My Reading Life by Kelly Conner https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife The books I've loved and would recommend en-us 2018-06-20 13:32:02 UTC 2025-05-13 18:31:53 UTC hello@padlet.com https://padlet-uploads.storage.googleapis.com/146332979/e6ff279179b895711aa03ff3053bdbcc/cartoon_book_pictures_book_cartoon_free_printables_coloring_pages.png A Song of Ice and Fire: A Game of Thrones (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956517 Author: George R.R. Martin
Genre: Fantasy
Review: The show is eerily accurate! I loved this book and couldn't put it down even though I knew what was going to happen. The series is definitely a favorite. Martin throws a ton of characters and background information at you, but it's worth the re-reads and turn-backs! It was a thrilling, fast-paced, epic introduction to a fantastical and detailed world full of drama, betrayal, violence, and honor.]]> 2018-06-20 13:47:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956517 The One Safe Place kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956797 Author: Tania Unsworth
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: I love this book. It’s one of my favorites! After Devin's grandfather dies, he must find a way to continue in an apocalyptic world devastated by extreme drought. He finds refuge at Gabriel H. Penn's Home for Childhood, but it is not what it seems. I love this creepy and unique take on dystopian!]]> 2018-06-20 13:48:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956797 Fahrenheit 451 kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956933 Author: Ray Bradbury
Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian
Review: This is one of my all-time favorites!]]> 2018-06-20 13:49:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956933 The Hate U Give kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956969 Author: Angie Thomas
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I loved this book! It is a great debut novel for Thomas about the murder of a black kid by a police officer in a rundown neighborhood, told from the perspective of a young girl that knew him as a close friend.]]> 2018-06-20 13:49:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267956969 The Land of Stories: The Wishing Spell (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957069 Author: Chris Colfer
Genre: Fantasy
Review: While I'm glad I stuck with this series, the first book is not the best. It's a little childish and predictable, but still cute nonetheless. Conner and Alex travel into the magical land of stories for an amazing adventure, although their main concern is to get the items necessary for a wishing spell that can get them back home.]]> 2018-06-20 13:50:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957069 The Land of Stories: The Enchantress Returns (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957244 Author: Chris Colfer
Genre: Fantasy
Review: The second book in the series is much better than the first. It has a more interesting and captivating plot with all the magic and fun from the first one. A dark and evil enchantress returns to the land of stories, and only Conner and Alex (along with their friends) can stop her!]]> 2018-06-20 13:51:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957244 The Land of Stories: A Grimm Warning (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957280 Author: Chris Colfer
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is a great book in the series, but I thought the ending was anticlimactic. After finding out that an army from the real world is trying to conquer the land of stories, Alex and Conner must put on their hero capes again.]]> 2018-06-20 13:51:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957280 Brightwood kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957314 Author: Tania Unsworth
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Review: It took me awhile to get into this book, but eventually I was enthralled. I had to return to the early chapters to catch all the nuances of the narrator's unique, innocent voice. It's very well written and constructed. A young girl suddenly finds herself alone in her family's mansion, with no word from her mother, and a mysterious stranger poking around.]]> 2018-06-20 13:51:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957314 Salt to the Sea kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957361 Author: Ruta Sepetys
Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: This is one of my favorite books! I love the four different perspectives of this book and the high stakes of the WWII setting. It kept me captivated throughout as the four main characters work their way toward a ship for refugees, the MV Wilhelm Gustloff, looking for safety, but only finding peril.
]]> 2018-06-20 13:51:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957361 I'll Give You the Sun kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957389 Author: Jandy Nelson
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I would definitely recommend this book. The different perspectives of a set of two torn apart twins (loud, bright Jude and quiet, creative Noah) haunted by mystery and misfortune leads you through this beautiful and moving story as they find themselves and each other again.]]> 2018-06-20 13:52:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957389 Eleanor and Park kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957424 Author: Rainbow Rowell
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: I love this one! The tragic love story of Eleanor and Park is told from both of their unique perspectives as they face difficulties no child should have to.]]> 2018-06-20 13:52:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957424 Out of My Mind kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957434 Author: Sharon M. Draper
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I really enjoyed this cute book about a girl named Melody, who is disabled and unable to speak. However, her mind is full of the most complex thoughts and she may just be the smartest in her class.]]> 2018-06-20 13:52:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957434 He Said, She Said kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957483 Author: Kwame Alexander
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: "T-Diddy" and Claudia are on different ends of the high school social spectrum, but find themselves pulled together by a school protest and an unexplicable attraction. I really ended up enjoying this one, but couldn't get into it at first.]]> 2018-06-20 13:52:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957483 The Phantom Tollbooth kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957524 Author: Norton Juster
Genre: Fantasy
Review: While I appreciated the whimsical Alice in Wonderland vibe and the funky word play, I got bored with the plot pretty quickly. Milo, who is bored with everything is his life, finds himself in the magical land of the Kingdom of Wisdom. He finds that life has much more to offer than boredom when you look for it.]]> 2018-06-20 13:52:58 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957524 The Compound Series: The Compound (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957541 Author: S.A. Bodeen
Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian
Review: This is a great read! Eli has been living in the compound his father built for years, but now his father doesn't seem the same. He seems dangerous. But which danger is Eli willing to risk? The unknown dangers of outside the compound or the realities of staying underground.]]> 2018-06-20 13:53:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957541 The Compound Series: The Fallout (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957552 Author: S.A. Bodeen
Genre: Science Fiction
Review: I didn't like the sequel as much as the original (something new and different), but it was still a good read and worth the time.]]> 2018-06-20 13:53:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957552 The Geography of You and Me kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957581 Author: Jennifer E. Smith
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: Owen and Lucy meet by chance during a citywide blackout, creating a strong connection, only to be separated by distance immediately after. They are torn between it being just one night of romance and the desire to continue it. I really liked this book, and it was easy to read!]]> 2018-06-20 13:53:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957581 A Monster Calls kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957640 Author: Patrick Ness
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Horror, Fantasy
Review: Conor is haunted by a monster of grief as he deals with his mother's illness. This book deals with trauma and tragedy in a poignant and beautiful way. I loved it.]]> 2018-06-20 13:53:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957640 A Long Walk to Water kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957665 Author: Linda Sue Park
Genre: Poetry, Biographical
Review: I wanted to like this book more than I did since it's based on a true story. It was very moving, but it was also simple. I liked the two separate storylines that connected, but I expected more of a punch at the end. ]]> 2018-06-20 13:53:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957665 The Selection Series: The Selection (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957703 Author: Kiera Cass
Genre: Dystopian, Romance
Review: This is a great start to a lovely series, one I didn't think I would like. After this book was recommended to me, I begrudgingly started reading it but fell in love with the story and characters on accident. I was hooked! It's like The Bachelor meets The Hunger Games. America is selected to go to the palace and try to woo the prince. However, the current caste system and rebellion issues become a much more important problem to solve as she gets closer and closer to the prince.]]> 2018-06-20 13:54:18 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957703 The Selection Series: The Elite (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957708 Author: Kiera Cass
Genre: Dystopian, Romance
Review: The second book was my favorite one since it was more about America calling attention to the real issues in her dystopian world than the love story (although I liked that part too).]]> 2018-06-20 13:54:21 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957708 The Selection Series: The One (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957742 Author: Kiera Cass
Genre: Dystopian, Romance
Review: This is where America's story ends. Will she end up with Prince Maxon? Will she help to fix her broken country?]]> 2018-06-20 13:54:37 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957742 The Selection Series: The Heir (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957746 Author: Kiera Cass
Genre: Dystopian, Romance
Review: Here is where the story of a new princess begins. A new selection must start for the princess to find her prince.]]> 2018-06-20 13:54:41 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957746 The Selection Series: The Crown (Book 5) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957776 Author: Kiera Cass
Genre: Dystopian, Romance
Review: The series comes to an end in a great way! Who will the princess choose as her prince? Will her country approve?]]> 2018-06-20 13:54:58 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957776 All American Boys kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957933 Author: Jason Reynolds, Brendan Kiely
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I loved this one because of the two unique perspectives that guided this story about police brutality and racism.]]> 2018-06-20 13:55:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267957933 Stella by Starlight kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958331 Author: Sharon M. Draper
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I love this story of Stella and her family during the Jim Crow era as she fights to find her voice and stand up to the KKK in her town of Bumblebee, North Carolina.]]> 2018-06-20 13:58:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958331 A Night Divided kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958366 Author: Jennifer A. Nielsen
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: When a family is separated by the abrupt enforcement of the Berlin Wall overnight, they must fight at every cost to get back together.]]> 2018-06-20 13:58:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958366 Fahrenheit 451: The Graphic Novel kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958380 Author: Tim Hamilton
Genre: Science Fiction, Dystopian, Graphic Novel
Review: I love Fahrenheit 451, so of course I'm going to love the graphic novel version. However, some part of me wonders if this novel even makes sense as a graphic novel since it is all about such heavy, lengthy dialogue.]]> 2018-06-20 13:58:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958380 Stolen Children kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958420 Author: Peg Kehret
Genre: Realistic fiction, Mystery
Review: I liked this book but wanted more excitement from it.]]> 2018-06-20 13:59:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958420 Fallout kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958435 Author: Todd Strasser
Genre: Dystopian
Review: How much longer can a family survive underground in refuge from nuclear warfare before life is no longer worth living?]]> 2018-06-20 13:59:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958435 Under the Mesquite kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958453 Author: Guadalupe Garcia McCall
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: I had to go back and re-read lots of times in this one, but I really did enjoy the story. It was just a bit too simple of a plot, while the way it was told was difficult to follow at times.]]> 2018-06-20 13:59:23 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958453 The Limit kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958506 Author: Kristen Landon
Genre: Dystopian
Review: This is an interesting dystopian in a world where every family has a limit, in terms of funds, and when they go over that limit, a child is taken from their family to pay off the debt by working for the government.]]> 2018-06-20 13:59:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958506 Prisoner B-3087 kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958529 Author: Alan Gratz
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: A heart-wrenching book based on true events from the Holocaust, Prisoner B-3087 will have you rooting on the main character in his harrowing quest for survival.]]> 2018-06-20 13:59:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958529 The Night Gardener kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958557 Author: Jonathan Auxier
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: This was a great horror book for young adults! Two orphans arrive at a creepy mansion, hoping for a place to stay. But is this place safe?]]> 2018-06-20 14:00:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958557 The Diary of a Young Girl kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958587 Author: Anne Frank
Genre: Autobiography
Review: This was such an interesting read. I'm glad I finally got around to it.]]> 2018-06-20 14:00:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958587 Brown Girl Dreaming kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958608 Author: Jacqueline Woodson
Genre: Poetry, Memoir
Review: Woodson has such a way with words.]]> 2018-06-20 14:00:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958608 A Wrinkle in Time kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958624 Author: Madeleine L'Engle
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I never expected the book to be so fantastical! I really liked this unique world.]]> 2018-06-20 14:00:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958624 The Giver kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958644 Author: Lois Lowry
Genre: Dystopian, Fantasy
Review: While many love this classic, it is not my favorite. I found the ending anticlimactic but loved the rest of the story.]]> 2018-06-20 14:00:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958644 The One and Only Ivan kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958680 Author: Katherine Applegate
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I read this cute story in a day!]]> 2018-06-20 14:00:52 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958680 SOLD kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958750 Author: Patricia McCormick
Genre: Poetry, Historical Fiction
Review: This book is so depressing, yet it is such an important story to tell. A young girl is sold into slavery and must find a way to survive.]]> 2018-06-20 14:01:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267958750 Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959007 Author: J.K.Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This was my favorite one growing up! I read it again in 2020. In Harry's second year at Hogwarts, mysterious deaths and an ancient,  hidden chamber threaten to close down the school.]]> 2018-06-20 14:02:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959007 Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959060 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I re-read this in 2020. While the book was great, the movie was awful! I liked that Harry's third year at Hogwarts wasn't centered on Voldemort as a villain but instead on the notorious and threatening Sirius Black.]]> 2018-06-20 14:02:45 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959060 Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959098 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is probably my second favorite book in the series, which I just recently re-read. During Harry's fourth year, Hogwarts is taken over by the illustrious Triwizard Tournament, a competition among witches and wizards from different schools.]]> 2018-06-20 14:02:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959098 Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix (Book 5) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959126 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: Although the movie is one of my least favorite in the series, I actually really enjoyed re-reading this one. It might be my new favorite book in the series. Harry's miserable fifth year at Hogwarts may be dark, but it has Dumbledore's Army, which really carries it.]]> 2018-06-20 14:03:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959126 Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince (Book 6) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959194 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: The sixth book is an excellent part of the series, and I loved re-reading about Harry's year. It had such a twist at the end! I wasn't ready!]]> 2018-06-20 14:03:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959194 Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows (Book 7) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959322 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is my favorite one in the series even though it lacks of the joy of the Hogwarts setting. I'm glad I decided to re-read my favorite story of all time. Rowling does such a superb job wrapping up a long story with so many beautiful characters.]]> 2018-06-20 14:04:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959322 The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959361 Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
Genre: Fantasy
Review: Tolkien writes descriptively, but does not slack on the action either. These books are some of my favorites. I re-read the series in 2020, and I thoroughly enjoyed it the second time as well.]]> 2018-06-20 14:04:21 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959361 The Lord of the Rings: The Two Towers (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959405 Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I loved reading about the battle of Helms Deep. Also, it's fun to see that many lines in the movies are taken directly word-for-word from the books. Re-reading these was a lot of fun, even if sometimes the writing can get dry or tedious.]]> 2018-06-20 14:04:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959405 The Lord of the Rings: The Return of the King (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959431 Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I'm glad I decided to re-read one of my favorite stories. This is a great ending to one of my favorite stories of all time. "I AM NO MAN."]]> 2018-06-20 14:04:41 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959431 The Hobbit kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959497 Author: J.R.R. Tolkien
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I read this first in sixth grade and barely understood it. But, I read it again in college and loved it. It is one of my favorite books. Just recently, I read it for the third time! I read the illustrated version, which was delightful. ]]> 2018-06-20 14:04:56 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959497 Egghead: Or, You Can't Survive on Ideas Alone kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959587 Author: Bo Burnham
Genre: Poetry
Review: I love Bo Burnham!]]> 2018-06-20 14:05:37 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959587 Between Shades of Gray kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959677 Author: Ruta Sepetys
Genre: Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: This must-read book focuses on the less-told stories of people in Russia under Stalin during the time of the Holocaust and WWII.]]> 2018-06-20 14:06:23 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959677 The House on Mango Street kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959712 Author: Sandra Cisneros
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I love the style of vignettes. This novel deals with such heavy and important subjects in a way that is truly relatable.]]> 2018-06-20 14:06:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959712 The Perks of Being a Wallflower kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959728 Author: Stephen Chbosky
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I'll never forget this book and how it made me feel. It’s one of my favorites. It reminded me that reading helps you feel seen and heard, that you're not alone.]]> 2018-06-20 14:06:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959728 The Crossover kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959750 Author: Kwame Alexander
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: What a wonderfully done story in verse! In this book of unique poems, Filthy learns about life, love, and family through basketball.]]> 2018-06-20 14:06:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959750 Booked kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959766 Author: Kwame Alexander
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: While I liked this story, it was too similar to The Crossover without being as good. It's basically The Crossover with soccer instead of basketball.
