The Handmaid's Tale

Offred is a Handmaid in the Republic of Gilead. She may leave the home of the Commander and his wife once a day to walk to food markets whose signs are now pictures instead of words because women are no longer allowed to read. She must lie on her back once a month and pray that the Commander makes her pregnant, because in an age of declining births, Offred and the other Handmaids are valued only if their ovaries are viable. Offred can remember the years before, when she lived and made love with her husband, Luke; when she played with and protected her daughter; when she had a job, money of her own, and access to knowledge. But all of that is gone now.

This book is disturbing is many ways. On one hand it was written to be an attack against conservative Christianity. The author clearly did not read the New Testament where women are made equal with men, and where many of the American ideas allowing women equality are founded. However, if we look at this book with Islamic religion as the feared religion I can share the fear of the author. Women reduced to property of the men and only valued for the fertility of their bodies is not unusual to this rapidly growing religion. I think Atwood was being anti-religious period. She obviously had a problem with religion and she feed her disdain for all religious beliefs into this novel. The novel is difficult. It is hard to read not because the writing is difficult, although an editor would be nice, but because of the unethical treatment of women in this book. It is painful to know that unethical conditions do exist for women around the world and there is little to nothing we can do about it. As I read this novel I thought of those women who live in similar societies and have no one to turn to. They may not be handmaids but they are the property of males in their culture just the same. 
Read this book to expose yourself to a classic. Read this book for the ethical awakening, but do not read this book if you are looking for an easy read. This book will tear out your heart and stomp on it. It will leave you with more questions than answers. 

I give the Handmaid's Tale 3 out of 5 stars

Furyborn by Claire Legrand

Follows two fiercely independent young women, centuries apart, who hold the power to save their world...or doom it.

This book was a fun read. The plot and characters were outstanding. The world building was amazing! Two kingdoms, over a thousand year apart, and the story flows seamlessly! I was enthralled with the magical structure and the methods the author used to bind these two women together. As the story unravels, you begin to see how the characters are intertwined and its outstanding. The romance in this book is more of a back story for each of the ladies. However it is within these stories that this novel has its major flaw. The sexual scenes in this novel boarder on pornographic. They are not appropriate for the young adult audience this book is intended for. I felt slightly uncomfortable with the sexual explicitness contained in this book. It was a shame too, because the story line was strong and enthralling. There was no need to add this high level of sexuality into this story. There were also hints of bisexuality and homosexuality within this book. A skilled author and a good story, but these negatives will probably prevent me from continuing the series. I do not like watching porn, I do not want to read in in what is suppose to be Young adult fiction either. I caution any parents or educators, I do not recommended for teens. 
A quick note about the audio version of this book. If you decide to listen to this book, the narrator does an excellent job switching between the two story-lines, but because the book does constantly switch between two different women and their lives, you will have to devote more than the usual amount of attention to this audiobook. 
I give Furyborn 2.5 out of 5 stars
I give the audio version of this book 4 out of 5 stars

Left Behind by Tim LaHaye and Jerry B. Jenkins

An airborne Boeing 747 is headed to London when, without any warning, passengers mysteriously disappear from their seats. Terror and chaos slowly spread not only through the plane but also worldwide as unusual events continue to unfold. For those who have been left behind, the apocalypse has just begun...

How does it all unravel? What do those left behind believe has happened? What will happen to those remaining and how will the world respond? This series begins an attempt at answering many of these questions in a narrative format. The characters are realistic and vivid. The setting is well developed, and the plot is riveting. Not all of the information is 100% Biblical, in fact this book is listed as science fiction as well as christian fiction, but the authors have created a realistic story-line intended to make the reader ask the questions, Am I ready, and Will I be left behind?  

I give 4.5 stars to Left Behind

Three years ago, Sophie Mercer discovered that she was a witch. It's gotten her into a few scrapes. Her non-gifted mother has been as supportive as possible, consulting Sophie's estranged father—an elusive European warlock—only when necessary. But when Sophie attracts too much human attention for a prom-night spell gone horribly wrong, it's her dad who decides her punishment: exile to Hex Hall, an isolated reform school for wayward Prodigium, a.k.a. witches, faeries, and shapeshifters.

