👶👶👶👶👶: Buses Are a Comin': Memoir of a Freedom Rider, by Charles Person

So I'm wrapping up Black History Month with an extraordinary read. Buses Are a Comin' is a book every American should pick up and is one that would be an excellent addition to any high school curriculum.  Although it will not be published until April 27th, mark your calendars for this very important release.

This first-hand account of the Freedom Ride is so incredibly eye-opening and heartbreaking. I thought I knew the story. I thought I understood their plight. Oh, but I knew so little... so little about the sacrifices made, about the human dignity they put on the line, and about the deeply ingrained ignorance those poor souls were up against.

Honestly, to think that our nation was at a place that we would treat human beings with such utter disrespect is unfathomable to me. After reading the memoir, I continued to research and the discovery that saddened me most of all was the fact that the ignorance was perpetuated by all southerners including Christians who based their bigoted attitudes on "Biblical truths". As a Christian myself, I find this incomprehensible and abhorrent.

Charles Person, the author of this book, is undoubtedly an American Hero, as are the other brave Freedom Riders that boarded the public buses in 1961. The strength, tenacity, and selflessness it took to board those buses is beyond commendable. It is extraordinary. If it weren't for the Freedom Riders taking this step to test the validity of the Supreme Court landmark decision, Boynton vs. Virginia, our progress to equality would have been impeded that much longer. It saddens me to no end to think that such things had to be done to overcome obstacles that never should have been in place to begin with.

Thank you, Mr. Person, for sharing your story with us. I am better for having learned what you endured to better our nation. Although we have so far to go, this is a testament to the power of conviction and pacifism.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for gifting me with this early review copy in exchange for an honest review. 

Read 2/28/21

👶👶👶: Cormorant Lake, by Faith Merino

Faith Merino is a truly skilled writer that has the ability to conjure vivid imagery. Her debut novel certainly has several "things that make you go hmmm...", but it was compelling and moved along at a rather fast clip. The story and setting were melancholy and somewhat dark as the deeply flawed characters were put in unforeseen situations. Their impulsiveness constantly kept me guessing about what would happen next.

I'll admit, I struggled with several decisions made by the individuals, but at the same time, there was the understanding that this was all they knew. This knowledge allowed for some grace.

Overall, this was a solid debut that hits shelves February 2nd.

Many thanks to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for gifting me with this early review copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 1/29/21 

👶👶👶👶👶: The Songbook of Benny Lament, by Amy Harmon

❓How to write a review that captures the sublime essence of this novel? I know you've all heard me drone on and on about Amy Harmon's talent, but let me just say that this incredible author knows no boundaries, and is an absolute master of words and emotion.

🔥In this latest novel, Ms. Harmon transports us to New York in the 1960s, to the center of life in the Italian mafia. Benny Lament wants little to do with his "famiglia" and their ties to the mob, and would much rather focus solely on his one true love, music. That is, until another distraction enters his orbit, Esther Mine. Suddenly the two begin a journey full of musical rapture, harsh realities, raw emotion, and surprising revelations.

🎶This novel is a joy for music fans and is perfect for those who enjoy historical fiction with a little romance and a touch of mystery. I was so immersed in this musical rendezvous where I could hear the rhythm and feel the beat.

❤As always, I am in awe of Amy's ability to captivate her audience; it is so evident that she adores her characters. This allows the reader to follow suit and embrace each magnificent individual readily. Benny's soft and strong demeanor paired with Esther's sassy courage is something I will remember long after the last page was turned. Harmon always does unparalleled research on her subjects and time periods and weaves a story full of both resolve and compassion. This novel is absolutely perfect for our time and place, tackling tough topics such as racism and stereotypes.

🗓So, please mark your calendars for this treasure due out March 16th! I guarantee you won't be disappointed!

🙏A million thanks to Amy Harmon and Lake Union Publishing for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for a very honest review.

For more fun reviews and insight with some pictures too, follow me @mamasgottaread on Insta.

