Book Review: Big Nate Makes The Grade

Book: Big Nate Makes The Grade by Lincoln Peirce

Edition: Paperback

Description:

At P.S. 38, sixth-grader Nate Wright is known for many things: his knack for making mischief; his overstuffed locker that's half garbage dump, half treasure trove; and of course, his unbreakable school record for detentions. Nate may be a chess phenom, but in the classroom, he's not so masterful -- especially compared to Gina, the grade-grubbing brainiac who gives teacher's pets everywhere a bad name.

In Big Nate Makes the Grade, follow the hilarious adventures of Nate, his pals, and his long-suffering teachers from the first day of school to the start of summer vacation.



Rating: 5 stars

Review:

There is no other way to describe Nate Wright other than being a total pain. He annoys everyone from his family and friends to his classmates and teachers. Well, that's the thing about Nate he tends to cause nothing but trouble and while he's at school he often times winds up in detention.

In Big Nate Makes The Grade, it's the start of another school year and Nate is continuing to do his bare minimum in his classes and with his homework assignments. And what I find interesting is that Nate is a natural at playing chess but when it comes to his education he's a total slacker. He doesn't apply any of his discipline or skills he uses for the game to do his best in school.

It's so funny to see the looks of dread on his teachers' (and sometimes his friends') faces whenever Nate is talking to them because he always end up saying something either upsetting or annoying. Out of all of his teachers, I think he irritates Mrs. Godfrey the most. He has an ongoing rivalry with his classmate Gina, who he considers to be the ultimate teacher's pet. He decided to run against her for class treasurer not because he wanted the position but because he doesn't like her. He also has a one sided rivalry with another classmate Artur, Nate is absolutely annoyed by how nice Artur is and tried to change him.

Nate really does have a penchant for getting into trouble which makes for a fun read. I love reading the Big Nate books because I never get tired of reading about Nate's ridiculous antics. 

Book Review: Sherlock Sam and the Sinister Letters in Bras Basah

Book: Sherlock Sam and the Sinister Letters in Bras Basah (Sherlock Sam book #3) written by A.J. Low (Adan Jimenez and Felicia Low-Jimenez) with illustrations by Andrew Tan

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

An exciting new update of the classic Sherlock Holmes detective stories in which Sherlock is a 10-year-old kid living in Singapore and Watson is his trusty robot companion!

Introducing the SHERLOCK SAM series by A.J. Low—a fresh, cross-cultural twist on the classic Sherlock Holmes stories, tailored for middle-grade readers. Set in iconic Singapore locations, the series follows the mystery-solving exploits of smart, observant, food-loving 10-year-old Samuel Tan Cher Lock (a.k.a. Sherlock Sam), Watson, his reluctant robot sidekick, and the rest of the Supper Club (a “Scooby Doo gang,” of sorts) as they prove that mysteries are best solved through teamwork.

In Sherlock Sam and the Sinister Letters in Bras Basah, our kid detective and his robot are all ready to begin studying at a new international school in Singapore. But when another student begins receiving sinister letters from an anonymous source, Sherlock Sam must use his super powers of deduction to help his new friend.



Rating: 5 stars

Review:

In Sherlock Sam and the Sinister Letters in Bras Basah, Sherlock, Watson and the Supper Club (Sherlock's sister Wendy and their friends Jimmy and Nazhar) found themselves with an interesting case.

The group along with a number of other students (such as school bully Eliza) from their school were selected to participate in a school exchange program. And for one week they were going to be attending Enterprise International School. It's a good thing since that is where Sherlock's latest case takes place. He and his mystery solving group were asked by police officer Siva to investigate who was sending his friend author Fidel Alvardo threatening letters. The letters were being placed in his son Luis' backpack while he is at school. Since the letters are addressed to Mr. Alvardo, his son didn't read them so he doesn't know that the letters also include a threat towards him as well. The police have not officially gotten involved because they are not sure if the letters are a kid's prank or something far worse which is why officer Siva asked for Sherlock's help.

Sherlock thought this was going to be a fascinating case and after getting everything sorted at their temporary new school they were ready to investigate. From speaking with Luis, Sherlock found out a little more about the situation but it wasn't until they were all invited to dinner by the Alvardos that he, Wendy and Officer Siva were able to really get a good look at the letters.

This was a tricky case because although the letters held some interesting clues there was not enough to immediately solve the case. It's going to take the group truly looking at all the evidence and suspects of the case plus a little creative thinking.

Unlike the first two books, this one had only one mystery for Sherlock, Watson and the Supper Club to solve. I like these books they're fun to read and have a good mystery with an intriguing plot. With each book someone new is added to the group, the first book had Jimmy tagging along trying to help and the second book introduced Nazhar while in this third book Eliza sort of invited herself along.

