation destinations in the hopes of being reunited with their parents—or at the very least finally finding a good churro.
Buy The Book: https://amzn.to/42mZCQ4

My Rating

 

I’m not gonna lie, this was a very quick and easy middle-grade mystery-ish book. I wasn’t exactly sure where the plot was going and I didn’t love how the story as a whole played out.

In the book, we follow 12 year old twins, Theodore and Alexander Sinister-Winterbottom, and their older sister Wilhelmina. As they spend the summer with their Aunt Saffronia, and discover a mystery at a strange waterpark.

We got to know Sinister-Winterbottom kids’ personalities, and the side characters were also fleshed out well. And, the writing really is what kept me reading. Kiersten White has a way of making me keep wanting to regardless of how I feel about the plot.

My biggest problem is that I just didn’t care for the mystery. I didn’t find it to be engaging, and I wasn’t drawn into the story. The plot felt very young, so as an adult reader that likes her adult mystery thrillers, I found the book to be very underwhelming. You can tell it was intended for tweens.

“It was the strangest summer.”

I speed read the last half of the book because it was easy to follow and I wanted to be done with the story. However, that’s not to say it’s a bad book. I believe younger kids would really enjoy it. And, I might have been more of a fan if I had read it when I was a kid.

Negative thoughts aside, I haven’t completely given up on the series. If I do end up continuing on with the book it will most likely be do to the writing. And, the fact they’ll be more simple reads. They might even be great to help get you out of a reading slump. However, I won’t plan on any of them being 5 star reads, but sometimes that okay.

Overall, if you do want a fast paced read that’s good to boost your reading goal this year, then I would pick this up. Or, if you know a tween in your life that is into mystery books. It is recommended for fans of ‘A Series of Unfortunate Events’ and ‘Scooby Doo’, and I completely understand why.

In the comments, let me know if you enjoyed this book. Or, if you have any middle-grade mystery book recommendations. Don’t forget to follow my blog to get notified whenever there’s a new post.

Until The Next Chapter,
Bunny