Read 1/25/21

👶👶👶👶: The Final Wish of Mr. Murray McBride, by Joe Siple

As I finished this novel yesterday, the first word that came to mind was my favorite in the English language: serendipity! I suppose this is the joy of Joe Siple's Murray McBride series. Despite the pain and hardship, there are these moments where everything comes together at just the right time. And yes, while this certainly requires a bit of suspension of disbelief and some wishful thinking, it's just the right kind of novel to put a smile on your face😊. I really do appreciate reading uplifting books that just make you feel warm and fuzzy inside every once in a while - because sometimes, "all you need is love❤🎶".

Many thanks to Black Rose Writing for gifting me with this early review copy! Release day is TODAY! So head on out and get yourself a copy!👶👶👶👶

Read 1/20/21

👶👶👶 Remember Me: A Spanish Civil War Novel, by Mario Escobar

It seems that I have encountered several novels in the past few months about the Spanish Civil War: A Long Petal of the Sea, The Fountains of Silence, and now Remember Me. This topic was never discussed in depth in the history books, and yet is such an important part of European history. Perhaps because these atrocities were sandwiched between the first and second world wars, little attention was given to the turmoil that caused the displacement of nearly 500 children and countless families. The Spanish Civil War was a war of ideological perspectives that severed a nation and devastated its people. Of the novels I've read, Mario Escobar has gone into the most detail about the events that destroyed the Spanish way of life. His meticulous descriptions will stay with me for some time.

"Surely some will declare that their ideologies are what make the world go 'round, when actually ideologies are what destroy it."

My assumption is that some of the more powerful moments may have been literally lost in translation. This novel seems to me that it would appeal to the young adult population since the literary method is simple, using straightforward telling and less showing. I was present and engaged for the entire novel, but not fully transported. To that end, this would be an ideal novel to teach high schoolers about this little-known part of history.

"War isn't the best brush for painting a future of peace."

This specific account of the children of Morelia was absolutely heartbreaking. The fact that so many young children were sent across the ocean alone for their safety speaks volumes of the situation in Spain at the time. That those in power chose to ignore the devastation caused by their actions, is completely mind-boggling.

"To see what's right in front of us requires enormous effort, because there's no man so blind as the one who doesn't want to see."

Kudos to Mario Escobar for bringing to light this incredibly disheartening part of world history.

Many thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Publishing for gifting me with an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Check out my Bookstagram account @mamasgottaread .

Read 9/13/2020 

👶👶👶👶: Alone Together: Love, Grief, and Comfort in the Time of COVID-19, by Jennifer Haupt and others

I just love an author with heart, and Jennifer Haupt certainly has one of the biggest hearts in the industry. I first encountered Ms. Haupt's talent when I read In the Shadow of 10,000 Hills in 2018 which focused on the Rwandan genocide and stories of "amahoro" (peace). As a former journalist, she was able to interview survivors of the brutality, which led her to pour her heart into creating that incredibly important novel - she stayed at it for the next eleven years after her visit to Rwanda in 2006. The result was breathtaking.

Fast forward to 2020, and Jennifer Haupt pours her heart into yet another valuable undertaking. She is acutely aware of what the pandemic's effects on the economy have done to independent booksellers, and devises a brilliant and compassionate plan to piece together an anthology to raise money for The Book Industry Charitable Foundation. She gathers 90 authors to create this work of art and determines that ALL profits will be donated to this cause!!!

When I heard about this, I was just astonished that her sole purpose in compiling this anthology was to help others who had helped her in the past. As she stated, "Long before the pandemic hit, independent bookstores were the pillars of a worldwide literary community and the mainstays of neighborhoods across the country...", and she is bound and determined to help them make it through this crisis.

So, I immersed myself into this melange of talent and found myself laughing, crying, and cheering right along with these fellow humans who had just undergone the same life-changing events we can all relate to: the effects of Covid-19. Whether the authors of these stories, poems, and interviews were transformed because of direct or indirect experiences with this virulent beast, each of them had something profound to share with those of us enduring the same pain and confusion.

Obviously, as any anthology would surely prove, there are some entries that hit home for some readers and not others, but within this treasure, you're bound to find many you love. As an added bonus, you may discover some new authors, just as I did!