By the end of her first day among fellow freak-teens, Sophie has quite a scorecard: three powerful enemies who look like supermodels, a futile crush on a gorgeous warlock, a creepy tag-along ghost, and a new roommate who happens to be the most hated person and only vampire student on campus. Worse, Sophie soon learns that a mysterious predator has been attacking students, and her only friend is the number-one suspect.

As a series of blood-curdling mysteries starts to converge, Sophie prepares for the biggest threat of all: an ancient secret society determined to destroy all Prodigium, especially her.

Maybe its the high school teacher in me, but I instantly loved this book. I was absorbed in Sophie's initial battle to fit in and to adapt to the high school life as paranormal as it was. Her magical twist just made the story even better. There were the mean girls, the nerds, the cool kids and the friendly kid. I loved it. Then there was this really interesting magical system all wrapped up in a school environment. Enter teacher mode! How cool it would be to be a teacher at a magical school. I kept getting caught up in that idea as I read this book Anyway Sophie has some real serious imperfections, but that makes her more realistic, and more likable. She may not be the perfect student, but she has a good heart. What's more, this school is diverse. There are shapeshifters, werewolves, fae, witches,  vampires, and even demons attending Hex Hall. So many supernatural ethnicities all within the pages on one book!!

I give Hex Hall 4.5 out of 5 stars

I give the audio book performance 4.5 out of 5 stars

Lady Renegades by Rachel Hawkins

Just as Harper Price starts coming to terms with her role as David Stark’s battle-ready Paladin, protector, and girlfriend—her world goes crazy all over again.

Overwhelmed by his Oracle powers, David flees Pine Grove and starts turning teenage girls into Paladins—and these young ladies seem to think that Harper is the enemy David needs protecting from.  Ordinarily, Harper would be able to fight off any Paladin who comes her way, but her powers have been dwindling since David left town…which means her life is on the line yet again.

Lady Renegades completes the Rebel Belle series. In many ways this book was more complete and less rushed than Miss Mayhem, however it in no way came close to the fun and excitement I felt when reading Rebel Belle. The book did end neatly, but almost abruptly. Everything tied up in a neat bow so to speak, but I felt there were still a few questions I wanted answers to. This book was more serious than the original, and although it was interesting, that level of seriousness this book  zapped some of the humor away. Overall this book is worth reading and I would recommend the investment. 

I give Lady Renegades 3.75 out of 5 stars

I give the audio version 5 out of 5 stars

Miss Mayhem by Rachel Hawkins (Book 2 in Rebel Belle Series)

Life is almost back to normal for Harper Price. The Ephors have been silent after their deadly attack at Cotillion months ago, and her best friend, Bee, has returned after a mysterious disappearance. Now Harper can focus on the important things in life: school, canoodling with David (her nemesis-turned-ward-slash-boyfie), and even competing in the Miss Pine Grove pageant.

Unfortunately, supernatural chores are never done. The Ephors have decided they’d rather train David than kill him. The catch: Harper has to come along for the ride, but she can’t stay David’s Paladin unless she undergoes an ancient trial that will either kill her . . . or make her more powerful than ever.

Like most second books this book was not as good as the first installment, however it was still a good book and worthy of reading. It filled in a lot of information about the characters and the relationships between the characters grew. The combo of magic and southern culture were still endearing and lend the book an unique perspective.  The book is action packed and never boring. However, be prepared, this book, like most second-in-the series-books ends in a cliffhanger. 

I give Miss Mayhem 3.5 out of 5 stars
I give the audio book 4.5 out of 5 stars

Choices

WOW!
 I do not know if there is anything busier than a teacher on the first day with students. Today has been so crazy. I cannot wait until I get home to a hot bath and my books! I am trying to decide on a new book to read. I have several in my TBR pile and its always exciting ad intimidating to make a new selection. New choices are often difficult. I saw many of my students today struggling with decisions. Some were trying to decide if speaking up in class was worth the effort if they were going to make themselves a target for ridicule. I do not take to this well and try to create an environment of equality in my classroom. Others were trying to choose where to sit at lunch, and new student even struggled with what to choose for lunch, not knowing if the food was good or if they should opt for the safer salad line. Even as teachers we ha choices to make, do I want to use a seating chart, which student can I call on, what has to be done today and what can I put off until tomorrow? With so many choices in our day selecting a book seems like a privilege, because no matter which I pick I am in for an adventure. That makes selecting a good book the no lose option for this busy mom and school teacher.

