Kindred Spirits Book Nook

Race to the Truth: Colonization and the Wampanoag Story by Linda Coombs
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)

Race to the Truth is a powerful and thought-provoking book that challenges many assumptions about Native people at the time of European colonization. It encourages critical thinking and a re-evaluation of long-held attitudes toward Native communities, including the lingering impact of these views today.

One of the standout features for me and my son were the sections called “When Life Was Our Own,” which offered insight from the perspective of the Wampanoag and Southern New England tribes. These sections provided a deeper understanding of their experiences, making the history more personal and impactful. This book is a must-read for anyone wanting to approach the history of colonization with a more accurate and respectful perspective.

My nine year old son gives A Bear Called Paddington five stars. ⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (And I do, too.)

He says: I like how crazy things always happen to Paddington - and I don’t like it. (I think he feels a little bad for the bear.) I want to know what Paddington does next.

Roomies by Christina Lauren
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)

Roomies is a super swoony romance that had me laughing out loud and crying. I related so much to the main character, Holland, especially when her uncle points out that she sees herself as a supporting character in everyone else’s life. While the romance between Holland and Calvin is central to the story—including the unusual circumstances of their meeting and relationship—it’s also a journey of self-discovery for Holland as she learns to find value in herself. A lesson many of us can benefit from I think.

The Road Back to You: An Enneagram Journey to Self-Discovery
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars)

The Road Back to You is an insightful and practical guide to understanding the Enneagram. I’m giving this book five stars because it offered valuable insights and actionable suggestions that were easy to apply to my life. Although I focused mainly on the sections related to my own Enneagram number and those of my family members, I found the content to be both engaging and enlightening.

I initially borrowed the audio version from my library while waiting for my purchased copy to arrive, and plan to go back through it, highlighting many passages. It’s a quick read but rich in wisdom, making it a fantastic resource for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and others through the lens of the Enneagram.

Love on the Brain by Ali Hazelwood
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4 stars)

I’m giving Love on the Brain four stars. While I found myself frustrated with the main character at several points—especially when she missed some very obvious things—I was clearly invested enough in the story and the characters’ outcomes that I couldn’t put it down. Ali Hazelwood has a talent for writing about super-smart women who excel intellectually, even if they don’t always make the best personal decisions, and that contrast is part of what makes her books so engaging.

One aspect I particularly enjoyed was the inclusion of fascinating facts about Marie Curie scattered throughout the book. It added an extra layer of depth and intrigue to the story.

Free to Learn by Peter Gray
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (3.5 stars)

I found Free to Learn by Peter Gray to be an interesting read, though it left me with mixed feelings. The anthropological study of hunter-gatherer societies at the beginning of the book was fascinating, offering valuable insights into the natural ways children learn and interact in these communities. Some of the research and information about modern-day education models were also thought-provoking and provided a fresh perspective on the current state of education.

Two points really stood out to me. First, the idea that play is essential for children to learn to solve their own problems, control their impulses, and negotiate differences while seeing things from others’ perspectives is something that, while not new to me, I believe needs to hold a much more important place in our understanding of child development. Second, the observation that video games and electronics might be so attractive to children because they offer a rare space where kids can play freely without adult intervention or direction really resonated with me.

However, I felt that much of the book was overstated and could have been said in fewer words. While the core ideas were compelling, the repetitive nature of some sections made it feel a bit drawn out. Overall, I appreciated the concepts presented, but the book might have been more impactful with a more concise approach.

: Wings of Fire: The Hidden Kingdom (Book 3)
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Hidden Kingdom might just be my favorite book in the Wings of Fire series so far! I absolutely love the banter between the dragons—it’s filled with humor and really brings the characters to life. The self-discovery aspect is fantastic, as each dragon grows and develops more with each book, making them even more relatable and engaging.

One of the best parts is that my son and I are listening to these books together. The audiobook version is amazing—the narrator does an incredible job bringing the story and characters to life, making it even more enjoyable for both of us. Overall, this book gets five stars from me, and I can’t wait to see where the journey takes these characters next!

