Now, that January just kind of hit and zipped past at...I'd say warp speed, but actually, it was just cold. My fireplaces got a workout the last few weeks. I'm hoping that doesn't mean that we're getting warm temps mid-February already. It's happened, and that means my 'work season' hits full strength before I catch up with small things. I'll be sliding some eggs into my incubator in a week or so, and that's always fun (although raising baby chicks until they can go outside is a bit of a mess) They are super cute, though! And that means I'll have to get a few seedlings in the windows for the garden. What should we plant this year? Hmmm...
As for this month's book pile... Well, it appears I'm skinnier on the picture book end, which rarely happens. Usually, around half of my reads fall into this younger age group. That also means I have quite a bit more to read this month, since the older ages definitely hold many more pages and words. The adventures are more grabbing, too. As for genres... Ummmm.... I know I said that I was seeing less on the fantasy end, but this month, I'm going to be eating those words. I have several fantasy reads, a few mysteries, a couple animal books, and some very interesting-looking contemporary reads.
And a few other things too, of course.
As you probably have noticed in months before, the dates I post on here should be seen as what-I've-got-scheduled-right-now dates. That means they aren't written in stone and do change a bit, at times.
But let's just take a look at some of the reads I'll be visiting this month!
DON'T SQUISH A SLUG
The title caught my attention on this one...and the wonderful bugs on the cover. I think this book is aimed at building empathy for bugs, since they are living creatures, too, and we either overlook them or find them to be a nuisance (for the most part). I'm not sure if it will be silly or informative or what. But we're going to find out on the 4th.
Picture Book
ILLUSIONS OF FIRE
This read heads into the mythology direction...but with an original twist into the Hindu realm. I'll admit that I'm not very knowledgeable in that direction, so it will be eye-opening for me. I'm expecting to find a strong heroine, lots of action, and maybe some romance. Join me on the 6th to see what magic and such this one holds.
Young Adult Fantasy
AWAY
This is the second in a series, and I did take a look at book one when it came out. So, when this landed in front of me, excitement perked since it carries a different plot and characters. So, it really has the chance of winning me over. I have no doubt the writing will be amazing and it is in verse. I'm going out on a limb with this one and am hoping I'll come back with excitement pure on the 10th.
Middle Grade Dystopian
REIGN OF THE TALON
I'm back into my old habit of beginning series anywhere but the beginning. This one is, actually, book #3 and the end. I loved the cover (of course), and I'm ready to jump into a realm with dragons. There's supposedly some sort of romance, too. I really can't say much else until I take a peek and let you know more on the 12th.
Young Adult Fantasy
THE WORLD OF MAXIME
I saw this one and immediately grabbed up a DRC. Translated from French (?), it's sold as an ode to cats and should also remind of Matilda. Both sound good to me. It revolves around a little girl who discovers mysteriously appearing bowls of cat food in an alley and turns detective to discover what is really going on...only to meet an unexpected, possible friend. We'll learn more about it on the 14th.
Children's Fiction
THE OLD SECRET HOTEL OREGON
I enjoy a good mystery, and this one caught my attention. It involves an old hotel (how cool is that?) and also ghosts. I'm expecting a little heart, too, and hope this one weaves everything in an exciting way. I'm looking to see where this one goes on the 15th.
Middle Grade Paranormal Mystery
THE BEST DADDY OF ALL
I'm always down for a book to snuggle up with and enjoy the warm feelings flowing from every page. It makes for great hug moments with the kids. This one seems to fulfill that desire and, better yet, will be one for my husband to get involved with. I'm hoping for lovely illustrations and tons of goodness, but we'll find out on the 21st.
Picture Book
BADGE QUEST: A CHEESY BRIE-GINNING
I was on the lookout for humor, when I stumbled across this book. It's the first in a new, graphic novel series (yep, I'm starting at the beginning!). Not only does it promise sticker collecting fun (there's the promise of extra stickers, too) but is created with a font, which should help out dyslexic readers. I'm hoping it's cute and handles the fun with everything else nicely. I'll be taking a peek at this one on the 23rd.
Children's Fiction / Graphic Novel
FERRIS
This one might look, at first glimpse, like a fantasy but don't let it fool you. I've read works from this author before and have enjoyed them quite a bit. So, I have high expectations with this read. It should hold a very, very light dusting of magical realism, but it should swirl around family difficulties and relationships. I'll let you know more about it on the 24th.
Middle Grade Contemporary (or Magical Realism?)
WILLOW'S WOODS: SAM SQUIRREL
It's time to take a spin with Mother Nature...or rather, her granddaughter. With adventures surrounding nature, this should be an exciting and surprising fantasy. And that with chapter book goodness! I'm hoping that this one keeps up the pace and draws readers into a fun and imaginative realm, and that we'll get to meet more than a couple intriguing characters. Join me on the 28th to find out more.
Chapter Book
I'm skipping the joker read this month...not because I don't have a huge pile, but rather, I got hit with a flu and am just going to make life a little easier for myself.
Can't wait to dive in and hope you'll join me!