Motley Education by SA Larsen

Forget having a lively after school social life, Ebony Charmed is fighting to keep the entire afterlife alive.
Ebony’s less-than-average spirit tracking abilities are ruining more than sixth grade at Motley Junior High: School for the Psychically and Celestially Gifted. Her parents argue so much her dad's moved out. And, even though he’s scared of his own shadow and insists on bringing his slimy, legless lizard everywhere they go, Ebony wouldn’t survive without her best friend, Fleishman.
When Ebony’s Deadly Creatures & Relics’ project goes missing she learns her missing project is one of the keys to saving the spirit world.

Now Ebony and Fleishman must battle beasts from Norse mythology to retrieve her project before spirits are lost, the Well of Urd dries up, and Ebony loses all hope of reuniting her family. But someone lies in wait, and he has other plans…including creating a new world of spirits without them in it.

This is a great middle school or even advanced upper elementary read. Students will enjoy watching Ebony grow from the underdog to the hero. She may be a late bloomer, but like many middle school students, that does not mean she is not very special.  The Norse Mythology in this book is well researched and would make for a good book to read as a class if you wanted to lead into, or even read along with a section on Norse Mythology.  

Either way students will enjoy the humor and the horror held in the pages of this book. 

4.5 stars out of 5 stars for Motley Education

4 out of 5 stars for educational content

Rebel Belle by Rachel Hawkins

Harper Price, peerless Southern belle, was born ready for a Homecoming tiara. But after a strange run-in at the dance imbues her with incredible abilities, Harper's destiny takes a turn for the seriously weird. She becomes a Paladin, one of an ancient line of guardians with agility, super strength and lethal fighting instincts.

Sweet, Southern, Sassy, and of course magical powers!?!?  Living in the south and loving magical based novels, I had to give this book a try. I was not let down. The historical and mystical magical world of the Paladins combines with the charming etiquette of a southern belle and creates something that has never been done before. Yes this is a Young adult novel, so it revolves around teenagers, but they do include adults in their saving ventures and even so who can fault a high school teacher for enjoying a bit of YA every once and a while.  This book "is a pearl" and the best part is there are sequels.

I give Rebel Belle 5 out of 5 stars
I give the audio book 5 out of 5 stars   

Truthwitch by Susan Dennard The Witchlands #1

In a continent on the edge of war, two witches hold its fate in their hands.
Young witches Safiya and Iseult have a habit of finding trouble. After clashing with a powerful Guildmaster and his ruthless Bloodwitch bodyguard, the friends are forced to flee their home.
Safi must avoid capture at all costs as she's a rare Truthwitch, able to discern truth from lies. Many would kill for her magic, so Safi must keep it hidden - lest she be used in the struggle between empires. And Iseult's true powers are hidden even from herself.

Unique magic structure, amazing world building, beautiful characters, add a pinch of romance and a lot of adventure and you have Truthwitch. I am not a fan of reading books just because they are all hyped up, but after lots of positive reviews I gave this one a shot, and WOW! I  was not disappointed. This book is beautiful, from the cover to every line inside. I highly recommend this book to anyone looking for an interesting world or someone coming off a book hangover. You will not regret it if you take the time to read this gem!

I give Truthwitch 4.5 out of 5 stars
I give the audio performance 5 out of 5 stars

First week back to school!!!

There is no other tired in the world like a teacher's first week back to school tired. Meetings with bosses, Professional developments, dusting, setting up the classroom, supply requests, parent complaints, and so much more has to be fit in and that is all during school hours. You still have to come home and be mom and wife and housekeeper and daughter and sister...... How I have missed my little blog and my books!!! I did get to squeeze some time for some new ARC books in and I am looking forward to sharing those reviews with you all very soon. Dont forget to check back soon and see what I have found. One is even a Middle school level book that will be great for boys and girls alike!!!

Hope you have a great beginning to the school year!!

