The Archaeolojesters (Book 1) by Andreas Oertel

Published by Lobster Press

Cody lives in the small town of Sultana, Manitoba where he enjoys spending time with his best friend Eric. Now it's looking like Cody's life is about to get really depressing. Eric and his twin sister Rachel are going to be moving away so that their mother can find a new job. The restaurant she currently works at is so quiet that the owners can't afford to keep her on staff anymore.

Faced with this impending doom, the tricky trio develop an elaborate plan that is sure to bring many people to the sleepy little town and hopefully attract enough tourists to keep the restaurant hopping. The alternative is just too terrible to imagine.

I hadn't heard of the Archaeolojesters until the first two books of the series landed on my desk. Reading the back cover I found myself filled with a mild curiosity and it didn't take me long to work my through the entire first novel. I was greatly surprised. I have read a lot of novels that are geared at a younger audience but this really captured my attention with its style that is reminiscent of the Famous Five, and Secret Seven books by Enid Blyton.

Okay, so there isn't quite as much mystery and the issues seem to be self-created, but the whole dynamic of the group and the adventurous spirit just really captures the imagination of the reader. I can't wait to delve into the second book which continues the adventure as the trio head to Cairo and it's my understanding that a third is due for release in May. A fabulously fun series that is geared towards ages 9-11 and will appeal to boys and girls alike. For me personally, it also has the added appeal that the author is not only from Canada, but is right here in Manitoba. I love to support local writers.

While there doesn't seem to be an author website available, I did find a fun Q&A with Andreas Oertel here on the Lobster Press website.

Daddy's Girl: Comics by Debbie Drechsler

Published by Fantagraphics Books

Daddy's Girl is a comic book with a difference. Debbie Drechser uses mostly black and white illustrations to openly deal with the dark subject of abuse. Lily is a young girl who tries so hard to avoid her father's attentions though he seems inescapable and no-one seems willing or able to help her. Franny has moved to another school and seems to have problems fitting in. She struggles so hard to be liked and takes a path where the consequences are hard to bear.

This book was a little difficult for me to review. Firstly, nothing I can say about this book would do it justice. This is simply put, a masterpiece. The deeply disturbing subject matter of sexual abuse is brought to life with a startling brutality. It's impossible not to be impacted by the experiences within the pages. I have to admit that I am uncertain if the book would have had less impact if I were not a sexual abuse survivor myself but I find it hard to believe that anyone can pick up this book and not feel a strong reaction.

These days, there are constantly new abuse memoirs being released which is both a wonderful, and tragic thing. Tragic because no-one should ever have to live through such an ordeal but wonderful in that the authors feel able to write about it and bring this dreadful subject into the light a little more. What I like about this book especially, is that due to the comic book style, it holds a certain appeal that other books in this genre may lack. At the age of 18 or 19 when I first attempted to deal with the subject of sexual abuse, even as the avid reader I am, I could not have seen myself picking up an abuse memoir. This title would probably have made my reading list though.

It's a memorable, moving, bold, and - at times - emotionally challenging read that definitely rates a 5/5 from me. You can see example pages shared by Fantagraphics here

Author's website - http://www.debdrex.com/

My Princess Boy by Cheryl Kilodavis. Illustrated by Suzanne DeSimone

Published by Aladdin an imprint of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division and Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing Division Canada

What would you do if your child was different? Dyson Kilodavis is a 5 year old boy who has an amazing passion for dresses and all things pink and sparkly. Dyson's mom, Cheryl did what most of us would do in this situation and tried to redirect Dyson's attentions towards interests that were more socially acceptable for a male. That was, until the day that Dyson's older brother asked their mum a question. 'Why can't you just let him be happy mum?'

Dyson continued with his different style and tastes, but this time with his whole family behind him. At times when they were challenged or questioned about this, they tried to encourage acceptance but it hasn't always been easy. In many online interviews, Dyson and Cheryl can be seen discussing the issues they faced, even simple shopping trips made unpleasant due to hurtful comments by staff. To that end, Cheryl Kilodavis created 'My Princess Boy' as an aid in teaching acceptance, compassion, and the celebration of the uniqueness in each of us.

