Sadako at the End of the World, by Koma Natsumi

Remember the creepy cursed girl from the movie, The Ring? The one with the hair who met her demise at the bottom of a well and, somehow, created a cursed videotape that would bring a horrible death to anyone who viewed said tape? Yeah, that girl.

Well, when I first saw that movie, it terrified me beyond all rationality. Of course I watched it alone. In a creepy pitch-black apartment. And, at the time, I had this old TV with a screen that would glow faintly for several minutes after I switched it off. Oh yeah, and a friend just happened to call shortly after I'd finished watching the film. Not a good combination all around. Needless to say, I've avoided the movie and everything to do with it since.

Until now, that is.

Enter Sadako At the End of the World, the delightfully twisted (and also twistedly hilarious) graphic novel by Koma Natsumi. The story opens when two apocalypse survivors happen upon the infamous cursed videotape. Of course they watch it and of course Sadako crawls from the TV, intent on bringing death and destruction in her wake. Imagine the cursed girl's surprise when the intended victims excitedly embrace her as a New Friend, rather than the bringer of their demise. The girls decide to help their new pal break the curse and travel around a ruined landscape, seeking more victims friends with whom they can share the video. When the last survivor has happily accepted their fate (much to Sadako's surprise), will the curse finally be broken? Or will there be one final twist to the story?

Although not a fan of the (backward to me) Manga format, I braved it so I could read this amazing story. The plot was twisted and funny and strangely endearing and 100% creative. I loved how the two heroines so openly befriended the movie monster, despite her creepiness and desire to kill...and the way Sadako's perspective on the world changed (yes, she became a different person at the end of the story).  

Am I still creeped out by the movie? Yes. Absolutely! 

But would I watch it again with this book in mind? Maybe... But I'd be switching my ringer to "silent" if I did. No promises, though...

This book, though... Awesome!!

--AJB

Daria (the complete TV series)

I totally get that representation in books, TV Shows, and Movies needs to be Real in order to be taken seriously, but sometimes things beg to be poked fun of. Like High School and, more accurately, high school clichés. 

Lately, I've been revisiting Daria, an hilarious and, often, on-point TV series from the 1990s that was actually a spinoff of a much more well-known and controversial show (Bonus Points if you can name said show without Googling). Daria tastefully pokes fun at all the standard tropes of the High School Movies and TV Shows that were so popular in the last few decades of the twentieth century: Mean Girl Cliques, Dumb Jocks, Flaky Cheerleaders, Nerdy Smart Kids, and don't forget Clueless Parents and Out of Touch Teachers. All of this filtered through the eyes of the show's cheeky, sarcastic heroine. Of course the show has a lot of heart as well, sometimes addressing more serious topics as (freakin') friendships, relationship dynamics, self esteem, and death (but never so seriously things veer into After School Special territory). The show is funny, smart, and, although cliché (purposefully I assure you), holds up today.

If you're looking for a bit of 1990s nostalgia without committing to a full-length movie, an episode or two of Daria is a good place to start. I bet you'll be hooked and end up binging the whole thing! 

--AJB

Sweet Revenge, by Heather Kim

I've been feeling a bit angsty this past week or so (No particular reason or person causing this angst, just life in general being dramafied...and I'm totally OK now, though, thankyouverymuch!), so I'm talking a break from Back To School Books to blog about something very near and dear to my heart: Dessert!

Back to School is overrated anyway. It's like New Year's. Once the supplies and new clothes have been shopped for and the excitement of seeing all your friends again has passed, you find yourself sitting in an uncpomfortable desk, under the harsh shine of the florescent lights, listening to some teacher drone on about whatever... and you find yourself wondering what all the hype was for. Because it's not a fresh start. It's just another (school) day.

But desserts!!

Angsty ones!!

Without further ado, I give you Heather Kim's culinary masterpiece, Sweet Revenge: Passive-Aggressive Desserts for Your Exes and Enemies. 

So... You know that cheating ex who broke your heart & crushed your soul, friend who turned ghost for no reason, or resident bully who will not leave you alone? Well, doing something just as terrible to them might feel good in the moment, but there's a good chance you'll feel guilty about it later (like any decent person would). Also, you don't want to rack up a negative tab with Karma. But what to do? Kim suggests baking them something tasty.

But wait, you say. Why would I want to bake that jerk anything? Isn't that, like, doing something nice? 

I believe Kim said it best in her book intro: "Get out your heaviest rolling pins, sharpest cleavers, and most blistering torches, and kill your enemies & exes...with kindness."

Besides, doing something actually nice for those who have scorned you will totally throw them for a loop. It'll make them lie awake wondering about your motives and what that batch of Go Fudge Yourself brownies or I don't Give a Fig cookies could really mean. It's really very diabolical.

And BONUS! channeling all your heartbreak and rage into doing something creative and beautiful is probably the best way for you, personally, to deal and heal. Just ask Taylor Swift. (or Alanis Morissette for you Gen X-ers out there)

p.s. This book is great even if you don't have anyone in mind to get revenge upon. 

 

--AJB

Giant Days, by John Allison

Hands down, my favorite Back To School book isn't even a book...it's an entire series! 

I was introduced to Giant Days, the college-themed graphic novel saga by John Allison, when it caught my curious eye on the New Book shelf. This way back in 2016, and I've since re-read it twice and am on my third re-read. The plot follows the misadventures of Esther, Susan, and Daisy, three unlikely friends braving the (sometimes calm, but often turbulent) college waters. The quirky, slice-of-life humor and character interactions/relationships is very reminiscent of the TV show, Friends. At least it was to me. Which is what got me hooked.

Because this is a series, I couldn't even begin to describe everything that happens...or even one particular plotline. But I will say that Giant Days is just a lot of fun and a series you really can't go wrong with. And (BONUS!) you'll be happy to learn that this series is not only several volumes long, but it's complete. Not a cliffhanger in sight. So, that said, it's safe to binge away!

