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forbesrachel's rating:
Added Aug 25, 2023
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Aug 25, 2023
Born ReadingBorn Reading, Book20 Stories of Women Reading Their Way Into History
by Krull, KathleenBook - 2023Book, 2023
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Aug 23, 2023
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Aug 17, 2023
Japanese Folktalkes for Language LearnersJapanese Folktalkes for Language Learners, BookMukashibanashi De Manabu Nihongo
by Sato, ErikoBook - 2022Book, 2022
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Aug 15, 2023
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This is an excellent practice book for intermediate Japanese learners. Each folktale is broken into parts with the Japanese on one side (oriented left-to-right), and the English translation on the other. Kanji come with the furigana, except in cases where it is repeated in the paragraph, and a vocabulary list follows directly after the story. There are also free audio files online, spoken by a human, to assist with learning rhythm and pitch. This is not a book that teaches the basics of grammar. While it does have cultural notes, and the vocabulary helps to translate specific forms (ex. miru following a verb in the "te" form equals...), it works on the basis that you can read hiragana and katakana and already understand the language to a certain degree. The English translation itself is not word for word, instead it is in colloquial form to highlight the differences in logic between it and Japanese. Some discussion questions follow each story to give readers a chance to form their own sentences, but the strength of this book is the practice it provides in reading, comprehension, and reciting.This is an excellent practice book for intermediate Japanese learners. Each folktale is broken into parts with the Japanese on one side (oriented left-to-right), and the English translation on the other. Kanji come with the furigana, except in cases…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Jul 22, 2023
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Like the child on the cover, this picture book is a colourful call to wearing one's colours with pride. It asks readers to question whether any one hue belongs to a specific gender, or even creature. Each page presents a visual poem of colours and a rhyming verse that sensibly compares the circumstance to nature. A myriad of yellows and oranges and pinks just are the makeup of a sunset, and they certainly don't represent the moral character of the thing. Davy also inserts another layer, distinguishing between the colours everyone is born with, and personal preference. While he asks readers to think, he also provides them with a response for when they are challenged for their choice. This is not your typical colour concept book. It expressly includes hues that have greater visual diversity, and vocabulary level, like magenta and butterscotch, to further advocate for the wonderful uniqueness that each adds to our world. For storytime, it also has plenty of engagement opportunities, tying together colour awareness, identity, and humans to the natural world, with a message that says if nature loves the rainbow, so should we.Like the child on the cover, this picture book is a colourful call to wearing one's colours with pride. It asks readers to question whether any one hue belongs to a specific gender, or even creature. Each page presents a visual poem of colours and a…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Apr 18, 2023
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There's a story behind every illustration. Who better to guess it than children. On each spread, Barnett and Robinson prompt readers to use their imagination. "How did the cow get all the way up there?" asks one, upon a backdrop of windmills and green fields done in multimedia. There is just enough quirkiness to the situations, and randomness to the selection of questions, that each will sprout wild possibilities. Not only that, but new questions will be brought to mind. Children will start to note aspects, and the storyteller can get them to explain their reasoning; this book is ripe for developing critical thinking as well as imagination. With it's basic shapes, the artwork is just abstract enough to leave lots of room for interpretation too. For children who are older, this book can also open a dialogue on biases and stereotypes. Perfect for a smaller group storytimes!There's a story behind every illustration. Who better to guess it than children. On each spread, Barnett and Robinson prompt readers to use their imagination. "How did the cow get all the way up there?" asks one, upon a backdrop of windmills and…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Apr 06, 2023
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A star slumbers, a poet ruminates, a starkeeper strives; each faces their own trauma, and each is connected. The islands of Gelle-Geu have prospered for almost a thousand years thanks to their strong community bonds, and the star that was gifted to them by Bird. But now, quakes are spreading through the land as the star succumbs to its nightmares. While it shudders, Erígra Lilún looks inward, questioning who they are and their place in the world. As a neurodivergent person, they struggle with social situations, preferring the comfort and quiet of the quince grove and their poetry. But their strength is also in this, for they have a gentle desire to ensure the consent of others before acting.
Ranran on the other hand, has always striven to help the people and prove their worth. As the new starkeeper though, they barely have time to celebrate before needing to "fix" the problem. Then she meets Erígra. Their instant attraction leads to an ensuing relationship that rushes forward in tandem with the disaster that is shaking things apart.