I'm really enjoying this series and hope there will be even more books to read.

Book Review: Sherlock Sam and the Ghostly Moans in Fort Canning

Book: Sherlock Sam and the Ghostly Moans in Fort Canning (Sherlock Sam book #2) by A.J. Low (Adan Jimenez and Felicia Low-Jemenez) with illustrations by Andrew Tan

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

Meet Sherlock Sam, Singapore’s greatest kid detective. With his trusty robot Watson, Sherlock Sam will stop at nothing to solve the case, no matter how big or small!

When ghostly sounds fill the air at one of Singapore's most-loved historical attractions, Sherlock Sam finds himself in the middle of an intriguing mystery. Ghosts don't exist... or do they? Will this puzzle prove too difficult for Sherlock Sam and Watson to solve?



Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Sherlock Sam and Watson are at it again in this amusing sequel which has them trying to prove whether or not the historical attraction Fort Canning is haunted.

When Sam, his sister Wendy, Watson and his friend Jimmy attend a school field trip, they not only meet a new student Nazhar but the group also hears ghostly wailings at a Sally Port which is an undetected entrance that was used during World War II.

That wasn't the only mystery that needed to be solved, at school Nazhar couldn't find the duit pisang he brought in for his class presentation. Duit pisang was the money that the Japanese introduced during their occupation of Singapore. Although the money is pretty much useless it is rather valuable and he asked Sherlock to see if he can find out what happened to it.

On the ghost case, Sam's dad joined in as the two of them and Watson went back to Fort Canning at night to investigate. But even his father's scientific knowledge couldn't help explain the ghostly noises. In fact, Sherlock and his father were so scared they left without completing their investigation.

The ghost case was proving to be difficult but Sherlock Sam and Watson will not be deterred, they will solve it. I really like these Sherlock Sam books, they're a delight to read. Similar to the first book, there are two mysteries for Sherlock and Watson to solve and they even received some help from Wendy, Jimmy and Nazhar. I like how the authors have wove an exciting story with a little bit of science, history and yummy food. With each book you get to know more about the characters including Watson's upgrades. There's also a glossary at the end of the book so readers can learn more about some of the terms and subjects included in the book.

With the humor, good mysteries and even a few scares along the way this should make a fun read and not only with middle grade readers because as an adult I enjoyed reading this. And the wonderful illustrations only add to the enjoyment of the book.

Book Review: Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy

Book: Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy written and illustrated by Doug Savage

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

Batman and Robin meet Rocky and Bullwinkle. Through a series of fun adventure stories, Laser Moose, who can shoot lasers from his eyes, and his sidekick, Rabbit Boy, endeavor to save the forest from looming threats.

The forest is full of danger . . .  but help is here. Meet Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy, improbable pals who use their powers—laser vision and an unrelenting sense of optimism—to fight the forces of evil. Join the dynamic duo as they battle aliens, a mutant fish-bear, a cyborg porcupine, and a mechanical squirrel, learning along the way that looking on the bright side might be just as powerful as shooting a laser.



Rating: 5 stars

Review:

How do I keep finding these kooky, quirky, weird little comic books? Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy features three stories that follows a paranoid and ever vigilant Moose (who has the ability to shoot lasers from his eyes) and his plucky, optimistic and enthusiastic sidekick Rabbit Boy as they try to stop crime in the forest.

Their adventures find them fighting aliens, trying to stop a rampaging mutated bear and going up against Laser Moose's arch nemesis cyborgupine's latest invention, Mechasquirrel.

I laughed so much reading these stories because there are so many ridiculous and hilarious hijinks that occur in this book. This book is funny but it does have a bit of a dark edge to it humor wise but nothing too dark since this is kid friendly. Laser Moose truly reminds me of Batman with his constant speeches about staying vigilant. However he has this laser vision that he sometime uses first before truly assessing the situation which tends to cause more problems. And Rabbit Boy is so adorable with his kindness and ability to always try to see the bright side of things. Like Robin, Rabbit Boy balances out Laser Moose's cynicism by providing a bit of humor and cheerfulness.

At the end of the book is a kid friendly and humorous educational lesson about lasers which also includes a simple activity. I hope there will be more Laser Moose and Rabbit Boy comics because this was a fun read.

Book Review: Sherlock Sam and the Missing Heirloom in Katong

Book: Sherlock Sam and the Missing Heirloom in Katong (Sherlock Sam book #1) written by A.J. Low (Adan Jimenez and Felicia Low-Jimenez) with illustrations by Andrew Tan

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

An exciting new update of the classic Sherlock Holmes detective stories in which Sherlock is a 10-year-old kid living in Singapore and Watson is his trusty robot companion!

