Hello Everyone!
Happy October!
As Thanksgiving rapidly approaches and Christmas looms on the horizon, I would like to take y’all back to a book I read some time ago. This month’s spotlight is…
The Ogress and the Orphans – Kelly Barnhill
If ever you were to hide a book away in a time capsule for future generations to discover, this is your book. The Ogress and the Orphans is a treasure that I firmly believe will stand the test of time in the hearts of readers everywhere. This is a novel about growing up, turning your back from the crowd, and discovering family in the most unlikely of places. Stone-in-the-Glen is a town that has walked through the flame. Literally. After a devastating fire, neighbors have turned their backs against each other and walked away from the community they once knew. An ogress, a dragon, an orphan gone missing, and a dazzlingly bright mayor. Will truth prevail? Or will Stone-in-the-Glen fade into the light?
Age Range: 12 and up (depends on the unique child)
Hello Readers!
Happy August!
As we begin the back-to-school rush, I wanted to take some time and introduce you to this month’s spotlight…
Alias Anna – Hood + Dawson
In keeping with the nonfiction theme, this next novel is a nonfiction story with numerous different styles of writing. It is a beautiful collage, mainly written in-verse, with a dash of haiku, acrostics, and more! Alias Anna is a masterfully told tale of two sisters’ harrowing journey through the brutality of the Nazi regime, and the bitter betrayal of Stalin. Yet, they are not common girls, but most uncommon. This is the story of two young, incredibly talented pianists. Thus, the challenges and victories faced and won in this story are not what one would expect, but they will win your heart all the more. Enter into heartbreaking and healing story of Zhanna and Frina’s fight to thrive.
You won’t leave the same.
Age Range: 12 and up
Hello Everyone!
Happy April!
Ahh, spring is finally here, and this month’s spotlight is…
The Faithful Spy – John Hendrix
This is a monumental review, as it is the inaugural nonfiction book review for Amor Litterarum. May I say, this book is most definitely deserving of the honor. The Faithful Spy is a riveting and jaw-dropping account of the remarkable life of Dietrich Bonhoeffer and his plot to murder Hitler. This book is a wonderful mix of important details and essential animation. The astounding artwork and fluid writing of John Hendrix makes this book an essential addition to any bibliophile’s bookshelf. My hope is that after reading this tale, you will also be invigorated and inspired to fight for the truth, no matter how hard the journey is. This book is a much-needed wake-up call for our generation.
How you choose to accept this invitation is up to you alone.
Age Range: 12 and up
Hello Readers!
Happy February!
Spring is just around the corner, and this month’s spotlight is…
The Bootlace Magician – Cassie Beasley
After just a few chapters of this incredible story, I couldn’t believe it had taken me this long to pick this book, and simply READ! This is the wonderful sequel to Circus Mirandus, and I was so happy to be back. Time and again, I have been utterly disappointed by sequels. Fortunately, this sequel was incredible. It added without taking away, and it was a masterful development of many characters. Micah, the Lightbender, Jennie, and more returned with a fire, and I was very pleased to see how this story unfolded. I urge you, step once more into the magical world of Circus Mirandus. This time, an enemy from the past will threaten its very existence. Will Circus Mirandus be destroyed, or rise above? The very heart of this community will be exposed. Are they strong enough to overcome?
Age Range: 9 and up
Hello everyone!
Happy January!
Goodbye 2022… and hello 2023! This month’s spotlight is…
The Wingfeather Saga – Andrew Peterson
Oh. My. Goodness. Where do I begin? Recently, I stumbled upon this series, and ever since I started it, I have been wondering where it has been all these years. Andrew Peterson is an artist. His stories have a soul. What a gift this series is. This epic saga is an engrossing journey filled to the brim with adventure and peril, yet somehow, it overflows with beauty. This series is very different from of others of its kind; it magnifies the light, not the darkness. Leeli, Kalmar, Janner, and the rest of this remarkable cast will stay with you long after you have finished. Step inside the world of Aerwiar, fight Fangs and thwaps alike, and discover the true meaning of what it means to be a hero. You won’t regret it.
Age range: 8 and up
Hello readers!
Happy November!
Fall is officially here…. and Christmas is coming! This month’s spotlight is…
Lightfall: Shadow of the Bird – Tim Probert (2nd in the series)
Wow. This captivating story is revolutionary! This wonderful tale is a refreshing addition to the world of comics. Please, please, don’t write this off because of its comic origins. I firmly believe it couldn’t have been written any other away. The beautiful pictures in this story completely immerse you in this fantastical world. There are two main characters: a discerning girl called Bea, and a personable creature named Cad. They are on a quest for the ages – to bring back light and life to their world that is slowly being consumed by darkness. This pair is an inspiration for all of us. This book is a firm call to action. However, your first step is to pick up this book and discover the wonder for yourself.
As always, feedback is much appreciated!
Hello everyone!
Happy October!
Don’t you just love fall? This month’s spotlight is…….
The Vanderbeekers on the Road – Karina Yan Glaser
This is the eagerly awaited, fantastic new addition, to the much beloved Vanderbeeker series! This was such a joy to read. It follows the Vanderbeekers on their memorable trip across the country. This is their first time leaving their cozy brownstone in Harlem, and you can definitely feel the excitement! Once you allow yourself to relax, you sink into the pages, and are taken away to a place where joy is found in the simple things. From Whaler’s Cove to Shady Acres Campground, there are many surprises along the way. To top it all off, Mrs. Glaser adds a beautiful surprise at the end. Now, go enjoy this delightful book for yourself!
Age range: 9 and up
Once again, please make sure to let me know what you think of this month’s spotlight!
Hi readers!
Happy August!
This month’s spotlight is…… (drumroll please)……
The Green Ember Series – S.D. Smith
This series is certainly something special. The stories take place during a war. A war for freedom and a war for everything that matters. The main characters, Picket and Heather (two very memorable rabbits), constantly remind me to always stand for what is right, no matter the cost. The friendships made, battles fought, love tested, and words empowered make this series one for the books (literally)!
Age Range: 10 to 15
Make sure to let me know once you’ve read these books and give me your feedback!
Amor Litterarum 