]]> 2018-06-20 14:07:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959766 Solo kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959776 Author: Kwame Alexander with Mary Rand Hess
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: In my opinion, this is Alexander's best-written book. I couldn't put in down.]]> 2018-06-20 14:07:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959776 Love That Dog kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959821 Author: Sharon Creech
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: You can read this book in under and hour, and you won't be sorry you did... although you may cry a few or a hundred tears.]]> 2018-06-20 14:07:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959821 Hate That Cat kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959827 Author: Sharon Creech
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: Jack is back in Miss Shrewberry's class, but this sequel is missing a lot of the magic from Love that Dog.]]> 2018-06-20 14:07:27 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959827 The Inheritance Cycle: Eragon (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959921 Author: Christopher Paolini
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I first read this book in high school and then read it again in college. I loved it both times. It is definitely the best book in the series and a great start to a wonderful story.]]> 2018-06-20 14:07:49 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959921 The Inheritance Cycle: Eldest (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959981 Author: Christopher Paolini
Genre: Fantasy
Review: Eragon's training gets a bit boring in this one, but the goings on with Rowan and the rest of the villagers kept me reading.]]> 2018-06-20 14:08:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267959981 The Inheritance Cycle: Brisingr (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960021 Author: Christopher Paolini
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I liked this more than the second one but not as much as the first.]]> 2018-06-20 14:08:20 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960021 The Inheritance Cycle: Inheritance (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960048 Author: Christopher Paolini
Genre: Fantasy
Review: Although the last book wasn't my favorite and I wasn't crazy about the ending, the series was definitely worth my time, and I'm glad I read them all.]]> 2018-06-20 14:08:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960048 The Pillars of the Earth Series: The Pillars of the Earth (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960079 Author: Ken Follett
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: After a friend recommended this one to me, I latched onto the characters and epic storytelling quickly, and it is now one of my favorite books of all time. I re-read it because I love it so much!]]> 2018-06-20 14:08:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960079 The Outsiders kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960109 Author: S.E. Hinton
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: It's a classic, and I love it. This book focuses on the conflict between two very different groups of boys: the Socs and the Greasers. I just recently re-read since I'm teaching it this year. I think I liked it even more the second time!]]> 2018-06-20 14:09:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960109 Ship Breaker kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960163 Author: Paolo Bacigalupi
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This is action-packed and thrilling!]]> 2018-06-20 14:09:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960163 The Pillars of the Earth Series: World Without End (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960189 Author: Ken Follett
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: The sequel isn't as good as the original, of course. But, man, was I glad to re-enter the diverse and beautiful world that Follett created. As far as sequels go, it probably comes the closest to being as great as the first. It's one of my favorite stories, and I just re-read it.]]> 2018-06-20 14:09:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960189 The Fault in Our Stars kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960226 Author: John Green
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: I haven't seen the movie, but the book is beautiful.]]> 2018-06-20 14:09:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960226 So B. It kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960234 Author: Sarah Weeks
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I read this in middle school and again as an adult. I loved it both times.]]> 2018-06-20 14:09:58 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960234 The Great Gatsby kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960279 Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This is a classic truly worth reading. I read it in high school and again as an adult.]]> 2018-06-20 14:10:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960279 The Hunger Games Series: The Hunger Games (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960341 Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: Dystopian, Romance, Science Fiction
Review: I was late to the game with these books, but they are totally worth it. The movies are good too.]]> 2018-06-20 14:10:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960341 The Hunger Games Series: Catching Fire (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960389 Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: Dystopian, Romance, Science Fiction
Review: The movie version of this one is accurate and very well done.]]> 2018-06-20 14:10:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960389 The Hunger Games Series: Mockingjay (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960420 Author: Suzanne Collins
Genre: Dystopian, Romance, Science Fiction
Review: Collins did a great job ending this series and providing closure for her readers.]]> 2018-06-20 14:11:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960420 The Alchemist kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960486 Author: Paulo Coelho
Genre: Fantasy
Review: Everyone should read this book. It shows that everyone has a purpose in life, and all they have to do is find it.]]> 2018-06-20 14:11:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960486 A Series of Unfortunate Events: A Bad Beginning (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960595 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: A great start to a series that I love, this book introduces the terrible plight of the Baudelaire orphans and their nemesis, the cruel and calculating Count Olaf, who is only after their family's fortune.]]> 2018-06-20 14:12:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960595 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Reptile Room (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960626 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I really liked Uncle Monty!]]> 2018-06-20 14:12:29 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960626 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Wide Window (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960751 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I liked the setting of this one.]]> 2018-06-20 14:13:21 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960751 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Miserable Mill (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960788 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is where is starts to get dark.]]> 2018-06-20 14:13:41 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960788 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Austere Academy (Book 5) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960901 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I really liked this one for some reason.]]> 2018-06-20 14:14:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960901 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Ersatz Elevator (Book 6) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960950 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I wasn't crazy about this one.]]> 2018-06-20 14:14:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267960950 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Vile Village (Book 7) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961031 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is where is gets weird.]]> 2018-06-20 14:15:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961031 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Hostile Hospital (Book 8) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961043 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This isn't one of my favorites from the series.]]> 2018-06-20 14:15:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961043 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Carnivorous Carnival (Book 9) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961160 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is one of my favorites in the series.]]> 2018-06-20 14:15:46 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961160 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Slippery Slope (Book 10) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961174 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I didn't like that Sunny wasn't in this one as much.]]> 2018-06-20 14:15:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961174 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Grim Grotto (Book 11) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961220 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This was a weird one.]]> 2018-06-20 14:16:10 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961220 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The Penultimate Peril (Book 12) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961266 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I really liked this one! I think it is my favorite in the series.]]> 2018-06-20 14:16:32 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961266 A Series of Unfortunate Events: The End (Book 13) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961350 Author: Lemony Snicket
Genre: Fantasy
Review: Snicket does a fantastic job ending such a long and unique series.]]> 2018-06-20 14:17:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961350 Hate List kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961417 Author: Jennifer Brown
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I had to read this for an education class, but I'm glad I did. It's about the aftermath of  a school shooting.]]> 2018-06-20 14:17:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961417 Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961483 Author: Benjamin Alire Saenz
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I remember loving this when I read it in college, but I can't remember much. I need to give it a re-read. It's about two boys who develop more than a friendship.]]> 2018-06-20 14:18:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961483 Yaqui Delgado Wants to Kick Your Ass kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961522 Author: Meg Medina
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I liked this book about bullying, but it wasn't my favorite. I do like that it focused on hispanic and latino culture, and I liked the main character's depth.]]> 2018-06-20 14:18:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961522 The Book Thief kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961557 Author: Markus Zusak
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: A Holocaust story from the perspective of Death focused on a German family that is harboring a Jewish fugitive, this book will keep you captivated and make you think.]]> 2018-06-20 14:18:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961557 Looking for Alaska kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961573 Author: John Green
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This is John Green at his best.]]> 2018-06-20 14:18:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961573 I Am Malala: Young Reader's Edition kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961579 Author: Malala Yousafzai
Genre: Memoir
Review: I am so inspired by Malala's story. She is a great example of a woman unafraid of anything.]]> 2018-06-20 14:18:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961579 Wonder kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961623 Author: R.J. Palacio
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This is such a cute story that every middle school kid should read.]]> 2018-06-20 14:19:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961623 Warriors Don't Cry kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961632 Author: Melba Pattillo Beals
Genre: Memoir
Review: I didn't think I would like this autobiography, but I just loved it. Beals is so strong and such a good role model for young women.]]> 2018-06-20 14:19:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961632 The Casual Vacancy kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961775 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: It's Rowling writing but adult content! I loved this web of a mystery. I had to restart it when I got about a third of the way through because there were so many characters, and I wasn't paying attention. But, I loved this book!]]> 2018-06-20 14:20:14 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961775 Magical Thinking kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961808 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography
Review: Burroughs shares short stories from his own life with a unique humor.]]> 2018-06-20 14:20:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961808 Lust & Wonder kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961820 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography
Review: This book is a good representation of why Burroughs is one of my favorite authors.]]> 2018-06-20 14:20:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961820 This is How kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961835 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography
Review: This is a ironic and witty self-help book that makes you laugh and weep while actually giving good advice at the same time.]]> 2018-06-20 14:20:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961835 You Better Not Cry kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961851 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography
Review: This collection of stories focuses on the holidays.]]> 2018-06-20 14:20:41 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961851 Possible Side Effects kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961873 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography
Review: This is a great collection of humorous and eye-opening true stories from Burroughs's life.]]> 2018-06-20 14:20:49 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961873 A Wolf at the Table kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961900 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography
Review: Here, Burroughs focuses on his strained relationship with his father.]]> 2018-06-20 14:20:56 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961900 Dry. kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961923 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography
Review: Dry is a great title for this book because that's exactly how Burroughs gives it to you: dry. There's no other way to depict such wild truths from his life.]]> 2018-06-20 14:21:09 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961923 Lilac Girls kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961964 Author: Martha Hall Kelly
Genre: Historical Fiction, Nonfiction
Review: My sister gave me this book for Christmas, and I loved it. It focuses on three separate lives of real women deeply affected by WWII and the Holocaust and how their stories intertwine.]]> 2018-06-20 14:21:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961964 The Handmaid's Tale kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961990 Author: Margaret Atwood
Genre: Dystopian
Review: I read this for the first time for a women's literature class in college. I just re-read it on my Kindle, and I appreciated it much more the second time around. While I definitely liked it in college because I was able to study it with an analytical lens, I enjoyed reading it on my own after having already analyzed it. I feel like I noticed more. I'll also going to watch the Hulu show!]]> 2018-06-20 14:21:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267961990 The Red Tent kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962004 Author: Anita Diamant
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: This takes stories from the Bible and embellishes on them with a focus on the women.]]> 2018-06-20 14:21:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962004 Memoirs of a Geisha kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962017 Author: Arthur Golden
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I love this book and movie so much! The book is a favorite. It's so fun to learn about a completely different time and culture even if the story is tragic. ]]> 2018-06-20 14:21:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962017 Go Ask Alice kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962036 Author: Anonymous
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: I read this in high school, and I read it again as an adult. It is the real diary of a girl, who gets caught up in the world of drugs. I really enjoyed it even though it is tragic since it is so eye-opening to the realities of drug addiction.]]> 2018-06-20 14:21:57 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962036 The Lovely Bones kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962132 Author: Alice Sebold
Genre: Fantasy, Horror, Mystery
Review: I enjoyed this book, but it is a strange take on the mystery genre.]]> 2018-06-20 14:22:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962132 Jude the Obscure kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962145 Author: Thomas Hardy
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This is a classic from the Victorian Era that is definitely worth a read.]]> 2018-06-20 14:22:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962145 Great Expectations kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962159 Author: Charles Dickens
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I hated this book when I read it in high school, but I could appreciate it more when I read it in college.]]> 2018-06-20 14:23:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962159 Jane Eyre kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962165 Author: Charlotte Bronte
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: I really enjoyed this classic and would recommend it to anyone who likes romance with a touch of spookiness.]]> 2018-06-20 14:23:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962165 Wuthering Heights kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962175 Author: Emily Bronte
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This is a good, gothic classic worth reading.]]> 2018-06-20 14:23:10 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962175 Silver Lining's Playbook kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962238 Author: Matthew Quick
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This is one of my favorite books of all time. Quick perfectly captures the mind and voice of someone with OCD.]]> 2018-06-20 14:23:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962238 The Kite Runner kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962253 Author: Khaled Hosseini
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This book ripped my heart out and then sewed it back together. A favorite!]]> 2018-06-20 14:23:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962253 Going Bovine kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962268 Author: Libba Bray
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is such a unique story and one of my favorites! When I read this for a class in college, it re-awakened my love for reading. I highly recommend it. When he finds out he has mad cow disease, Cameron is caught between hallucinations and reality as he embarks on an epic and humorous adventure.]]> 2018-06-20 14:23:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267962268 One for the Murphys kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963011 Author: Lynda Mullaly Hunt
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I love this story of Carley Connors and how she makes sense of living with her foster family, the Murphys. It’s a favorite!]]> 2018-06-20 14:29:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963011 Pictures of Hollis Woods kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963033 Author: Patricia Reilly Giff
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I think I read this in middle school, but I need to re-read it at some point. I really loved it since it's about foster care and family. It's a lot like One for the Murphys, which is a book I love.]]> 2018-06-20 14:29:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963033 Speak kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963102 Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Anderson has a special way of writing about such a sensitive topic in a way that really makes you think.]]> 2018-06-20 14:29:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963102 Shiver kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963180 Author: Maggie Stiefvater
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: It's like Twilight but with werewolves. I read it because a student recommended it to me.]]> 2018-06-20 14:29:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963180 Red Kayak kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963196 Author: Priscilla Cummings