Introducing the Sherlock Sam series by A.J. Low—a fresh, cross-cultural twist on the classic Sherlock Holmes stories, tailored for middle-grade readers. Set in iconic Singapore locations, the series follows the mystery-solving exploits of smart, observant, food-loving 10-year-old Samuel Tan Cher Lock (a.k.a. Sherlock Sam), Watson, his reluctant robot sidekick, and the rest of the Supper Club (a “Scooby Doo gang,” of sorts) as they prove that mysteries are best solved through teamwork.

In Sherlock Sam and the Missing Heirloom in Katong, Auntie Kim Lian’s precious Peranakan cookbook disappears, and Sherlock Sam cannot eat her delicious ayam buah keluak anymore! Will Sherlock Sam be able to use his super detective powers to find this lost treasure?


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

I love finding these middle grade mystery books. In this story which is set in Singapore, 10 years old Samuel Tan Cher Lock who likes to be called Sherlock Sam loves science and math and one day hopes to become a great detective. He also created a robot who accidentally got the name Watson by Sam's father.

This story contains two mysteries, the first centers around a missing cookbook. Family friend Auntie Kim Lian invited Sam's family over for a special dinner. Sam, his older sister Wendy and Watson went over early to hang out with Auntie Lian's grandson Jimmy (who is Sam's friend and classmate). As Auntie Lian went to look for her cookbook which is old and filled with tons of family recipes, she realized it was missing. Sherlock Sam knowing how much the cookbook means to Auntie Lian proceeded to trying to solve the mystery. He got some assistance from Watson, Wendy and Jimmy.

From tracing Auntie Lian's steps from the last time she had the cookbook, the group went from Auntie's home to various sites around town. All along Sherlock Sam was picking up clues and trying his best to find the book.

The second mystery has Sherlock trying to find Jimmy's missing hamster. I like that the story has two mysteries with one being rather easy to solve (for both Sherlock and the reader). While the other takes time to uncover clues to solve the case.

I think kids would like this book because the story is fast-paced, the mysteries are interesting and the characters are very likeable. The book also includes a helpful glossary so readers can learn more information about many of the terms that are featured throughout. As delicious as the food was described in this book, I almost wish recipes were included. Regardless, this was a fun book and I look forward to reading the second book.

Book Review: The Roommate Book

Book: The Roommate Book: Sharing Lives & Slapping Fives written and illustrated by Becky Simpson

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

In The Roommate Book, which is filled with whimsical drawings and quizzes, author/illustrator and expert roommate Becky Simpson uses her optimism and sense of humor to highlight the advantages of having a roommate and how best to enjoy these shared years of modular furniture, crockpot meals, and binge-watching Netflix. For high school graduates going off to college and new adults leaving college, this book is essential.

The Roommate Book is all about celebrating this short season of life. It’s the time between parental curfews and settling down with a significant other. It is for the single and proud, silly and crafty, witty and thrifty. It’s a non-serious look at how to live with a friend (or total stranger). Nuggets of wisdom are included, but so are comical pie charts, hypotheticals, illustrations, and brief essays. This book invites passersby to thumb through and stay a while.

Meet your roommate:  The Random, The BFF, The Bra-less & Lawless, The "I've never actually seen my roommate," The "We get along but we're not really friends," The Enemy, The Frenemy, The Platonic Opposite Sex, or The Faux Partner.  Use the "Should I Live with This Person" flow chart to help you choose.

This fun and functional book also includes:  The "Should I eat this without asking?" flow chart, the top 10 reasons it's awesome to have a roommate, the pet peeve awareness illustrated guide, the Eisenhower matrix for chores (important, urgent, not important, not urgent), the guide to creating nicknames, party and prank ideas, and so much more!



Rating: 3 stars

Review:

This was okay, it's a cute sort of guide book for enjoying the whole roommate situation. Reading this felt like I was reading one of those special Roommate Editions of a magazine (such as Seventeen or Cosmopolitan). In the book there are plenty of quizzes, suggestions, advice and fun things to do that should interest the reader.

I think this would be great for those who actually enjoy having roommates or want to make the best of the situation. I for one, never liked having roommates, so I'm not sure what benefit those of us who share that sentiment will get out of this book. I guess you could probably apply the advice to other areas in your life such as in your friendships or dating and being in relationships. I do think the illustrations were cute.

But as for cultivating a relationship with roommates if you're not a roommate sort of person nothing is probably going make you want to spend more time with them. No matter how cute this book is. As I said this is more for those who embrace the idea of having roommates and want to get the most out of it.

