the_sassy_bookworm's reviews
5075 reviews

Stomp, Soar, Dino Roar by Max Amato, Brendan McAuliffe

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adventurous funny informative lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Book Review: Stomp, Soar, Dino Roar by Max Amato & Brendan McAuliffe

Rating: 4 Stars

OMG, I just finished reading Stomp, Soar, Dino Roar by Max Amato and Brendan McAuliffe, and I absolutely loved it! This book is truly a delightful gem for kids (and honestly, for dino-loving adults like me too). 

So, let me give you a summary of the story. It follows Terri the Triceratops as she navigates her vibrant world filled with all sorts of intriguing sounds. From the rustles of little critters to the rumblings of distant volcanoes, every page is an auditory adventure. Terri embarks on a journey through the Late Cretaceous Period, and along the way, she encounters new friends and learns how to find her own voice—especially when danger is lurking. It’s such a fun way to explore what life was like for dinosaurs back in the day!

Now, let’s talk about the illustrations. They are simply adorable! The bright colors really pop off the pages, making it feel like you’re right there with Terri as she stomps through her prehistoric playground. And can we take a moment to appreciate the pronunciation guides? They’re such a thoughtful addition that make it easy for kids (and parents!) to sound out those tricky dinosaur names.

One of my favorite parts of the book is the educational fact guide at the end. It provides a treasure trove of information about the dinosaurs and their world. It’s great because it combines fun storytelling with learning—perfect for any small dino lover out there!

Overall, Stomp, Soar, Dino Roar is a charming read that captivates both the imagination and curiosity of young readers. I highly recommend it as a gift for any little dinosaur enthusiast in your life. Trust me, they will adore it just as much as I did! 🦖✨

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
One Wild Christmas by Nicholas Oldland

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adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? N/A
  • Strong character development? N/A
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

Book Review: One Wild Christmas by Nicholas Oldland

Rating: 4 Stars

Hey there! I just finished reading One Wild Christmas by Nicholas Oldland, and it was such a delightful little adventure that I couldn’t help but share my thoughts. 

So, the story revolves around three best pals: a bear, a moose, and a beaver. They’re all super excited about Christmas and have been busy preparing for the holiday season. However, in all their hustle and bustle, they completely forget to find the most essential decoration—yep, you guessed it—a Christmas tree! So they set off into the snowy forest, eager to find the perfect tree. After rejecting several options, they finally stumble upon this stunning pine tree that’s just the right size, smells amazing, and has the softest needles. It’s basically a Christmas miracle! 

But here’s where things get interesting. Just as the beaver is about to chop it down for their holiday celebrations, the bear steps in to save the day. He can’t bear (pun totally intended) the thought of harming such a beautiful tree! The moose and the beaver are not on the same page, though; they think they should go ahead and take it. This leads to a heartwarming debate about what really makes Christmas special. Will they manage to celebrate without cutting down their perfect tree? You’ll have to read it to find out!

Honestly, this book is just a heartwarming and funny Christmas story that captures the essence of friendship and the true spirit of the holiday season. The illustrations are adorable and really bring the characters to life, adding to the overall charm of the story. I think it would make a perfect addition to any child's holiday reading list. 

In short, if you're looking for something that’s both entertaining and meaningful this Christmas, you definitely need to check out One Wild Christmas. It’s a joy to read and will definitely put you in the festive spirit! 🎄✨

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
The Self-Reliant Kitchen: From-Scratch Sourdough Breads, Homemade Cheese, and Farm-to-Table Meals by Michelle Mullennix

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informative inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

3.0

Book Review: The Self-Reliant Kitchen by Michelle Mullennix

Rating: 3 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing The Self-Reliant Kitchen: From-Scratch Sourdough Breads, Homemade Cheese, and Farm-to-Table Meals by Michelle Mullennix, and it was an okay cookbook! The premise of the book is all about embracing traditional cooking skills and heritage recipes that have been passed down through generations. It’s a call to action for anyone tired of the overly processed foods that dominate grocery store shelves and looking to nourish their families with healthier, homemade options. 

Mullennix offers a variety of recipes that range from comforting to adventurous, such as Sourdough Cinnamon Raisin Bread, Home-Churned Butter, and even Homemade Pasta. I was particularly intrigued by the idea of making nourishing Bone Broth and healthy Grape Gummies, which sound like fun projects for a lazy Sunday. It's obvious that the author wants to empower readers to take control of their kitchens, one recipe at a time. 

However, while I appreciate the sentiment and the overall goal of the book, I found it to be a bit of a mixed bag. For starters, it was somewhat wordy in places. And there were also moments of inconsistency—some recipes felt straightforward, while others seemed a bit convoluted.