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: A student recommended this book to me, and I loved it! After a young kid dies in a canoe accident, Brady must decide what part he will play in the coming events.]]> 2018-06-20 14:29:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963196 Don't Stay Up Late kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963214 Author: R.L. Stine
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: I liked the Goosebumps vibe this book had. It brought me back to my younger days.]]> 2018-06-20 14:30:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963214 Projekt 1065 kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963284 Author: Alan Gratz
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I love Alan Gratz! This is a thrilling and unique book about a family of spies in Germany, pretending to be Nazis.]]> 2018-06-20 14:30:32 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963284 An Abundance of Katherines kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963420 Author: John Green
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Although I love John Green, this is not his best. I still liked it though!]]> 2018-06-20 14:31:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963420 The Time Traveler's Wife kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963512 Author: Audrey Niffnegger
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: I haven't seen the movie, and I don't think it could do the book justice.]]> 2018-06-20 14:32:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963512 The Shack kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963812 Author: Wm. Paul Young
Genre: Fantasy
Review: A student recommended this book to me. It's definitely not my style, but I liked the beginning of it.]]> 2018-06-20 14:34:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963812 The Body in the Woods kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963879 Author: April Henry
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: A student recommended this mystery and got me hooked on April Henry. I would recommend any of her books to lovers of thrilling mysteries.]]> 2018-06-20 14:35:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267963879 The Bar Code Tattoo kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267964238 Author: Suzanne Weyn
Genre: Dystopian
Review: I read this in middle school, I think, and need to give it a re-read.]]> 2018-06-20 14:37:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267964238 Haroun and the Sea of Stories kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267964638 Author: Salman Rushdie
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is the only book from my world literature class that I actually enjoyed.]]> 2018-06-20 14:39:42 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267964638 One True Thing kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267964773 Author: Anna Quindlen
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I read this for my women's literature class in college. It is a really moving story about a daughter whose mom has cancer.]]> 2018-06-20 14:40:41 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267964773 Alice in Wonderland kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267965034 Author: Lewis Carroll
Genre: Fantasy
Review: A favorite that I'll always love, Alice in Wonderland is a kooky and wild read.]]> 2018-06-20 14:42:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/267965034 Night kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268040926 Author: Elie Wiesel
Genre: Autobiography
Review: It's a classic Holocaust novel that everyone should read.]]> 2018-06-21 03:38:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268040926 American Born Chinese kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133680 Author: Gene Luen Yang
Genre: Graphic Novel
Review: I feel like this was well done, and I just didn't appreciate it for what it was. Maybe I need to re-read this book. It follows three different stories about characters who do not fit in.]]> 2018-06-21 17:32:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133680 My Sister's Keeper kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133713 Author: Jodi Picoult
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: It's so sad and wonderful! The book is nothing like the movie and it's a thousand times better!]]> 2018-06-21 17:32:14 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133713 Dear John kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133732 Author: Nicholas Sparks
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This is my favorite Sparks book. It's a love story between a girl and a guy in the military.]]> 2018-06-21 17:32:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133732 The Last Song kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133763 Author: Nicholas Sparks
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This is my least favorite Sparks although it is still really great. If you like romance, you'll probably like this book.]]> 2018-06-21 17:32:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133763 The Notebook kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133779 Author: Nicholas Sparks
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: The characters are so realistically selfish and passionate that this love story really comes to life in your hands.]]> 2018-06-21 17:32:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133779 Out of the Dust kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133905 Author: Karen Hesse
Genre: Historical Fiction, Poetry
Review: This novel in verse tells a beautiful story of Billie Jo and her father as they deal with living through the dust bowl and other important issues in their family.]]> 2018-06-21 17:34:20 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133905 Brotherhood kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133941 Author: A.B. Westrick
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Westrick provides a unique take on the reconstruction period after the Civil War as Shad must deal with his brother being in the KKK.]]> 2018-06-21 17:34:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133941 Seeing Red kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133960 Author: Kathryn Erskine
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I did really like this book, but it just doesn't compare to other things that I've read and loved.]]> 2018-06-21 17:34:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268133960 The Bell Jar kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268307432 Author: Sylvia Plath
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This book has many great quotes, but as a book doesn't give much to the reader.]]> 2018-06-23 20:43:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268307432 Flipped kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268307463 Author: Wendelin Van Draanen
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I read this book in middle school then again as an adult, and I loved it both times. Julianna loves Bryce, but Bryce hates Julianna. What's going to happen between these two crazy kids?]]> 2018-06-23 20:44:09 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268307463 To Kill a Mockingbird kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268307475 Author: Harper Lee
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I need to give this one a re-read. I remember enjoying it, but I was in high school when I read it. I don't think I could fully appreciate it at that age.]]> 2018-06-23 20:44:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268307475 Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268514308 Author: Robert Louis Stevenson
Genre: Fantasy, Horrror
Review: This short and spooky classic was everything I wanted it to be: thrilling, unique, and well-written.]]> 2018-06-25 21:36:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268514308 Ghosts of War: The Secret of Midway kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268514453 Author: Steve Watkins
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction
Review: I think I would've enjoyed this one if I had read it at a younger age.]]> 2018-06-25 21:37:10 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268514453 Summer kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268521086 Author: Edith Wharton
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I found myself bored with this story often, but I appreciate its importance in the history of women's literature.]]> 2018-06-25 23:20:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268521086 Song of Solomon kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268521121 Author: Toni Morrison
Genre: Historical Fiction, Fantasy
Review: I liked reading this one, but it wasn't one of my favorites. Morrison definitely writes beautifully, and I liked the magical element to this otherwise realistic book.]]> 2018-06-25 23:20:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268521121 Little Women kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268521130 Author: Louisa M. Alcott
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Historical Fiction
Review: While I did enjoy reading this classic, it's definitely not my type. ]]> 2018-06-25 23:21:09 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/268521130 A Song of Ice and Fire: A Clash of Kings (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045431 Author: George R.R. Martin
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I loved Martin's writing style! This one is just as good as the first, and it's pretty similar to the show.]]> 2018-09-01 02:41:37 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045431 A Song of Ice and Fire: A Storm of Swords (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045533 Author: George R.R. Martin
Genre: Fantasy
Review: These books are so great, and the third one is no exception. I just love the fantasy world that Martin has created.]]> 2018-09-01 02:43:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045533 A Song of Ice and Fire: A Feast for Crows (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045586 Author: George R.R. Martin
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This book wasn't as good as the others, but I still loved it. It focused on many characters I don't care for, so I found myself just hoping the next chapter would be Arya or Brienne.]]> 2018-09-01 02:44:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045586 A Song of Ice and Fire: A Dance with Dragons (Book 5) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045687 Author: George R.R. Martin
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I think the fifth book is my favorite. Although there are a billion different plots, I was still really captivated the whole time. I couldn't put it down.]]> 2018-09-01 02:46:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/277045687 The Sky is Everywhere kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/284780580 Author: Jandy Nelson
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: Jandy Nelson is such a great writer! In The Sky is Everywhere, Lennie has to deal with the loss of her older sister Bailey after she dies suddenly. While dealing with her grief, she begins to fall for her dead sister's boyfriend Toby, all while a new boy at school Joe tries to win her heart.]]> 2018-09-23 18:29:49 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/284780580 Dear My Blank: Secret Letters Never Sent kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/284780604 Author: Emily Trunko
Genre: Nonfiction (letters)
Review: Based off of a Tumblr, Dear My Blank is a book of letters that real people wrote, but never sent for whatever reason. The book has different sections, like loss, heartbreak, and friends.]]> 2018-09-23 18:30:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/284780604 The Last Message Received kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/284780772 Author: Emily Trunko
Genre: Nonfiction (text messages)
Review: An eye-opening and true book about how fickle life can be, The Last Message Received will break your heart, but build it back up again. This is a book of the last text messages that people ever received from someone who left their life, whether due to heartbreak, drama, separation, or loss.]]> 2018-09-23 18:31:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/284780772 The Land of Stories: Beyond the Kingdoms (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786671 Author: Chris Colfer
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I loved the incorporation of other classic characters within this book as Conner and Alex travel to literary worlds of Peter Pan and The Wizard of Oz in order to stop the Masked Man, whose true identity is revealed.]]> 2018-10-28 18:35:57 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786671 The Martian kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786697 Author: Andy Weir
Genre: Science Fiction
Review: I did not want this book to end because I loved it so much. A favorite for sure! I love a good story about survival, and this book is survival at its best.]]> 2018-10-28 18:36:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786697 The Sacrifice kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786716 Author: Kathleen Benner Duble
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I wanted this to be scary, but it was more just sad! It tells some stories of the Salem Witch Trials, and I did like it. It just wasn't what I expected.]]> 2018-10-28 18:36:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786716 The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786757 Author: Mark Haddon
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Review: This immediately became a favorite. I found it similar to Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close, but I liked this one more. Will the murder of the neighbor's dog be solved? Or is there more to this than originally thought? The voice in this novel is so unique and specific, it makes so that you can't put it down!]]> 2018-10-28 18:36:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786757 Girl, Stolen kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786772 Author: April Henry
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Review: I couldn't put this thriller down. I had to know how a blind girl was going to escape an unintentional kidnapping with one of the most unlikely of criminals: a teenager not too different from her.]]> 2018-10-28 18:36:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786772 Deep and Dark and Dangerous kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786828 Author: Mary Downing Hahn
Genre: Horror, Fantasy
Review: Although I did enjoy reading this one, I found it predictable and not as creepy as I wanted it to be. A summer at a reclusive cabin by the shore of a lake proves to be more menacing than originally thought.]]> 2018-10-28 18:37:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297786828 The Strange Case of Origami Yoda kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297787764 Author: Tom Angleberger
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This is an adorable book for fans of Star Wars. Join Tommy as he tries to figure out if the mysterious talking finger puppet Origami Yoda truly has magical powers or if Dwight (the creator of Origami Yoda) is just pulling everyone's leg.]]> 2018-10-28 18:44:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297787764 I Will Always Write Back kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297789718 Author: Caitlin Alifirenka and Martin Ganda with Liz Welch
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: This book made me cry happy tears for my hope in humanity. The relationship between pen pals Caitlin and Martin proves that there are still good people out there after all.]]> 2018-10-28 18:58:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/297789718 Wait Till Helen Comes kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300771968 Author: Mary Downing Hahn
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: This is my favorite story that I have read from Hahn. It is just the right level of spooky with hints of possession, a burnt down house next to a dark lake, a haunted cemetery, and a broken family that is trying desperately to become whole.]]> 2018-11-05 23:19:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300771968 All the Lovely Bad Ones kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772031 Author: Mary Downing Hahn
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: This began with an eerie and spooky feel that I loved, but then the ghosts showed up too often, making them less threatening. I still enjoyed how Hahn wrapped up this story about siblings Travis and Corey and their summer at a haunted inn.]]> 2018-11-05 23:19:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772031 Milk and Honey kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772052 Author: Rupi Kaur
Genre: Poetry
Review: Every woman should read this book of poems about the journey of falling in love and the inevitable heartbreak that follows. Kaur's writing is brutally honest in a way that really makes you pay attention to every metaphor, reference, and truth.]]> 2018-11-05 23:19:46 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772052 The Sun and Her Flowers kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772068 Author: Rupi Kaur
Genre: Poetry
Review: This is a lovely collection of poems about the bond between a mother and her child, being a woman, finding and losing love, and more.]]> 2018-11-05 23:19:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772068 The Boys Who Challenged Hitler kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772841 Author: Phillip Hoose
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: The fact that all the stories told in this book are true just makes it that much more exciting and lovely to read. I cheered on Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club as they caused general havoc for Hitler and the Nazis all while hoping for the safety and rooting for their success.]]> 2018-11-05 23:24:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300772841 Maus kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773278 Author: Art Spiegelman
Genre: Graphic Novel, Historical Fiction, Nonfiction
Review: This is such a unique representation of the horrors of the Holocaust.]]> 2018-11-05 23:27:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773278 Life of Pi kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773423 Author: Yann Martel
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This is one of my favorite books, and it is way better than the movie!]]> 2018-11-05 23:28:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773423 Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773627 Author: Jonathan Safran Foer
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Review: I found this book incredibly intriguing the second time I attempted reading it but couldn't get into on my first try. ]]> 2018-11-05 23:30:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773627 A Lesson Before Dying kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773764 Author: Ernest J. Gaines
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I need to give this a re-read, but I remember liking it when I read it in high school.]]> 2018-11-05 23:31:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300773764 Inside Out and Back Again kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300774007 Author: Thanha Lai
Genre: Historical Fiction, Poetry
Review: This is beautifully written! I had to go back and re-read at some points, but I really liked it.]]> 2018-11-05 23:32:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300774007 I Capture the Castle kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300774501 Author: Dodie Smith
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: This one is cute and great! Follow Cassandra as she "captures" an old, rundown castle by writing about it in her journal.]]> 2018-11-05 23:35:37 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300774501 Hatchet kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300774901 Author: Gary Paulsen
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This is such a good and captivating read! Brian is stranded in the woods and must fight to survive.]]> 2018-11-05 23:38:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300774901 Island of the Blue Dolphins kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775085 Author: Scott O'Dell
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: It's like the female version of Hatchet! Katana must survive on a deserted island.]]> 2018-11-05 23:39:29 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775085 Animal Farm kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775120 Author: George Orwell
Genre: Dystopian
Review: This is a classic that lives up to the hype!]]> 2018-11-05 23:39:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775120 The Westing Game kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775590 Author: Ellen Raskin
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: While I did enjoy the suspense, I got confused with the many characters.]]> 2018-11-05 23:42:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775590 Howl's Moving Castle kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775612 Author: Diana Wynne Jones
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This book is so cute although it is very different from the Studio Ghibli movie I have grown to love.]]> 2018-11-05 23:42:46 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300775612 The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300776060 Author: Sherman Alexie
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I love this coming-of-age story!]]> 2018-11-05 23:45:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300776060 The Boy in the Striped Pajamas kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300776358 Author: John Boyne