I just adored this story as soon as I heard of it. Who wouldn't? I just had to get my hands on a copy of the book and what a book this is. Within it's few pages it carries a massively impacting message about accepting the differences within the people around us. The author shares a little about each of the members of the Kilodavis family and how they interact with Dyson. She also shares a couple of negative experiences that have been experienced while out shopping, and trick-or-treating and the impact upon both mother and son.

The illustrations have a carefree and whimsical design that captures the beauty in the story of how one little boy, with the love and support of his family, and school, can grow up to be whoever he wants to be!

The world needs more books like this. In a time where so many stories are landing in the headlines about childhood bullying and the climbing rate of suicide among teens, books such as My Princess Boy can only have a positive effect as we try to spread the message that everyone, whatever their differences, should be accepted for the unique person they are. I can't express enough how much I really want to see this book succeed. It should be mandatory in all school libraries and I'd love to see a copy in every home. Such a simple yet beautiful message that needs to be shared.

More info about the book, as well as interviews featuring the Kilodavis family and the Princess Boy himself, can be found at the Author's website - http://www.myprincessboy.com/index.asp

The Knot Artist by India Wilson

Published by Lightning Strikes Press

Dominique has it made. A gorgeous property in Bridgehampton and a solid career as the most costly dominatrix on the East Coast. To Dominique, delivering Bondage & Discipline to a stellar set of people, including famous faces from the stage and screen, is an everyday occurrence and she adores it. The adoration, the power, and the crazy amounts of money she makes all make it possible for her to have the life of her dreams. That is, at least until a twist of fate threatens to take it all away.

How many people get the opportunity to tie up, and discipline a senator? Dominique creates a perfect scene for the senator, all planned out with attention payed to every miniscule detail, except for one.. The senator was not supposed to stop breathing. Suddenly Dominique is in over her head and wondering how to handle things, when someone arrives at her door. Reynolds, a top security person for many VIPs, barges into her home and dungeon, and takes care of the problem. After all, it wouldn't do for a Senator's body to be found in such a place, right?

Dominique soon realizes that life is never going to be the same. Her home is broken into, ransacked as the invaders seek something, but what? Is it connected to the Senator? Used to being in control and independent, Dominique grudgingly accepts Reynolds help to solve the mystery that seems to be unfolding around her and wonders if she will ever get to feel in control of things again.

I really enjoyed this book. It took me a couple of chapters to really get into it as it seemed like there was a little too much scene setting, and the main character, Dominique, wasn't liked by me at first. She seemed too egotistical. Later in the book though, as I got to learn more about her, I understood that it was more confidence than anything and I grew to admire it. As I read further, I really began to like the history of Dominique that was shared, including an abusive childhood. It really gave her a whole new dimension, and a fresh appeal.

What I especially liked about this book with reference to the lifestyle, was the attention to detail. I particularly liked the references to safety, checking on the person regularly, rope tightness and so on. It's not often I see that included in lifestyle fiction and perhaps that's because most people want to delve into the fantasy and leave the dull safety issues behind and out of mind. Personally I'd like to see it more.

Dominique is a wonderfully written character and I adored witnesses the removal of layers throughout the book as she adjusted to everything going on around her. I particularly enjoyed the dynamic between Dominique and Reynolds more than anything else though. I would compare it to watching a well choreographed dance. I am not always so engaged when I am reading about budding relationships but the chemistry between the two characters is so charged that I found myself unable, or unwilling, to look away. I also greatly enjoyed that the story was more developed than just simple BDSM content. I would never have really envisioned a book that part kink novel and part political thriller but in this book, India Wilson really melds the content beautifully into a novel that can tease all the senses.

I am excited to see that this is part of a Trilogy and I can't wait for the next installment - titled The Whipping Girl. I am sure it will be equally as enthralling.