--AJB

The Moth Diaries, by Rachel Klein

It's always hard when someone you always thought was your BFF suddenly drops you for a new BFF. But just how far would you be willing to go to win back your friend? And what about the person your friend has replaced you with? Let's consult Rachel Klein's short, but suspenseful novel The Moth Diaries for the more dysfunctional approach.

Upon returning to her exclusive private school, an unnamed narrator is obviously upset when her longtime BFF, Lucy, is suddenly more interested in hanging out with mysterious new girl, Ernessa. Sure, our girl could have tried to befriend Ernessa as well. She could have suggested the three of them go grab a coffee together or something. But no... Instead she observes, spies, stalks, sneaks, and, like a twisted version of Nancy Drew, records all she sees in her journal (which is what we have here). And she reaches the unlikely conclusion that Ernessa is secretly a vampire who has chosen Lucy as her next victim. And we're not talking the sort of Vamp who is the stuff of a Mid-2000s paranormal romance novel, but the real sort. The scary sort. (so no sparkles here)

I know, right. It sounded crazy to me too. But as I read the "evidence" in this journal, I became increasingly convinced that maybe, just maybe, the narrator was on to something here. Maybe. I won't say more. I won't spoil. You'll have to read The Moth Diaries for yourself and see what you think: Is Ernessa really a vampire? Or is she just a somewhat strange girl who innocently happened to get between an unstable and unreliable narrator and her Bestie?

I won't tell you what conclusion I arrived at. But I can recommend it as a great read!

--AJB

Popular: Vintage Wisdom for a Modern Geek, by Maya Van Wagenen

Today we travel into the realm of true stories with Popular: Vintage Wisdom for a Modern Geek, by Maya Van Wagenen.  Think a book is just a book and can't change your life? You may have a different opinion after reading this:

Penned when the author was still in middle school, Popular details how a teen who began at the bottom of the social ladder gained confidence and popularity using a surprising tool: A how-to-be-popular guide from the 1950s.

When Maya ended her seventh grade year, she claimed she was only a little more popular than substitute teachers (so not at all). She wasn't bullied or anything. She just didn't exist. Then her dad discovered Betty Cornell's Teenage Popularity Guide while cleaning, Maya thought, "Why not?". She decided to try an experiment: Going through the book chapter by chapter and incorporating tools like can curlers, pearls, proper diet & exercise, and other things suggested by the book, Maya gains confidence and develops a whole new outlook. And, naturally, the way the world responds to her changes as well. Does Maya become Queen Bee of her school? Maybe her transformation was not quite that extreme (because that sort of thing only happens in 80s movies), but it was certainly an improvement. So her experiment was a success. More so than she ever could have imagined. Maya even gets to meet her hero, the author of the book that changed her life for the better. So an extra happy ending!

Popular is a fun read. Maya is very likable and her writing style is so accessible you don't even realize you're reading nonfiction.

100% recommended!

--AJB

Withering Tights, by Louise Rennison

Admittedly, yesterday's featured book, although awesome, was pretty serious and heavy. And there was virtually nothing cute or fun about it aside from an ambiguously hopeful ending.

Today, to make up for yesterday's bookish seriousness, I'm going the opposite route with Withering Tights, a comedy of errors by Louise Rennison. This fabulous book stars Talulluah Casey, a charming and quirky aspiring actress who hopes to get her Big Break while attending the famed arts academy, Dother Hall...or at the very least not break anything. Bones or otherwise.  But even more so than fame, Talullah hopes to meet some snogworhy boys ("Snogging" for those not in the know is the same as kissing...so yes, this IS a "Kissing Book"). This book details the misadventures of Talullah and her bonkers friends during their first year at Dother Hall. Oh...and there are squirrels, owls, Irish dancing, and an abundance of British slang to boot. This one had me literally laughing out loud. 

To say any more would spoil everything.

This one is 100% recommended!

-AJB

If I Was Your Girl, by Meredith Russo

With school starting up next week (already? I know! I can't believe it either), I thought I'd post some reviews of books about people going back to school.

Meredith Russo's amazing book If I Was Your Girl casts the spotlight on a very real issue facing, not just teens, but people of all ages: Identity. 

After some trouble that left her physically and emotionally scarred, Amanda is getting ready to begin a new school in a new town. No one knows her here. No one knows what happened before. No one knows who Amanda used to be. And although Amanda is still apprehensive about trusting people, she sees this move as the perfect opportunity to leave her past behind and make a fresh start.

She didn't foresee Grant or that she would fall for him...or he her. For most other girls, the possibility of a new romance with a handsome jock wouldn't be an issue, but for Amanda it comes with a whole lot of potential problems. Because Amanda has a secret that would change everything:

Amanda used to be Andrew.

This is a secret Amanda would do anything to protect, because the bullying backlash of her coming out was so severe she was forced to leave not only her old school, but her old town. For the first time, she's happy in her new life, and she doesn't want history to repeat itself. But the closer she gets to Grant, the harder it is for her to keep her identity (and her past) a secret.

If I Was Your Girl was astonishingly good! It perfectly (I imagine) paints a stark and real portrait of what it's like to be a Transgender teen in a world that can still be pretty harsh and unaccepting of such a status (although, fortunately, things are much better today than they were when I was a teen in the 90s). Amanda is a character readers will want to root for and see her finally get her Happily Ever After...or at least find a happy place where she can 100% be herself. 

I absolutely recommend this book to anyone looking for the courage to be themselves, whatever that might mean to you. --AJB 

Throwback Thursday: Legend (dvd)

When it comes to Old School Fantasy Movies, two films from my childhood stand out as no-fail go-to's. The first is The Princess Bride (I mean, obviously). The second is Legend. And while the former is awesome for more reasons than I can explain (or sum up), the later has its own unique charms. It is also quite a but darker. Darker, even, than The Machine and Pit of Despair combined.