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Although this book ripped my heart out, I just loved it. It focuses on the Holocaust.]]> 2018-11-05 23:47:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300776358 Orbiting Jupiter kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300776960 Author: Gary D. Schmidt
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I couldn't get enough of this book about a young man separated from his daughter. It’s one of my favorites. I just re-read it, so I could use it as a read aloud for my distance classes. When Joseph is fostered on a farm, he embarks on a quest to be reunited with Jupiter.]]> 2018-11-05 23:50:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300776960 The War that Saved my Life kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300777114 Author: Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I loved this cute story of a young girl with a clubfoot during WWII.]]> 2018-11-05 23:52:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/300777114 The Tales of Beedle the Bard kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301107025 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: If you love Harry Potter, you'll love these children's stories from the wizarding world.]]> 2018-11-06 17:15:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301107025 The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Series: The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301851522 Author: Ann Brashares
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Fantasy
Review: I loved these books in high school!]]> 2018-11-08 00:36:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301851522 The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Series: The Second Summer of the Sisterhood (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301852046 Author: Ann Brashares
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Fantasy
Review: I remember really liking this one.]]> 2018-11-08 00:38:57 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301852046 The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Series: Girls in Pants (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301852399 Author: Ann Brashares
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Fantasy
Review: This one wasn't my favorite.]]> 2018-11-08 00:40:45 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301852399 The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants Series: (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301852609 Author: Ann Brashares
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Fantasy
Review: I think she wrapped up the story well.]]> 2018-11-08 00:41:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/301852609 The Land of Stories: An Author's Odyssey (Book 5) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/304575096 Author: Chris Colfer
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I really liked this one. Conner and Alex travel into Conner's short stories to recruit a literary army to oppose the Masked Man.]]> 2018-11-14 22:18:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/304575096 Wintergirls kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/305050227 Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Genre: Realistic Fictio
Review: I absolutely could not put this book down. I read it within 24 hours on a snow day. Lia and Cassie have been friends forever, competing in a dangerous bet of who can be the skinniest until Cassie goes too far. When Cassie dies, Lia is left to face her demons (and Cassie's threatening ghost) alone. ]]> 2018-11-15 21:58:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/305050227 Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309258757 Author: Matthew Quick
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I'm a big fan of Matthew Quick's writing style. He has a way of developing truly believable and complex characters that you can't help but care for and root on. Forgive Me, Leonard Peacock is raw and real. You will have to keep reading until the end.]]> 2018-11-29 13:28:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309258757 The Land of Stories: Worlds Collide (Book 6) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309258900 Author: Chris Colfer
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This was the best book in the series. I like that it focused so much on Conner. Action was packed into every page!]]> 2018-11-29 13:28:26 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309258900 We Were Liars kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309258993 Author: E. Lockhart
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Mystery
Review: I absolutely adored this book, and I just could not put it down. It’s one of my favorite books! When Cadence returns to the private island where her rich family stays during the summer, she is forced to face the mistakes of her past. ]]> 2018-11-29 13:28:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309258993 When I Was the Greatest kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309259075 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I loved this story about Ali, a budding boxer, who befriends Noodles and Needles, the boys next door. This book was exciting and kept me reading. I couldn't wait to see how Ali's story would unfold.]]> 2018-11-29 13:28:45 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/309259075 House Arrest kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/312409074 Author: K.A. Holt
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: This novel in verse is actually the court-ordered journal of Timothy, who stole a wallet to land himself in house arrest. However, Timothy only stole the wallet to buy medicine for his little brother Levi, who is very sick. Even though this book was sad at times, I really enjoyed it!]]> 2018-12-07 20:21:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/312409074 What Light kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315835816 Author: Jay Asher
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This is a cute love story about Sierra who spends most of her year in Oregon where her family has a Christmas tree farm. However, every year Sierra and her family pack up the farm and move to California for a month to sell their trees. This year is different when Sierra meets Caleb, who she falls for even after hearing some disturbing rumors. I really enjoyed reading it around the holiday!]]> 2018-12-19 12:40:13 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315835816 Twilight kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315840110 Author: Stephenie Meyer
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: I read this in high school, and I liked it okay. I just wanted more action, but it was all about the romance.]]> 2018-12-19 12:58:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315840110 New Moon kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315840755 Author: Stephenie Meyer
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: This one was a little better than the first book. I liked the added element of the wolves.]]> 2018-12-19 13:01:42 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315840755 Eclipse kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315841127 Author: Stephenie Meyer
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: I think I liked this one best in the series, but I still didn't like it very much. Once again, the book focuses only on the romance and not the action or cool vampire things.]]> 2018-12-19 13:03:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315841127 Breaking Dawn kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315841463 Author: Stephenie Meyer
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: This is my least favorite book in the series. I hate the way this story ends. It's anticlimactic and doesn't really make sense either.]]> 2018-12-19 13:04:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/315841463 The Girl Who Drank the Moon kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/316698749 Author: Kelly Barnhill
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I am ALL about this book - so, so magical and one-of-a-kind and heartwarming and immersive. If you like Harry Potter, you'll love this enchanting tale of a sorrowful village, a mysterious witch, and a young girl who is accidentally "enmagicked." A favorite!]]> 2018-12-26 19:14:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/316698749 MaddAddam Series: Oryx and Crake (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/316699026 Author: Margaret Atwood
Genre: Dystopian, Romance, Science Fiction
Review: Go back and forth between the past stories of Jimmy and the current ones from Snowman, Jimmy’s new pseudonym for the apocalyptic world he now resides in. As a boy, Jimmy befriended Crake, an absolute genius who took much interest in the state of society and humankind. Later on, when Crake’s vision for the world goes too far, Jimmy is left alone as possibly the last man on earth alongside the Crakers, a new and perfected human-like species developed and created by Crake. Can Snowman survive to watch after the Crakers and is it even worth it? I can’t wait to read the next two books in this series!]]> 2018-12-26 19:20:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/316699026 To Catch a Killer kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/317115976 Author: Sheryl Scarborough
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This was a great mystery for young adults since it demonstrates how much young people can do. I liked this one even though I predicted the identity of the killer very early in the story. To Catch a Killer is all about Erin Blake, whose mother was killed when she was only 2. After the murder of her biology teacher, Erin believes her mother’s killer is at it again. Can she solve the mystery before he comes for her?]]> 2019-01-02 19:42:32 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/317115976 Refugee kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/317692780 Author: Alan Gratz
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Alan Gratz does it again with this phenomenal book! It’s one of my favorites. Three different stories of refugees connect in the end in an unexpected way: Josef aboard the MS St. Louis escaping Nazi Germany, Isabel braving the ocean to get far from Castro’s Cuba, and lastly Mahmoud on the run from Syria’s civil war in Aleppo. Although their stories span countries and decades, they all hope for a better life. ]]> 2019-01-06 20:06:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/317692780 MaddAddam Series: The Year of the Flood (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/319990288 Author: Margaret Atwood
Genre: Dystopian
Review: The sequel to Oryx and Crake follows two new characters, Toby and Ren, who both have connections to Jimmy. I really loved this one! ]]> 2019-01-12 22:44:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/319990288 MaddAddam Series: MaddAddam (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/324316866 Author: Margaret Atwood
Genre: Dystopian, Romance
Review: Atwood ends this story beautifully although cryptically as is her fashion. I just loved this trilogy. It made me think about where this world is headed and how it can be better - a perfect dystopia for our age. ]]> 2019-01-25 14:08:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/324316866 Simon vs. the Homosapiens Agenda kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/324723998 Author: Becky Albertalli
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This book reminded me a lot of The Perks of Being a Wallflower, and I really enjoyed reading it! Simon has a private email relationship with a boy at his school whom he calls Blue, but their secrecy is suddenly threatened. ]]> 2019-01-27 20:17:21 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/324723998 To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/325668185 Author: Jenny Han
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: Now that I've finished this cute love story I need to watch the movie on Netflix. I enjoyed reading about Lara Jean during her junior year of high school after her love letters are blasted out to the boys she has loved before, somehow landing her in a fake relationship with the most popular boy in school and also her first kiss.]]> 2019-01-30 00:57:27 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/325668185 Bridge to Terabithia kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/327263438 Author: Katherine Paterson
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I can definitely see why Paterson's story of the friendship between Jess and Leslie is a classic. Although this is a sad story, it is a beautiful one about how important friendship and imagination are.]]> 2019-02-04 12:56:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/327263438 Number the Stars kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/328717382 Author: Lois Lowry
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: This is a great and quick read about the Danish resistance during the Holocaust. Annemarie and her family hide Ellen, whom is Jewish, from the Nazis and try to smuggle her and her family out of the Nazi-occupied Denmark to safety in Sweden. ]]> 2019-02-07 13:44:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/328717382 Because of Winn-Dixie kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/329677515 Author: Kate DiCamillo
Genre: Realistic Fiction 
Review: I’m glad I finally got around to reading this classic about a girl, India, who goes to the store one day and comes home with a dog. Winn-Dixie helps India make friends in her new town and bring her father out of the shell he’s been in since her mother left them both. ]]> 2019-02-10 23:32:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/329677515 The Magic Misfits kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/329678121 Author: Neil Patrick Harris
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: This first book in NPH’s magic-filled series is definitely reminiscent of Lemony Snicket’s Series of Unfortunate Events, so of course I loved it. It focuses on Carter, who escapes his villainous Uncle Sly only to encounter the con artist B.B. Bosso and his carnies. Luckily, Carter finds unlikely friends with magical talents like him to help face the villain. ]]> 2019-02-10 23:35:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/329678121 Where the Red Fern Grows kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/331017456 Author: Wilson Rawls
Genre: Realistic Ficition
Review: I read this book in middle or high school I think, and I've seen the movie. It is such a good story about how meaningful dogs can be.]]> 2019-02-13 19:55:18 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/331017456 Every Day kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/332014478 Author: David Levithan
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: I absolutely could not put this book down and finished in under 48 hours. It’s one of my favorites. A wakes up in a new body every day. It is how life has always been, but things change when A falls in love with Rhiannon. ]]> 2019-02-16 16:42:10 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/332014478 Fairest of All kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/332041051 Author: Serena Valentino
Genre: Fairy Tale
Review: I liked the unique and wicked twist on the classic Snow White story. In this book, you get to see how Snow White’s step-mother became the evil Queen most people know her as, who is willing to kill her step-daughter to be the fairest of all. ]]> 2019-02-16 21:16:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/332041051 Another Day kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/332963170 Author: David Levithan
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: Although this book follows the same story as Every Day, I was still captivated by Rhiannon’s side of the story. Her perspective adds more to the love between her and A. I can’t wait to read Some Day. ]]> 2019-02-19 22:30:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/332963170 Poor Unfortunate Soul kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/334392938 Author: Serena Valentino
Genre: Fairy Tale
Review: I love the idea of telling the villain’s side of the story, and Ursula from The Little Mermaid has a dark past that is overlooked. In this series, a common thread unites all the villains. ]]> 2019-02-23 04:19:20 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/334392938 The Beast Within kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/334516987 Author: Serena Valentino
Genre: Fairy Tale
Review: Read about the Beast’s side of the story and how he came to be cursed in this twist on the classic Beauty and the Beast story. I enjoyed reading this continuation of the story of the three witches began in Fairest of All. ]]> 2019-02-24 04:16:33 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/334516987 Mistress of All Evil kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/338687732 Author: Serena Valentino
Genre: Fairy Tale
Review: This dark twist on the classic tale of Sleeping Beauty tells Maleficent’s side of the story. I like how this series connects all the fairy tales we know well through a common influence on all the villains. ]]> 2019-03-07 02:17:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/338687732 Some Day kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/341575722 Author: David Levithan
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I'm obsessed with this series because of the love story between A and Rhiannon. It is such a one-of-a-kind read, and you won't regret giving the series a try because it will draw you in to where you just can't stop reading. Levithan has such a great way of portraying what humans go through.]]> 2019-03-14 23:56:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/341575722 13 Reasons Why kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/343757800 Author: Jay Asher
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I’m not going to lie. I really didn’t think I’d like this book. I was worried about how it would handle such a sensitive a topic, a topic that has affected many: suicide. However, I was absolutely captivated by Clay’s reactions to Hannah’s death as well as Hannah’s story and voice on the tapes she left for the 13 she blamed for her early death. ]]> 2019-03-21 13:05:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/343757800 A Thousand Splendid Suns kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/344978128 Author: Khaled Hosseini
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Hosseini has such a beautiful storytelling ability. I held this book to the same esteem as The Kite Runner, and I was not disappointed. It spans over decades of a wartorn  Afghanistan as the unique stories of two women, Mariam and Laila, intertwine irrevocably. It’s one of my favorite books!]]> 2019-03-25 18:49:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/344978128 The Woman in Cabin 10 kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/346691098 Author: Ruth Ware
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: This book kept popping up as a recommendation on my Pinterest, so I decided to give it a try even though I knew nothing about it. I’m so glad I read this book on a whim. What an excellent thriller! Follow Lo as she goes from being burgled to boarding a luxurious yacht with a mystery or two to be revealed. ]]> 2019-03-29 19:44:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/346691098 P.S. I Still Love You kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/346903516 Author: Jenny Han
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: The second book in the series about Lara Jean and Peter is just as good as the first, if not better! ]]> 2019-03-31 15:39:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/346903516 Always and Forever, Lara Jean kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/350328173 Author: Jenny Han
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: I enjoyed this book because of all the romance even though it was a tad predictable.]]> 2019-04-10 12:57:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/350328173 Before I Fall kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/351994014 Author: Lauren Oliver
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: I couldn’t put down this book about the popular high schooler Sam Kingston and her last day alive. Although, it’s really her last day seven times over as she tries to figure out why she keeps repeating the day of her death. It’s a favorite!]]> 2019-04-16 14:48:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/351994014 You kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/354628698 Author: Caroline Kepnes
Genre: Horror, Realistic Fiction
Review: This was a creepy and unique read from a stalker’s point of view. I've never rooted against a main character more, and I loved it!]]> 2019-04-27 01:18:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/354628698 Shiloh kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/355202264 Author: Phyllis Reynolds Naylor
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I loved this book about a boy and his dog when I read it in middle school. I'm pretty sure I read it multiple times.]]> 2019-04-29 20:26:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/355202264 Devils Unto Dust kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/356995961 Author: Emma Berquist
Genre: Dystopian, Fantasy, Horror
Review: When Willie has to go find her deadbeat dad after cruel men put a bounty on his head for stealing from them, she must cross the desolate desert which is ridden with zombie-like people called shakes. With the help of two shake-hunters, Willie must fight through dust storms and monsters if she wants to protect her family. This book was easy to read and kept me interested the whole time. It even threw a couple of twists at me that I could never have predicted. Even though I loved the story, the author's editor was not great. This tense story was unfortunately full of typos and mistakes. ]]> 2019-05-05 22:56:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/356995961 I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/360793042 Author: Maya Angelou