This standalone story in the Birdverse requires no prior knowledge as Lemberg describes the lore that is needed, the magic system, and the various terms for gender types and sexual preferences. Thematically, the novella is tightly written; it explores the concepts of bonds, identity, and mental health. Lemberg acknowledges that without time, trust, and care, traumas cannot be healed. However, through bonds, community supports, and individualized treatment, it is possible to heal.
For its empathetic view towards humanity, thorough worldbuilding centered around concepts of identity, and well-balanced leading pair, The Unbalancing showcases the heights Fantasy can achieve when different voices speak.A star slumbers, a poet ruminates, a starkeeper strives; each faces their own trauma, and each is connected. The islands of Gelle-Geu have prospered for almost a thousand years thanks to their strong community bonds, and the star that was gifted to…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Mar 07, 2023
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A voice, a melody, a movement. With their powers, the three Mousai can enchant or harm, and in the first of this trilogy "enchant" is the fitting descriptor.
Since she was young Larkyra has had to reign her magic in. With a cry, or a laugh, her voice could inflict pain, despite her intentions. As part of the Mousai, she and her sisters each wield their incredible powers for the benefit of others, and now it's her turn to set out on her first mission. For within the Thief Kingdom dark impulses are allowed, but outside of it, they must be controlled.
Lord Darius knows nothing of the Mousai when he first seeks help for his failing dukedom, but he can't help but be intrigued by the strong-willed woman who he believes has foolishly sought the attention of his deprived uncle. Larkyra though, may be just the type of help, and woman, he needs in his life. The attraction is almost instant, burbling up through each of their respective walls as they banter and observe their good sides. As they open up, they also support the other in confronting their demons. While overall they form a healthy relationship, they do suffer some mishaps which may make you cringe, even though the rest will make your heart flutter.
Book one in Mousai series sets up the overarching narrative, world, and formulaic mixture of Fantasy and Romance. This becomes a balancing act, but as our view into the world is told through the words of namely two characters, it presents a concise slice. Mellow too knows when to indulge our senses with sumptuous descriptions of ornate dresses and sensational magic, and when to pull back to just tell the story. While learning more about this world of dark machinations would be an interesting route to take, the first volume stays very character-centric. This isn't just about the relationship between the male and female leads though, it is also about the bond between the sisters, whom, while not always together in person, are always in spirit.
With its sensuous story of coming into one's own filled, Larkyra's musical debut sets a wonderful standard that hopefully the other two sisters will fulfill.A voice, a melody, a movement. With their powers, the three Mousai can enchant or harm, and in the first of this trilogy "enchant" is the fitting descriptor.
Since she was young Larkyra has had to reign her magic in. With a cry, or a laugh, her…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Mar 07, 2023
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Jonathan Lambheads never expected that his life would revolve around Wobbles, talking marmots, and magical doors, but this is what happens when he inherits his grandfather's estate. Having been sucked into the world, war, and political intrigue of alt-Earth Aurora, he and his friends scramble to make sense of it all while searching for the Golden Sphere. And sense this will not always make. Similar to other absurdist type stories, like Alice in Wonderland, A Peculiar Peril is full of a whimsical British humour where random acts will happen and characters will comprehend the world with a different sense of logic. VanderMeer balances this though with structural clarity, which is quite helpful when there are so many players. Aside from Jonathan, we get almost equal insight into the magician Crowley with his empire-building aspirations, as well as some smaller passages from other key characters such as the devilishly playful Golden Sphere. Shifting allegiances and twists make up half the fun as the story progresses in an orderly manner towards ever greater chaos.
The first half of this duology sets up a lot of unanswered questions, but if you enjoy oddities and quirky characters, these strange adventures will be for you.Jonathan Lambheads never expected that his life would revolve around Wobbles, talking marmots, and magical doors, but this is what happens when he inherits his grandfather's estate. Having been sucked into the world, war, and political intrigue of…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Feb 16, 2023
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In London of 1799, a most unique Greek pithos (storage vase) is about to be recovered. With its depiction of the myth of Pandora, it immediately whispers a word of hope to both Pandora (Dora), and Edward. But to others it spells trouble, and there may be more to it then meets the eye.
All Dora wants is to become independent. She has talent as a jewelry designer, and ideas to rebuild the reputation and viability of her parents' antique shop. But currently she is trapped by her uncle, and a society which shuns business women. Edward too seeks an independent life. Without his friend's charity, he wouldn't even be able to make attempts at joining the Society of Antiquities, but as of yet, has had no luck. Through their perspectives, we can see how trapped they feel by circumstance, and the passion they have for their pursuits. As this book is character focused, it never really explores the themes of women's roles or class inequity beyond its impact on the cast.