Author's website - http://www.theknotartist.com/blog/

The Lying Game by Sara Shepard

Published by HarperTeen an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers and HarperCollins Publishers Canada

Emma Paxton has a lousy life. Abandoned by her mother so many years ago, she's constantly drifting between foster homes and finally ends up with a family where the light-fingered, pot-smoking son enjoys getting her into trouble. His latest attempt really captures her attention though when he shows her foster mother a video in which it appears Emma is being strangled to death.

Emma realizes that the girl in the video can only be her twin sister and tracks her down on Facebook. With only a couple of weeks to go before she turns eighteen, Emma is delighted to receive an invite from her sister, Sutton. With a wonderful family, money, popularity, and a gorgeous boyfriend, Sutton has everything she could ever need - except a pulse.

When Emma arrives in town, she is quickly mistaken for Sutton and is pulled into her twin sisters life. No one believes her when she tells them who she really is and now her only choice is to play along, take the role of her sister, and do a little sleuthing in order to find out what really happened to Sutton, and more importantly, who is responsible for it!

I wasn't sure what to expect from this book as I haven't read anything by Sara Shepard before though I have heard a lot of good things about the Pretty Little Liar series. This new series is truly amazing though. The author wastes no time in pulling us right into a thick juicy plot right from the very beginning and it only gets better with every page turned. I just couldn't put it down.

The story is narrated jointly, by Emma, and her dead sister Sutton who lingers by Emma constantly. The narration from Sutton is sometimes reminiscent of the style displayed in The Lovely Bones and adds an element to the story which I truly adored. Sutton gets to see from the sidelines what her life was like, what the consequences of her actions have been, and what people really thought of her - leaving her with a sense of longing and regret.

Emma meanwhile has to try and fit into the life of her sister, which is easier said than done. All she has to go on, are the meagre pieces of information she can glean from those around her, and anything she can find in Sutton's room - including information about 'The L Game'. The author has constructed a winner of a book with this novel. The suspense is constantly captivating and it's such a wild ride reading along as Emma frequently believes she is closer to solving this mystery, only to end up each time, no closer to the truth.

Brilliant, frustrating, wistful, exhilarating, thrilling, and exciting are all words I would use with reference to this book. Did I mention brilliant? As soon as I put this book down, I dashed to find the release date for the next installment. I just can't wait. I'm hooked!

Author's website: http://www.prettylittleliars.com/author/

After Life, After You by S. K. Reid

Published by Jane Curry Publishing

What if something were to happen to your partner? Each day there are lives lost and whether it is due to long-term illness such as Cancer, or a sudden tragedy (accident, heart-attack, or suicide) it devastates those left behind. Those partners who must wake each day with an empty space beside them where a loved one ought to be. Those same partners who usually go through life as a team and are now finding themselves with the lone responsibility for everything. How would it affect you?

Many of us are blessed to not know the answer to that question and would rather not consider it, if we are honest. In After Life, After You, the author, along with a few contributors, have taken the time to share their experiences with the death of a spouse. They share various moments in their lives as they struggle with the loss and the unavoidable change that comes with it.

When I first picked up this book to read it, I had the gut instinct that we all get when faced with the subject of death and loss. I wanted to put the book down, get the subject as far from me as I could. Still, I picked it up and started to turn the pages and couldn't help but be drawn in. How can a reader not become invested in a book where the writers open up their very hearts and souls, sharing their personal tales of love, grief and hope.

When a person is a public figure, we learn how a spouse can be affected by those who claim a personal relationship where none existed, simply for the sake of fame and fortune and without thought for the impact on the deceased's family. When a person takes their own life, whatever the method, we learn how the spouse must face so many questions they will never find answers for. So much blame is abundantly cast about and the surviving spouse must live with the stigma that accompanies suicide. We learn that sometimes, friends and family can be such a pillar of strength for those left behind but more often than not, their 'help' can cause further pain and resentment.

Each person has such a different response to the death of their loved one, as we would expect. Each of these three men and seven women discuss candidly how they felt for their partners, how they came to terms with the loss, and the struggle to rebuild their fractured lives in the hope that they can once more feel whole and find happiness in life once again.