Genre: Autobiography
Review: I absolutely loved reading about Angelou’s earlier life in this autobiography. She writes in a beautiful way about both the tragic and uplifting events she encountered. It’s one of my favorite books!]]> 2019-05-16 14:00:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/360793042 The Girl in the Locked Room kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/365000997 Author: Mary Downing Hahn
Genre: Horror
Review: This is another typical Hahn novel, and I enjoyed it. It’s about a girl whose spirit remains trapped in a room and Jules, who must try to save her. ]]> 2019-06-01 00:23:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/365000997 Hidden Bodies kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/365001184 Author: Caroline Kepnes
Genre: Horror, Realistic Fiction
Review: I loved this sequel to You, where you can’t help but root against the main character. I wanted horrible things to happen to Joe Goldberg! Yet at the same time I was rooting him on? ]]> 2019-06-01 00:26:27 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/365001184 The Thing About Jellyfish kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/366443079 Author: Ali Benjamin
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This was kind of a cross between So B. It and Wonder, and I loved reading it. After her best friend dies drowning, Suzy cannot except the truth of it and hopes to prove that Franny died from a jellyfish sting. But even if Suzy can prove this, it won’t bring Franny back or make up for the way things ended between the two friends. ]]> 2019-06-07 23:35:32 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/366443079 Pretend She’s Here kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/366579076 Author: Luanne Rice
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: I really liked this twist on the mystery genre. When Emily’s best friend dies from cancer, her life is changed permanently. She mourns the loss of Lizzie and tries to move on until she is kidnapped my Lizzie’s grieving parents, who hope that Emily can fill the void left my Lizzie’s absence in the cruelest and sickest way imaginable. ]]> 2019-06-09 18:37:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/366579076 Grenade kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/367613570 Author: Alan Gratz
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I’ve read several books by Alan Gratz, and I have loved each of them. Gratz is a master of historical fiction, and it is evident in Grenade. The book begins with two perspectives: Ray, a young American soldier, and Hideki, a young Okinawan civilian both thrown into the battle between America and Japan. As the battle lines draw closer and closer on the island, both Ray and Hideki see the many horrors of war. Everything leads up to when the boys meet and must decide what to do in one terrifying moment. ]]> 2019-06-14 14:26:45 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/367613570 The Girl on the Train kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/367954979 Author: Paula Hawkins
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: I’m a huge fan of the mystery genre, and this book was an excellent example of how good it can be. In this page-turner, you’ll read from multiple perspectives and time periods, but it mostly focuses on Rachel, who is still getting over her divorce from Tom 2 years ago. Every week day, she passes his house on the train as she goes into London. She also passes the house down the street, where an ideal couple lives that she has lovingly dubbed Jason and Jess. Even though she doesn’t know them, Rachel feels a strong connection to the couple and the stories that she’s made up about them... until one day on the train she sees something that changes her view of the couple entirely and her life as she knows it. ]]> 2019-06-17 16:44:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/367954979 Different Seasons kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/368552040 Author: Stephen King
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Four separate novellas make up this book, each with different subtitles to connect them. First is Rita Hayworth and the Shawshank Redemption (Hope Springs Eternal), which was my second favorite story. It follows the escape of a prisoner, and who doesn't love the movie version? Second is Apt Pupil (Summer of Corruption), which was my least favorite story in the book even though I still enjoyed some aspects of it. It tells the story of a young boy who becomes fascinated with a neighbor that he figures out was a Nazi. Third is The Body (Fall From Innocence), which was my favorite story. It inspired the movie Stand by Me, and joins four boys on their journey to see a dead body. The last story is The Breathing Method (A Winter's Tale), which tells the story of a woman's untimely death from the perspective of her obstetrician whom taught her about the Lamaze method. This book was my first encounter with King, and I can definitely see why he is such a famous writer. His stories have a way of enthralling you and sweeping you away.]]> 2019-06-20 21:17:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/368552040 Harry Potter and the Cursed Child kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/369761015 Author: J.K. Rowling, John Tiffany, and John Thorne
Genre: Fantasy, Theatre
Review: I loved getting a chance to enter the world of Harry Potter yet again, even if it is many years later, and Harry is now all grown up with children of his own. His disconnection with his youngest son is the subject of this story.]]> 2019-07-01 01:35:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/369761015 Breakfast of Champions kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/369858287 Author: Kurt Vonnegut
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This satire was so different from what I usually read, and I’m glad I branched out in this case. Vonnegut is an absolutely hilarious and creative writer, and his critique of America is no exception. In this book, everything centers around a meeting between two of Vonnegut’s characters where one will be driven crazy. ]]> 2019-07-01 19:31:20 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/369858287 Desperate Characters kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/371364251 Author: Paula Fox
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I decided to read this one after it was referenced in another book I read: You. It was an incredibly brief but meaningful story about two married people, Sophie and Otto, while also commenting on American society. ]]> 2019-07-16 23:29:14 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/371364251 1984 kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/371364367 Author: George Orwell
Genre: Dystopian
Review: While I’m glad to have read this classic, I can’t say that I particularly liked it. I definitely appreciated it. I certainly see why it’s a classic that should be read (especially in today’s society), but it’s just so depressing! I wanted rebellion and courage and sacrifice, but instead I was met with gloom and hopelessness. All that said, I am happy that I read this archetypal dystopian since it has had such a great influence on the novels coming after it. ]]> 2019-07-16 23:30:45 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/371364367 Educated kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/372399249 Author: Tara Westover
Genre: Memoir
Review: I really loved this book, and I’m so glad I read it! This true story about how a girl from a conservative Mormon family, with no belief in hospitals or public schools, made it to college, despite never receiving a formal education, blew me away. The details about her family made me outraged! How could they treat her like that? But, in the end, I was just impressed with what Tara was able to overcome and accomplish. This book shows the true importance behind education. It’s one of my favorites!]]> 2019-07-26 16:34:27 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/372399249 Post Office kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/372954628 Author: Charles Bukowski
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This is the first book I’ve read of Bukowski’s. It’s about Henry Chinaski and the dark and hilarious side of a post office in the 1970s. ]]> 2019-08-01 14:45:40 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/372954628 Everything, Everything kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/374426650 Author: Nicola Yoon
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: This was such a quick-moving and heart-wrenching story about Maddy, a girl who is secluded inside her home because of a life threatening illness, and Olly, the boy who moves in next door. ]]> 2019-08-14 01:09:51 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/374426650 Divergent kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/374427603 Author: Veronica Roth
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: I’m glad I decided to check out this series! I love a book with a strong and brave female main character. In this dystopian world, people are divided into 5 factions. The Candor faction values honesty. The Amity faction values kindness. The Erudite faction values knowledge. The Dauntless faction values courage. Tris is a part of Abnegation, a faction that values selflessness, and she has always felt that she didn’t belong. Luckily, a day will come where she will have the opportunity to change her faction. Where will she go? And more importantly, where is society headed?]]> 2019-08-14 01:17:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/374427603 A Hope More Powerful than the Sea kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/376203040 Author: Melissa Fleming
Genre: Biography
Review: This true story about Doaa's life as a Syrian refugee is heartbreaking and moving. First, her family is forced to flee from Syria to Egypt. When Egypt becomes dangerous, she must cross the Mediterranean Sea in hopes of a new life in Europe. I learned a lot about the Syrian crisis from this book as well as what it's like to be refugee.]]> 2019-08-22 01:16:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/376203040 Stay Where You Are and then Leave kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382455218 Author: John Boyne
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: This book is by the same author as The Boy in the Striped Pajamas, but this story is set during the first world war. Alfie is faced with being the man of the house when his dad goes off to the war. His mom keeps telling him he's on a secret mission, but Alfie thinks something else must have happened. I really like historical fiction, so I enjoyed this. It has strong themes of family and standing up for what you believe in.]]> 2019-09-10 23:55:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382455218 The Reason I Jump kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382455665 Author: Naoki Higashida
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: In this question and answer series (along with some short stories), Naoki explains what it is like for him living with autism at the age of thirteen. I'm really glad I read this one because it was so insightful and moving. A look inside Naoki's life was eye-opening to the great value every single person has.]]> 2019-09-10 23:57:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382455665 Insurgent kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382456204 Author: Veronica Roth
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: The sequel to Divergent was even better! I really liked it. Tris is torn apart by grief but must soldier on as an integral part of the rebellion. ]]> 2019-09-11 00:00:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382456204 The Absolute Value of Mike kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382458757 Author: Kathryn Erskine
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: The middle school I work at chose this book as the novel for the whole school to read together. It's about Mike, who is the son of a genius mathematician, but Mike isn't very good at math himself. He is weighed down by the heavy expectations of his father as he is sent to spend the summer with Moo and Poppy, two eccentric and elderly relatives. Mike soon realizes that he may not be a great mathematician like his dad, but he is very good at something else, something that will bring the whole town together.]]> 2019-09-11 00:13:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/382458757 The War I Finally Won kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/384033818 Author: Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I loved reading more about Ada, Jamie, and their guardian Susan in the sequel to The War that Saved my Life. The second story, also during WWII in England, is just as good as the first if not better. ]]> 2019-09-14 00:43:21 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/384033818 Allegiant kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/387664429 Author: Veronica Roth
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: Many others that I spoke to about this series said that they hated the last book and the way it all ends. I disagree! The end was shocking and not at all what I expected, but that's why I liked it. I loved this series from start to end. If you love the dystopian genre like I do, you'll enjoy it too! There's action, romance, twists and turns, and it keeps you interested and guessing the whole time. ]]> 2019-09-22 00:38:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/387664429 Variant kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/394101834 Author: Robison Wells
Genre: Dystopian, Horror, Science Fiction
Review: After a student recommended this book to me, I was excited to start reading it! Benson has never stayed anywhere long, jumping from one foster care home to another. That is, until he ends up at Maxfield Academy - a school with no teachers, only students... as well as many security cameras and plenty of secrets. What is the point of this bizarre and dangerous school where detention means death and hope for freedom is all but lost upon the jaded students that have been there for years?]]> 2019-10-06 13:20:09 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/394101834 Emergency Contact kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/394102469 Author: Mary H.K. Choi
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: A student recommended this unconventional romance novel to me, and I'm so glad she did! I really couldn't get enough of the story between Penny and Sam. Their narratives made me giggle and swoon due to Choi's unique and delightful writing style. It’s now one of my favorites!]]> 2019-10-06 13:24:52 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/394102469 Four kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/400047650 Author: Veronica Roth
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: I really liked getting to know the past of my favorite character from the Divergent series. It made his choices so much more clear and answered many questions. I love the original series, and the companion novel was no exception.]]> 2019-10-20 21:56:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/400047650 Feedback kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/400047968 Author: Robison Wells
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: I definitely enjoyed the sequel to Variant, but not nearly as much as the original. It still had the same creepy and thrilling feel, but without the mystery! I wasn't a big fan of how it ended.]]> 2019-10-20 21:59:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/400047968 Hocus Pocus (& The All-New Sequel) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/403826301 Author: A.W. Jantha
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: Growing up, I loved watching the movie Hocus Pocus. It’s always been a favorite. So of course, I also enjoyed reading the story. I also couldn’t get enough of the sequel featuring Poppy, the daughter of Max and Alison; Travis, Poppy’s best friend; Katie, Poppy’s rival; and Isabella, Poppy’s crush. When the Sanderson sisters return in 2018, it’s up to them to stop the evil witches from taking over Salem. The sequel had all the fun of the original but with an updated, diverse flair. ]]> 2019-10-29 12:58:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/403826301 My Favorite Stories of All Time (kind of in order) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/403827813 - Outlander (series)
- Harry Potter (series)
- The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings (series)
- The Pillars of the Earth (series)
- Game of Thrones (series)
- The Perks of Being a Wallflower
- Running with Scissors
- Life of Pi
- Going Bovine
- The Kite Runner
- Where the Crawdads Sing
- Silver Linings Playbook
- House of Leaves
- The Martian
- The Great Alone
- The Handmaid's Tale
- Fahrenheit 451
- Memoirs of a Geisha
- A Thousand Splendid Suns
- Every Day (series)
- The Girl who Drank the Moon
- We Were Liars
- Orbiting Jupiter]]> 2019-10-29 13:00:58 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/403827813 Love & Leftovers kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/406004744 Author: Sara Tregay
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: I really like when a novel is in verse for a purpose! Here, Marcie writes poems in a blue spiral notebook to tell her story. Her parents are getting divorced, and she’s forced to move to New Hampshire away from her boyfriend, Linus, and her group of friends, the leftovers. This book makes so much sense as a novel in verse, and I couldn’t picture it any other way. I also couldn’t put it down! I love a good romance. ]]> 2019-11-04 00:20:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/406004744 Dry kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/406836932 Author: Neal Shusterman, Jarrod Shusterman
Genre: Dystopian, Realistic Fiction
Review: A friend recommended Dry to me, and I'm glad she did. This book was gripping, raw, and intense! And it's YA! I couldn't put it down! All the taps goes dry in Southern California, so Alyssa finds herself dependent upon her strange, dooms-day-prepping neighbor Kelton. The story shows what terrible things can happen when society collapses due to a complete absence of water, when everyone goes into survival mode, when it's suddenly do or die.]]> 2019-11-05 13:56:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/406836932 As Brave As You kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/412415129 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Reynolds is such a talented writer, and I really like what I've read from him so far. As Brave as You was a simple yet captivating story about two boys from Brooklyn, Genie and Ernie, who go to spend a month during the summer with their grandparents in Virginia.]]> 2019-11-17 19:53:35 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/412415129 The Watcher kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/416252673 Author: Joan Hiatt Harlow
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: It took me a little while to get into this book, but eventually I really did enjoy it! I think it's mainly because this book is a spinoff of Shadows on the Sea, which I haven't read. You don't really need to read that book to understand this one though because it's a secondary character's story who was just partially in the other one. It tells Wendy's story as she is moved to Germany with a woman that she always thought was just her aunt. Wendy has to figure out how to survive in Nazi Germany without revealing her dislike of Hitler and his regime.]]> 2019-11-25 16:40:26 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/416252673 The 5th Wave kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/418640894 Author: Rick Yancey
Genre: Horror, Science Fiction
Review: Since I'm such a fan of survival stories where characters are set up against the odds, of course I enjoyed reading The 5th Wave. I liked that there were different perspectives which eventually all intertwined. I liked that Cassie, the main character, was headstrong yet doubtful, determined yet frightened. She seemed real. I'm glad I decided to check out the series, and I definitely loved the first installment.]]> 2019-12-02 18:14:33 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/418640894 The Infinite Sea kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/427161341 Author: Rick Yancey
Genre: Horror, Science Fiction
Review: The second book in The 5th Wave series did not disappoint. After important secrets are revealed, the story takes a turn for the unusual. It started out as a typical alien invasion story, but Yancey had much more planned than just that. His story is complex, and it keeps you guessing and wondering. More than that, it keeps you reading until the book's end.]]> 2019-12-31 15:38:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/427161341 The Last Star kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/427161367 Author: Rick Yancey
Genre: Horror, Science Fiction
Review: Yancey wraps up his epic story in a very satisfactory way. I love shocking endings that are not typical, so I definitely loved how this one came to an end. I may need to check out other Yancey novels. He is a very gifted writer, in that, his words are beautiful and poetic, but he also knows how to keep his readers interested with complex and real characters trying to reach seemingly impossible goals. The novels definitely beg the question: what does it mean to be human? ]]> 2019-12-31 15:39:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/427161367 One Flew Over the Cuckoo's Nest kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/427161466 Author: Ken Kesey