Book Review: When Crocs Fly

Book: When Crocs Fly: A Pearls Before Swine Collection by Stephan T. Pastis

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

From Stephan Pastis, the New York Times best-selling author of Timmy Failure, comes the always hilarious cast of Pearls Before Swine in this fourth special collection for kids.

Sure, crocs can fly . . . just not in the way you might expect. This spectacular feat usually involves an impenetrable wall, zip lines, gravity, and an appetizing zebra on the other side. In this collection of cartoons specially chosen for kids, the gang from Pearls Before Swine gets into adventures you have to see to believe.  Join Rat and Pig—the brains and the pawn—as they attempt the first 3D comic; see what happens when the luckless crocs adopt two Oreos (penguins); and roll your eyes with Goat as he tries desperately to keep his sanity in the midst of these antics.

Warning: Flying (Falling) Crocs Ahead!


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

When Crocs Fly includes a funny group of comics with Rat continuing to be the biggest jerk there is while poor little dimwitted Pig is as adorable as ever. The crocs never cease trying to get Zebra who can easily see through their poor attempts to capture him. And Goat's intellect is never appreciated especially not by Rat who continues to make jokes at his expense.

There were a few comic strips that focused on penguins living in Antarctica some of the strips included them trying to avoid being eaten by a polar bear, figure out how to tell each other apart and finding themselves being adopted by the crocs.

I like reading this, it was a fun read for me. It's the dry and witty humor and the zany characters that I enjoy. I do have an issue with the description. I don't agree that this is a special collection for kids. I always felt like the Pearls Before Swine comics strip is not really for kids. Yes, the characters are cute and funny but I feel like most of the topics and things the characters talk about would truly go over their heads. It's the subtleness of the jokes that kids probably wouldn't get but adults would.

Again, this was a fun read for me and if you enjoy reading Pearls Before Swine this is probably a book you might like to pick up.

Book Review: Big Nate: Thunka, Thunka, Thunka

Book: Big Nate: Thunka, Thunka, Thunka by Lincoln Peirce

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

There's never a dull moment with Nate Wright in the picture. Whether getting caught playing table football in the library or raiding the teachers' lounge, Nate's antics are always hilarious and detention worthy!

Sixth grade can be a tension convention for Nate Wright.  His baseball team’s just been given the lamest name in Little League history; he’s on the verge of becoming know-it-all Gina’s personal servant for a day; and Spitsy, the closest thing he has to a dog of his own, is in love with a CAT. 

Yup, Nate’s up to his ears in stress.  Luckily, the perfect remedy is close at hand:  an empty plastic soda bottle.  All Nate has to do is drum it gently against his head — thunka, thunka, thunka -- and the pressures of dealing with Coach John, Mrs. Godfrey, and the terrifying Kim Cressly begin to fade away. Who knew an empty bottle could be so therapeutic? There’s only one stress-buster that’s better:  reading Big Nate comics!  So sit back, relax, and enjoy this latest collection, Thunka, Thunka, Thunka.


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Big Nate: Thunka, Thunka, Thunka is another fun read. In this collection, Nate Wright continues to get into trouble making me laugh so hard at all the ridiculous things he does such as being reluctant to buy his sister a Christmas gift. Yet when he does, it turned into a big mess.

He also made a bet with one of his classmates Gina that he could go a whole week without getting detention which for Nate is a huge feat. This had a surprising ending.

Nate doesn't always get into trouble he did try to help out a little girl for the Book Buddies program even if she was a little scary. Okay a lot scary but he did his best to help her. He also tried to get his favorite channel 12 meteorologist Wink Summers his job back with a petition despite everyone favoring the new guy Chip Cavendish.

There was so much to laugh at in this book such as Nate being mad that his dog Spitsy is in love with his friend Francis' cat Pickles. I know these Big Nate comics are supposed to be for kids but I would consider them to be for all ages because I think there is something for everyone to laugh at.

Book Review: Oh, Brother! Brat Attack!

Book: Oh, Brother! Brat Attack! by Bob Weber Jr. and Jay Stephens

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

Oh, Brother! stars the sibling duo of Bud and Lily, who humorously interact within the leafy confines of their middle-class suburban home and neighborhood. Whether they are playing together in the family room or running amok in the schoolyard, Bud and Lily elevate the act of one-upmanship to Code Red levels. Lily is the quintessential slightly older and far more sensible sister. She takes it upon herself to look after her uninhibited, prank-loving younger brother, Bud. While Lily wins the occasional battle with her cool-headed maturity, Bud is intent on winning the war with his brazen brand of mischief. Despite their obvious differences, Bud and Lily love each other deeply and have a strong sibling bond.


