themartinmama's reviews
658 reviews

Funny Story by Emily Henry

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emotional funny hopeful medium-paced

4.5

I love Emily Henry's books that Julia Whelan reads!
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate

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emotional hopeful informative reflective medium-paced

4.0

I met Ivan several times as a kid as I am a local to his old mall, glad to see the ending was better for him than most of his life.
The Invisible Life of Addie LaRue by V.E. Schwab

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adventurous dark mysterious reflective sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix

5.0

Great novel, reminiscent of Mistress of Spices.
The Vanderbeekers to the Rescue by Karina Yan Glaser

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adventurous funny hopeful inspiring tense fast-paced

4.5

My favorite of the series so far, most adventurous and action packed in the shortest time crunch. You really need know how the kids will get out of all the scrapes, not where the adults really are, but these are jolly good fun!
Wishtree by Katherine Applegate

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emotional hopeful inspiring reflective sad fast-paced

4.5

Sweet middle grade book based on a true story.
A Queer History of the United States by Michael Bronski

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informative inspiring reflective medium-paced

4.5

So much is covered without only being sad or society's reaction but also joy, romance, and every day life. A lot of intersectionality mentioned too in ways the queer community supported BIPOC folks or women, etc. Great read to finish on the first day of 2024 Pride Month too!
Sipping Dom Pérignon Through a Straw by Eddie Ndopu

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challenging emotional informative reflective fast-paced

5.0

A wonderful and important read. I learned so much and contemplated even more. And will be taking notes on favorite passages next. I believe this is a must read for everyone.
The Vanderbeekers and the Hidden Garden by Karina Yan Glaser

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adventurous emotional hopeful inspiring lighthearted sad medium-paced

4.0

Another sweet Vanderbeeker tale.
Thirst by Mary Oliver

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emotional hopeful mysterious reflective sad

5.0

My favorite of Mary Oliver's collections.
Queenie by Candice Carty-Williams

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emotional hopeful inspiring sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes

4.0

As Jojo Moyes said, fresh and honest. Unlike anything I have ever read in its brutal honesty and parts are so heartbreaking.