Coincidentally the second piece of media released recently that I’ve taken in having to do with the historical figure of PT Barnum; one more and it’s a pattern. But in The Mermaid, the story is not per say about him, but rather about a fictional recounting of a mermaid who finds herself in his exploitative employ (inspired by the infamous Fiji mermaid hoax). But despite the magical elements therein, this novel is more of an introspective exploration of personhood, freedom, and human cruelty. The Mermaid begins with […]
I don’t want to review this book, Part 2: The Remix
My appetite for Nisi Shawl’s Everfair has gone up and down since I first heard of it. It came highly recommended by multiple sources and ticked off so many intriguing boxes: a speculative, steampunk alternative history of an African nation by a woman of color. Yes, yes, yes, yes, yes. After I bought it earlier this spring, I noticed the Goodreads collective rating was on the low-ish side, and I’m not always as immune to popular opinion as I like to think I am. It […]
Against my better judgement
You ever read a book and you’re like YES I KNOW it’s NOT GOOD but I LIKE IT so SHOVE OFF? Because that’s me and this series. Rebel of the Sands is basically YA madlibs. __(female name)__, a young girl with a tragic past, unknowingly has the power to __(fart noise)__, but can she master it in time to save her __(home)__ while falling in love with __(male name)__, the __(nobility)__ that should be her enemy?! But it’s YA madlibs I actually, if regretfully, enjoy reading! […]
Classic Pratchett
Wyrd Sisters is pure Terry Pratchett all the way. Classic Pratchett means puns and quirks and oddball images, odder characters and even villains you cannot help but love (sometimes). There are story lines that intermingle and must be paid attention to as they will take you on different paths than expected. I must admit while the Wyrd Sisters themselves have been favorites in other books, in this one they could get a little draining. The lack of intelligence with characters is always an issue with […]