Whimsy & Wisdom Book Reviews

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Ada Lovelace: The Poet of Science Book Title: Ada Lovelace: The Poet of Science by Diane Stanley Genre/Category: Children's Biography Target Age Group: 8-12 years Plot Summary: Diane Stanley's Ada Lovelace: The Poet of Science tells the remarkable story of Ada Lovelace, the daughter of the famous poet Lord Byron and a pioneer in the field of computing. Through vivid illustrations and engaging narrative, the book explores Ada’s unique upbringing, her passion for mathematics, and her groundbreaking work with Charles Babbage on the Analytical Engine, which laid the foundation for modern computer science. Stanley captures Ada's intellect, creativity, and determination, portraying her as a visionary who combined poetic imagination with scientific insight. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Ada Lovelace: The Poet of Science because it highlights the life and contributions of a historically significant figure whose story is both insp...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi Book Title: The Gilded Wolves by Roshani Chokshi Genre/Category: Young Adult Fantasy with LGBTQ+ themes Target Age Group: 12 to 18 years (Amazon) Plot Summary: The Gilded Wolves is set in an alternate 1889 Paris and follows a group of outcasts and treasure hunters led by Séverin Montagnet-Alarie. They embark on a mission to retrieve an ancient artifact, uncovering secrets about their world and themselves along the way. The story combines history, mythology, and fantasy, exploring themes of power, identity, and belonging. Justification for Title Selection: I chose The Gilded Wolves because it features LGBTQ+ characters, making it a significant work in promoting diversity and representation in young adult literature. This novel not only offers a thrilling adventure but also provides a platform for underrepresented voices, making it an essential addition to our blog, Whimsy & Wisdom . Format Note: I borro...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Big by Vashti Harrison Book Title: Big by Vashti Harrison Genre/Category: Children's Picture Book & Texas 2x2 Book Target Age Group: 4 to 8 years  Plot Summary: Big by Vashti Harrison celebrates the story of a young girl named Tiny who dreams of being "big" like the women in her family. As she grows up, Tiny realizes that being big isn't just about physical size but about the impact she can make in the world. Through vibrant illustrations and empowering prose, Harrison encourages readers to embrace their unique talents and strive for greatness in their own way. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Big because it is a Texas 2x2 book, a prestigious recognition within the children's literature community. This accolade underscores the book's relevance to young readers in Texas and its potential to spark meaningful discussions in classrooms and libraries across the state. Harrison's uplifting message of self-dis...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Icebreaker by A.L. Graziadei Book Title: Icebreaker by A.L. Graziadei Genre/Category: Young Adult Romance & Printz Winner Target Age Group: 14 and up (Amazon) Plot Summary: Icebreaker by A.L. Graziadei follows the story of seventeen-year-old Mickey James III, a college freshman and hockey legacy. Mickey's path to the top draft spot in the NHL is challenged by his teammate Jaysen Caulfield, sparking a rivalry that soon turns into something more. As Mickey navigates his feelings for Jaysen and confronts the expectations of his family and the hockey world, he must decide what he truly wants and what he's willing to risk to get it. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Icebreaker because it is a Printz Award winner, an esteemed recognition within the young adult literature community. This accolade underscores the book's literary merit and its relevance to our discussion on Whimsy & Wisdom. Graziadei's exploration of ident...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill Book Title: The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill Genre/Category:  Children's Fantasy & Newberry Medal Book Target Age Group: 10 to 14 years (Common Sense Media) Plot Summary: The Girl Who Drank the Moon is a fantastical tale about a young girl named Luna who is accidentally enmagicked by the witch Xan. Raised by Xan, a tiny dragon, and a wise Swamp Monster, Luna must uncover the truth about her powers and the mysteries of her past to save her village from the grip of sorrow and lies. Justification for Title Selection: I chose The Girl Who Drank the Moon because it is a Newbery Medal book, a prestigious award recognizing distinguished contributions to American literature for children. This book's recognition and acclaim make it an essential read for young audiences and a valuable addition to our discussion on Whimsy & Wisdom. Its themes of magic, self-discovery, and the battle ...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu Book Title: Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu Genre/Category: Young Adult Graphic Novel and Banned Book (Reese, 2022) Target Age Group: 14-18 years (Amazon) Plot Summary: Check, Please! by Ngozi Ukazu is a charming coming-of-age story that follows Eric "Bitty" Bittle, a former figure skater, vlogger, and pie-baking enthusiast who joins the Samwell University hockey team. Through his vlogs, Bitty narrates his experiences adjusting to college life, navigating friendships, and coming to terms with his identity and his burgeoning feelings for his teammate, Jack. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Check, Please! because it is listed as a Collection Development Removal in Prosper ISD (Reese, 2022), my daughter's school district. The controversy surrounding its removal highlights the importance of discussing its content and merits. This graphic novel blends humor, sports, and heartfelt moments, making it a...

  Whimsy & Wisdom: Review of Cemetery Boys Book Title: Cemetery Boys by Aiden Thomas Genre/Category: Young Adult Fiction Romance Target Age Group: 12-18 years Plot Summary: Aiden Thomas's Cemetery Boys follows the story of Yadriel, a trans boy determined to prove his gender to his traditional Latinx family by summoning the ghost of his murdered cousin. However, his summoning goes awry, and he accidentally summons the spirit of Julian Diaz, the school’s bad boy. Julian is not ready to move on, and Yadriel agrees to help him tie up loose ends, leading them on an unexpected journey that brings them closer together and challenges their understanding of family, identity, and love. Justification for Title Selection: I chose Cemetery Boys because it uniquely combines elements of young adult romance with themes of cultural identity, gender identity, and the supernatural. The novel addresses the struggles and triumphs of a trans protagonist, making it an important and resonant re...