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I was given this book for Christmas because I wanted to read it before watching the movie, and it was the first book that I finished in 2020. This is such a great story and so sad! I was very much captivated by the dynamic presence of McMurphy as he opposes the head nurse (Miss Ratched) in a mental ward, especially since it is told from a "Chronic's" perspective. Chief Bromden has been at the ward a long time, all while refusing to speak. The staff, other "Chronics," and the "Acutes" all believe him to be deaf and dumb. But if anyone can coax a word out of the stoic Chief, it is the indomitable McMurphy as he tries to get the men on the ward to stand up for themselves and truly laugh, and live, again.]]> 2019-12-31 15:41:52 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/427161466 The Seventh Most Important Thing kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/428069169 Author: Shelley Pearsall
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: The Seventh Most Important Thing is set in the 1960s when Arthur Owens gets in trouble with the law after throwing a brick at the Junk Man who collects trash on his street. in Washington D.C. As punishment for his crime, Arthur must work for the Junk Man, James Hampton, collecting trash on 7th Street. But, what does Mr. Hampton need all this junk for? Based loosely on a true event, this story makes you look at the things that are truly important in life.]]> 2020-01-06 18:12:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/428069169 Irena's Children (Young Readers Edition) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/429122471 Author: Tilar J. Mazzeo and Mary Cronk Farrell
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Even though the true story in this novel was incredibly depressing, I really liked it. It's all about Irena and the many Jewish lives she saved in Germany-occupied Poland. She was truly an amazing woman!]]> 2020-01-08 18:58:42 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/429122471 The Pillars of the Earth Series: A Column of Fire (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/465042698 Author: Ken Follett
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: As much as I truly enjoyed the third installment in Follett's Kingsbridge series of historical fiction, it just didn't hold a candle to the first two - through no fault of it's own, by the way. It was an amazing epic about the religious wars in Europe between Catholics and Protestants, but it took place everywhere other than the town the readers know: Kingsbridge. On its own, the story was lovely, but I just don't see how it fits with the first two.]]> 2020-03-18 19:22:49 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/465042698 Outlander: Outlander (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/480756819 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: Even though I already knew what was going to happen because I’ve watched the show, I just couldn’t put Outlander down. Of course, the books are always better, and I definitely see this series making my top 30 favorite list. I loved reading about Claire and Jamie! This book follows Claire as she is whisked away from her own time period in the 1900s through mysterious stones in Scotland to the 1700s. She leaves her loving husband Frank behind only to find something altogether new and intense with the courageous and passionate Jamie Fraser (who I’m obsessed with, by the way). Twists and turn speckle this story throughout, always keeping you guessing (if you haven’t already watched the show and know what will happen), and it’s definitely worth the read even if you have watched the show. There’s more detail and nuances that just can’t fit into a TV show. ]]> 2020-03-29 17:39:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/480756819 I Heart You, You Haunt Me kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/497170761 Author: Lisa Schroeder
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: I read this quick novel in verse in one morning! It tells the sad but hopeful story of teenage Ava, whose boyfriend Jackson has just died tragically and inexplicably. Ava carries so much guilt over Jackson’s death that he appears to her as a ghost, haunting her dreams and making it difficult for her to move on. Many of my students have read this book, and I understand it’s popularity. I Heart You, You Haunt Me deals with a difficult topic beautifully and wraps you up in Ava’s story with ease and poise. ]]> 2020-04-07 16:23:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/497170761 The Night Circus kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/497180771 Author: Erin Morgenstern
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: At first, the jumping around in time between times and characters for each chapter was somewhat confusing for me, but I got the hang of it and really liked this story, which was incredibly immersive and magical. The storytelling was beautiful. It's about a circus that travels around in the late 1800s / early 1900s, appearing without any notice overnight. Unbeknownst to many, it is really the space in which two magicians compete against one another in an epic "game" of a lifetime. ]]> 2020-04-07 16:28:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/497180771 An American Marriage kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/527249964 Author: Tayari Jones
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: So much about this book made it difficult yet important to read. Together, Roy's, Andre's, and Celestial's tragic stories made me place my hand on my heart and grieve. I'd recommend this book to anyone who likes a romance with a bit of an edge to it.]]> 2020-04-24 01:53:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/527249964 Where the Crawdads Sing kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/557895038 Author: Delia Owens
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: New favorite book alert! This author has a magical way with words that can sweep any reader away into a completely new and unfamiliar world. I was enchanted by the story of Kya, known as the Marsh Girl because of her wild and isolated ways. Living on her own from a very young age, Kya is as much apart of the North Carolina marsh as the tides and the gulls. However, she is tempted to become apart of the modern world when loneliness creeps in and acceptance becomes her deepest desire. This new life only brings danger into Kya's life when she is accused of murder.]]> 2020-05-07 16:13:38 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/557895038 Outlander: Dragonfly in Amber (Book 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/557906839 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: Galbaldon certainly has a way with words, and her second book in the Outlander series is no exception. I enjoyed the extra details I gained from reading this book after having already watched the TV series, and it was fun to find differences in the how the story is told. I love this series!]]> 2020-05-07 16:17:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/557906839 Outlander: Voyager (Book 3) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/597053068 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: I really love this series, and I'm happy to be reading them along with watching the TV series. The love story between Claire and Jamie is timeless, but it's not the only thing that makes the tale so great. I'm a big fan of historical fiction and adventure, which the series has in troves.]]> 2020-05-27 14:25:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/597053068 Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Book 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/597932733 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I read this book first when I was 11, and I have read it many times since. I read it again in 2020 when I got my Kindle. It's about young Harry, also 11, finding out that he is a wizard. He goes to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, and he learns of his past and his future importance to the wizarding world. ]]> 2020-05-27 21:37:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/597932733 Outlander: Drums of Autumn (Book 4) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/660352859 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: Yet again, I was swept away to another time period on a journey I won't forget. I absolutely love this series (and the show). ]]> 2020-07-22 18:43:24 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/660352859 Outlander: The Fiery Cross (Book 5) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/682818689 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: I couldn't get enough of this fifth book in the series, even though it was drastically different from the show, which I had watched first. I can't help wondering why they made so many changes (for the show, I mean). I'm ready to move on to the sixth book! Maybe some of the events I saw in season five are actually from the sixth book.]]> 2020-08-17 14:36:18 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/682818689 Short Stories from Hogwarts: Of Heroism, Hardship, and Dangerous Hobbies kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762738465 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This was a cute, short read that gave me more info about one of my favorite stories of all time. I liked learning about Professor McGonagall.]]> 2020-09-21 02:01:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762738465 Short Stories from Hogwarts: Of Power, Politics, and Pesky Poltergeists kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762742394 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I loved this short and fun read about the Harry Potter world too! It was cool to know learn more about the Ministry of Magic.]]> 2020-09-21 02:04:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762742394 Hogwarts: An Incomplete and Unreliable Guide kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762746934 Author: J.K. Rowling
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I liked this one in the three-part series the most! I liked getting a chance to explore Hogwarts more!]]> 2020-09-21 02:06:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762746934 The Secret Life of Bees kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762753688 Author: Sue Monk Kidd
Genre: Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction
Review: You gotta love when friends let you borrow a book that comes highly recommended! My friend Rachel told me how great this story is, and I couldn’t wait to read it myself. Set during the height of the civil rights movement in South Carolina, Lily sets out to find out more about her deceased mother with her black nanny Rosaleen, who has her own reasons for getting away. They are taken in by the calendar sisters, beekeepers who may just know more about Lily’s mother than she originally thinks. ]]> 2020-09-21 02:11:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/762753688 One Crazy Summer kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/783068840 Author: Rita Williams-Garcia
Genre: Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction
Review: What an enjoyable read! Set during the civil rights movement, this story follows three sisters who live in New York with their grandparents. Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern can barely remember their mother who abandoned them, but now they’re on a flight to Oakland, California to spend part of the summer with her. I loved how this book handled serious and important topics but in a lighthearted and at the same time empowering way. ]]> 2020-09-28 01:51:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/783068840 Loving vs. Virginia kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/805261339 Author: Patricia Hruby Powell (Illustrated by Shadra Strickland)
Genre: Historical Fiction, Poetry
Review: There’s some serious content in this novel in verse about the Loving vs Virginia case, but the beginning love story is lighthearted and enjoyable. I liked that there was real historical facts and information interspersed throughout their journey to legalize interracial marriage. I really liked this one, and I would definitely recommend it!]]> 2020-10-06 01:49:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/805261339 Ban This Book kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/823073235 Author: Alan Gratz
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I enjoyed reading this story about Amy Anne and her Banned Book Locker Library right after banned books week. Although she’s quiet and often doesn’t say what’s on her mind, Amy Anne can’t help but speak up when her favorite book is banned from the library. ]]> 2020-10-12 23:08:45 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/823073235 The Other Mrs. kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/823085631 Author: Mary Kubica
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: I couldn’t put this mystery down! When Sadie and her family move to an island off the coast of Maine, one of their neighbors is murdered in her home, which puts everyone in the small community inti hysterics. ]]> 2020-10-12 23:18:32 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/823085631 The Heart of a Woman kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/823088009 Author: Maya Angelou
Genre: Autobiography
Review: Maya Angelou lived such an enthralling and unique life! While I enjoyed her first autobiography about her childhood more, I did love finding out where her adulthood took her: into MLK Jr.’s employ and Malcolm X’s office, for one. ]]> 2020-10-12 23:20:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/823088009 Behind Closed Doors kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/875077423 Author: B.A. Paris
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: Although I couldn’t wait to see how/if Grace escaped her terrifying and manipulative marriage, I found Jack too evil to really believe. His dialogue felt contrived and unrealistic. I like when villains have a different side to them instead of being full-on devils. However, I felt that Grace and Millie’s interesting character development made up for it. I loved Millie! Overall, I’m glad I read it!]]> 2020-10-29 22:35:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/875077423 The Great Alone kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/875091005 Author: Kristin Hannah
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I'm adding The Great Alone to my list of favorite stories of all time! I just loved reading this book, and I was so wrapped up in the journey of the larger-than-life characters. Leni's mom has always told her that her dad was different before the Vietnam War. Now, all Leni knows is his paranoia and violence. When they move to Alaska, Leni hopes for a new start and a different dad, but the harsh Alaskan winters prove to be too much. Even though the people in Alaska are caring and helpful and the community there is a strong one, it soon becomes clear that Leni and her family are on their own as the nights grow longer, and her father's mind slips away.]]> 2020-10-29 22:44:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/875091005 The Things They Carried kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/890718329 Author: Tim O'Brien
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Parts of this book are really going to stick with me. I liked how it was stories about the Vietnam War, while questioning what make a good story as well as what's really true.]]> 2020-11-04 16:42:36 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/890718329 I'm Not Dying with You Tonight kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/928039793 Author: Kimberly Jones and Gilly Segal
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This was a quick-paced read with short alternating chapters; sometimes you read from Lena's perspective or Campbell's. When an all-out brawl breaks out at the high school, and a protest follows, Lena and Campbell are thrown together in an attempt at survival. I like how the author contrasted the different views of white and black people.]]> 2020-11-16 16:47:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/928039793 Fever 1793 kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/928063296 Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I think Anderson is such a great writer, and I really like to learn about history through novels, so I really liked Fever 1793. The Yellow Fever Epidemic of Philadelphia was not something I was really familiar with, so I learned a ton. I also found Mattie's journey interesting. It kept me turning the pages for sure. When people start falling ill and dying, Mattie's sick mother sends her to country with her grandfather, which is where her journey begins.]]> 2020-11-16 16:51:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/928063296 Long Way Down kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/931824613 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: What a great read! Jason Reynolds is the best. When Will's brother, Shawn, is shot and killed, Will knows he needs to avenge him by killing whoever did this. He gets his brother's gun and hops into the elevator, knowing he's got 7 floors until the lobby, but unaware that on each floor he will be visited by a different ghost.]]> 2020-11-17 14:25:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/931824613 Never Fall Down kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/945065844 Author: Patricia McCormick
Genre: Historical Fiction, Historical Nonfiction
Review: I think this might be the saddest book I've ever read, and I have read some sad books. Never Fall Down tells the story of Arn as his life is irrevocably changed by the Cambodian genocide (a topic I didn't know much about until reading this book). When the Khmer Rouge invades his small town, he is swept away into unimaginable but very real horrors. The majority of this book tells the true story of Arn's journey, with some research-informed parts added throughout.]]> 2020-11-20 13:07:57 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/945065844 For Every One kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/994740934 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: This was a quick and enjoyable read by my favorite YA author. Jason Reynolds writes a direct letter to his readers who have big goals and dreams, discussing motivations, setbacks, and achievement.]]> 2020-12-07 16:26:20 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/994740934 In the Shadow of Liberty kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/994750917 Author: Kenneth C. Davis
Genre: Historical Nonfiction
Review:  I really enjoyed reading this book about the often-not-talked-about lives of five black people from American history. I love learning through reading, and this book was very informative. For example, I learned that Martha Washington only freed her enslaved people because she feared for her life. George Washington had left them to her, only to be freed upon her death. Martha had grown paranoid that the enslaved people would kill her in order to obtain freedom.]]> 2020-12-07 16:28:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/994750917 Chasing Brooklyn kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/994764542 Author: Lisa Schroeder
Genre: Horror, Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: The sequel to I Heart You, You Haunt Me was just as good! It almost could be read separately without reading the first book since it doesn't spoil the first book or build on it in any way. It does reference the characters from the first book, and Ava even makes an appearance! I liked reading the two different perspectives of Brooklyn and Nico as they try to deal with the death of Lucca, Brooklyn's boyfriend and Nico's brother. Both are haunted by ghosts that they need to face, and their stories intertwine eventually.]]> 2020-12-07 16:30:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/994764542 Twisted kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/998113980 Author: Laurie Halse Anderson
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: One of my former students told me this was his favorite book, so I decided to read it. It's also by an author that I love! Tyler is hoping for a fresh start during his senior year of high school after getting in huge trouble the previous year for vandalizing the school. However, his tense relationship (to say the least) with his father and his interest in the most popular girl in school will send him down a path that leads to destruction.]]> 2020-12-08 14:10:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/998113980 Track 1: Ghost kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1037942022 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I just love this author SO MUCH. Jason Reynolds is the best, and his series about a track team is no exception. The first book focuses on Ghost, whose life was changed irrevocably when his father lost it and tried to shoot him and his mom at a young age. Now, he lives with just his mom, which makes money tight, and his dad is in jail. When Ghost reluctantly joins the track team, he desperately needs new shoes in order to compete. How can his family afford it though? And what lengths will Ghost go to in order to belong to a team for once?]]> 2020-12-22 13:10:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1037942022 Track 2: Patina kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1037943743 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Since I love running, I'm enjoying reading a series about it, especially since it's by one of the best YA authors ever! Patina runs because her mom lost her legs to diabetes and no longer can, and she has a lot to prove.]]> 2020-12-22 13:12:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1037943743 Lovecraft Country kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1037945985 Author: Matt Ruff
Genre: Fantasy, Horror, Science Fiction