Husbands and Lovers by Beatriz Williams
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

My July book of the month pick, Husbands and Lovers by Beatriz Williams, was an absolute page-turner! I loved how the story is told from two different perspectives, with an additional perspective introduced towards the end, adding even more depth. The three timelines were intricately woven together, revealing the complex lives of the characters and the complicated ways their stories intertwine.

One aspect that really stood out was the historical element of Egypt in the 1950s. I wasn’t aware of the complexities of that time period. The twists and turns were completely unexpected (except one that I totally saw and was yelling at the character who didn’t see it 😂), keeping me hooked until the very last page.

Also, don’t let the beautiful cover fool you—while it suggests a more lighthearted read, this book delves into some deep and intense themes. If you’re a fan of intricate storytelling, well-developed characters, and history that makes you think, this book is a must-read!

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

**Title:** ADHD is Awesome
**Author:** Penn Holderness

Penn Holderness’s *ADHD is Awesome* truly lives up to its title! The book is not only informative but also visually appealing with its vibrant colors and engaging fonts, which immediately caught my attention. Penn’s writing is both relatable and insightful, making it easy to connect with the content. I also appreciated the contributions from his wife, Kim, which added depth and a different perspective. As a mom trying to support a child with ADHD, I found the explanations about how the ADHD brain works incredibly helpful. The practical strategies provided are ones I’m eager to implement. This book is an excellent resource for anyone looking to better understand and support those with ADHD.

Also, I mostly read the book so I could highlight the heck out of it, but I also listened to some of the audio version which I highly recommend as both Penn and Kim give additional insights while reading the book.

*The Rumor* by Elin Hilderbrand
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Just finished *The Rumor* by Elin Hilderbrand, and it was a rollercoaster from start to finish! I loved how the story unfolded through multiple viewpoints, giving insight into the lives of each character. The drama was intense, and the friendships were complex, weaving together different generations in a way that kept me hooked. Some characters made choices that were hard to stomach, yet in some cases, I found myself sympathizing with them despite it all. 🫣 Every twist and turn had me on the edge of my seat, eagerly wondering how it would all turn out.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

In “Really Very Crunchy,” author Emily Morrow offers practical advice on making your life less toxic (“without adding them to your personality,” as the subtitle reads).

One of my biggest takeaways from the book is Emily’s emphasis on balance. She says, “Here’s the truth as I have learned it: a crunchy life needs to be all about balance. An unbalanced approach to life isn’t usually a happy one no matter what the situation is.” Instead of panicking, she suggests focusing on balance and asking yourself: What do I already know? What is the best choice I can make for my family with the information and resources available to me? This advice makes the journey towards a less toxic life feel more manageable.

Reading this book feels like talking to an insightful and funny friend. It’s not just about removing toxins from your life; it’s about bringing more authenticity and joy into your everyday life.

Just finished “Beyond Getting By” by Holly Trantham! I loved the practical worksheets at the end of each chapter, especially the ones on financial values and spending categories. However, I felt dedicating an entire chapter to Gwyneth Paltrow being phony was a bit much. Overall, a mixed but insightful read!

of “The Black Bird Oracle” 🐦‍⬛ by Deborah Harkness

Rating: ★★★★☆ (4 out of 5 stars)

The first three books in the “A Discovery of Witches” series are some of my absolute favorites, but “The Black Bird Oracle” fell a little short for me. For about three-quarters of the book, I found myself a bit lost, as it felt different from the others. To be fair, I don’t remember the third book as well as the first or second, so there might have been important details I missed that would have made this one make more sense. (The fourth book in the series was more about another character and while I don’t remember that one as well either I’m not sure it is super relevant to this particular story.)

The last quarter or so of this book was more fast-paced and brought in characters I had expected to see earlier in the book. Despite these challenges, it’s clear that a sixth book is in the works, and I will definitely read it because I am so invested in these characters.

**Review: The Summer Pact by Emily Giffin**
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The book was engaging, and I found myself eager to know what would happen next.

Despite reading the description, I initially thought the cover suggested a more light-hearted story than it turned out to be. Instead, the book delved into more serious themes, which was unexpected but not unwelcome.