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

In this very funny comic, thoughtful and considerate older sister Lily is constantly dealing with her little brother Bud's crazy antics. When Bud isn't causing trouble he's trying to figure out some kind of way to get Lily to give him more desserts.

I like the relationship between Lily and Bud, Lily may be a little protective where as Bud is a terror. However, that doesn't stop the siblings from spending time together and having fun.

This is a great comic book not only for kids but for all ages. I laughed so much reading this, it's both funny and sweet.

Book Review: Ghostly Thief of Time

Book: Ghostly Thief of Time (EMU Club Adventure book #2) by Ruben Bolling

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Description:

My name is Stuart Tennemeier, and I'm the President of the EMU Club (Exploration-Mystery-Unbelievable Club). This is my report of our second mission.

Once you've solved one great mystery involving alien cats and a robotic dog, how do you find a second one that is just as awesome to solve? Not huge crimes or weird stuff, but everyday mysteries that happen to everyone, like why does time seem to pass more slowly right before school ends? And at other times, like when you're watching your favorite TV show it seems to pass really quickly?

There are tons of little mysteries all around us. Sometimes if you look really, really, closely at them, you find out some amazing, incredible things. And you just might save the world.


Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Review:

Nearing the end of summer, 11 years old Stuart Tennemeier and his best Brian Hrznicz and Stuart's 8 years old sister Violet were trying to find another mystery to solve. So far they found nothing. It wasn't until Stuart's horrible first day of school during his last class that he may have stumbled upon a mystery. Why does it seem like time slows down right before school ends?

Since Brian is homeschooled he doesn't have to deal with boring classes and time slowing down. He also doesn't have to deal with being bullied by Bradley Ketchum.

One Saturday under the guise of attending the school book fair, the trio decided to investigate Stuart's classroom to see if they can find out why time moves so slowly there. By accident their investigation lead them to the new custodian Mr. Hartoonian and the maintenance closet.

While sitting in his Social Studies class, Stuart found something strange in his text book that had the trio believing Mr. Hartoonian just might be a ghost. However, it wasn't until the school's Halloween party that the trio were about to find out another clue. It pointed them to something big that may happen on the first Tuesday in November which is also Election Day. Whatever was going to happen on that day, the trio were going to stop Mr. Hartoonian from doing it.

Since Election Day meant a day off from school, the kids needed a plan to go to school so they could thwart Mr. Hartoonian. They're plan worked but it turns out they may have ruined the future. The truth was that Mr. Hartoonian was not a ghost but a time traveler sent to prevent a war.

With some fast thinking and a little help from Stuart's dog the group had one chance to fix their mistake.

This was one kooky little sci-fi book, that included not only an robot alien dog but also time traveling. Ghostly Thief of Time has an interesting mystery that quickly turns into something else with the time traveling aspects. I think this was a fun little book that kids would enjoy, it's funny and fast paced and keeps you wondering what's going to happen next.

Book Review: Heart and Brain: An Awkward Yeti Collection

Book: Heart and Brain: An Awkward Yeti Collection by Nick Seluk

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: October 20, 2015

Description:

From paying taxes and getting up for work to dancing with kittens and starting a band, readers everywhere will relate to the ongoing struggle between Heart and Brain.

Heart and Brain: An Awkward Yeti Collection illustrates the relationship between the sensible Brain and its emotionally driven counterpart, the Heart.

Boasting more than one million page views per month, TheAwkwardYeti.com has become a webcomic staple since its creation in 2012.


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

I made a huge mistake of starting to read this while I was waiting for my friend to show up at the café. It was so funny I really didn't want to stop reading it once she showed up but as to not be rude, I put it away. But as soon as I got home I immediately had to finish reading it.

Heart and Brain is a funny (and surprisingly rather inspirational and philosophical) comic that follows the impulsive and free-spirited Heart and the analytical and worrisome Brain of Lars The Awkward Yeti as they go from one situation to the next.

Brain is always trying to do the right thing (well at least talking about it) but he also spends quite a bit of time contemplating about life while Heart is too busy living in the moment and having a fun time. Brain is always worrying about the finances but with Heart around constantly buying stuff it doesn't look like they will ever get out of debt. Brain also pesters Lars and Heart with his worrying including keeping Lars up at night instead of letting him sleep.

This is an adorable and funny comic that was a joy to read. The interaction between Heart and Brain was great because you get to see how these complete opposites work together as well as be friends.

I love reading comics but I don't read a lot of webcomics which is why I'm glad that so many of them are eventually turned into books. It will give more readers a chance find and read them.