Review: I read this after having watched the show adaptation. It's pretty different! I really liked both versions though. When Atticus finds out his father is missing under some pretty suspicious circumstances, he goes to look for him in what he and his uncle refer to as "Lovecraft Country," which is basically just a dangerous place for black people to be at the time due to some backwards people and laws. Their journey immediately takes a turn when they go to a huge estate of what turns out to be "Natural Alchemists," or magicians. This story is so fantastical and imaginative and gripping while also highlighting issues of racism.]]> 2020-12-22 13:13:33 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1037945985 Last Seen Alive kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1047780660 Author: Claire Douglas
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: Although this book was not what I really expected it to be, it was great! I read it quickly because I couldn't wait to find out what was going to happen. Libby and her husband, Jamie, do a house-swap with some posh people from Cornwall only to discover that their vacation is not at all what they expected it to be. Libby is hiding a huge part of her past from her husband, and it eventually catches up to her, putting them both in danger.]]> 2020-12-31 18:08:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1047780660 Behind Her Eyes kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1047781172 Author: Sarah Pinborough
Genre: Fantasy, Mystery
Review: Man, this book is wild, and I loved it! When Louise hooks up with a guy at the bar named David, she is startled to see him at work the next day as her new boss. She also can't help but notice the fact that he's married. Louise is then pulled into the intricacies of their marriage when she runs into Adele, David's wife. Adele seems lonely and tries to strike up a friendship with Louise. This leads her down a path of lies while she tries to maintain a friendship with Adele and a secret affair with David until things take a sinister turn.]]> 2020-12-31 18:10:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1047781172 Running with Scissors kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1060361968 Author: Augusten Burroughs
Genre: Autobiography, Memoir
Review: This is the book that made me fall in love with Burroughs as an author, and it’s one of my favorites. His voice and his story are both so unique. I revisited this story just recently, and I was able to appreciate it even more as an adult.]]> 2021-01-06 17:41:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1060361968 Track 3: Sunny kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1070104695 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Jason Reynold’s track series is such a fun read! I sped through this one about Sunny, who really only runs because he feels obligated to. Every meet, he dominates the mile, but he doesn’t like it. Sunny likes dancing, and he only runs because his mother died giving birth to him, and she always wanted to run a marathon. Because of this, Sunny’s relationship with his dad has always been strained. Can Sunny find something on the track team that will actually make him happy?]]> 2021-01-09 17:59:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1070104695 Track 4: Lu kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1071855707 Author: Jason Reynolds
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: This was a great end to the series! Lu has always wanted a little brother. He's albino, and he wants to know what he might look like if he wasn't and had brown skin like the rest of the family. When he finds out he's going to have a little sister instead, he learns that he needs to step up and make the right decisions in order to be a good big brother.]]> 2021-01-10 18:13:05 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1071855707 Children of Blood and Bone (Legacy of Orisha, 1) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1091567541 Author: Tomi Adeyemi
Genre: Fantasy
Review: This was an amazing book! I liked the short chapters that featured different character's perspectives. It's full of magic and adventure with a grown-up Harry Potter vibe. Zelie is on a mission to bring back magic to the land of Orisha after it was taken away by the crown years ago during the Raid.]]> 2021-01-15 15:26:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1091567541 And the Mountains Echoed kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1140707348 Author: Khaled Hosseini
Genre: Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction
Review: This story follows many different characters. First, you learn about Abdullah and Pari, two siblings who are very attached to one another, along with their father Saboor and their step-mom Parwana. You'll also learn Parwana's story with her sister. You'll hear Nabi, their step-uncle's, story as he looks after Suleiman and his wife. ]]> 2021-01-29 14:16:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1140707348 Children of Virtue and Vengeance (Legacy of Orisha, 2) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1169087151 Author: Tomi Adeyemi
Genre: Fantasy
Review: Such a good series! The sequel did not disappoint, and now I can't wait for the third and final book. The war is still on in Orisha: the monarchy versus the maji. Now that magic has returned, things are more intense and violent.]]> 2021-02-05 16:37:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1169087151 I am Alfonso Jones kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430242191 Author: Tony Medina
Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Realistic Fiction
Review: After Alfonso is shot and killed by a police officer mistaking the clothes hanger he's holding for a gun, his ghost haunts the city and learns about other incidents like his own. All the while, there are cries of protest following his death. I enjoyed this! It might be hard for a middle school kid to follow since it jumps back and forth between Alfonso and the living.]]> 2021-04-18 17:09:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430242191 Outlander: A Breath of Snow and Ashes (Book 6) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430242541 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: This was the first book I read in the series where I was finally ahead of the show. I think that might be why I enjoyed it so much! It's my favorite of the books so far.]]> 2021-04-18 17:09:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430242541 I am Legend kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430243931 Author: Richard Matheson
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: Although the book is drastically different from the movie I loved, it's still so good! Instead of zombies, Robert Neville is up against zombies. The ending is different too!]]> 2021-04-18 17:10:51 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430243931 Outlander: An Echo in the Bone (Book 7) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430244251 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: I took awhile to read this one, but I absolutely loved it. I'm not looking forward to reading books that aren't Outlander after I finish book 8. This series is just too good.]]> 2021-04-18 17:10:59 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430244251 Outlander: Written in My Own Heart's Blood (Book 8) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430244637 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: The eighth book focuses on the American Revolution and features historical figures like Benedict Arnold and George Washington. Although Jamie and Claire hope to avoid the war, they are dragged into it. This is one of my favorite series of all time! I just love it.]]> 2021-04-18 17:11:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1430244637 This is Where It Ends kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1504216065 Author: Marieke Nijkamp
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I gotta say... I really didn't like this one much, but I felt the need to finish it regardless. It tells the story of a school shooting at a seemingly idyllic high school through multiple perspectives of the victims involved. It just didn't feel realistic to me, and the dialogue between characters felt forced and cheesy. I didn't really care about their fates much.]]> 2021-05-07 22:16:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1504216065 Other Words for Home kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1504220545 Author: Jasmine Warga
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: What a cute novel in verse about the complexities of being an immigrant. Jude and her mother flee Syria, only to discover that being an American immigrant has its own difficulties.]]> 2021-05-07 22:20:03 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1504220545 Seven Stones to Stand or Fall kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1585741571 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: I read this collection of Outlander stories in chronological order along with the Lord John series, and I loved them. The length, the time period, and the characters vary for each.]]> 2021-06-04 16:41:56 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1585741571 Lord John and the Hand of the Devils kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1585742155 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: This is a collection of short stories about the crazy life of Lord John Grey. I definitely have enjoyed reading about his adventures. It makes him a more fleshed out character, and it helps me to make sense of some of the references in the Outlander series.]]> 2021-06-04 16:42:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1585742155 Lord John and the Private Matter kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1585745185 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: This is the first novel chronologically in the Lord John series. John gets entangled in many matters that eventually intertwine. He's worried about Trevelyan's engagement to his cousin Olivia along with the death of a private who may have had access to some important and secret information.]]> 2021-06-04 16:43:15 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1585745185 Lord John and the Brotherhood of the Blade kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1590385560 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: This is the second novel chronologically in the Lord John series. It helps the reader understand his background with Percy Wainwright.]]> 2021-06-07 15:58:16 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1590385560 The Scottish Prisoner kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1646240381 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: This is the third novel chronologically in the Lord John series. I liked this one a lot since Jamie Fraser is in it, and he's one of the main Outlander characters. On the other hand, I have grown to love John Grey on his own as well. After a fallout between the two, John and Jamie are forced together on a mission to bring justice to a man named Gerald Siverly, which takes them to Ireland.]]> 2021-07-12 18:23:51 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1646240381 The Walking Dead (Compendium One) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701571878 Author: Robert Kirkman
Genre: Graphic Novel, Horror
Review: The first compendium moves quickly! I watched the show before diving into the graphic novel world, and they're definitely different. I was shocked by how quickly the group moved away from Atlanta. I absolutely prefer the graphic novel to the show. It's fast-paced, genuine, bizarre, thought-provoking, and terrifying in so many ways the show couldn't be.]]> 2021-08-28 00:12:22 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701571878 The Walking Dead (Compendium Two) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701572707 Author: Robert Kirkman
Genre: Graphic Novel, Horror
Review: The graphic novel version of the Governor is so much more frightening.]]> 2021-08-28 00:14:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701572707 The Walking Dead (Compendium Three) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701573417 Author: Robert Kirkman
Genre: Graphic Novel, Horror
Review: Negan is absolutely horrendous, but he's so intriguing. ]]> 2021-08-28 00:15:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701573417 The Walking Dead (Compendium Four) kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701573797 Author: Robert Kirkman
Genre: Graphic Novel, Horror
Review: I loved how this epic ends.]]> 2021-08-28 00:16:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701573797 12 Years a Slave kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701575183 Author: Solomon Northup
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: I saw the movie awhile back before reading the book, and there were some similarities that I remember. I think I should re-watch the movie to see how different it is now that I've read Solomon's firsthand account of the events. This story is, of course, so tragic and difficult to read at times, but it's absolutely worthwhile.]]> 2021-08-28 00:19:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701575183 Where the Forest Meets the Stars kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701576145 Author: Glendy Vanderah
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: After a lot of intensity in my summer reading, I needed something light. I'm glad I ended up with this romance, which is really more a story of perseverance. It was quaint, cute, and captivating.]]> 2021-08-28 00:20:52 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701576145 The Impossible Girl kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701577114 Author: Lydia Kang
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Wow! This story took one heck of a dark twist near the end. Cora is the impossible girl. She was born with two hearts, making her incredibly desirable to the anatomists of 1800s New York. Not only does she have two hearts but two identities. Cora often dresses as "her brother" Jacob to conduct her business. Because of this, her identity is still a secret, allowing her to do her macabre work. Ironically, Cora provides bodies to these anatomists often, robbing the graves of other people with strange anomalies. But, when rumors about the impossible girl begin to point in her direction, Cora must do something drastic.]]> 2021-08-28 00:22:42 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1701577114 Flying Lessons & Other Stories kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1743230243 Author: Edited by Ellen Oh
Genre: Short Stories
Review: I loved every one of these diverse short stories! It was such a fun read since I don't typically read collections of short stories. I particularly liked the first story since it was unique in that it was told in the second person.]]> 2021-09-15 15:49:53 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1743230243 Paper Towns kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1765585061 Author: John Green
Genre: Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: John Green is brilliant! I know The Fault in Our Stars gets a lot of attention, and it should, but I wish books like this one and Looking for Alaska got the respect they deserve. I was so captivated by Q's quest to find the elusive and mysterious Margo Roth Spiegelman.]]> 2021-09-24 13:00:27 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1765585061 Home Body kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1802389063
Author: Rupi Kaur
Genre: Poetry
Review: I love this woman. She writes poetry that I wholly relate to in many ways. She has such a strong and unique voice. In this book, I particularly liked the "Rest" section. I needed to hear it.]]> 2021-10-08 12:31:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1802389063 Pumpkin Heads kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1802399362 Author: Rainbow Rowell, Faith Erin Hicks
Genre: Graphic Novel, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: I just adored the story between best friends Josiah and Deja and their last night working at the pumpkin patch. It made me laugh, go "Awww," and kept me reading until I finished it all in one night. I read it again in October 2021, and I loved it just as much!]]> 2021-10-08 12:35:58 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1802399362 Doll Bones kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1802402156
Author: Holly Black
Genre: Horror
Review: Although this book wasn't as spooky as I would've liked, I still enjoyed reading about Zach, Alice, and Poppy's adventure to lay a haunted doll's ghost to rest.]]> 2021-10-08 12:37:23 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1802402156 The Graveyard Book kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1811241283 Author: Neil Gaiman
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: Just like Coraline, this story has the right balance of creepy and cute. The message of the story is sentimental although it is achieved through spooky means. Also, everything about this book is SO creative and unique. After a heinous murder of his whole family, a baby finds himself under the protection of the graveyard nearby. Dubbed Nobody Owens, he is raised in the graveyard by his ghostly parents, other spooky apparitions, and his neither-alive-nor-dead guardian Silas. Bod goes on many adventures, but he must eventually face the man who killed his family.]]> 2021-10-12 15:53:21 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1811241283 The Apprentice Witch kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1844742229 Author: James Nicol
Genre: Fantasy
Review: I expected this to be spookier, but it was more heartwarming and cute. When Arianwyn fails her witch test, she is sent to a small town as an apprentice, and she must find a way to prove herself. ]]> 2021-10-26 12:21:06 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1844742229 Rebound kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1881861585 Author: Kwame Alexander
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: I really like Kwame's style of writing, and Rebound was no exception. This prequel to The Crossover about Filthy's dad was just as packed with voice, unique writing style, rhythm, and passion as the original. I enjoyed re-entering the world Kwame created.]]> 2021-11-10 16:45:51 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1881861585 Flower Crowns & Fearsome Things kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1881865171 Author: Amanda Lovelace
Genre: Poetry
Review: Lovelace reminds me a lot of Kaur, but I'm not sure who came first. Regardless, I enjoy their poetry. I really liked the design of this book and the concept behind it. Lovelace wanted to bring Persephone to the modern world. Persephone is the goddess of the underworld and also of the springtime, so the goal was to show readers how they too can be like Persephone, displaying both gentleness and fierceness. I liked how the alternating pages had different designs, one more like the spring and one more like the underworld. Some poems I re-read a couple times because I enjoyed them so much. I love words!]]> 2021-11-10 16:47:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1881865171 They Could Have Named Her Anything kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1881868831 Author: Stephanie Jimenez
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I had difficulty getting into this one, but eventually ended up liking it. It took a pretty dark turn at the end when a friendship between Maria and Rocky leads to betrayal on both their parts.]]> 2021-11-10 16:48:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1881868831 To Make Monsters Out of Girls kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1896882221 Author: Amanda Lovelace
Genre: Poetry
Review: I enjoyed this collection of poetry by Lovelace too! She's such a visceral writer and doesn't sugar coat a thing, making her words raw and intense. I loved it. These poems are about a tumultuous relationship with a monster boy.]]> 2021-11-17 13:44:37 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1896882221 Clap When You Land kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1918010069 Author: Elizabeth Acevedo
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: I love novels in verse every now and then; this one didn't disappoint. I just picked it up at the library one day after reading the synopsis. The two perspectives of a man's daughters, one who lives in America and ones who's hidden away in the Dominican Republic, are really compelling, especially because the story follows their father's tragic death in a plane accident. As the two girls discover one another and mourn, tensions on their relationship are apparent. Will they be able to salvage it?]]> 2021-11-29 14:20:54 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/1918010069 Gender Queer: A Memoir kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089176907 Author: Maia Kobabe
Genre: Graphic Novel, Memoir
Review: This was so moving, and I found myself thinking a ton about my preconceived notions of gender identity.]]> 2022-03-10 21:14:52 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089176907 The Witch Boy kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177082 Author: Molly Ostertag
Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel
Review: I love this cute series!]]> 2022-03-10 21:15:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177082 The Hidden Witch kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177218 Author: Molly Knox Ostertag
Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel
Review: The sequel didn't disappoint!]]> 2022-03-10 21:15:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177218 The Midwinter Witch kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177447 Author: Molly Knox Ostertag
Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel
Review: I hope she continues to write these!]]> 2022-03-10 21:15:23 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177447 Hidden kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177585 Author: Helen Frost