Legend begins with a budding romance between a Princess Lily and Jack, a forest boy. In their naivety, they cause a gaggle of goblins to capture a unicorn, which, in turn, unleashes an eternal winter upon the world. Now Jack must team up with a rag-tag band of faeries and pixies to defeat the Lord of Darkness, free the unicorn, and rescue Princess Lily...who, in typical fairytale fashion, got herself kidnapped in the process. Naturally, our hero saves the day, wins the heart of the damsel, and vanquishes the bad guy (or does he?).

This movie is the perfect blend of fantasy with just a touch of creepiness. The costumes are gorgeous and the special effects are pretty fab for a time long before the introduction of CGI. Definitely worth watching! And you're in luck, because OPL just happens to own a copy of Legend!

Trivia: Did you know the director hated the theatrical version of the movie so much he eventually recut it for the DVD release...along with a whole new soundtrack? (BIG mistake here! The original was, and IS, infinitely better!). My advice: Track down the original cut.

Trivia 2: Did you know that this movie is rumored to have inspired the plot of The Legend of Zelda videogame?

Leonard (My Life as a Cat), by Carlie Sorosiak

Know this: Animal-narrated books are a weakness of mine. Especially when about cats. And while the star of Carlie Sorosiak's adorable new middle-grade novel, Leonard (My Life as a Cat), isn't really of the feline persuasion, the book was still exceptional!

When we first meet Leonard, he isn't really Leonard at all, but a member of an extremely advanced and immortal alien race sent to Planet Earth to study life...all in the name of science. But Leonard, it seems, is already kind of unique to his species' hive mind. He has been looking forward to this visit for 300 years and hopes to take on the guise of a Yellowstone Park Ranger. A human park ranger. Preferably one with an impressive moustache. But at the last minute Leonard gets distracted and miscalculates his trajectory. So not only does he wind up 2,000 miles from his intended destination, but he isn't even human. He's a cat! But the catch is this: Leonard has exactly one month to study Earth life before he is picked up. But the rendezvous point is in Yellowstone! And if Leonard isn't there when his hive arrives, he will be trapped on Earth forever. Or at least as long as his mortal cat body lives.  

But not all is lost. Shortly after his landing (up a tree during a hurricane), he is rescued and then adopted by Olive, a quirky and lonely tween, and her grandmother. Olive discovers Leonard's secret and agrees to help him get home. But first there is an aquarium to explore, poetry to write, cheese sandwiches to make... and, surprisingly, a family to find. And as Leonard learns more about life on Earth, he learns more about humanity than he ever expected.

Leonard (My Life as a Cat) was adorable! I read the whole thing in an afternoon. The story was fun, full of heart and humor and feels, but it was the characters that really made it stand out. It was exactly the right book I wanted right then, and I'm glad I discovered it. 

Definitely recommended!!

--AJB

The Magic Fish, by Trung Le Nguyen

Confession Time: I've been in somewhat of a reading rut since before the pandemic began. Sure, I'll find a book here and a book there I enjoy, but I don't read like I did before. Not even close. So when I discover a book that holds my interest cover to cover... well, that's worth noting! Even better, sometimes you stumble across the perfect book at the perfect time and reading it is exactly what you needed right then and there. This is what happened with Trung Le Nguyen's amazing graphic novel, The Magic Fish. 

The story centers on Tien, the first in his Vietnamese family to be born in America and grow up speaking mostly English. Tien and his mother read fairy tales each evening so she can practice her English and also so the two can have some parent-child bonding time. But as much as Mom's language skills improve, Tien still doesn't know how to tell his her his big secret. He's not sure there's even a translatable word for it.  But then Tien's greatest fear comes true: His secret is discovered by his strict teacher, who threatens to out him to his parents before he's ready. But maybe fairy tales can help bridge the gap when language cannot.

I loved pretty much everything about The Magic Fish! Nguyen did a fantastic job blending in the fairy tales and making them somewhat mirror what was happening in the main storyline (for example, the twist on the last story's ending). Tien's friends and family were awesome and I loved how accepting they were of him. Overall, a happily ever after (or at least happily) story I enjoyed reading. This book put me in a good mood and I would like to check out more by this author.

--AJB

Throwback Thursday: The Karate Kid

For today's Throwback Thursday, we're firing up the Flux Capacitor and revisiting the mid-80s, when you couldn't turn on the radio without hearing Madonna or Michael Jackson, when neon and BIG hair were the height of fashion, and when you could not go a day without hearing the phrase, "Wax-On/Wax-Off".

And speaking of Wax-On, Wax-Off...

Yep, I'm talking about The Karate Kid. Not the failed remake attempt, but the original. The one with Danielsan and Johnny and Ali-with-an-I, and, of course, the Great Mr. Miyagi. After binging all three seasons of Cobra Kai (twice!), I was inspired to revisit the movie (and its sequels) that was probably a bigger part of my childhood than Star Wars and The Goonies combined. And I've gotta say, having watched (and loved) Cobra Kai, I enjoyed the source material even more!

The story, of course, begins when Daniel, a scrawny teen with more pent-up angst than is probably considered healthy, moves across the country so his mom can start a new job. Daniel pretty much instantly angers Johnny, the ringleader of a karate-obsessed gang of bullies, when he moves in on Johnny's girlfriend, Ali. The two rivals go back and fourth, each trying to one-up the other, until the rivalry comes to a head the night of the Halloween dance. Fortunately for Daniel, a mysterious fighter comes to his rescue...and is later revealed to be Mr. Miyagi, the elderly handyman for his apartment complex. Following a confrontation at Cobra Kai, the karate dojo where Johnny and Co train under the diabolical Sensei Kreese, an arrangement is made: If Daniel somehow beats Cobra Kai's students in the upcoming tournament, he will be left in peace. If not... Well, it's Open Season on both him and Miyagi.