Book Review: Big Nate: Welcome to My World

Book: Big Nate: Welcome to My World by Lincoln Peirce

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication Date: September 15, 2015

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

Join Big Nate and his classmates Gina, Artur, Francis, Jenny, and Teddy, as they navigate the halls of P.S. 38. One thing's for sure: Nate is definitely not the teacher's pet!

Aspiring cartoonist Nate Wright is eleven years old, four-and-a-half feet tall, and the all-time record holder for detentions in school history. He's a self-described genius and sixth-grade Renaissance Man who lives with his dad and older sister and enjoys pestering his family and teachers with his sarcasm.


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Nate Wright and trouble go hand in hand, even when he's trying to be good he some how manages to get into trouble.

This latest edition had a very good collection of comics which includes Nate's grandparents attending Grandparents Day at his school and got to experience a day in his life from the terrible food in the cafeteria to attending all his classes. They met many of his friends and teachers including Nate's least favorite teacher Mrs. Godfrey.

With summer vacation approaching, Nate really wanted to get a B in Social Studies at the end of the semester however his reason is mainly to prove to know-it-all Gina that he could do it. But studying isn't something that Nate is good at and with no desire to study with Francis who can he get to help him? Believe it or not he got help from Peter, a 1st grader but a very smart 1st grader.

Summer vacation wasn't all fun and relaxation with Nate taking junior lifeguard classes and dealing with Coach John and his unique technique to teaching. But he did find a good reason for him and Teddy to join Francis' book club although that reason is the snacks being served. And speaking of snacks, Nate's dad was making him cut back on eating his favorite treat, Cheez Doodles. There is no way he is going to be able to deal with that but his dad is going to make sure he sticks with it.

These are just a few of the many comics in the book that also includes Nate's disappointing first day back to school to trying keep his dad from passing out awful snack for Halloween but somehow he always does.

I love reading these Big Nate comics and although they are geared towards children/middle grade readers I think they make a fun read for all ages.

Book Review: Skip School, Fly to Space

Book: Skip School, Fly to Space: A Pearls Before Swine Collection by Stephan T. Pastis

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

Take a flight of fancy with the Pearls Before Swine crew in their third AMP! Comics for Kids collection!

Hokey lessons and ancient textbooks are no match for a good Rockitt Shipp, kids. The poorly behaved cast of Pearls Before Swine invites you to a magical world filled with silly talking animals and mostly bald humans.

There's Rat, a master of evil. Pig, who seems to be made to suffer—it's his lot in life. And while the braindead Crocs unsuccessfully hunt poor Zebra, the wise (and noted loser) Goat looks on in disapproving horror.

So take a homework break and prep the hyperdrive for light speed. . . . It's another hilarious Pearls kids collection!


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

I like to read the Pearls Before Swine comic in the Sunday newspaper, the characters always get a laugh out of me.

Which is why I wanted to read this book it filled with a large number of comics that featured the ultimate frienemy Rat who can't seem to go a minute without being mean to the adorable Pig. The Crocs keep trying to come up with new ways to try to capture their neighbor Zebra. Goat continues with his intellectual pursuits and with trying to get Pig to stop allowing Rat to treat him poorly. And most of all is poor little downtrodden Pig who can't even get his reflection in the mirror to stop saying mean things to him.

This book is a fun read because it's zany, witty and off the wall craziness that never fails to make me laugh. Although the characters are cute, I've never really considered this a comic for kids because a lot of the humor would go right over their head.

Book Review: Unicorn on a Roll

Book: Unicorn on a Roll: Another Phoebe and her Unicorn Adventure (Heavenly Nostrils book #2) by Dana Simpson

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

The magical friendship of Phoebe and her best friend, unicorn Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, is back in this second adventure of a girl and her mythical creature!

One year has passed since Phoebe skipped a rock across a pond, accidentally hit a unicorn in the face, and was granted a single wish—which she used to make the unicorn, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, her obligational best friend. In some ways, not much has changed. At school Phoebe still clashes with her rival--and sometimes “frenemy”--he ever-taunting and imperious Dakota. Outside of school, she still fills her free time with extra-credit homework assignments, dramatic monologues about the injustices associated with school cliques, and imaginative conspiracy theories regarding global forces like the “powerful construction paper lobby.” But unlike before, Phoebe now has a best friend to share it with—someone to make her laugh and to listen to all her extravagant ideas.

