Take a photo of a barcode or cover
billyraymcevoy's reviews
98 reviews
The Wonderful Wizard of Oz by L. Frank Baum
4.0
I read this book with heavy nostalgia as Oz is my favourite fantasy world, although I had never read the book. I didn't realise there were fifteen books altogether but my boyfriend kindly bought me the box set for valentines day.
I really like the book because it has a real sense of fantasy and wonder, just as expected. I would prefer more detailed writing as I am fond of details in my books but I accept that, as a book aimed at young children, it won't be quite as descriptive as books with a slightly older demographic (like 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' for example).
I do highly recommend it though as it is a classic and, rightly so, is very beloved. Bare in mind that it is quite different from the film in many ways and actually a bit slower at times. The film might even be the superior version in some ways (the way with Judy Garland). Can't wait to read the rest of them!
I really like the book because it has a real sense of fantasy and wonder, just as expected. I would prefer more detailed writing as I am fond of details in my books but I accept that, as a book aimed at young children, it won't be quite as descriptive as books with a slightly older demographic (like 'A Series of Unfortunate Events' for example).
I do highly recommend it though as it is a classic and, rightly so, is very beloved. Bare in mind that it is quite different from the film in many ways and actually a bit slower at times. The film might even be the superior version in some ways (the way with Judy Garland). Can't wait to read the rest of them!
Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Promise by Gene Luen Yang
5.0
Some people think Avatar: The Last Airbender is only for kids but I guarantee you it is a light hearted fantasy show that can be enjoyed at any age. I have found so much love and enjoyment for this show from when I was little to rewatching it as an adult.
This book picks up directly after the series finishes and tackles some very mature themes that may surprise people. An internal struggle insues between the earth king and fire lord Zuko over a fire nation / earth kingdom city, the fire nation people who have lived in the Earth city for their whole lives will defend themselves and their home, and the Earth King and freedom fighters want them OUT so they can keep the nations separate.
The book tackles these themes very well and in a respectful manner, showing all sides of the argument and even though the book is primarily aimed at a younger audience it doesn't condescend.
The gang are just a great as ever and it was a joy to have another adventure with them after so many years. I'm excited to read the other books too!
This book picks up directly after the series finishes and tackles some very mature themes that may surprise people. An internal struggle insues between the earth king and fire lord Zuko over a fire nation / earth kingdom city, the fire nation people who have lived in the Earth city for their whole lives will defend themselves and their home, and the Earth King and freedom fighters want them OUT so they can keep the nations separate.
The book tackles these themes very well and in a respectful manner, showing all sides of the argument and even though the book is primarily aimed at a younger audience it doesn't condescend.
The gang are just a great as ever and it was a joy to have another adventure with them after so many years. I'm excited to read the other books too!
A Dance with Dragons: Dreams and Dust by George R.R. Martin
4.0
Not bad at all. There are some tense political scenes with Dany, Tyrion is having a tough time and is psychologically effected by book threes events (he isn't in book four), and we have Jon back working with Stannis, begrudgingly.
Melisandre having a few chapters is quite interesting too and I think shes a great new P.O.V.
I like Penny and her pig! She starts off as naturally quite angry and sad but develops into a sweet character that Tyrion bounces off well.
I'd say this was just as interesting as the last book, somewhat better pacing. Although, I do miss Cersei this time, as her, Dany and Tyrion are my favourite P.O.V. characters.
Can't wait to hear from Arya, Sansa and my girl Cersei again!
Melisandre having a few chapters is quite interesting too and I think shes a great new P.O.V.
I like Penny and her pig! She starts off as naturally quite angry and sad but develops into a sweet character that Tyrion bounces off well.
I'd say this was just as interesting as the last book, somewhat better pacing. Although, I do miss Cersei this time, as her, Dany and Tyrion are my favourite P.O.V. characters.
Can't wait to hear from Arya, Sansa and my girl Cersei again!
The Hunt for Atlantis by Andy McDermott
4.0
If you're a Tomb Raider / Indiana Jones / The Mummy fan, you'll love this. It's the first time I've actually read an adventure and explorer book like this in light of such things.
Also, there was a massive change in plot that had me gagged and it was great.
I liked it. It was like reading a high budget action film.
Also, there was a massive change in plot that had me gagged and it was great.
I liked it. It was like reading a high budget action film.
The Emerald City of Oz by L. Frank Baum
4.0
Loved it and love the return of my favourite Oz villain!
The Sandman by Neil Gaiman, Dirk Maggs
4.0
Really liked how the story (mostly) all connects with different things happening over multiple periods of time (present day, 1920's, Shakespeare time, etc.). Expertly produced too.
Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Search by Bryan Konietzko, Michael Dante DiMartino, Gene Luen Yang
5.0
Beautiful tale of family and feels perfectly like a continuation of the Avatar story. The ending may very well make you cry.
Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
5.0
A nostalgia read. First book I remember reading. Got me into reading. Love it!