So, mark your calendars for September 1st, when this book hits shelves, and make sure to buy a copy (or three) to support those who make our passion of reading possible!

Bravo again, Jennifer Haupt! What a joy it is to follow your work!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Central Avenue Publishing for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 7/20/20

👶👶👶👶👶 The Book of Lost Names, by Kristin Harmel - Release Date 7/21/20

What an absolutely stunning novel. I was so close to getting through it without a tear... and then the floodgates opened as Kristin Harmel added her final beautiful touch. As the description notes, this novel was inspired by a true story during World War II - and what an incredible job the author did of weaving in a heartfelt tale amid the harsh reality. As I often muse, well-written historical fiction can pack a punch, and this novel does just that. This is Ms. Harmel's 5th novel about World War II, and I am impressed at how she is able to find little-known facts to shed light on despite the genre being so saturated.

Eva is a young lady who discovers that her artistic talent can be of great use in the resistance. Finding solace in her knowledge that she is helping Jewish children escape to Switzerland, Eva risks her own safety and well-being. Her main goal is to do what she can to not only save the children's lives, but preserve their true identity. Along the way, she finds true love, discovers her own strength, and comes face to face with the two extremes of human nature.

Harmel's characters are endearing and incredibly well fleshed out. I finished the book with an ache in my heart for sweet Eva and beloved Remy, who felt like dear friends to me by the end. Bravo Kristin Harmel - you have a new fan!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 7/15/20

👶👶👶👶 The Beauty of Your Face, by Sahar Mustafah - Release date: 4/7/2020

Sahar Mustafah has managed to write a novel that resonates deeply with readers.  Her characters are all at once complex and deeply flawed.  The Beauty of Your Face takes readers along on Principal Afaf Rahman's life journey in a series of flashbacks as she grapples with the reality that her Muslim school for girls is under attack by an active shooter.  The author paints a poignant picture of tragedy and heartache in a tribute to all Americans who are targeted for the color of their skin or the manner of their worship. Weaved into the story is the hardship and frustration that immigrant parents face upon arrival into the United States. It is a story with a resounding nod to religious freedom and acceptance of all human beings regardless of their beliefs. I personally learned a lot about the Islamic religion, and their traditions, and have a deeper appreciation for their plight.  This novel also shed light on the difficulty faced during the aftermath of 9/11 because of the blithe disregard for the rights of Americans who were determined to be "terrorists" by ignorant individuals.

I struggled with the story of Nada's disappearance, and though I appreciated why Mustafah included her story, I would've preferred it to be further fleshed out. There just wasn't enough substance throughout the story to predicate her actions both in the beginning of the novel, and toward the end.

Despite that one small grievance, I highly recommend this gripping novel which will be released on April 7th.  The author certainly has an easy way with words and her persuasive writing highlights the delicate human spirit and all its nuances.

Many thanks to W. W. Norton and Company and NetGalley for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.: 

Read 3/22/20

👶👶👶👶👶 Light Changes Everything, by Nancy E. Turner

Nancy E. Turner has done it again! Her novels centering on the Prine women are so entrancing - filled with such soul & humanity. Ms. Turner writes her female protagonists with true grit and tenacity, and she understands a woman's heart, soul, and spine! Most intrigung to me is the fact that these novels were inspired by Turner's own family history.

Mary Pearl is every bit as endearing and admirable as Sarah Agnes Prine (whom I was happy to see written into this story). This novel was an absolute joy to read, and I savored every page. For fans of the history of the Prine family, this novel comes highly recommended. However, even for readers who are unfamiliar with Turner's previous works, it also comes heavily endorsed as a stand-alone novel. Though, I warn you, once you begin reading Nancy E. Turner's novels, you'll have to devour every last one...

You'll have to wait a bit for this one, but mark your calendars for the January 14th, 2020 release.