Visually, I was hoping for something more stunning. A cookbook should inspire you not just with its content but also with its presentation. Unfortunately, The Self-Reliant Kitchen didn’t quite hit that mark for me. Despite these critiques, I have to admit that all the recipes sound delicious! There’s a genuine warmth to the way Mullennix writes about food and the joy of cooking.

In conclusion, The Self-Reliant Kitchen is an okay cookbook that serves its purpose in promoting self-sufficiency in the kitchen. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and dive into some hearty, homemade meals, you might find it to be a valuable resource. Just be prepared for a bit of extra reading along the way!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Harlem Brew Soul: A Beer-Infused Soul Food Cookbook by Celeste Beatty

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informative inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

4.0

Book Review: Harlem Brew Soul: A Beer-Infused Soul Food Cookbook by Celeste Beatty

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Harlem Brew Soul: A Beer-Infused Soul Food Cookbook by Celeste Beatty, and I have to say, it's a great cookbook! As the founder of Harlem Brewing Company and the first Black woman to own a brewery in the United States, Beatty brings a unique perspective to the world of cooking. This cookbook is not just about food; it’s a celebration of culture, history, and community through the lens of soul food infused with beer.

The book features over 80 tantalizing recipes that range from food to cocktails, all incorporating different types of beer like lager, stout, IPA, and wheat. What I found particularly fascinating were the historical notes on African brewing traditions that Beatty sprinkled throughout the pages. It’s like she’s giving us a little taste of history with each recipe! The personal stories she shares about her journey in establishing Harlem Brewing Company add depth and warmth, making it feel like you’re having a conversation with a friend rather than just reading a cookbook.

Let’s talk about the visuals for a moment. The cover alone is stunning! The vibrant illustrations capture the spirit of Harlem and its rich cultural tapestry. While there aren’t actual photos of the finished dishes (which some might miss), the artwork more than makes up for it, drawing you into the book's essence. 

I can’t wait to try the Brewlicious Chicken Barley Soup—it sounds incredible! Each recipe is laid out clearly, making them easy to follow, which is great for someone like me who enjoys experimenting in the kitchen but isn’t exactly a professional chef.

Overall, I’d give Harlem Brew Soul four out of five stars. It’s a fantastic resource for foodies who also love their beer. Whether you’re looking to spice up family dinners or impress friends at your next gathering, this cookbook has something for everyone. I highly recommend it to anyone wanting to dive into the flavors and traditions of African American cuisine while enjoying a nice cold one! Cheers! 🍻

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Lost Gardens of the World: An Atlas of Forgotten Horticultural Treasures by Sandra Lawrence

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adventurous informative inspiring lighthearted reflective relaxing medium-paced

4.0

Book Review: Lost Gardens of the World by Sandra Lawrence

Rating: 4 Stars

I recently had the pleasure for reviewing Lost Gardens of the World by Sandra Lawrence, and it was an enchanting experience that transported me across around the globe, revealing the hidden beauty of gardens that time has almost forgotten. This book is a beautifully illustrated journey through forty captivating gardens that have experienced a decline, whether due to neglect, abandonment, or destruction. 

Lawrence takes us on a tour of these horticultural gems, from the crumbling splendor of Villa d’Este in Italy to the magical Lost Gardens of Heligan in England. Each garden tells its own unique story, showcasing not just their past grandeur but also the efforts taken by communities and individuals to revive them. I found it fascinating how gardens like Las Pozas in Mexico and Le Jardin Majorelle in Morocco still resonate with life and creativity, while others have been left to fade into history. 

What truly struck me was the depth of research that Lawrence poured into this book; the wealth of details and facts about each garden is astounding! It's evident that she has a deep appreciation for these spaces and the stories they hold. I was particularly captivated by how the book highlights not only the beauty of these gardens but also the romance of paradise lost—there’s something profoundly poetic about gardens that were once vibrant but are now mere whispers of their former selves.

The illustrations by Lucille Clerc are an absolute delight. Each page is adorned with beautiful artwork that complements the narratives perfectly, elevating the reading experience. It’s like flipping through a travelogue filled with lush landscapes and vivid colors, making it hard to resist daydreaming about visiting these gardens myself.

Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed Lost Gardens of the World. It’s a perfect blend of history, horticulture, and art that will appeal to anyone interested in travel, gardening, or even history. Whether you're an armchair traveler or a passionate gardener, there's something in this book for everyone. I can't help but give it four stars for its captivating storytelling and stunning illustrations—it's definitely a keeper on my bookshelf!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
The Italian Family Kitchen: Authentic Recipes That Celebrate Homestyle Italian Cooking by Eva Santaguida, Harper Alexander

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adventurous informative inspiring lighthearted relaxing medium-paced

4.0

Book Review: The Italian Family Kitchen by Eva Santaguida; Harper Alexander

Rating: 4 Stars

As someone who has a passion for cooking, especially when it comes to Italian cuisine, I was thrilled to dive into The Italian Family Kitchen: Authentic Recipes That Celebrate Homestyle Italian Cooking by Eva Santaguida and Harper Alexander. This book is like a warm hug from a beloved Italian grandmother, filled with the secrets of authentic home cooking that have been lovingly passed down through generations.