The writing flows at a consistently jaunty pace, except at a certain point where one relationship takes an unexpectedly huge leap. Stokes-Chapman does leave readers a bit of a mystery regarding the vase, which may delight or irk readers of historical fiction. This story only loosely draws from history though.
While this book may not be "all-gifted", it has quite a few. Dora and Edward in particular are sympathetic, and the type of people you want to root for.In London of 1799, a most unique Greek pithos (storage vase) is about to be recovered. With its depiction of the myth of Pandora, it immediately whispers a word of hope to both Pandora (Dora), and Edward. But to others it spells trouble, and there…
Song of Silver, Flame Like NightSong of Silver, Flame Like Night, Book
by Zhao, Amélie WenBook - 2023Book, 2023
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Feb 13, 2023
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Legacy defines Lan's life. At first, her only concern is the mysterious mark which her mother left on her arm. Then, as she learns when she escapes with the practioner Zen, there is the schools of Hin magic that a precious few are trying to preserve. Even the Hin culture itself, being under assault by the invading Elantians, is a birthright she wishes to protect. Despite her will, Lan lacks the power to protect that which she holds most dear. Zen too, struggles with this. His own past makes it difficult for him to find a healthy balance with his magic. Even as he grows closer to Lan, demonic forces whisper in his heart, spilling over as the Winter Magician of the Elantian forces closes in.
The Last Kingdom has a storied history befitting a place thousands of years old. Conquers have rewritten the books, altering, hiding, or destroying truths which preceded them, for their own gain. The author gives the impression of all this, while presenting a fairly character focused narrative. Her language often paints the eloquence, and brutality of this land, and the cultures which inhabit it.
All the characters, but Lan and Zen in particular, debate alternative points on the use of "power", and a person's moral responsibility when it comes to the balance between Yin and Yang. Especially in a time of colonialism, where the mixing of cultures clashes, there is inevitable differences. As of the first book, the Elantians are villains who will destroy anything which is in the way of the aims. Whether they too will have a bit of Yang in them is yet to be determined.
Song of Silver, Flame Like Night delivers an artfully portrayed world inspired by Chinese myth and beliefs, and two leads with a bond that could spell a song of hope, or sorrow.Legacy defines Lan's life. At first, her only concern is the mysterious mark which her mother left on her arm. Then, as she learns when she escapes with the practioner Zen, there is the schools of Hin magic that a precious few are trying to…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Feb 10, 2023
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Some days are a purple polish day, others are blue. The choice always depends on the mood of this little Indian boy, and the inspiration he takes from the colourful world around him. On each doublespread, the boy explains his decision, surrounded in fields of the featured colour as he plays, dreams, and interacts with others. Nainy's descriptions and textured, mixed media illustrations are effervescent. Despite one reminder of reality's harshness, Rainbow Hands glows with good feelings. Whether for one-on-one reading, or a storytime, this picture book starts a dialogue on both the concept of colours, and the many hues of gender expression and emotions.Some days are a purple polish day, others are blue. The choice always depends on the mood of this little Indian boy, and the inspiration he takes from the colourful world around him. On each doublespread, the boy explains his decision, surrounded in…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Feb 07, 2023
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He was found out. After receiving the boot from the police force, Andy Mills has no hope. Being a gay man in the 1950's means facing derision, and even abuse, never mind trying to find a job or developing relationships outside of a handful of clubs. That's when a case lands in his lap. Up for one more round, he heads to Lavender House where he is employed as a private investigator to solve the murder of Pearl's beloved wife. This house isn't like others though, it is both paradise and prison to it's residents from a society which doesn't accept them.
As is the case with this type of mystery, Lavender House is more a character study than a mind-bending clue-based puzzle. The detective namely reveals each person's life through their dialogue and the interactions between each family member. He himself also goes through a character expose, and evolution, as he comes to accept his reality. He's determined, but sympathetic. It is the stories and motivations which will most attract readers, but the theme of how society and the law treat LGBTQ+ people provides that extra food for thought.
Now that Rosen has established his detective, and what is likely a few other reoccurring characters, it will interesting to see where he heads from here.He was found out. After receiving the boot from the police force, Andy Mills has no hope. Being a gay man in the 1950's means facing derision, and even abuse, never mind trying to find a job or developing relationships outside of a handful of clubs.…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Feb 07, 2023
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Komi can't speak with others. She desperately wants to, but every time she tries she freezes. Thus starts her high school year when she meets Tadano. Tadano acts as both a central character who helps Komi, and a surrogate for readers wanting to cheer her on. The goal...make 100 friends. These aren't like most friends though, the students at their school are all defined by their own particular traits, such as Najimi's socialness. Hilarious observations by both characters and the narrator only add to the charm.