Genre: Poetry, Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: Although the actual story is really great, to me, the main selling point is the fun hidden messages you learn how to decipher at the end!]]> 2022-03-10 21:15:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177585 Starfish kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177738 Author: Lisa Flipps
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: I understand why this novel in verse is getting so much attention! I was able to empathize strongly with the main character.]]> 2022-03-10 21:15:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177738 Roller Girl kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177874 Author: Victoria Jamieson
Genre: Graphic Novel, Realistic Fiction
Review: I'm maybe a little ashamed to admit that I cried at the end of this happy and moving story.]]> 2022-03-10 21:15:48 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089177874 Long Way Down: The Graphic Novel kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178082 Author: Jason Reynolds, Danica Novgorodoff
Genre: Graphic Novel, Realistic Fiction
Review: I love the original novel in verse. This is basically the same but with some very well-done artwork to accompany the poetry.]]> 2022-03-10 21:16:01 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178082 The Sacrifice of Darkness kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178235 Author: Roxane Gay, Tracy Lynne Oliver, Rebecca Kirby, James Fenner
Genre: Dystopian, Graphic Novel, Romance
Review: The art was beautiful, and it was a tragic but interesting story.]]> 2022-03-10 21:16:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178235 Fly by Night kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178378 Author: Tara O'Connor
Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Horror, Mystery
Review: It was a fun and exciting read!]]> 2022-03-10 21:16:21 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178378 This One Summer kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178491 Author: Jillian Tamaki, Mariko Tamaki
Genre: Graphic Novel, Realistic Fiction
Review: The authors did a great job of capturing the feelings of growing up.]]> 2022-03-10 21:16:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178491 The Great Gatsby: The Graphic Novel kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178764 Author: F. Scott Fitzgerald, K. Woodman-Maynard
Genre: Graphic Novel, Romance
Review: I loved the artwork and how it stuck to the original story.]]> 2022-03-10 21:16:45 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089178764 The Handmaid's Tale: The Graphic Novel kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179006 Author: Margaret Atwood, Renee Nault
Genre: Dystopian, Graphic Novel
Review: The original story is one of my favorite classics; this graphic novel stays true to it while shortening it and adding some excellent art.]]> 2022-03-10 21:17:02 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179006 Be More Chill: The Graphic Novel kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179250 Author: Ned Vizzini, David Levithan, Nick Bertozzi
Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel
Review: I know the musical is really popular, but the graphic novel is also super great and should get more attention! It was a hilarious and enjoyable read.]]> 2022-03-10 21:17:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179250 Go Tell the Bees that I am Gone kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179462 Author: Diana Gabaldon
Genre: Fantasy, Historical Fiction, Romance
Review: I loved it, and I need to talk to someone who's also read it! I have questions and ponderings!]]> 2022-03-10 21:17:30 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179462 Surviving Antarctica: Reality TV 2083 kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179741 Author: Andrea White
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: I actually got really into this one, but I was disappointed by the ending. I kind of just wanted more survival story.]]> 2022-03-10 21:17:47 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089179741 Pride and Premeditation kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089180069 Author: Tirzah Price
Genre: Historical Fiction, Mystery, Romance
Review: I guessed the killer pretty early, but I was happy when the mystery continued to unfold after they were discovered!]]> 2022-03-10 21:18:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2089180069 Pride and Prejudice kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2162613277 Author: Jane Austen
Genre: Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction, Romance
Review: Surprisingly, I really enjoyed reading this classic. ]]> 2022-04-28 13:23:13 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2162613277 The Color Purple kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170521075 Author: Alice Walker
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: Although it was so incredibly sad, I'm glad I read it.]]> 2022-05-04 19:53:04 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170521075 Ender's Game kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170521293 Author: Orson Scott Card
Genre: Science Fiction
Review: I ended up loving this one way more than I expected. Science fiction isn't usually my thing, but it had dystopian vibes that I really digged.]]> 2022-05-04 19:53:17 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170521293 The Girl from the Sea kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170521811 Author: Molly Knox Ostertag
Genre: Fantasy, Graphic Novel, Romance
Review: I loved reading this magical and cute romance on the beach!]]> 2022-05-04 19:53:39 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170521811 Attached: The New Science of Adult Attachment and How It Can Help You Find--and Keep--Love kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170526986 Author: Amir Levine and Rachel Heller
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: My therapist recommended that I read this book. It opened my eyes to a lot of my behaviors and decisions as someone anxious.]]> 2022-05-04 19:58:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170526986 Proust and the Squid: The Story and Science of the Reading Brain kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170527993 Author: Maryanne Wolf
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: This book was super interesting, but challenging as well. I learned a lot about how our brains work and the extreme challenge of learning to read.]]> 2022-05-04 19:59:12 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170527993 Leaves of Grass kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170528334 Author: Walt Whitman
Genre: Poetry
Review: I was really happy to spend some time with Walt Whitman's poetry. He's a poet who is easy to respect and enjoy. Some of his poems feel like direct links to his reader, even all these years later.]]> 2022-05-04 19:59:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170528334 Genesis Begins Again kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170528949 Author: Alicia D. Williams
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I loved this story despite the difficult subject matter. Since I struggle with self-love myself, I think I just expected more from it, like there'd be a surprise solution to self-love. There isn't. It's an everyday battle, and Genesis's story demonstrates that. Loving yourself is a decision, and it's one you make over and over again.]]> 2022-05-04 20:00:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170528949 Three Things I Know are True kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170539137 Author: Betty Culley
Genre: Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: This novel in verse was moving, real, and powerful.]]> 2022-05-04 20:10:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2170539137 House of Leaves kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2187590718 Author: Mark Z. Danielewski
Genre: Horror
Review: This bizarre piece of ergodic literature absolutely blew my mind. House of Leaves is a must-read, in my opinion. Sifting through the varying narratives, footnotes, and flashbacks is worth it. It's labyrinth of unreliable narrators, strange connections, and fantastical elements make it one-of-a-kind. It quickly became one of my all-time favorite stories.]]> 2022-05-17 13:15:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2187590718 Red, White, and Whole kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2221153537 Author: Rajani Larocca
Genre: Historical Fiction, Poetry, Realistic Fiction
Review: Novels in verse are always nice for a break after a challenging read, and this one gave me just what I needed. It was moving, easy to follow, beautiful and lyrical, and a story I'll remember.]]> 2022-06-14 19:57:10 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2221153537 The Last Cuentista kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2221154662 Author: Donna Barba Higuera
Genre: Dystopian, Science Fiction
Review: I'm glad I checked out this nontypical dystopian with heavy science fiction vibes, which is usually outside of my comfort zone. I'm learning to love science fiction for what it is more and more as I find books like this one.]]> 2022-06-14 19:58:46 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2221154662 The Exiles kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819496 Author: Christina Baker Kline
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: While I enjoyed this dive into Australian exile prisons with a focus on female convicts, I wasn't crazy about it. Some parts were predictable or unoriginal. Obviously, I still found parts of it worthwhile since I finished it.]]> 2022-07-17 16:27:50 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819496 The Marrow Thieves kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819516 Author: Cherie Dimaline
Genre: Dystopian
Review: One of my best friends recommended this one to me and sent it to me in the mail. I'm so glad she did. It was heart-wrenching but well worth the read.]]> 2022-07-17 16:28:00 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819516 And Then There Were None kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819541 Author: Agatha Christie
Genre: Mystery
Review: This was my first Agatha Christie novel, and I definitely liked it. She has a specific style, and she does a great job diving into the heads of various characters. I look forward to reading more by her, but I was very shocked to find out the original title of this book...]]> 2022-07-17 16:28:09 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819541 The Downstairs Girl kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819569 Author: Stacey Lee
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I was surprised by how much I liked this young adult novel about Jo Kuan and her unconventional life in 19th century Atlanta. Her guardian, Old Gin, and she have been squatting in the basement of the Bells family for as long as she can remember, and when she's dismissed from her position as a milliner, Jo must find another way to make a living.]]> 2022-07-17 16:28:20 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819569 A New Earth kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819590 Author: Eckhart Tolle
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: I'm really thankful that my boyfriend recommended this book, and I gained perspective from reading it.]]> 2022-07-17 16:28:28 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2244819590 Winter Garden kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272785755 Author: Kristin Hannah
Genre: Historical Fiction, Realistic Fiction
Review: I love Kristin Hannah's writing style. Her characters are always believable, well-rounded, and full of depth. This book explores the relationships in families (mainly the relationship between a child and his or her mother) and the lengths to which we'll go to preserve them. Meredith and Nina have never been close with their mother, and now their lives has taken them down vastly different paths. When their father dies, his last wish is for them to listen to their mother's fairy tale all the way through, the one she used to tell them when they were younger.]]> 2022-08-26 15:06:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272785755 Little Fires Everywhere kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786121 Author: Celeste Ng
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Shaker Heights is the perfect neighborhood to raise a family, and it's the perfect place for Elena Richardson, her husband, and their 4 kids. Lexie, Trip, Moody, and Izzy are supposed to be perfect. However, when Mia and Pearl Warren move into the Richardson's rental, the cracks in this nuclear family begin to show, causing Elena to look into Mia's mysterious past. Things really come to a head when Mia's coworker, Bebe, finds out a family friend of the Richardsons has adopted her baby who she desperately wants back. The town members take sides, and people must decide what really makes someone the best fit to be a mother. I absolutely loved this book, and the show was great too even though it was pretty different.]]> 2022-08-26 15:07:14 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786121 Fight Club kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786270 Author: Chuck Palahniuk
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I'm glad I finally got around to reading this classic. Tyler Durden completely changes the life of the insomniac narrator when he introduces him to fight club. Before Durden, the narrator would go to support groups for various afflictions and diseases to find peace and sleep, but Durden takes over his life with fight club, soap-making, and project mayhem. Soon, the entire country is influenced by Durden's ideas, and the narrator feels it is his responsibility to stop him.]]> 2022-08-26 15:07:26 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786270 Hunting by Stars kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786526 Author: Cherie Dimaline
Genre: Dystopian
Review: I almost wish the author hadn't written a sequel to The Marrow Thieves, even though there were definitely aspects of this novel that I enjoyed. It's just that the first one is SO good that the sequel pales in comparison; it's also riddled with typos, which is frustrating since it takes you out of the story. The Marrow Thieves still holds a special place in my heart, and I just view this sequel as separate.]]> 2022-08-26 15:07:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786526 The Queen's Gambit kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786950 Author: Walter Tevis
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: There's no way someone can read this book and not absolutely love Beth Harmon. She's striking, intelligent, captivating, and also tragic in a way that makes it so you can't help but root for her. When she discovers the game of chess at the age of 7, she is immediately mesmerized. Her innate talent at the game takes her from playing games in the basement of the the orphanage with the custodian all the way to Moscow, Russia, where she must face the world's chess champion.]]> 2022-08-26 15:08:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272786950 Gone Girl kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272787120 Author: Gillian Flynn
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: I read this book in a matter of 2 days. I couldn't help it; I was hooked. Nick and Amy's marriage has suffered ever since they moved from New York City to a sleepy town in Missouri to look after Nick's mother, who is dying of cancer. When Amy goes missing, the story gets a lot of media attention since she is the muse of her parents' series of children's books, Amazing Amy. Nick also faces a ton of backlash when he comes off as cold and distant in the aftermath. Soon, it seems like everyone, even Amy's parents, thinks Nick is guilty. The twist in this novel is unique and exciting!]]> 2022-08-26 15:08:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272787120 The Ocean at the End of the Lane kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272787362 Author: Neil Gaiman
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: Neil Gaiman is so spooky! Parts of this book made me so uncomfortable, but in a good way. He is truly a master of the horror genre.]]> 2022-08-26 15:08:34 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2272787362 Dracula kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2296989067 Author: Bram Stoker
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: Although the age of this book shows, I enjoyed the classic horror elements (just not the sexism and such).]]> 2022-09-14 19:32:26 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2296989067 Room kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2296989174 Author: Emma Donoghue
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: I finally got around to reading this book, which was on my list since college. Although tragic and dark, I found this story incredibly moving and interesting.]]> 2022-09-14 19:32:31 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2296989174 All Good People Here kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444482974 Author: Ashley Flowers
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: I love the Crime Junkie podcast, so I had to check out Ashley Flower's debut novel. The plot of her mystery felt a bit too similar to the JonBenet Ramsey case, but there were enough differences, twists, and personal touches to keep it interesting. I thought I knew who the killer was, but I was fooled! I hated the ending though.]]> 2023-01-14 20:57:46 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444482974 The House in the Cerulean Sea kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444483120 Author: TJ Klune
Genre: Fantasy, Romance
Review: A friend at work gave this book to me at the beginning of the school year, and it was such a lovely read full of magic and care.]]> 2023-01-14 20:58:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444483120 The Butcher and the Wren kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444484680 Author: Alaina Urquhart
Genre: Mystery, Realistic Fiction
Review: I love the Morbid podcast, which is why I decided to read this one. The setting and main character were fine enough, but something just felt off, or maybe rushed? Events seemed unrealistic, and even though I know from listening to too many true crime podcasts that things this horrific do happen in the real world, I needed more realism from this story and the "butcher" antagonist.]]> 2023-01-14 21:03:56 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444484680 Redhanded kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444484845 Author: Suruthi Bala and Hannah Maguire
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: I found this book absolutely fascinating! Redhanded is my favorite podcast, and Suruthi and Hannah's wit and humor translate into their writing. They handle delicate topics with care, share so many interesting facts, and still manage to make moments funny. I learned a ton; I hope they write more!]]> 2023-01-14 21:04:43 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444484845 The Picture of Dorian Gray kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444485507 Author: Oscar Wilde
Genre: Fantasy, Horror
Review: I probably should've given up on this one since I kept falling asleep every time I attempted to read it.]]> 2023-01-14 21:06:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444485507 The Haunting of Hill House kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444485836 Author: Shirley Jackson
Genre: Horror
Review: The show is so vastly different, I'm almost not sure how they're related. Nonetheless, this classic horror story was exactly what I was hoping for during the spooky season.]]> 2023-01-14 21:08:19 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444485836 If You Tell kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486051 Author: Gregg Olsen
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: The true story shared by these sisters is almost unbelievable.]]> 2023-01-14 21:09:11 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486051 The Poisonwood Bible kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486263 Author: Barbara Kingsolver
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: This epic was so thoughtful and poignant.]]> 2023-01-14 21:10:08 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486263 The Intersectional Environmentalist kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486475 Author: Leah Thomas
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: After my friend forgot this book at my house, I decided to read it myself! Although a relatively short read, this information takes time to digest.]]> 2023-01-14 21:10:55 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486475 Monster kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486656 Author: Walter Dean Myers
Genre: Realistic Fiction
Review: Since I was teaching this book, I read it on my own time as well.]]> 2023-01-14 21:11:44 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486656 Call Us What We Carry kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486816 Author: Amanda Gorman
Genre: Poetry
Review: I sometimes struggle to read collections of poems, but when they have a central theme like Amanda Gorman's response to the pandemic, it's a lot easier.]]> 2023-01-14 21:12:25 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486816 The Manningtree Witches kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486968 Author: A.K. Blakemore
Genre: Historical Fiction
Review: I just picked this book off a shelf when I was in Barnes and Noble with gift cards to spend, and I'm so glad I did.]]> 2023-01-14 21:13:07 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444486968 Killers of the Flower Moon kconner6 https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444487178 Author: David Grann
Genre: Nonfiction
Review: Currently Reading]]> 2023-01-14 21:14:09 UTC https://padlet.com/kconner6/readinglife/wish/2444487178