2018 Random Roundup

Because of my crazy work schedule, there are still many books from 2018 that I wanted to review and didn’t. So, instead of trying for a themed roundup like I usually do, I’m just going to collect all those leftover books and do some quick reviews in this post. Hopefully you’ll find something in this hodgepodge you’ll enjoy!

The Adventure Zone: Here There Be Gerblins

So much fun! I loved adorable Merle, hilarious Magnus, and fabulous Taako. This novelization really captures the magic of the D&D podcast. I can’t wait for the next novel to come out this summer.

Rating: Re-read Worthy

The Prince and the Dressmaker

Sweet art and a touching story about a prince who likes to wear dresses and Frances, the talented dressmaker who supports him and keeps his secret. I read this one in a spurt of reading graphic novels, and I loved how sweet tempered this one was.

Rating: Pretty Darn Good

Nimona

Funny, sweet, heartbreaking, lovely. Another must read graphic novel about what makes a monster and what makes a hero.

Rating: Re-read Worthy

The Eleventh Hour

What a fun picture book! Poetry, secret codes, and a mystery to solve. I had fun solving the puzzles with my husband, who said it was a favorite childhood book.

Rating: Pretty Darn Good

The Cardboard Kingdom

Fun, interconnected stories that show a large group of neighborhood friends and how they spend their summer. This graphic novel shows the power of imagination, friendship, and cardboard. It’s a lot of fun, but it isn’t afraid to tackle the big issues that kids face.

Rating: Pretty Darn Good

The Tea Dragon Society

Gorgeous art and a sweet story about raising tea dragons and making new friends. I read this as a webcomic and just had to have it in book form. It is lovely.

Rating: Re-read Worthy

On the Edge of Gone

An interesting, intense look at the end of the world from a comet impact and an autistic girl’s experiences trying to get herself and her family onto a generation ship. It’s a bit dark, but if you like apocalyptic YA, you should check it out.

Rating: Good but Forgettable

Ghosts of Greenglass House

Not quite as fun as the first one, but still chock full of quirky characters who aren’t what they seem (and ghosts!). If you enjoyed Greenglass House, this follow up is worth a look.

Rating: Pretty Darn Good

An Unquiet Mind

A brief, interesting look at the mind of someone who not only studies but actually has bipolar disorder. The memoir gave me insight into why people who struggle with mood disorders often struggle to stay on the medication that is saving their lives. I’m glad I read this.

Rating: Good but Forgettable

Creepy Books Roundup

I’m not a big fan of scary books, but I found myself craving something creepy last Halloween season. (Yep, that’s how far behind I am in reviews!) some of them weren’t for me, but I read some wonderful books, both classics and new releases, that are perfect for when you want something creepy but not really scary.

The Turn of the Screw

Is the governess crazy, or are there actually ghosts interfering in her students’ lives? I didn’t care that much about finding out the answer. I’m glad I read this short classic, but I didn’t find it creepy like I thought I would.

Rating: Good but Forgettable

Heap House

This is one of the weirdest books I’ve ever read. A strange, powerful family called the Iremongers lives on the Heaps–just piles and drifts of items. One of the young Iremongers can hear these items saying names, while a new worker at Heap House tries to hold on to her identity despite the things coming alive. This certainly was a creepy, unsettling book, and it’s unique among the books I’ve read in my life. But I can’t say I really enjoyed it. I won’t be reading the rest of the series.

Rating: Meh

Coraline

A fun, creepy Gaiman book. If you’re not sure you’ll like Neil Gaiman’s regular fare, start with this children’s story. It certainly has its strange, scary moments, but it still has a sweet happy ending (which I appreciate!).

Rating: Good but Forgettable

Castle Hangnail

What a fun, magical story! I loved the quirky, sweet characters and the magic that the young witch works as she attempts to hold onto the castle she has scammed her way into and her new friends at the same time. I’d really like to read this one again soon.

Rating: Re-read Worthy

The House with a Clock in Its Walls

What a strange book this was. I’ve read a previous Bellairs book, and I think he’s just not for me (although this one was definitely better). I’m curious to see the movie this book was based on; I’m sure there have been considerable changes made to the plot in order to make it work as a movie.

Rating: Good but Forgettable