What truly kept me hooked was the characters. I was deeply curious about them and found their friendship and dynamics fascinating. Emily Giffin does an excellent job of creating complex, relatable characters that make you care about their journeys and relationships.

Overall, “The Summer Pact” is a compelling read with rich character development and intriguing dynamics.

**Book Review: “Becoming Homeschoolers: Give Your Kids a Great Education, a Strong Family, and a Life They Will Thank You For Later” by Monica Swanson**

Rating: ★★★★☆

Monica Swanson’s “Becoming Homeschoolers” is a comprehensive guide for parents considering homeschooling or already on the journey. As a mother of four boys, Swanson offers a wealth of practical tips and resources that are incredibly helpful.

One of the most valuable aspects of this book is the detailed section on navigating high school. This was an area I had significant concerns about, and Swanson’s insights provided much-needed clarity and confidence. Additionally, she explains the different styles of homeschooling in easy-to-understand terms and organizes the book by school levels, making it accessible for parents at any stage of the homeschooling journey.

Swanson’s portrayal of her close-knit family is inspiring. Her personal anecdotes and experiences add a relatable and encouraging touch to the guide. However, one aspect that didn’t sit well with me was the repeated mention of “weird homeschoolers.” While it may not be her intent, this phrase can be a trigger for those sensitive to stereotypes about homeschooling families.

Overall, “Becoming Homeschoolers” is a valuable resource for any parent considering homeschooling. Despite a few minor drawbacks, the book’s practical advice and Swanson’s relatable voice make it a worthwhile read.

Book Review: “Wings of Fire: The Lost Heir”

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)

My nine-year-old son and I recently enjoyed the audio version of “Wings of Fire: The Lost Heir” by Tui T. Sutherland, which we checked out from our library using the .app. We both give it a glowing five out of five stars!

This second installment in the Wings of Fire series continues to captivate with its vibrant characters and engaging plot twists. The unique personalities of the various dragons and the dynamics between the main characters kept us both hooked. My son, who had already read the book, was more than ready to share some spoilers when I asked, 😂 but that didn’t detract from the experience — if anything, it added to the experience hearing how excited he was to share.

One of the standout features of this audio version is the narrator, who does an exceptional job of bringing the story to life. Each dragon’s voice is distinct and matches their type and age perfectly, making it easy to follow along and adding depth to the storytelling.

We can’t wait to dive into the next book just as soon as our hold becomes available from the library!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Title: “Decluttering at the Speed of Life: Winning Your Never-Ending Battle with Stuff”
Author: Dana K. White

Dana K. White’s “Decluttering at the Speed of Life” is a refreshing and practical guide for anyone struggling with the overwhelming task of decluttering their living space. As the creator of the popular blog “A Slob Comes Clean,” she brings a relatable and humorous touch to the often daunting subject of decluttering.

One of the standout features of this book is the author’s ability to offer practical tips and real-life examples. She understands that the struggle with clutter is a continuous battle and provides strategies that are both realistic and achievable for everyday life. Her down-to-earth approach makes the reader feel understood and supported throughout the process.

My biggest takeaways from the book include two powerful concepts that can transform the way we approach our belongings:

1. **The Container Concept**: She emphasizes that the kind of container you use isn’t the issue; instead, it’s the fact that your container — which could be anything from a closet to a bookcase — limits the amount of stuff you can keep. This principle encourages readers to rethink their space and understand that decluttering is about fitting your possessions into the space you have, not expanding your space to fit your possessions.

2. **One In, One Out Rule**: This simple yet effective rule can help keep clutter under control. For every new item that comes into your home, another item must leave. This prevents the accumulation of excess stuff and helps maintain a balance, ensuring that your living space doesn’t become overwhelmed with unnecessary items.

Overall, “Decluttering at the Speed of Life” is a valuable resource for anyone looking to tackle clutter in a manageable and sustainable way.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Funny Story” by Emily Henry 📚

“Funny Story” by Emily Henry is a sweet and swoony romance featuring Daphne and Miles, whose exes are now engaged to each other. Daphne needs a place to stay and Miles has an extra room. The character development is fantastic—I adored Daphne and Miles and felt strongly about other characters too. This heartfelt story is full of humor and charm!