Karate Kid II picks up after the tournament and follows Daniel and Mr. Miyagi to Okinawa, where Miyagi pays respects to his dying father and must settle a decades-old score with an old friend-turned-enemy. Daniel's attitude gets him in trouble when he "dishonors" the nephew of Miyagi's nemesis. Of course, these fights are not refereed. And in these situations, it's life or death.

Karate Kid III brings back Kreese. After the tournament, he lost everything...and is now single-mindedly bent on getting revenge on Daniel and Miyagi, who he believes are responsible for ruining his life. This film introduces two new (and scary) villains, both of whom make Kreese seem not so bad (and that's saying something!). And now Daniel is forced back into the ring where he must defend his title, or else...

You can find all three Karate Kid movies in our DVD area. All are fun to watch and all contain characters and references that appear in the current Netflix series inspired by the films (Go on an Easter Egg hunt! It's fun!). 

--AJB

The Strange Fascinations of Noah Hypnotik, by David Arnold

Do you ever take stock of your life and wish it were... I don't know, different somehow? You can't pinpoint exactly how you want it to be different (if you could, you'd work on making it so). You just know that if you remain on your current trajectory, you're in for a dull ride. Or so you believe. David Arnold's novel The Strange Fascinations of Noah Hypnotik explores this...and how far one would go to change that.

High school junior Noah Oakman's boredom with life has reached a critical stage. From this point, he believes he can see exactly where his life is headed and, although the direction isn't terrible, Noah hates it. The only things he takes pleasure in is watching The Fading Girl on YouTube, daily sightings of the mysterious Old Man Goiter, and re-reading (and over-analyzing) an obscure book by a long-dead author. But everything changes when, after several too many wine coolers, he confesses all this to a classmate at a party. The classmate then hypnotizes Noah, promising he will feel differently when he wakes up.

And Noah DOES feel different. In fact EVERYTHING about Noah's world is different. Well... Almost everything. Noah's life has become a twisted mystery, but now all he wants is for things to go back to normal. And maybe the key to finding a way out of this new world is not looking at what's different, but what has stayed the same.

Strange Fascinations is one of the best books I've read so far in 2021. It's of those books that makes you think.  One of those books where you start out with all these random pieces that slowly come together, but you're not exactly sure of the direction until the Big Reveal knocks you over the head. And I do mean all that in the best possible way.

To say any more would give too much away. You'll just have to check it out for yourself.

--AJB

My Last Summer With Cass, by Mark Crilley

One of my favorite graphic novels of all time is This One Summer (Mariko Tamaki). So when My Last Summer With Cass, by Mark Crilley, popped up on my radar as a read-alike, of course I had to check it out! 

It's true that Last Summer deals with many of the same themes (friendship, growing up), it stands on its own as well. And although I didn't like it as much as One Summer, it was still a fantastic read, and I definitely recommend it. 

Shy, sheltered Megan and bold, outgoing Cass have been best friends since childhood. The girls spend each summer together and share everything, including a love of art. But then Cass's parents divorce and she and her mom move to New York City, putting an end to the traditional summer get-togethers. The next time Megan sees her, Cass is a different person...and she wants Megan to be different too. So she attempts to push Megan to do something she's not comfortable doing, and Megan pushes back... with disastrous consequences that nearly end the girls' friendship. 

My Last Summer With Cass can currently be found on our New Bookshelf. 

--AJB

The Thieving Collectors of Fine Children's Books, by Adam Perry

Imagine, if you will, if The Neverending Story were penned by Lemony Snicket. This is the often dark and exceptionally cheeky vibe of Adam Perry's wonderfully creative novel, The Thieving Collectors of Fine Children's Books, which details what it really means to Get Lost In A Book.

Oliver lives in a world where everyone is plugged into their virtual reality devices at all times. But Oliver prefers small, rectangular objects called books, which require a little effort on his part and make no beep-beep-beeps (Forgive me, but I've been waiting ages to use that quote! And finally, opportunity arose so I went with it). Besides, Oliver, who lives with his out-of-work single father (his mom is dead), is dirt poor and he couldn't afford a device even if he wanted one. Which he doesn't. Let me make that clear. Kiddo has no interest in the latest technology. Which means he alone hasn't been turned into a zombie by far too much screen time.

So let's recap: Poor hero with a dead parent who loves books and is considered a misfit and a weirdo even by the town librarian... Sounds like the setup for a Disney film. And it could be too, if not for all the... Nevermind. I really shouldn't give too much away. Spoiling everything about an awesome book isn't cool.

Anyway, Oliver doesn't care what people think of him. He's happy to live in his world of stories, reading and re-reading. And stealing his favorites, of course. Wait... I didn't mention that earlier? Sorry. But I'll say it now, because it's worth knowing: Oliver is a total kleptomaniac. But only when it coms to books he likes. And only if he truly believes no one will miss the stolen books.

And no one HAS missed them... YET!

Oliver's luck runs out when he is kidnapped by some truly diabolical people who wish to steal the only existing copy of Oliver's favorite book right out of Oliver's head! And you can be sure these villains have some truly awful ulterior motives for wanting this story. So now Oliver must experience the story and all its terrible dangers in virtual reality format. If he makes it to the end alive, he will be (mostly) free to go. If not... well, it's probably best we don't go there.

The Thieving Collectors of Fine Children's Books is a truly epic story with lots of twists and turns. It's got action, adventure, humor, great characters, and exceptional world-building. Basically everything you want out of a book that's not a "kissing book". It was a lot of fun to read and I highly recommend it.