Unlike many manga which treat disorders just as quirks of character, Oda allows readers to interact with it in a safe space. He exaggerates or simplifies the expressions of characters for comedic effect, but the emotions at the heart of it are genuine and allow for a meaningful conversation. Komi's lofty ambitions aside, she is a role model. Tadano too in particular demonstrates how to interact with the socially anxious and help them feel welcome. As the series progresses the author continually brings up the theme of appearances being deceiving, and how a single trait does not define the whole person. A wonderfully well-rounded comedy.Komi can't speak with others. She desperately wants to, but every time she tries she freezes. Thus starts her high school year when she meets Tadano. Tadano acts as both a central character who helps Komi, and a surrogate for readers wanting to…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Feb 04, 2023
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Season by season, Hilda visits her grandmother witch Hazel to clear out the cobwebs and listen to her stories. As they clean, memories form from the white dust, which dually serves as a visual representation and an apt metaphor. From her youth to her adult years, Hilda dances with the apparitions, until there are no more. Like the gentle smile on Hazel's tired face, the magic sparkles softly on the nostalgic brown hues. Minimal decorations add just the right amount of context, and flowing linework helps to move the story along at a delicate pace. Taken together with the homely dialogue, it feels like these are tender moments between grandmother and granddaughter. This is truly a heartfelt and peaceful picture book about cherished memories, time spent together, and passing on.Season by season, Hilda visits her grandmother witch Hazel to clear out the cobwebs and listen to her stories. As they clean, memories form from the white dust, which dually serves as a visual representation and an apt metaphor. From her youth to…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Jan 31, 2023
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For Witcher fans, or fans of Japanese lore in general, this alternate world story just hits the right tone. The stoic Geralt has dedicated himself to one mission, and to accomplish it he needs to hunt down an elusive youkai. As he wanders Edo-period Japan, he encounters other creatures of legend, including kappa and tengu, but is never one to react without thought. Stories are never black or white afterall. Still there is action, like the quick draw of a dual, that raises the tension and emotional height. The main attraction of this graphic novel though is the atmosphere, and how well it matches Geralt's personality. Both the art and dialogue have that gritty melancholic feel to them. Blanched browns dominate the palette, and scratched in lines add a worn down quality. Some parts of the story do cause momentary confusion when the explanation comes afterwards, but in general the intrigue factor pulls readers along. Another story set in this period would be welcome, as it has a lot more potential to explore.For Witcher fans, or fans of Japanese lore in general, this alternate world story just hits the right tone. The stoic Geralt has dedicated himself to one mission, and to accomplish it he needs to hunt down an elusive youkai. As he wanders Edo-period…
The Girl Who Fell Beneath the SeaThe Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea, Book
by Oh, AxieBook - 2022Book, 2022
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Jan 31, 2023
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Mina takes fate within her hands when she jumps into the sea. Between the choice of her brother suffering heartbreak, or becoming the Sea God's Bride, she would always choose the latter. But even the red string can't withstand a swift cut from the loyal Shin. This does not endear the mysterious man to her, but by working together to break the Sea God's curse, and to protect the spirit realm, something more solid than a string begins to form.
The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea has immediate Spirited Away vibes, despite being from a different cultural tradition. Mina herself does receive help from different spirits, but in many ways this is more about her resolve and reaffirmation as a person, rather than a discovery of character. From the beginning, she has courage. She cares for her family and friends, and uses the wisdom of stories to guide her actions. While she wants to help others, she also makes decisions that are good for her.
Axie Oh paints a beautiful picture with her words at a consistent pace. That pace is rather brisk though. This is a shame because a slightly slower one would have assisted in creating a more natural feeling development to the central relationship. Also, the world was just so fascinating...with more time it could have been a mural. Another minor point is that plot and character reveals will not surprise readers. Fortunately the characters are fascinating, and wanting to spend more time with them just speaks well about what was written.