The authors, known for their engaging Pasta Grammar YouTube channel, do an incredible job of distilling their extensive knowledge into this accessible cookbook. With 100 comforting recipes, it takes you on a culinary journey through Italy's rich landscape. From fried appetizers and fresh pasta to mouthwatering desserts, the book covers it all.

One of the standout features of the introduction is its comprehensive guide on making different types of pasta, including how to use a pasta machine. As someone who's always been a bit intimidated by homemade pasta, I found this section particularly helpful. It sets the stage for what’s to come, making even the trickiest recipes feel approachable.

As I flipped through the subsequent chapters, I was delighted to see the organization by course. Each section flows seamlessly into the next—from Fritti (fried appetizers) and Pane e Pizza (bread and pizza) to Dolce (desserts)—with each recipe promising to deliver authentic Italian flavors right in your own kitchen.

The recipes are straightforward, and the methods are clearly explained. You can almost hear the authors’ voices guiding you through each step. And let's not forget about the stunning photography throughout the book; it beautifully complements the text, although I did find myself wishing for a few more images of the completed dishes. A picture can say a thousand words, after all!

The layout of The Italian Family Kitchen is another win. It strikes a great balance between being informative and visually appealing. Each recipe feels like an invitation to gather friends and family around the table, which is exactly what Italian cooking is all about.

Overall, I would highly recommend this cookbook to anyone looking to expand their culinary repertoire with authentic Italian dishes. Whether you're an experienced cook or just starting out, this book is sure to inspire you to get into the kitchen and create something delicious. It would also make a perfect gift for any cooking enthusiast’s library! So grab your apron and get ready to bring a taste of Italy into your home—after all, good food is meant to be shared.

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Christmas Movie Ultimate Trivia Book: Test Your Superfan Status and Relive the Most Iconic Christmas Movie Moments by Neal E. Fischer, Neal E. Fischer

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adventurous challenging funny lighthearted medium-paced

4.0

Book Review: Christmas Movie Ultimate Trivia Book

Rating: 4 Stars

Hey there, fellow Christmas movie lovers! 🎄 If you're anything like me, you probably have a soft spot for those heartwarming (or hilariously chaotic) holiday films that come around every December. Enter "Christmas Movie Ultimate Trivia Book: Test Your Superfan Status and Relive the Most Iconic Christmas Movie Moments" by Neal E. Fischer. This book is like a giant stocking stuffed full of festive fun and trivia that’ll get you in the holiday spirit!

So, what can you expect? This book is packed with nearly 500 trivia questions that cover over 180 classic Christmas movies—yes, including the all-important debate on whether Die Hard is a Christmas movie (spoiler alert: I still say it’s not! 😂). The trivia ranges from multiple choice to true/false and matching quizzes, making it perfect for a casual game night or a fun holiday party with friends. 

But it’s not just about the questions. The book is beautifully illustrated, featuring colorful depictions of some of the most iconic moments from our favorite holiday flicks. I found myself flipping through the pages not just to test my knowledge but to relive those unforgettable scenes. It really captures that warm, fuzzy feeling we all get when we think about our holiday movie marathons.

As someone who considers themselves a Christmas movie enthusiast, I was delighted to see such a diverse range of films included—from Love Actually to The Santa Clause and everything in between. The trivia questions are genuinely great; they challenge your memory while also bringing back some really joyful moments from those films. Plus, there’s even a rating system and scoring sheet to help you track just how much of a superfan you really are!

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a fun way to spruce up your festive gatherings or just want to test your own Christmas movie knowledge, this book is a fantastic addition to your collection. It's perfect for solo enjoyment or group settings, making it an ideal gift as well. Grab a mug of hot cocoa, cozy up by the fire, and dive into the delightful world of Christmas movie trivia—trust me, you won't regret it! 🎅✨

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Christmas (Celebrations & Festivals) by Annette Whipple

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informative inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

5.0

Book Review: Christmas (Celebrations & Festivals) by Annette Whipple with Emma Randall (Illustrator)

Rating: 5 Stars

Oh my goodness, where do I even begin with Christmas (Celebrations & Festivals) by Annette Whipple? This book was an utter delight from start to finish! Many parents are always on the lookout for fun and educational reads to add to their children's holiday library, and this one definitely checks all the boxes.

The story follows Charlie and his adorable sisters, Emily and Lou, as they invite us into their home to celebrate Christmas. Right from the get-go, you’re swept into their festive activities—lighting the advent wreath, playing with their nativity set, baking cookies (yum!), and of course, the excitement of opening presents on Christmas morning. What I loved most was how the book beautifully captures the essence of Christmas through the eyes of these children. It’s like you’re experiencing their joy and anticipation right alongside them!