Jenn
AKA Mrs. Boyd

Windwitch by Susan Dennard A Witchlands Novel

After an explosion destroys his ship, the world believes Prince Merik, Windwitch, is dead. Scarred yet alive, Merik is determined to prove his sister’s treachery. Upon reaching the royal capital, crowded with refugees, he haunts the streets, fighting for the weak—which leads to whispers of a disfigured demigod, the Fury, who brings justice to the oppressed.
When the Bloodwitch Aeduan discovers a bounty on Iseult, he makes sure to be the first to find her—yet in a surprise twist, Iseult offers him a deal. She will return money stolen from him, if he locates Safi. Now they must work together to cross the Witchlands, while constantly wondering, who will betray whom first?
After a surprise attack and shipwreck, Safi and the Empress of Marstok barely escape with their lives. Alone in a land of pirates, every moment balances on a knife’s edge—especially when the pirates’ next move could unleash war upon the Witchlands.

This is a book with a beautiful love story, but it is just as much a book about friendship, determination and finding one's self. This is the second book in the series with Truthwitch being the prequel.  The readers are given a better understanding of the magic structure of this kingdom as well as the political makeup of this world. The characters are better filled in as well. Like many second books this book was designed to give additional details and to extend the plot of the first book. I can say I am very excited to read the third installment! 

I give Windwitch 3.5  out of 5 stars
I give the audio performance 5 out of 5 stars

Whats your boundary?

Comfort zone, boundaries, safe space, favorite genre, we all have a name for it. I have differing limits for what I will read for pleasure, what I will implement in my classroom, and what I will read for academic content. Have you ever outlined your specific limitations, what you look for in a book, what you won't tolerate in a book?
When researching books to use in my classroom, I look at lots of things. I have to consider academic value of course, but there is also the content of the book. Are there innuendos that are inappropriate for classroom use? Is there explicit or graphic language?  Would this book offend a cultural or religious group in my classroom? Honestly, it is always stressful when choosing a new book. I like exploring new content, but I do rely heavily on those with experience, who may notice something offensive I might overlook before I implement the use of a new novel in the classroom. I do find gems of my own, but I have found that a second pair of eyes is always a good idea when dealing with students.
When selecting books for my own benefit I can relax my standards. I do not have to fret if some bad language occurs in the book, but I do have my limits. I do not believe any intelligent person needs to curse every other word to express him or herself and I feel the same is true for authors. The occasional curse word is to be expected occasionally in novels, especially from the antagonist, but any intelligent writer can find other ways to express "colorful language" without using words like f*&% and s*&% every other sentence. I also draw the line with sexual scenes. I do not like to watch porn and I do not want to read it either. Kisses and romantic scenes are fine but there are limits! When the scene is so graphic that I am ashamed that I purchased the book in the first place I am going to DNF the book and hide it so no one finds it in my possession.  Finally, and please hold the tar and feathers, I do not approve of homosexual love (LGBTQ) in books. I do not hate this population of people. I hate no one, but it makes me very uncomfortable, and there is a genre for that. If the book is LGBTQ friendly it needs to be listed in that genre. I get so tired of reading along and really enjoying a book and BAM there is a LGBTQ relationship. Usually the book is not listed in that genre, and the book is not identified as having any LGBTQ affiliation, but there it is. I cannot even purchase a new book for my kids without screening it first to make sure there is none of this interspersed within the pages. Again, I do not hate these people, but I do disagree with their lifestyle and would rather not read about it in my book worlds or have my children exposed to it without my knowledge from the pages of the books. Seriously why are middle school books even covering this topic anyway?
When reading for academic content the choice is made much differently. Who are the authors and publishers? What are their credentials? What is their reputation in the academic community on the specific topic? What other types of academic publications have they written? There are lots of ways to vest academic writings and I try to employ many of them before putting much weight into any academic writing. Experience and support form the academic community are much encouraged prior to placing value on any particular academic writings. Obviously some writings are safer than others. Text books and Academic Journals being among the most reliable sources, but even these can be tinged with the opinions of the authors, depending on the subject matter. It is always a good idea to do your homework when seeking academic texts.
So, what are your limits? Do you have limits? Do you only read specific genres or are you open to anything? Again, as an educator I look at every book through different lenses so I am curious, how do you filter books to select your reading materials, because there are so many books out there and so little time for reading them all.