--AJB

A Perfect Planet (dvd)

I've been a fan of the Planet Earth and Blue Planet series (BBC) for years. These shows are fantastic and like nothing I'd seen previous. Plus, the narrator has a very soothing vibe. I've re-watched these episodes often and they are one of my go-tos when I want to unwind from the day or just need something playing in the background that doesn't demand my full attention.

Which is why I was so excited about A Perfect Planet, the latest nature venture by BBC. 

Although the videography is just as gorgeous as that in Planet Earth and Blue Planet, I have to say I was somewhat disappointed in A Perfect Planet. As a whole, it's a much shorter series that its companions. Five brief episodes that don't do much more than rehash what's covered in other series. So really not a lot of new stuff new to see for this veteran of BBC Nature Shows. Which was a bummer.

A Perfect Planet is still a fantastic series, though. And something I recommend if you haven't yet seen the other series and want to start off with something more basic. But if you really want the best of what BBC has to offer, check out Planet Earth instead. You won't be disappointed.

--AJB  

Fangs, by Sarah Anderson

A Vampire and a Werewolf walk into a club... and fall in love.

No, it's not the setup for a joke nor is it the plot of the latest Twilight-inspired fan fiction. It's the plot of Sarah Anderson's newest graphic novel, Fangs.

Elise is a 300-year-old vampire in the body of a 26-year-old Goth Girl. 

Jimmy is a young man who shapeshifts into a white wolf every Full Moon.

Based on other paranormal romance novels I've read, one wouldn't think this matchup should work out. At all. But somehow, despite their many differences (sleeping schedules, food preferences, spiritual beliefs, and otherwise), Elise and Jimmy are perfect for each other. Fangs is a peek into their life together, which, taking away all the paranormal stuff, really isn't much different than that of a normal couple.

Typically, I'd scoff at a paranormal romance. I mean, it's soooo 2009, right? But Fangs put a cheeky spin on the genre. It pokes fun at all the vampire and werewolf clichés and weaves them into an opposites-attract romantic comedy that totally appeals to the dark side of my humor. And that I can truly appreciate!

Fangs can currently be found on the New shelf. IF it's not checked out, that is. 

--AJB

(Not Quite) Throwback Thursday

Growing up in the 80s & 90s, The Karate Kid saga was one of my jams, second only to The Goonies, which is still one of my Top Favorites of All Time. "Wax On, Wax Off" was part of my vocabulary. And I have a distinct memory of practicing the Crane Kick with my cousins in their basement after one of many repeat viewings of the movie (Side Note: We did not kick at each other, only attempted the iconic technique itself. However, we still wound up bruised and battered, as we landed on our behinds more than we did our feet).  And, as destiny would have it, my husband is a fan of the films too.

Which is why we've recently been enjoying watching Cobra Kai, a long-awaited continuation of the saga. A saga which never seemed finished in my eyes. At its simplest, the show tells what happens years after the credits rolled on Karate Kid 3 and gives more depth to both Johnny's and Daniel's characters (and also their continuing rivalry). But really, it's so much more. There's drama, there's romance, there's humor, there's Good Guys to root for and Villains to hate, and, of course, there are truly EPIC karate duels. All the while, the show attempts to stay true to the tone of the films. Plus, each episode is absolutely filled with Easter Eggs! Fans of the movies will have fun trying to spot them all.

True, I was somewhat concerned Cobra Kai would fall prey to the same Epilogue Curse that plagued both Harry Potter and The Hunger Games, thus diminishing my enjoyment of the original movies. I shouldn't have worried. Cobra Kai is Bad A--!! And I'm 100% happy I gave it a go. The only downside is the torture of waiting to watch the next season.

(Side Note: For more fun, check out the 2007 song and video that inspired the show)

Wayback Wednesday: The Lost Boys (dvd)

Welcome to Wayback Wednesday! 

With the recent release of Midnight Sun, Edward's spin on the Twilight dramaverse, vampires are, apparently, a Thing once again. And while the vampires of The Lost Boys (dvd-1987) don't sparkle in the sunshine as do Meyer's vamps, there is still plenty of fun to be had. 

It all starts when Michael and his younger brother, Sam, move to a small California town. Little do they realize, Luna Bay is home to a dark secret. While checking out the local nightlife, Michael falls in insta-love with the mysterious Star...who he follows back to an abandoned hotel. Here he meets David and a gang of local motorcycle-riding teens. David takes a liking to Michael and invites him to sit down and have a drink. Little does Michael know that David and Co. are vampires and the 'wine' he just sipped is actually vamperic blood. With this, Michael has taken his first step to transforming into a vampire, which he will do upon making his first kill. Meanwhile, Sam befriends a couple vampire conspiracy theorists at the local comic shop and, the more he hangs out with his new crew, the more convinced he is something sinister is going on with his older brother. In their research, the boys learn that the only way to save Michael is to kill the head vampire before Michael makes his first kill. But the clock is ticking. And the head vampire may not be who they think he (or she?) is.

Released more than 30 years ago, The Lost Boys has become a cult classic. The nonstop action, romance, and 80s Glam Rock vibe make this a fun film to watch. And, if you liked it (like I did), you'll be pleased to know there are two sequels. Although, as is typically the case, the sequels aren't as good as the original. 

--AJB

Easter Egg Decorating Kits

March 29 - April 3

Stop by the Teen Department all this week and pick up an Egg Decorating Kit. There are Unicorn and Superhero kits available. 

Supplies are limited. 

Bouncy Ball Craft

Saturday March 27, 2021

Stop by the Teen Department this Saturday (March 27) and pick up a Bouncy Ball Kit. 

Note: This is a VERY cool project and supplies are limited, so we recommend you get here early for your best chance at snagging one of these kits.

Tailchaser's Song, by Tad Williams

Today's blog is a bit of a throwback, despite it being Friday and not Thursday, the day typically reserved for such things. 