This retelling of The Tale of Shim Cheong reworks the story and themes to suit a modern audience who craves the female perspective that the originals lack. As a heroine, Mina has agency and takes her own path to happiness.Mina takes fate within her hands when she jumps into the sea. Between the choice of her brother suffering heartbreak, or becoming the Sea God's Bride, she would always choose the latter. But even the red string can't withstand a swift cut from the…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Jan 24, 2023
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After her brother's foray into a hidden world of magic, Maud is more determined than ever to prove her usefulness to the world, and herself. Her brilliance gradually blossoms when called to task, for the next piece of the Last Contract was stolen, and even an ocean liner presents too many suspects. This young suffragette is not alone though. The actress Violet may be known for her "debauchery" and fun lifestyle, but Maud's earnest and bold nature draws her in. From the moment they meet, they fit. As their relationship progresses, they support each other, bare a few insecurities, and explore each other through some arousing sexual encounters. Theirs's is a burgeoning partnership that their enemies underestimate.
Set to an alternate Edwardian backdrop, A Restless Truth harbours a bit of mystery, fantasy, and romance. It is as engaging as the first book, with it's male pair, however thematically it differentiates itself. Through the back and forth perspectives of it's female leads, it looks at the treatment and roles of women in this society, and most importantly, does so as they find ways to express their independence.
While part of a series, this is a standalone story, and Marske easily gets readers up to speed on pertinent points. She also sets up the next pairing for the conclusion. The Last Binding series is genre mashup with superb character-based writing that continues to deliver a multifaceted arrow to our hearts.After her brother's foray into a hidden world of magic, Maud is more determined than ever to prove her usefulness to the world, and herself. Her brilliance gradually blossoms when called to task, for the next piece of the Last Contract was stolen,…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Jan 12, 2023
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Most of us know the tale of the Three Billy Goats Gruff. Three goats cross a bridge, each tricking the troll to avoid getting eaten. Barnett's tale follows the same path, although told namely from the troll's perspective with some scrumptiously dark-ish rhymes about devouring goats. Then the third goat appears, and that's where a change occurs. If you have read anything by Barnett or Klassen before, you can probably anticipate the type of jaw-dropping laughter that awaits. As with their previous collaborations, the visual humour pairs perfectly with the satirical text. Many moments provide a great engagement opportunity too, especially as so many are familiar with the original story. As it stands, this is one of the best re-tellings of this fairy tale.Most of us know the tale of the Three Billy Goats Gruff. Three goats cross a bridge, each tricking the troll to avoid getting eaten. Barnett's tale follows the same path, although told namely from the troll's perspective with some scrumptiously…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Jan 07, 2023
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Have you ever had someone mispronounce your name? Well, for Mirha it's a bit of a problem. Even on her first day in school, both the kids and teachers alike don't say it right. There isn't even any consensus between them. The sweet little pig-tailed girl doesn't know what to do, and can't understand why others don't hear the difference. Fortunately her family is there to advise her. With a newfound love of her Arabic name, Mirha is confidently able to speak to the other children about this, and is even conscientious of their names too. With some adorable illustrations, Syed walks readers through this awkward situation, but also provides affirmation. All names are "easy" to say and it's important to say them right because they hold meaning. It's just that sometimes people aren't used to the sounds or spelling and need to be taught. This picture book will make an excellent addition to first day classes with young children, as the teacher can blend it together with introductions and make sure everyone feels welcome.Have you ever had someone mispronounce your name? Well, for Mirha it's a bit of a problem. Even on her first day in school, both the kids and teachers alike don't say it right. There isn't even any consensus between them. The sweet little pig-tailed…
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Jan 05, 2023
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A poignant manga based on the real life story of Ryousuke Nanasaki, a founder of LGBT Community Edogawa. From his initial hesitation about his sexual preference, to the difficulties of finding love as a gay man in Japan, readers will find a lot to empathize with. While this is adapted from a memoir of essays, artist Yoshi Tuskizuki has transferred it the medium splendidly. The screentones, shot layouts, and character expressions all work in conjunction to explain his state of mind, and emotionally affect the reader. Each episode is basically a vignette of a pivotal moment in Ryousuke's life, and yet, thanks to the narration it feels like a fond reflection, and one meant to give hope.A poignant manga based on the real life story of Ryousuke Nanasaki, a founder of LGBT Community Edogawa. From his initial hesitation about his sexual preference, to the difficulties of finding love as a gay man in Japan, readers will find a lot to…
The Gentleman's Book of VicesThe Gentleman's Book of Vices, BookA Victorian Romance
by Everlee, JessBook - 2022Book, 2022
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Dec 27, 2022
The Night EatersThe Night Eaters, BookBook 1, She Eats the Night
by Liu, Marjorie M.Book - 2022Book, 2022
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Nov 04, 2022
What We Do in the ShadowsWhat We Do in the Shadows, DVDThe Complete 2nd Season
DVD - 2020DVD, 2020
forbesrachel's rating:
Added Oct 28, 2022
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