If you love well-crafted characters and a touching romance, this one’s for you! ❤️✨

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Title: Scarlet
Author: Genevieve Cogman

Scarlet by Genevieve Cogman is a fresh take on the Scarlet Pimpernel story, set during the French Revolution but with a twist – vampires. This historical fantasy adds a dark and intriguing layer to the classic tale of daring rescues and secret identities.

The book dives into themes of class and society, mixing the chaos of the French Revolution with the hidden world of vampires. We see this world through the eyes of Eleanor, a female servant of a vampire who helps the Scarlet Pimpernel.

Cogman is fantastic at world-building. The concept of the story is really cool and adds an exciting take on a classic.

One of the highlights for me was Eleanor’s character development. Watching her grow and evolve throughout the story kept me hooked.

That said, there were parts of the book that left me a bit confused. There was a twist that was completely unexpected, and even after finishing, I’m not entirely sure how I feel about it.

Overall, I enjoyed Scarlet. It’s a captivating read, especially if you like historical fiction with a fantasy twist. Cogman’s unique spin on the Scarlet Pimpernel story makes it worth picking up. I’d recommend it to fans of historical fantasy or anyone looking for something a bit different.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Title: The Dragonet Prophecy
Author: Tui T. Sutherland
Read by: Shannon McManus

I listened to the audiobook of the first book in the Wings of Fire series with my nine year old son because he has been listening to the books and reading the graphic novels nonstop for a while now. I enjoyed the narrator of the audiobook and the characters were so good. Some of the twists kept me guessing until they were reveled or I asked my son. 😆 Looking forward to reading the next one.

⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2

I loved the first three books in the School by the Sea series, so I was excited to dive into the fourth and final installment. However, I found myself disappointed. The characters I had grown to love felt rushed and lacked the depth I had come to expect. The story felt frustratingly hurried, and the abrupt ending left me longing for more, but not in a good way. Still entertaining but just a bit disappointing which I don’t even like to write because I adore Jenny Colgan’s books.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“Two O’Clock on a Tuesday at Trevi Fountain” isn’t just another travel book; it’s like having a close friend take you on a whirlwind adventure around the globe.
This book about chasing dreams and taking control of your own story. With a blend of humor and raw honesty, doesn’t just tell her story; she empowers you to start scripting your own. From the Trevi Fountain to life-altering moments like moving abroad and facing danger head-on, this book navigates the highs and lows of life changes and the quest for belonging. It leaves you not only with a yearning for travel but also with a fresh perspective on embracing life’s uncertainties.

4.5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Title: Bride
Author: Ali Hazelwood
Genre: paranormal romance

I liked the vampyre/were dynamic in Bride. I was guessing most of the way through who did what. I had some theories. Some were wrong and some were right. Without spoilers, there was some stuff I could have done without. Ultimately it was a fast read and I wanted to find out what happened.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Title: The Vine Witch
Author: Luanne G. Smith

“The Vine Witch” is a captivating tale that seamlessly weaves together elements of magic and mystery. Set in the enchanting backdrop of vineyards and wine-making, the story follows the journey of Elena, a vine witch seeking to reclaim her powers and uncover the truth behind her curse. Elena is driven by her desire for revenge. While I found the premise intriguing and the writing engaging, there were moments when the pacing lagged, and certain plot twists felt predictable.

Overall, “The Vine Witch” is a delightful read for fans of magical realism and historical fiction. While I didn’t love it as much as I had hoped, I enjoyed it.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Title: The call of the wild and free : reclaiming wonder in your child’s education
Author: Ainsley Arment

“The Call of the Wild and Free” is like your homeschooling BFF, guiding you through the ins and outs of homeschooling while emphasizing the importance of nurturing your children’s sense of adventure, freedom, and wonder. It’s a valuable resource, offering practical advice and inspiring insights to create a fulfilling educational experience for your family.