I found Tad Williams' amazing adventure story, Tailchaser's Song, deep down a Literary Rabbit Hole. I'd heard of the book, of course. I've often glanced curiously it while weeding or shelf-straightening. And once, many years ago, it was recommended to me as a read-alike for Warriors, a series I used to enjoy reading. But as with many recommendations, I thanked the person, but ignored it. I'm that way when it comes to reading: If I am to enjoy a book, I have to come to it in my own time.

Such was the case with Tailchaser's Song. I devoured it as happily and as shamelessly as Growler (dog) faced with a Prime Rib dinner.  

Fritti Tailchaser is a young ginger tom who makes his home at the edge of the Old Woods forest, near a human settlement. Tailchaser is smitten with Hushpad, a indoor-outdoor cat who lives in a M'an home nearby. Tailchaser hopes to make Hushpad his mate someday soon, but then she vanishes without a trace. This is not the first disappearance as of late, something Tailchaser learns at a meeting of local cats. Fearing the worst, he vows to go on a quest to find his missing friend and rescue her from whatever peril stole her away. Tailchaser sets off, accompanied by Pouncequick, a kitten who hero-worships him. They travel to the Court of Cats to get more information on the disappearances and are soon joined in their quest by Eatbugs, a mysterious and loony old feral, and Roofshadow, a female about the same age as Tailchaser. The foursome soon learns of the terrible evil that threatens not only cats, but all creatures. And Tailchaser, with his foretold destiny, is the only one who can save the day. 

Tailchaser's Song did, indeed, remind me a bit of early Warriors. Its characters were of the feline variety, it was loaded with mythology, and its plot hinged on the successful quest of a Chosen One. However, that's where the similarities end. Tailchaser's Song was much more detailed and much more well-written than I remember the Warriors books being. Although I hate to put labels on beloved books, fearing it will limit the expectations of others, I would say Tailchaser's Song is a mashup of Warriors and Alison Croggon's Books of Pellinor series. But more too.

Although I absolutely consider myself a Cat Person, Tailchaser's Song was not my usual fare. So I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed the story and how attached I became to its characters. In short: I loved this book. And I know I now have a new story to add to my All Time Favorites list. If you are a fan of fantasy and cats and just a great story, consider giving Tailchaser's Song a read. If not right now, than I hope you discover it in your own time (like I did). 

--AJB

Wisdom's Kiss, by Catherine Gilbert Murdock

Sometimes the people we least expect to become friendly with end up becoming some of our best friends (or at least no longer rivals). And sometimes the people we are sure will be more than just friends never take us out of the Friend Zone.

This is the premise for Catherine Gilbert Murdock's fun fairy tale adventure, Wisdom's Kiss, an under-the-radar (but WAY awesome) book from 2011. The story, which gives off all kinds of Princess Bride Vibes centers around Trudy (a lady-in-waiting with a special gift of prophecy), Wisdom (a rebellious princess), and Thomas (a member of the Emperor's staff). These three unlikely companions must work together and learn to trust each other if they are to foil an evil duchess's diabolical plot to overthrow the kingdom and crown herself Queen. 

The plot of Wisdom's Kiss is adorable, action-packed, and happily-ended (it IS a fairy tale, after all)...but the Happily Ever After isn't the traditional sort you might expect. I loved all three main characters and the relationships that developed between them, but the side characters shone as well. Felis was a particular favorite of mine and Escoffier stole the show without a word of dialogue. Also fun is discovering all the little Easter Eggs from well-known fairy tales scattered throughout. 

What really sets this book apart, however is the unique format. Rather than a straightforward narrative, the story is pieced together through letters, transcripts, diary entries, and the script of a theatrical performance. Sounds weird, I know, but once you read this book you won't be able to imagine it any other way.

If you are a fan of Princess Bride, Ella Enchanted, and Princess Diaries, you will love Wisdom's Kiss! And for a special treat, check out the audio, which is absolutely fabulous!

--AJB

p.s. Spoiler: If you've read Murdock's Princess Ben, you're in for a treat with Wisdom's Kiss! I won't say why, though.

Going Bovine, by Libba Bray

I've been saving Going Bovine, an award-winning novel by Libba Bray, because it's one of my favorite books to date. 

Cameron is a first-rate slacker and a nobody at his high school, unlike his over-achiever perfectionist of a twin sister, who is Miss Popularity and has the admiration of their parents and their teachers. Cameron could care less, content to slide through life without making so much of a ripple.

Things change, though.

Out of the blue, Cameron is diagnosed with Mad Cow Disease, which, last time he checked, is 100% fatal. The disease is quick-acting and has no known cure. Now Cameron has all sorts of regrets for a life not lived...and all sorts of resentment toward his healthier peers. Too bad there are no second chances.

Or are there?

Enter Dulcie, a punk-rock angel Cameron isn't positive isn't a figment of his rapidly-deteriorating mind (he is after all, the only one who can see her). Dulcie taps Cameron for a mission to save the world and life as we know it. He is joined in his quest by gaming-obsessed dwarf, Gonzo, and Balder, who claims to be a cursed Norse God trapped who is forced to travel the mortal realm in the guise of a yard gnome until he can find a way back home.  The three friends road trip from Texas to Florida, dodging evil Agents, Happiness Cultists, mad scientists, Spring Breakers, snowglobes, and an enemy so terrible one cannot look him in the face without meeting their doom.

And the reward if Cameron succeeds in his quest? He will get to live after all.

What could possibly go wrong?

I first read Going Bovine years ago, after hearing some minor buzz about it winning a Printz award. Typically, I tend to end up disliking over-hyped books (or at the very least being disappointed by them), but this is the one rare exception. I loved it! Still love it. The premise is so unique, the characters (and character arcs) are well-developed, and the whole package is a mixture of all kinds of feels...from laugh out loud humor to gut-punch "did that just happen?" situations. It's a road trip book, a friendship book, a book that stays with you long after you finish it. This book is perfection. Or as close to it as can be found.

