Y.S. Stephen - Reader | Casual Observer

In this story, we encounter a post-apocalyptic world where humanity has largely disappeared, leaving a small band of survivors who must rely on themselves and each other to survive. The book presents a vibrant, reimagined landscape filled with mysterious, otherworldly beings and a more unforgiving climate. WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK The visuals are absolutely stunning, capturing the setting beautifully. WHAT I DISLIKE While the plot is straightforward—a quality that can work well—it lacks much suspense, giving the sense that it serves as more of a prologue than a fully developed narrative. WHO IS THIS FOR? Fans of YA fantasy might want to have a look at this one. Many thanks to Image Comics for providing a review copy.

The Library Mule of Cordoba is a story about the destruction of one of the largest libraries in the world. It also tells how its Head Librarian, a copyist, and a thief managed to save some of the library's contents. This book explores the importance of ideas and the value of challenging deeply held beliefs. It also examines the dangers of populism, showing how it brutally suppresses opposition and leads to the destruction or banning of ideas. WHAT I LOVE ABOUT THE BOOK Despite its serious themes, The Library Mule of Cordoba maintains a humorous tone and doesn't take itself too seriously. The art style is lovely and French-y... reminiscent of the Asterix and Obelix series. DISLIKES However, a few of the panel scenes felt a bit too long. WHO IS IT FOR? I recommend this book for adults and young adults who have a passion for ideas. Special thanks to Ablaze for providing a review copy.

  While the title may be misleading, "Lies My Teacher Told Me" strives to address numerous historical inaccuracies commonly taught in American schools. The book sheds light on the negligence of publishers in critically examining historical facts and figures while often prioritizing national pride and jingoism. The book challenges accepted mistruths about Columbus's role in American history and reveals lesser-known aspects of Helen Keller's life (aspects that are conveniently brushed aside as they do not fit into an established hero origin story). WHAT I APPRECIATE ABOUT THIS BOOK This book is a valuable guide for instructing students about the perils of unquestioningly believing everything they read. It emphasizes the significance of research and self-examination in the realm of history. It encourages readers to approach history with a critical mindset. DISLIKES None. TARGET AUDIENCE This is recommended for adults and young adults who have a passion for kn...

  Dancing with the Devil by the author explains why it is important to acknowledge and accept both positive and negative emotions in life. The author argues that while positive emotions like happiness, love, and gratitude are essential to our well-being, negative emotions such as anger, sadness, and envy can offer insight and perspective to our lives as well. WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THE BOOK The author suggests that ignoring these so-called negative emotions and focusing only on the positive can lead to a distorted outlook. By recognizing and appreciating all kinds of emotions, one can have a fuller and more meaningful life. This book is a must-read for adults of all ages. WHAT I DISLIKE Nothing. WHO IS THIS FOR? This is for every and any adult. Many thanks to Oxford University Press for providing a review copy.

Augusto Mora's book "Illegal Cargo" gives an unflinching account of the risks, heartaches, and potential misfortunes endured by illegal migrants, particularly those taking the Mexican route to enter the United States. It details the dangers they face and the exploitation that occurs during their journey, and it sheds light on those who benefit from human trafficking and the trail of blood that is left behind. WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK Illegal Cargo poignantly shows the emotional toll that the Mexican route experience takes on the migrants, and its frank portrayal of the ugliness of this issue offers readers a powerful understanding of the human costs of illegal migration. DISLIKES Nothing. WHO IS IT FOR This is for anyone and everyone. Many thanks to Diamond Books for providing a review copy.

  Sounds Like Misophonia is an in-depth exploration of Misophonia, a rare condition characterized by an abnormal sensitivity to certain noises. It seeks to illustrate the far-reaching impacts of the disorder, detailing how it affects the lives of those who suffer from it. The author also provides a helpful guide on how to cope with this condition and maintain a healthy lifestyle despite its presence. WHAT I LIKE ABOUT THIS BOOK This book is a must-read for anyone struggling with Misophonia, as well as those who have family or friends affected by the condition. It offers a clear and concise breakdown of the symptoms and effects of this disorder, and offers strategies on how to live with it without sacrificing well-being. DISLIKES Nothing. WHO IS IT FOR? This is for anyone suffering from Misophonia. It can also prove helpful to those who have loved ones who are always irritable around certain sounds. Many thanks to Bloomsbury Publishing Plc for providing a review copy.