In this second volume of Heavenly Nostrils, titled, Unicorn on a Roll, the reader is invited on a journey into the lives of Phoebe and Marigold as they navigate the difficulties of grade school, celebrate the winter holidays, and explore their super hero/super villain personas together. Join in the fun, as Phoebe competes against Dakota for the leading role of “Lisa Ladybug” in their fourth-grade play—or as she struggles to “manage” the PR debacle related to her nose-picking-scandal. (“I will neither confirm nor deny the events surrounding Boogergate.”) Witness a band of unicorns staging an “intervention” and learn all the details of Marigold’s secret crush on a mysterious creature she has never seen. Perhaps most important, watch as this surprising friendship between a charming, nine-year-old dreamer and a vain, mythical beast forever changes both of them for the better.


Rating: 5 stars

Review:

My review is probably longer than the description but I truly love this little book. Unicorn on a Roll is simply adorable and fun to read. This is the second book in the series which feature a collection of comics that follows the life of elementary student Phoebe and her best friend Marigold the unicorn.

Phoebe is an adorable little girl who is going through the daily grind of school and life at home. At school she has to contend with the snobbish bully Dakota while at home her parents just don't seem to understand her. 

Meanwhile, Marigold is so self-centered, I'm amazed that she can tear herself away from gazing at her reflection in the pond or from constantly thinking about herself to have time for Phoebe.

For some strange reason these two mesh well together and even in her most self absorbed way, Marigold is always there for Phoebe.

This collections includes a lot of fun stories such as Phoebe trying to find a great Christmas gift for Marigold as well as trying to figure out how to enjoy New Year's Eve (it's the one day of the year her parents let her stay up late). Not to mention Phoebe being thrilled to be in a spelling competition and trying out for her school's play but mostly this book is about the friendship between Phoebe and Marigold.

Did I say how much I adore this book? Well, I do and it's now a new favorite of mine.

Book Review: The Worrier's Guide to Life

Book: The Worrier's Guide to Life by Gemma Correll

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

If you're floundering in life, striking out in love, struggling to pay the rent, and worried about it all -- you're in luck! World Champion Worrier and Expert Insomniac Gemma Correll is here to assure you that it could be much, much worse.

In her hugely popular comic drawings, Gemma Correll dispenses dubious advice and unreliable information on life as she sees it, including The Dystopian Zodiac, Reward Stickers for Grown-Ups, Palm Reading for Millennials, and a Map of the Introvert's Heart. For all you fellow agonizers, fretters, and nervous wrecks, this book is for you. Read it and weep...with laughter.


Rating: 3 stars

Review:

I found the title to be a little misleading since most of the entries seemed to focus more on issues for introverts or possibly loners instead of for someone who may worry a lot.

The book is separated into eight chapters, that deal with everything from health to holidays. This was a quick read with the book featuring mostly illustrated pages. I thought this was cute but not necessarily laugh out loud funny this had more of a subtle vibe to it.

I do wish this had focused more on being a funny guide for worriers because it felt like more like a random collection of comics instead of a guide book. However, I did like the artwork and illustrations they were cute and quirky.

Book Review: Woodstock: Master of Disguise

Book: Woodstock: Master of Disguise by Charles M. Schulz

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

Woodstock might be the smallest of all the Peanuts gang, but he’s got a lot to say, even if Snoopy is the only one who understands him. That’s because Snoopy is Woodstock’s “Friend of Friends,” and together they write masterpieces, fly airplanes, find the perfect place to nap, and win over the hearts of readers all over the world. Whether he’s falling in love with a snowflake or crash-landing on the tip of Snoopy’s nose, Woodstock is the little yellow bird with a big personality. It takes more than a strong wind to ruffle Woodstock’s feathers, although it’s a good thing he has Snoopy to keep his little yellow feet on the ground. Don’t miss out on the newest AMP! Peanuts collection featuring Woodstock, the most recognizable yellow bird in the world—even in disguise!


Rating: 2 stars

Review:

This was okay but I was mostly surprised that it wasn't that funny. There were a few funny and cute moments but nothing that made me laugh out loud. I also found the title and cover misleading because Woodstock was only shown wearing few disguises for the Thanksgiving comics and a few other ones.

Yes, this may focus on Woodstock but his best friend Snoopy isn't far from the scene. The dynamic duo face nearly everything together from their fears of vampires to dealing with the hassles of Woodstock's bad flying.

I love Charlie Brown and the rest of the Peanuts and I still enjoy reading the comics and watching the cartoon specials and movies. However reading this felt like it was missing something. The illustrations were great just some of the dialogue didn't seem to work.

Book Review: Coffee Gives Me Superpowers

Book: Coffee Gives me Superpowers: An Illustrated Book About The Most Awesome Beverage on Earth written and illustrated by Ryoko Iwata

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Description:

For coffee lovers and those who love them, Coffee Gives Me Superpowers is a fun, graphic design-centered book focused on one of the world's most addictive and beloved substances—coffee.