If you plan to read Going Bovine (and I highly recommend you do), here's a tip: Pay attention to small details early on, as they may be important later. 

--AJB

Lumberjanes (Graphic Novel Series)

I can't blog about Friendship Books and NOT mention Lumberjanes, a fabulous graphic novel series about five friends who meet at Miss Qiunzella Thiskwin Penniquiqul Thistle Crumpet's Camp for Hardcore Lady Types (yes, I'm serious, that's the actual name of the camp) and solve mysteries involving mythical and magical creatures.

April, Jo, Mal, Molly, and Ripley are residents of the Roanoke Cabin. Much to the horror of their straight-laced counselor, Jenn, the girls just can't seem to stay out of trouble. Whether it's battling dragons or dimension-hopping dinos, resolving feudes between Yetis and Sasquatchs, or saving the camp (and the world) from vendetta-driven Goddesses, these girls are on the case. Sometimes Barney, an honorary Lumberjane, helps out. But they always succeed and save the day. You know why? Because they've got Friendship...to the MAX! 

Lumberjanes is a series I've been following for years, and it's absolutely adorable. Some issues are better than others, as is always the case with lengthy series (I mean, they can't ALL be gems, right?), but for the most part the series is right up there on my "favorites" list. And I always jump at the chance when a new issue hits the shelves. I love the Friendship Saves The Day theme and how there's always, always a happy ending.

To date, there are 17 Official Issues of Lumberjanes as well as a bunch of Special Editions, Spinnoffs, and Mashups. And two more are planned for later this year. So if you love it, there's plenty to keep you busy.

And if you love Lumberjanes and want something similar while you wait for the next one, I suggest Camp Spirit by Axelle Lenoir. This book is also set at a summer camp where strange and potentially evil things seem to be afoot, and it's up to new camper Elodie to figure things out before some really bad things start to happen.

--AJB

The Rest of Us Just Live Here, by Patrick Ness

When things get weird, it helps to have a solid friend group. You know, people who have your back through thick and thin, family dramas, breakups and breakdowns, and always, always when the Zombies (or whatever) attack. When things get weird, friends will get you through.

And no one knows this better than Mikey. Mikey isn't The Chosen One or anything and neither are any of his friends, but his town has seen more than its share of strange happenings, be it zombies or aliens or vampires or whatever it is this time around.

The Rest of Us Just Live Here, by Patrick Ness is a truly unique story about what happens to the normal, everyday people while (this generation's) The Chosen One is off Saving The World (this time)...and usually blowing up the high school in the process. Or maybe the local shopping mall. But even more than that, this book is about the importance of friends friendships when life gets crazy. 

Mike's mom is running for office again, meaning she's kind of an absent parent who is more concerned with how she looks to the voting public than how she treats her family. That is, she's kind of a self-obsessed jerk. This means Mike and his sisters are getting the short end of the straw in a lot of ways. Meanwhile, a group of immortal alien beings have landed and are looking for new host bodies among the town's popular kids, presumably so they can take over the planet and who knows what else.

At least there are good friends to make everything manageable.

The Rest of Us Just Live Here is one of the more memorable YA books I've read. One, for the unique concept (because how often do you read a story where the main character is NOT The Chosen One?), but also for the characters, which are so fantastic you hate to leave them behind when the story is finished.

Check it out, y'all! I think you're gonna like this one!

--AJB  
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"Summer" Trilogy, by Jenny Han

You've been waiting for it: A review of a straight-up romance novel. And with Valentine's Day coming up this weekend, I figured...Why Not?

For me, a good Romance must have a few things: 

1. Buildup

2. Crushworthy Feelings (whether one-sided or mutual)

3. Suspense

4. Satisfying Conclusion

5. Believability

Jenny Han's classic Summer trilogy (Summer I Turned Pretty, It's Not Summer Without You, and We'll Always Have Summer) hits home on all counts. Yes, they can be absolutely cheesy, but so adorable you can't help but devour them. Especially when you're in the mood to read about love.

Summer centers on Isabelle "Belly" Conklin, a hopelessly romantic teen who has been crushing on childhood friend, Conrad, ever since she can remember. Belly's and Conrad's families have met up at the same beach house every summer, and each summer Belly hopes will be THE summer she and Conrad finally get together. And the summer Belly is 16, she believes it will happen.

But wait...there's a twist!

There's always a twist...isn't there?

Enter Conrad's younger brother, Jeremiah, who, that same summer, starts to see Belly as something more than just an annoying tag-along. But does Belly see him that way? Maybe... if circumstances were right. 

Summer covers a span of about 5-6 years, where Belly's feelings toggle back and fourth between brothers.

The trilogy ends with a wedding. A Happily Ever After. How perfect is this?

But which brother will Belly finally end up with? Does she even end up with one of the brothers. Or does she (surprise!) pick someone entirely different? You'll have to read the trilogy to find out. And you DO want to find out...right?

Normally I avoid love triangles like the plague. A certain overly-hyped Paranormal Romance series kind of put me off them. But Summer is so cute I didn't mind the trope as much. So if you're looking for a cute, beachy romance (and who doesn't want something beachy this time if year?), the Summer trilogy is for you.

p.s. And if this review wasn't enough to convince you, rumor has it Amazon is adapting this trilogy for the screen. So read up now before these books can't be found on the shelves (because they're checked out)

--AJB

This Was Our Pact, by Ryan Andrews

Each year on the Autumn Equinox, the townfolk celebrate by sending lanterns down the river. Legend has it, if you follow the lanterns far enough downriver, you'll see them magically fly into the sky and into the stars.

That's what they say, anyway. But no one has ever actually SEEN it...until this year. 

Maybe. 