ARC Review The Witch of Willow Hall by Hester Fox

In the wake of a scandal, the Montrose family and their three daughters—Catherine, Lydia and Emeline—flee Boston for their new country home, Willow Hall.
The estate seems sleepy and idyllic. But a subtle menace creeps into the atmosphere, remnants of a dark history that call to Lydia, and to the youngest, Emeline.
All three daughters will be irrevocably changed by what follows, but none more than Lydia, who must draw on a power she never knew she possessed if she wants to protect those she loves. For Willow Hall’s secrets will rise, in the end…

This book was dark and gloomy and even very sad at times. It had a slow moving plot, but as it progressed the intrigue and mystery increased and before long I could not put it down. I had to know what was going to happen next. I was enthralled. I was captivated by Lydia and all she was going through. I felt so deeply for her character. This is a book that forces the reader to feel. The reader will gradually realize that they are invested in what is occurring. I laughed with Lydia and I cried with her. I was shocked with her and at times I was angry for her. Yes this book has witchcraft in it, but the book does not revolve around the witchcraft. The family scandal is more center to the storyline, and what a scandal it was. This book is not for the younger reader, it is for a more mature, older audience, however it is a great read. Differnt from my usual, but as this author's debut novel she should be proud. I look forward to reading more from Hester Fox.  
I give The Witch of Willow Hall 4 out of 5 Stars

Fahrenheit 451 by Ray Bradbury

Guy Montag is a fireman. His job is to burn books, which are forbidden, being the source of all discord and unhappiness. Even so, Montag is unhappy; there is discord in his marriage. Are books hidden in his house? The Mechanical Hound of the Fire Department, armed with a lethal hypodermic, escorted by helicopters, is ready to track down those dissidents who defy society to preserve and read books.

This classic dystpoian novel is based on the terrifying premise that books are illegal because they are the source of unrest both politically and socially. Bradbury is dealing with multiple underlying themes. The fun part of being a teacher is having students read this book and after they understand the literal plot, helping them to uncover metaphorical meanings. Students never cease to amaze me. We are all different and the real life applications of this book are innumerable. READ this book, and determine what warnings Bradbury is presenting to you. Burning books, destroying knowledge, limiting what can be passed on, what stands out to us as we read will differ as we observe this book through the lens of our own personal experiences. I have even known students who were so caught up in firemen starting fires rather than putting them out that entire discussions were held on this premise. When you read this book you are reading a story, but you are also reading a metaphor, one that your own personal experiences will mold and shape. Good luck and enjoy. 

I give Fahrenheit 451 5 out of 5 stars for educational use
I give Fahrenheit 451 5 out of 5 stars 
I give the audio performance 5 out of 5 stars 

Under the Never Sky by Veronica Rossi

Aria has lived her whole life in the protected dome of Reverie. Her entire world confined to its spaces, she's never thought to dream of what lies beyond its doors. So when her mother goes missing, Aria knows her chances of surviving in the outer wasteland long enough to find her are slim.

This summary is so inadequate when describing all the elements within the pages of this book!!! Do not let that dissuade you! If you enjoy dystopian fiction/post-apocalyptic fiction then you will want to read this novel. 
 There are dual point of views used within this novel, however the author makes it clear which character is speaking and switches between voices are done at times when it benefits the storyline. The focus of this story is the characters more than the world building. This means the characters delivered are exceptionally well defined and realistic. However, the world building is not weakly done. It is just not the focus of the author. The reader gets a good idea of the political system, the breakdown between the two distinct groups of peoples and their cultures up to this point, and what is happening to the world at this point in time. To really appreciate this story one needs to combine all the elements of the plot and immerse themselves in the pages of the novel. I have read this book multiple times. I enjoyed all three novels in this trilogy and would highly recommend reading Under The Never Sky and its sequels. Just do not start it if you have to get up early in the morning, you might lose sleep over this one! 
I also find this book appropriate for high school aged students. It has a few scenes that would make it too mature for younger students, but most high school students would watch much worse on TV and movie screens. There are some political undercurrents that could be addressed or of course a teacher could just recommend this book as a pleasure read.

I give Under the Never Sky 4 out of 5 Stars
I give the audio performance 5 out of 5 stars!