If coffee is the foundation of your food pyramid, then this is your book. Inspired by Ryoko Iwata's popular website, I Love Coffee (en.ilovecoffee.jp), Coffee Gives Me Superpowers is overflowing with infographics and fun, interesting facts about the most awesome beverage on earth written by Ryoko, a Japanese coffee-lover living in Seattle.

The book includes the most popular pieces on the site, such as: Your Brain on Beer vs. Coffee, 10 Coffee Myths, The 15 Most Caffeinated Cities in the U.S., The Best Time of Day to Drink Coffee (According to Science), 10 Things You Probably Didn't Know about Caffeine, plus 25 percent new, original material that is available only in this book.



Rating: 3 1/2 stars

Review:

Okay, I may not drink coffee (no need to gasp) but I did find this to be cute and funny. There was a lot of interesting facts about the drink along with plenty of humor. I guess someone who is a coffee drinker would probably appreciate this much more than me who is a tea drinker.

The last chapter of the book features a really cute short story "If Coffee Were My Boyfriend" written by Iwata but illustrated by The Oatmeal. It shows that coffee as a boyfriend is probably not the best thing.

There are a lot fun stuff in this little coffee table book which is sure to put a smile on a quite a few coffee lovers' faces.

Book Review for Tackle Your TBR Read-a-thon book #2: Big Nate: Say Good-Bye To Dork City

Book: Big Nate: Say Good-Bye To Dork City by Lincoln Peirce

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication Date: March 17, 2015

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Rating: 5 stars

Review:

Reading these Big Nate books never feels like a chore. In this book, Nate Wright continues to annoy everyone in his life: his father, sister, friends and teachers. He hasn't given up on his crush on Jenny who really can't stand him.

Also in this book, Nate decides he's going to be cool and tries to hang out with one of the coolest kids at school, Marcus. That old saying, "the grass is always greener on the other side" is a perfect fit for Nate's situation because as soon as he started hanging out with Marcus and the other guys, he found out that it wasn't any fun and he would rather go back to hanging out with his old friends: Francis and Teddy.

This was another funny book with a good group of stories. Nate's far from being perfect but that's the fun of reading these books. Also a plus for this book, ALL of the comics were in color.

Book Review for A-Z Title Challenge: Big Nate's Greatest Hits

Book: Big Nate's Greatest Hits by Lincoln Peirce

Source: Borrowed from Publisher/NetGalley for an honest review

Publication: Available now

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Rating: 4 1/2 stars

Review:

Nate is at it again this time taking the fun out of playing board games with his friends Teddy and Francis to annoying his teachers. He was truly less than helpful when helping his father with his New Year's Resolution of losing weight and getting in shape.

He continues to get rejected by his crush Jenny who has zero interest in him but that doesn't stop Nate from trying to get her attention.

There are several skits throughout the book that show Nate dreading the return of his least favorite teacher Mrs. Godfrey who was out on maternity leave.

The momentum slows a bit when artwork/illustrations are shown of winners from a Big Nate Drawing Contest. Then it returns to the regular skits which includes Nate bothering his older sister Ellen and getting exactly what he deserves in return.

His dreams of a blissful summer are dashed when he is required to go to summer school and just when he was thinking it's going to be the worst summer ever he meets a new students. Her name is Angie and they have so much in common. He is instantly crushing on her but it's Nate so can anything good happen from this?

I thought this was really cute and funny. Nate and trouble go hand in hand which may not be so great for him but it's great for the reader. Reading these skits never gets old even when a few of them reappear from other Big Nate books.

There were a lot of funny things in this book and it should give kids plenty of moments to laugh. I would really recommend this.

Book Review: Big Nate and Friends

Book: Big Nate and Friends by Lincoln Peirce

Source: Library

Publisher: Andrews McMeel Publishing

Rating: 4 stars

Review:

There is a reason why I keep reading the Big Nate comic books, it's because they're so funny. I always end up laughing whenever I read one of these books.

In this book, Nate Wright is trying to stick to his resolutions which he doesn't seem to be trying too hard to keep. He also signed up to be a peer counselor which he does a horrible job with. He doles out bad advice thinking he is helping but he's really not.

Nate never changes, he continues to be a real pain to his family, friends, teachers and his neighbors. But there is a new student named Artur who is the complete opposite of Nate. He's kind and quickly becoming popular and has also beat Nate at Chess which is a big deal because Nate never loses.

Nate's also trying to figure out different ways to be cool including trying to have a posse. And trying to find out the best way to attract girls. Being cool and attracting girls are not something that is particular easy for Nate and his friends Teddy and Francis.

Nate and his friends deal with all the troubles of school and summer break in a very humorous way. This was a fun read.