Ben and his friends are determined to find out what really happens to the lanterns. They make a pact that, no matter what, they will follow the lanterns to the end. No turning back. The journey will be long and potentially dangerous, but the boys are determined. Yet one by one they head home as comforts like tacos for dinner and warm beds call to them. Soon it is only Ben and Nathaniel, an arrangement Ben is not pleased about (because Nathaniel is SO annoying).

As the boys travel, they encounter magical bears, tricky witches, map-drawing crows, and caves that hold all the stars in the sky. It IS dangerous, but it is also the adventure of a lifetime. But the only way these two frememies can make it there and back is to put aside their differences and work together. And who knows...maybe they'll end the night the best of friends.

This Was Our Pact, a graphic novel by Ryan Andrews, is incredible and magical in a way that reminded me of a Studio Ghibli movie. In it, two boys who are absolutely NOT friends in the beginning discover maybe, if they take a chance on each other, they're not so different after all. And this is one of the things I loved about this story. I also loved the magical elements woven into it. 

All in all, a This Was Our Pact is a gorgeous story not to be missed!

-AJB

We Were Liars, by E. Lockhart

I've likely reviewed E. Lockhart's novel We Were Liars in the past (maybe when it was first published (2014)?), but it's a perfect example of the sort of book I wanted to review today. Besides, I promised you a twist, and, with this book, a twist you'll get!

We Were Liars is not your traditional romance novel, although it does deal with the strong, and often irrational, power that comes with First Love. Mainly, it is a mystery story where the narrator, a 17-year-old named Cady, is trying to figure out what happened two years earlier to cause her migraine headaches and spotty amnesia. Her family isn't talking and, each time she asks, they blow her off or change the subject. Her only assumption is she must have had some sort of accident that's so awful or shameful no one will bring it up. Because that's how her family rolls. They like to hide behind the false façade of perfection. So... Sick of the lies, Cady returns to Beachwood Island, the scene of the proverbial "crime" and a place she's avoided since that summer, to see if she can't get to the bottom of the mystery. Here, she meets up with her cousins and her longtime crush, Gat, all of whom she was supposedly with the night IT (whatever "IT" is) happened. Can Merrin, Johnny, and Gat help shed some light on the mystery that has become Cady's life? Or will they only bring up more questions?

We Were Liars was one of those books I read all at once. And it was also one of those rare books with an ending that totally surprised me. Because of all the possible scenarios I came up with while reading, none were correct. And that is the mark of a very well-written story.

If you haven't discovered this book yet...check it out! Just don't Google the ending. 

--AJB
  

This Adventure Ends, by Emma Mills

Literary Tropes. They're everywhere in books, from Insta-Love to Love Triangles to Manic-Pixie-Dream-Whoevers. Sure, they can be annoying. And critics have a lot to say about them (sometimes I have a lot to say about them). But like 'em or hate 'em, there's something comforting in the predictability of Literary Tropes, of knowing just how a certain character will act or a certain situation will play out.

Unless there's a TWIST, of course, but we'll deal with twists in another post.

As for Literary Tropes, probably my favorite sort is Instant Friends. You know, new kid in town is lonely until he/she/they hooks up with a group of friends that are so awesome they're almost too good to be true. I love this trope. I can't help it. And a fantastic example of this can be found in Emma Mills' novel This Adventure Ends.

This Adventure Ends centers on Sloane, a snarky but sweet New York teen transplanted to sunny Florida when her family moves for her father's career. Sloane has never made or kept friends easily... Until now, of course. Almost immediately she falls in with Vera, Gabe, Remy, Audrey, and Frank, like the long-lost missing piece to their near-perfect Friendship Puzzle. Add to this an Epic Quest for a missing painting, snappy dialogue, and a whole ton of feels. This Adventure Ends is a sweet story and a quick read. There's a little romance too, but the story is more about the friendship between characters. 

I loved this book for a number of reasons, but mostly because it pulled me out of a seriously awful pandemic-fueled reading slump. So if you're suffering from the same sort of condition, This Adventure Ends just might work for you too. Either way, it's a quick, fun, and cute story that I highly recommend.

--AJB

A Swirl of Ocean, by Melissa Sartno

A Swirl of Ocean, a fantastic realistic fantasy by Melissa Sarno, explores the complicated and sometimes turbulent relationship/love between sisters. In this case, adopted sisters.

Summer, 12, has lived with Lindy in the Barn's Bluff beach house ever since that morning ten years ago. And she's been happy. Lindy is a good guardian, more like an older sister than a parent, and the girls have their routines and traditions. The only dark spot in Summer's life is she knows nothing of her past, of her real parents, or what happened before Lindy found her. But then Lindy's boyfriend moves in, ruining the dynamic if everything. 

And that's when Summer's dreams begin.

The dreams are strange and crazy-realistic, all about the adventures of a tween girl named Tink, her friends, and a summer spent in and around the Barn's Bluff area. At first Summer thinks they're just dreams, but the dreams come every night. And as Tink's story continues to unfold, matching up with things really going on in Summer's life, Summer begins to suspect they're not just dreams. She begins to suspect they're clues to unlocking her past.

I loved this book so much I read it twice...if only to make sure I got what was going on when the Twist happens (because there IS a twist!). The characters development and the transitions between Summer's world and Tink's world are flawless. Bit almost best part about A Swirl of Ocean is the setting, which is so vibrantly-written it is like a character itself.

I definitely recommend it!

If you liked A Swirl of Ocean and want to follow it up with something similar, I suggest you try Keeper by Kathi Appelt. Keeper is about a 12 year old girl who, after a fight with her adopted older sister/guardian, steals a neighbor's rowboat and, in the middle of the night, attempts to row out to the sandbar where she last saw her "real" Mother...who she believes is a mermaid. Keeper features Magical Realism, multiple viewpoints, and a complex story that pieces itself together, bit by bit, until everything comes together perfectly in the end.

--AJB