I'd encourage everyone to read this book if I could. I haven't often read books on this subject (the last one that comes to mind was The Farewell Chronicles by Anneli Rufus) but this is one of those books that approaches the subject openly, honestly, and with a brilliant message. I wish I could hug each of these people and offer them my thanks for having the courage to share their personal tragedies.

Extremely moving and definitely a keeper!

I Think I Love You by Allison Pearson

Published by Alfred A. Knopf Canada - A Division of Random House Canada

I Think I Love You takes place in two different eras. Firstly, in 1974 we are introduced to two thirteen year olds named Petra and Sharon. Both of these girls, along with others, are fans of David Cassidy and are avid readers of his fan magazine. When the girls hear two pieces of news, they are beyond excited. Firstly, David Cassidy is coming to England to perform in a concert and if that wasn't enough, the fan magazine is running a contest. A quiz that should only be attempted by his most die-hard fans, with a prize that the girls must win. A flight to America, to meet David Cassidy in person...

Spring forward to 1998. Petra is almost 40, constantly fighting with her 13 year old daughter, her mother has just passed away, and on the day of the funeral, Petra's husband announces that he is leaving her. Can things get any worse? While sorting out a closet in her mother's home, Petra discovers a dusty letter, declaring her the winner of the contest that she and Sharon had entered so many years ago. How could this have been hidden from her? A few phone calls later, and Petra and Sharon are reuniting for a once in a lifetime experience. An all-expenses-paid trip to Vegas where they will finally meet their idol!

I was hooked on this book within the first chapter. While I was only born in 1974 and so have no real recollection of David Cassidy, a lot of the references still brought back fond memories. Things like certain British candies, Blue Peter (TV Show), and of course, Jackie - the magazine. That was an especially fond reminder for me as I had that magazine delivered to my home regularly and just adored it. I had forgotten all about it until reading this title.

There are so many things I like about this book. It's narrated by Petra herself, and also by a gentleman named Bill who, quite by accident, finds himself with a new job where he has to write in the David Cassidy fan magazine, but, as if he were David himself. The wonderful blend of Petra's young, sweet innocence and Bill's somewhat jaded bewilderment just adds a special quality to what is already quite a magical read. This book will appeal to a wide age range and is sure to warm the heart of every reader.

Of course, it also has the potential to leave us cringing as we remember our own days of pining over our latest idol. For me it was Morten Harket and then the Goss Brothers - pictured below.



For me personally, it also presented the opportunity to learn a little about David Cassidy's music. Okay, so just about everyone will know 'I Think I Love You' but as the first half of the book is all David, all of the time, it delves into so many more of his tunes and it's difficult to resist the urge to learn more. I googled for his music and got to hear quite a few of his tunes I hadn't been aware of like 'Could it be Forever' and "I am a Clown'. I think my favourite aspect of the book though is the way the girls, as teens, navigate the rocky waters of love and adoration. That, and the dynamic between Petra and her often overbearing and critical mother.

All in all, a great read (I had difficulty putting this book down even to eat and sleep). I'm definitely going to be visiting it again and I will be exploring more by this author.

The Woefield Poultry Collective Blog Tour

A couple of days ago, I posted my review for The Woefield Poultry Collective by Susan Juby. As part of the Woefield Poultry Collective Blog Tour I also had the opportunity to ask some questions of the author, which I have included below along with the wonderfully insightful responses. Thank you Susan, for taking the time to respond and to Harper Collins Canada for giving me the opportunity to present the questions.

1. What was the inspiration for The Woefield Poultry Collective?

I was inspired by the tension between the contemporary desire (and need) to be more self-sustaining and all the factors that make it difficult. In my case, I lack the right circumstances, skills and funds. So I decided to send a well-meaning character to a derelict farm to see how she’d make out. It seems to me that people always matter as much or more than ideals if you’re going to have a successful life.

2. You write about some serious subjects in the book. Was it difficult to strike a balance between those issues, and the humour that makes this book so lovable?

I like my comedy to have some dark undertones. Without their troubles the characters’ (very small) triumphs wouldn’t mean as much. Peter Devries once wrote that “comedy deals with that part of our suffering that is exempt from tragedy”. That feels really true to me.