Fire (Graceling book #2) by Kristin Cashore

It is not a peaceful time in the Dells. The young King Nash clings to his throne while rebel lords in the north and south build armies to unseat him. The mountains and forests are filled with spies and thieves and lawless men.
This is where Fire lives. With a wild, irresistible appearance and hair the color of flame, Fire is the last remaining human monster. Equally hated and adored, she had the unique ability to control minds, but she guards her power, unwilling to steal the secrets of innocent people. Especially when she has so many of her own.
Then Prince Brigan comes to bring her to King City, The royal family needs her help to uncover the plot against the king. Far away from home, Fire begins to realize there's more to her power than she ever dreamed. Her power could save the kingdom

This book had a lot to live up to. Book one in the Graceling series was a beautiful adventure and I absolutely loved the book. It is important to note that although this is the second book written in this series it is actually a prequel to Graceling. You can however read them in any order and still fully comprehend both books.  It is always stressful starting a sequel, will it be a wonderful continuation or a let down? Fire is written in the same world, but about a completely different set of characters, and I was not disappointed. It was an amazing tale. The world building was expertly continued from book 1, but with additions and more background information added from another part of this magical land. The characters were woven with details that made them seem real and almost palpable. None were too perfect, each one had struggles and issues to contend with, good and bad struggling within and they had to decide which would dominate. The royal family was realistic even in this fantasy setting and the entire plot was believable as well as exciting. I thoroughly enjoyed re-entering this world and could not wait to read the third installment Bitterblue. Again my major problem with this series is the authors casual approach to sex and negative view on traditional marriage as constricting and confining. This theme was most prevalent in book 1, but there was some evidence of it in this book as well. 

I give Fire 3 out of 5 stars
I give the audio Performance 5 0ut of 5 stars

Brain Web by Douglas E. Richards

Nick Hall, an unwilling recipient of brain implants, can surf the Web with his thoughts and read minds. And while this makes him one of the most formidable men on earth, he is determined to stay off the grid.
But when terrorists seize control of the Academy Awards and vow to butcher the world's most beloved stars, one by one, in front of an international television audience, Hall is forced to reveal his astonishing capabilities.
Now, power players around the world will stop at nothing to capture him. And as the secretive group working with Hall begins to unravel, he is sure of only two things: he has been betrayed by someone close to him. And the stakes he is playing for could not be any higher . . .

This is the second in the "Nick Hall" series and again I enjoyed the book. You CAN read this book without reading Mind's Eye and pretty much follow the entire story line. The author does an excellent job of filling in details without retelling the first story completely. That being said this book is a suspense thriller. Once you open the cover be prepared to be swept into a world of black ops and evil psychopaths. You will not want to put the book down until the last sentence is complete because the plot is constantly twisting and turning leaving you eager to find out what happens next. I found this book exciting and nerve wracking! I l lost sleep finishing this book, but hey that is what we book dragons tend to do. This is my second book in this genre and so far I am liking this field. Any recommendations of other similar books would be appreciated. Just leave them in the comments. Thanks!

I give Brain Web 5 out of 5 Stars!!

Mind's Eye by Douglas E. Richards

When Nick Hall wakes up in a dumpster--bloodied, without a memory, and hearing voices in his head--he knows things are bad. But they're about to get far worse. Because he's being hunted by a team of relentless assassins. Soon Hall discovers that advanced electronics have been implanted in his brain, and he now has two astonishing abilities. He can surf the web using thoughts alone. And he can read minds. But who inserted the implants? And why? And why is someone so desperate to kill him?

This novel took me away from my normal fantasy and paranormal reads, but I really enjoyed the sci-fi and action adventure story. It was a constant action adventure that kept me guessing and really had me enamored with the characters. The book was suspenseful and had edge of your seat drama throughout the book, with just enough science based fact to keep this biology major interested. (I really hate unrealistic, flowery science lets keep it within the realm of reasonable). There were some pretty cool tech ideas and of course a military chase. As Nick is running for his life he decides to determine what happened to him, who did it to him, and how to get even. Awesome book!! My first in this genre but I will read more. As a matter of fact I read the sequel and it was amazing too. Watch for its review to post soon. 

I give Mind's Eye 5 out of 5 stars!!!