Many thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 11/10/19

👶👶👶👶 Cilka's Journey, by Heather Morris

I am always grateful when authors take us on little known journeys that open our minds and touch our hearts. In this historical fiction account, Heather Morris details the heartbreaking young life of Cecilia Klein (Cilka), after she was imprisoned and tortured in Auschwitz. Cilka's Journey focuses on the time after Cilka's charges of German collaboration and her consequent sentencing in a Russian prison camp. It is unfathomable that some prisoners from Jewish concentration camps were actually sentenced further for merely doing what was necessary to stay alive. This particular Gulag was located in the harshest of climates and the prisoners were subjected to intolerable conditions. It is an absolute tribute to the human spirit that Cilka persevered despite the constant barrage of human cruelty she endured in her young life.

Morris' writing is fundamental with little adornment, and yet, this type of writing works incredibly well with the subject. It lends a somber feeling to the story, which is certainly in line with poor Cilka's life. Kudos to the author for educating her readers about this little-known event in the aftermath of the Holocaust.

Many thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review. This title will be released on Oct. 1, 2019.

Read 9/18/19

👶👶👶👶Twenty-one Truths About Love, by Matthew Dicks

In his unconventional, hilarious, and sometimes touching newest release, Matthew Dicks offers readers an entire novel written in lists. I couldn't quite wrap my head around how exactly this would make for a readable novel, but it was truly brilliant! I winced many a time as Dan and his prolific sailor mouth described his frustrations, guilty pleasures, lies to his wife, and outlandish plan to make money, all in a series of obsessive lists that help him get through the day. I think Dicks' ingenuity and the novel's readability will skyrocket this fun narrative to the top of the charts.

Many thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for gifting me with this advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 8/28/19

👶👶👶 We Love Anderson Cooper, by R.L. Maizes - Release Date: 7/23/19

We Love Anderson Cooper is an unconventional collection of short stories that focuses on characters that feel like outsiders in one way or another, allowing for a sense of camaraderie with the cast. R.L. Maizes is undoubtedly a clever author, crafting gratifying stories that feel complete, despite their length. I never found myself wanting to read more about the situations she presented, in part because several of the story lines were quite doleful, but also because she is a gifted writer. Many of the tales included Jewish people which allowed me to learn more about their culture and traditions, and also included cherished pets which made me smile. All in all, Ms. Maizes has an uncomplicated style of writing that lends itself well to short stories, and this collection was a breeze to read. However, I would speak amiss if I didn't mention that readers should be prepared to feel a sense of loss at the end of several of the stories.

Many thanks to Celadon Books and NetGalley for gifting me with this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This book will be released on July 23, 2019.

Read 7/18/19

👶👶👶👶 Into Captivity They Will Go, by Noah Milligan - Release Date: 10/1/19

What a compelling novel... I found it especially relevant in an age where Christian extremism has gained a foothold in the American landscape. Noah Milligan crafted a novel that makes his readers ponder the fine line that many walk between belief and zealotry, between ideology and obsessiveness. These blurred lines have carried over into politics and everyday life, most visible in the exclusionary practices of some churches and private institutions, but even in our government and ordinary citizens' practices.

My heart broke for Caleb. From a very young age, his mother convinced him that he was the second coming of Jesus Christ. As he pondered his circumstances later in adulthood, he realized "I wasn't brainwashed - it wasn't like that because in order to be brainwashed, the person convincing you must realize they're telling you lies. In my case, it couldn't be any different - my mother truly believed I was Jesus Christ reborn, and so why wouldn't I believe her?"

Even as his mother promulgated this outrageous concept, she had no malevolence in her heart, but was merely a misled individual, who caused incredible pain for many. This is where Milligan excels. He can make a reader empathize with even the most dubious individual, humanizing them, and allowing us to see every angle. These individuals felt real, like one's own neighbor, even in situations that are anything but familiar. The author also explores very relevant topics, and enables his readers to reflect on very valid concerns, ones that wouldn't normally be at the forefront. For example, his novel brought to mind how incredibly malleable a child's mind can be, and solidified the great responsibility we, as parents, have.

I must admit, I was more enthralled the first 2/3 of the book than in the end. Somehow, the novel lost a bit of its fire as it culminated. However, I truly enjoyed Mr. Milligan's easy manner of writing and his ability to make a foreign concept very accessible.