3. What is not to love about this book? I fell in love with the eclectic mix of misfits. Is this the last we will see of these characters?

Thank you! I guess it depends on whether people feel the same as you. I’d love to write a Further Adventures of Woefield Farm.

4. If you had to choose, which would be the character YOU most liked creating, and why?

That’s a tough question! I loved them all in their own way. Seth was a lot of fun and I understood where he was coming from, though I never had a traumatic incident with a high school production of Jesus Christ Superstar. Sara was also entertaining to write, though I worried about her a lot. She gave me an excuse to go to agricultural fairs and check out the show chickens and the 4-H competitors and call it research instead of pure, Grade A entertainment.

The Woefield Poultry Collective by Susan Juby

Published by HarperCollins Publishers and HarperCollins Publishers Canada

Life is about to change for Prudence Burns, a New Yorker with a passion for living a more self-sustaining lifestyle. With so many ideas but not so much practice, Prudence is thrown in the deep end when she is contacted with the news that she has inherited a farm off the coast of Canada. Arriving on the farm, she discovers that Woefield Farm is thirty acres of scrubland with worn out buildings, an oftentimes cranky foreman named Earl, and one solitary half-sheared sheep. To top it all off, the bank is looking to foreclose, and a strange boy - Seth - from across the street, has asked to move in and offered his help though all he seems qualified to do is drink. What's a girl to do?

This book grabbed my attention from the start. Prudence is such an inspirational character who has the drive to achieve anything she sets her mind to. As each of the characters were introduced, I became so invested in each of them and laughed, and cried as they faced their various challenges. I love the way the author unfolds each of their stories and blends it all together seamlessly. Earl was probably the most difficult for me to truly love as he seemed very curt and almost pessimistic at times but he just dislikes change.

In addition to the colourful characters who live at Woefield Farm, we have Sara Spratt, a poultry lover who raises prize-winning chickens and needs a home for them. Prudence agrees they can reside on the farm and so we are introduced to the world of pedigree chickens and the craziness that is associated with it. The story is creative, inspirational, amusing, heartbreaking and addictive. I barely put the book down the whole time (in fact, I fine-tuned the art of balancing my dinner plate on my lap and eating while still racing through the pages) and reached the end feeling a sense of loss that I was having to end the adventure. I don't anticipate a sequel but I do know that if there was one, I would definitely purchase it to see what the Woefield crew are up to next.

On a personal note, the chicken aspects of the book, reminded me of a train ride I took last year. During a scheduled stop, there was a petting zoo including a selection of unique birds. I took so many images and this book brought those birds to mind frequently.

All in all, in case you couldn't tell yet, I really loved this book and the story is one that stays with you, long after the final page is turned. A winning read for me!

Also, check out this Q&A I did with Susan Juby as part of The Woefield Poultry Collective Blog Tour.

Author's website: http://www.susanjuby.com/

Sebastian Socks It Away by Lori Mockson & Shirley Chewick. Illustrated by Claire MacDonald

Published by The Original Sock Bank Company Inc.

Sebastian Socks It Away shares the story of a young boy Sebastian and his younger sister Melissa. While at a family gathering, both children are told a story by their aunt. A story in which her mother provided her with a 'Sock Bank' and taught her how to save. When the story ends, Sebastian and Melissa are thrilled to be given a Sock Bank each, along with a shiny new coin to fill it. Money from other aunts, uncles, and chores were added and soon the children want to go and spend their cash. Sebastian struggles while deciding what to spend his hard earned coins on but finally finds the perfect idea!

During a time where it seems like there is an abundance of 'debt relief' books for adults, it's truly wonderful to see a book that is geared at teaching our children how to save at an early age. In a way that is so much fun! Who wouldn't want to save with such a cute little Sock Bank of their very own. I love mine! (Yes, I know, I'm such a big kid!)

What I really love too, is that the Sock Bank is made in Quebec Canada, and assembled in Canada so it's also a perfect gift for those who prefer to support Canadian products. That is something that for me, as a proud Canadian, is very important. A quick google search online will also show that thankfully, it's a growing trend. A well written story, great illustrations and a wickedly cute product make this a winning choice for children everywhere.