The book doesn’t just skim the surface; it dives deep into the true meaning of the holiday. It educates little ones about the significance of advent, the heartwarming Christmas story, and all those fun traditions like decorating the tree and exchanging gifts. The illustrations by Emma Randall are absolutely vibrant and fun, making every page a visual treat!

But wait, there’s more! The end of the book is jam-packed with extra goodies—there’s a quiz to test your Christmas knowledge, information about how Christmas is celebrated around the world, and even some tasty recipes! I can’t wait to try making those pretzel sticks. Plus, there are instructions for crafting your own Christmas tree ornaments and building a nativity scene. Talk about a hands-on holiday experience!

Honestly, this book is a perfect gift for any family looking to add some holiday spirit to their young ones' library. It’s not just a story; it’s an entire experience that brings the joy and excitement of Christmas alive in such a captivating way. So if you’re in search of something special this season, I highly recommend grabbing a copy of Christmas (Celebrations & Festivals). Your little ones will thank you! 🎄❤️

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
Gold Rush: The untold story of the First Nations woman who started the Klondike Gold Rush by Flora Delargy

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adventurous informative inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

5.0

Book Review: Gold Rush: The untold story of the First Nations woman who started the Klondike Gold Rush by Flora Delargy

Rating: 5 Stars

I recently had the pleasure of reviewing Gold Rush by Flora Delargy, and wow, what a beautifully illustrated book this is! As someone who loves both history and art, I found this book to be a true gem. It dives into the untold story of the courageous women who played a pivotal role during the Klondike Gold Rush of 1887—a topic I didn’t know much about until I opened these pages. 

Delargy, a talented Northern Irish artist, captures the essence of the Yukon Valley with her stunning illustrations. The book tells the story of Shaaw Tláa (Kate Cormack), a First Nations woman who discovered gold, which ultimately led to the arrival of around 100,000 gold diggers in the region. The beautifully rendered artwork showcases not just the breathtaking mountains and rickety railway tracks but also the resilience and hardships faced by First Nations people whose lives were forever changed by the Gold Rush.

From the moment I started reading, I was fascinated. The detailed illustrations bring history to life, making it incredibly engaging for younger children. I can easily imagine this book being read aloud to kids; they'd be glued to the pages, captivated by the vibrant images and rich storytelling. Delargy has an incredible knack for incorporating minute details that make learning about this period feel immersive—like train tickets, maps, and even step-by-step guides on how to pan for gold!

That said, if I had to nitpick one thing that niggled at me, it would be the text size. I found it a bit small, which made it somewhat challenging to read comfortably, especially when sharing it with others. However, that small detail hardly detracted from my overall enjoyment of this exquisite book.

In conclusion, Gold Rush isn't just an illustrated book; it's a powerful narrative that sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of history. Flora Delargy's work is a delightful blend of art and storytelling that I wholeheartedly recommend to anyone—especially families eager to share rich historical tales with their children. Don’t miss out on this stunning tribute to the brave women of the Klondike Gold Rush!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️
The Home Reset: Easy Systems and Habits to Organize Every Room by Karissa Barker

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informative inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

4.0

Book Review: The Home Reset by Karissa Barker

Rating: 4 Stars

Hey there, fellow book lovers! I recently had the pleasure of reviewing The Home Reset by Karissa Barker, and it’s a total game-changer for anyone looking to bring a bit more order (and calm) into their home life. 

So, here’s the deal: Life can get pretty chaotic, right? Between work, kids, and everything in between, the last thing we need is to stress about having a perfectly Instagrammable closet. Karissa totally gets that! She dives into the reality of home organization with a refreshing perspective. Instead of just throwing pretty pictures and motivational quotes at you, she actually provides practical tools and strategies that genuinely help. 

In The Home Reset, Karissa takes us through essential resets for every room in our homes. She covers everything from quick kitchen hacks (hello, clean sink club!) to clever ways to manage toys in the living room. Each chapter is packed with actionable tips that fit seamlessly into even the busiest family routines. I loved how she focuses on creating systems that make life easier rather than just pushing for perfection. 

What I really loved were her quick tips, three-step cleaning, and those handy lists. And I have to mention the aesthetics of the book itself. It’s not just filled with valuable info; it’s also visually stunning! The layout is beautiful, and the photography is top-notch. It’s definitely a book that would look great on your coffee table while also being a fantastic resource when you need it. If you’re on the lookout for a solid cleaning book to help you get organized, The Home Reset is an absolute must-have. Karissa Barker has knocked it out of the park with this one!

⚠️This review was written based on personal opinions and experiences with the book. Individual preferences may vary⚠️