Many thanks to Central Avenue Publishing and NetGalley for gifting me with this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.  This title will be released on October 1, 2019.

Read 7/14/19

👶👶👶👶 The Grace Year, by Kim Liggett - Release date: 10/8/19

I thought I'd end my current Dystopian binge with a real page-turner. This novel was thoughtfully written and well-executed. Despite some violent and gruesome scenes, which I personally always struggle with, Kim Liggett threw in some surprising twists and concepts that truly made me reflect. The society she concocted is so disturbing as to make one lie awake considering the likelihood of such cruelty. She showed the dangers of mob mentality exacerbated by fear and illuminated the untapped power in all of us to create positive change. It definitely exuded girl power as a main theme.

There were times when the pacing was askew; a scene would end and then suddenly propel forward too quickly. There were also scenes that were incongruent, causing mild confusion for the reader. The main characters could also stand to be a bit more developed. As always in YA fiction, the love scenes are somewhat exaggerated. On that note, I definitely caution young readers and would say this novel is best-suited for much older teens and young adults. However, for the most part, I was invested from beginning to end, and would certainly consider reading the sequel which the author allowed for... it ended with quite the cliffhanger.

Many thanks to St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for gifting me with this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This title will be released on October 8, 2019.

Read 6/23/19

👶👶👶 Inland, by Tea Obreht - Release date: 8/13/19

This is the most unique book I've come across in a long while. The reader is led on a peculiar journey of two characters: the first of an immigrant written in the first person through discussion with his dearest friend (whose identity will certainly surprise you), and the second of an American frontier woman written in the third person (who has unexpected conversations of her own). Throughout the story, these two seemingly unrelated story lines keep the reader guessing. It is in the convergence of these two narratives that everything ultimately becomes clear.

Obreht is a talented writer, no doubt. The confluence of her talent and intellect makes for a compelling read. I must, however, admit that this novel takes a certain amount of patience, as the author's method of writing, though appealing, is also somewhat obscure. Initially I thought this novel was headed down an eerie path, then I thought it could possibly be a murder mystery, but then it veered once again. Eventually, I discovered it was a historical fiction novel, and learned about the little known U.S. Army Camel Corp. which made it a worthwhile read. I must admit, I would've like the stories to have been a bit more intertwined, as I was expecting a major "Aha" moment during the climax. So, for those of you that like having a general idea where the narrative is headed, this novel may prove frustrating, especially when it is much like reading two separate stories. However, if you're game for a very different style of storytelling, one that requires thought and patience, this is a novel you'll enjoy for its uniqueness.

Many thanks to Random House and Net Galley for gifting me with this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review. This title will be released on August 13, 2019.

Read 6/16/2019 

👶👶👶👶👶: This Tender Land, by William Kent Krueger - Release Date: 9/3/19

Mark your calendars for September 3rd, as you will not want to miss the release of this extraordinary novel! What an absolutely resplendent tale by William Kent Krueger, one that is destined to become a classic. It was such a privilege to embark on this adventure, with four endearing young friends, in a story line the likes of The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, though much more engrossing. Along the way, Mr. Krueger does a tremendous job illuminating the profound racial inequality that plagued Native Americans in the early part of the twentieth century. He intimately depicts the economic hardships of the Great Depression, going so far as to describe the makeshift communities that sprung up far and wide during these times, and even touches on the lure of Christian revivals during that time period. His characterization of reprehensible individuals is astonishing, and makes the reader cringe as the protagonist encounters them throughout the novel. Krueger balances this evil with redemptive souls, that allow the reader to recognize the good that surrounds us.

I absolutely fell in love with Odie, Albert, Mose, and Emmy, and will not soon forget their indomitable spirit. Hold on to your seats friends... it's going to be a wild ride!