Authors' Website: http://theoriginalsockbank.com/

F in Exams: The Very Best Totally Wrong Test Answers by Richard Benson

Published by Chronicle Books

Distributed by Raincoast Books

Most - if not all - of us have been there. Seated at a desk in some intimidating room, complete silence, facing a question that we realize we have zero chance of getting right. When faced with that situation, the students featured in 'F in Exams' get creative and decide to have fun.

When I attended school, I recall facing my exams and our teachers often gave us the same advice. Never, ever leave a question unanswered even if it means guessing. Somehow I don't think the examples in this book are what they had in mind but they certainly entertained me. Who knew that living closer to power lines means you get your electricity faster, or that a regular triangle is a triangle with three sides. Perhaps you are one of those physics students who knows that a transformer is a robot who can change into a sports car in 3 seconds, or a history/geography student who is certain that a migration is a headache.

When I sat down and read this, I was laughing out loud and repeating many of the examples to my husband who was also entertained by the content. Mostly funny, sometimes hilarious but always creative, this book will bring happiness to every reader. It's also probably the only book that will make you feel incredibly smarter in under an hour!

Ten Little Zombies: A Love Story by Andy Rash

Published by Chronicle Books
Distributed by Raincoast Books

An original and fun take on the old children's rhyme 'Ten Little Indians'. The book begins with Ten Little Zombies, zombies that dwindle rapidly in numbers as each of them comes to a tragic end by way of campfires, fence spears, shotguns and so much more. Can there be any survivors?

This is such a fun and quirky little book. While it may appear to be almost child-like in appearance, due to the graphic violence, blood etc I would definitely avoid buying it for little people but it makes a fantastic unique gift for a loved one, and it's an ideal gift for anyone who, like myself, adores all things zombie. It takes mere minutes to read through this book but the rhyme, and the smiles it brings, will last much longer. Take a peek at a video created by the author, for a glimpse into this wonderful little book and also visit his website which is listed below.

Author's website: http://www.rashworks.com/

Bird Cloud by Annie Proulx

Published by Scribner an imprint of Simon & Schuster and Simon & Schuster Canada

Annie Proulx purchased 640 acres of Wyoming wetlands, prairie, and four-hundred foot cliffs dropping down to the North Platte River. This site that she later named 'Bird Cloud' was to become the place where she would build the home of her dreams. Bird Cloud - the book - follows the construction from the design, through to completion while simultaneously allowing the reader to learn about the local nature and the history of the region. Only through the unique writing style of Annie Proulx could such subjects really come to life and spring off the page.

I hadn't known what to expect from this book. I am a fan of Annie Proulx (Brokeback Mountain, The Shipping News) so I was eager to delve between the pages. I had also known that this is her first non-fiction book in over twenty years so it would vary from anything else of hers I had read. It didn't take me long to realize that I was enthralled with this book and the author's experiences.

It's impossible to define this book, but I will try my best. It's a wonderful mix of architectural design, construction, nature, conservation, and history, all woven together with the magical writing style that Proulx is known for. It's too easy to venture between the pages and lose yourself in the vivid and gorgeous descriptions. The author captures all aspects of nature, including the most brutal, and I couldn't help but feel envious of this woman, so close to nature and able to observe it at leisure. I have to admit, I wasn't so envious when it came to the construction of the house though, and when we retire, my husband and I shall definitely be purchasing a house that is built already.

Most fascinating for me, was the history of the region. Reading Bird Cloud brings the past to life and left me with a longing to know more. You know a book is a great read when you find yourself slowing down, not wanting the book to end. That's exactly how it was with this read, for me. I could have read hundreds more pages without feeling satisfied.

I think, personally, this is one of those books that the reader will either love, or hate. Me? I adored it. I found it to be such an intimate insight into the author's life as well as her dreams, and inspirations. I loved this book a great deal, especially getting to know the other people who joined Annie Proulx on this journey, and the descriptions of the archaeological digs that took place on the land.

Try it. You just might like it!