Many thanks to Atria Books and Net Galley for gifting me with this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 5/16/19

👶👶👶 Only One Life, by Ashley Farley - Release date: 4/23/19

Ashley Farley describes herself as writing books about women, for women, and this description certainly rings true. Not long ago, I may have described this particular type of novel as "chick-lit", but I have more recently come to understand that as a pejorative term. I honestly believe that authors of this genre deserve more respect than that. There is clearly an audience for this type of novel, where serious matters are discussed with a sense of levity that provides comfort and knowledge that ultimately everything will work out just fine. For me, personally, there is a bit too much serendipity in the story line, but sometimes, that's just what readers are looking for: the idea that despite unfortunate events in life, there is always hope for a brighter tomorrow. Ms. Farley has managed to accomplish just that, and I can tell that she cares about her characters and topics. Overall, the novel moved along at a good clip and certainly had enough family dysfunction to keep the reader curious and entertained.

Many thanks to Lake Union Publishing and NetGalley for gifting me with this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

Read 3/26/19

👶👶👶👶 City of Flickering Light, by Juliette Fay - Release Date: 4/16/19

What an adventure Juliette Fay has taken her readers on! The once small village named Hollywood in the early 1900's has a fascinating history, the beginnings of which I'd never known. Ms. Fay concocted a fanciful tale about 3 friends' journeys in early Tinseltown. I was immediately transported "backstage" to the reality behind the glitz and glamour of Hollywood in the 1920's. Irene, Henry, and Millie were irresistible characters with unique qualities, who developed a beautiful friendship. Pulling from the real-life experiences of various big names in old Hollywood, Fay created a story that propelled the reader along in an entertaining tribute to that place which has captured Americans' curiosity from its inception. Having visited Hollywood many a time in my youth during summer vacations, this novel caused me to reminisce rather unexpectedly.

Look for the release of this "star" on April 16th!

Many thanks to Gallery Books and NetGalley for gifting me with this novel in exchange for an honest review.

Read 2/28/19

👶👶👶👶👶 Under Pressure: Confronting the Epidemic of Stress and Anxiety in Girls, by Lisa Damour - Release Date: 2/12/2019

The importance of this book cannot be overstated. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, teacher, or caretaker of a girl, the information contained within the pages of Under Pressure is invaluable. Dr. Damour wrote an engaging book with excellent insight into the workings of young ladies' minds. She provides real-world examples and accessible guidance to assist our girls in managing stress and anxiety. This book couldn't have come at a better time, as I just recently realized what a large percentage of my friends' daughters have mild to severe anxiety. I was glad to not feel alone in this situation, and this book helped to allay my concerns even further. As alarming as this epidemic may seem, I am grateful to Dr. Damour for giving solid suggestions as to how to deal with specific situations.

What made it most relevant is how the reader is informed about what normal/healthy behavior looks like as a gauge by which to measure your own girls' situation. What may seem like abnormal anxiety, may in fact be quite typic.

So, if you're looking for a book with sage advice in dealing with girls' anxiety in this day and age, look no further.

Many thanks to Net Galley and Random House for gifting me with a copy of this eBook in exchange for an honest review. This title will be released on Feb. 12!

Read 2/2/19

👶👶👶👶👶 What the Wind Knows, by Amy Harmon - Release Date 3/1/2019

There are few authors that can transport me to another realm so completely with their mastery of words. Amy Harmon is one such author. I am in awe at the confluence of her imagination, research, and prose, and am astonished at the sheer enchantment she creates. It is evident that she has poured her heart and soul into this work, and the result is pure magic.

A warm lullaby crafted from a melange of history, W.B. Yeats' poetry, and indelible characters, What the Wind Knows is nothing short of spectacular. Shockingly, the suspension of disbelief required to read this novel (an act often proven difficult for me) was never a struggle, but a very organic experience from start to finish. The beauty of the text leaves the reader in a state of calm and awe, having expended raw emotion throughout the journey... a true marker of a superior novel.

My heart is more full for having met Anne Gallagher and Thomas Smith, and for having been introduced to the real-life character, Michael Collins. The rich history of Ireland that Ms. Harmon has shared is truly fascinating.

"There are some paths that inevitably lead to heartache, some acts that steal men's souls, leaving them wandering forever after without them, trying to find what they lost." -Amy Harmon

Many thanks to Net Galley and Lake Union Publishing for gifting me with a copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review. Be on the lookout for this gem on March 1!

Read 1/27/19