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megan_bbender's reviews
89 reviews
They Both Die at the End by Adam Silvera
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This is one of the most amazingly and beautifully written books I have ever come across, it has an amazing concept and the events lined up perfectly. I would give more stars if I could, I just could not stop reading! The writing style was a bit different but I loved the different perspectives at certain points to remind readers of the fictitious world outside of Rufus' and Mateo's adventure. I loved watching Mateo's character development and I loved watching both character's grow and become comfortable with one another, as well as how they decided to continue their story during the time they spent together. Throughout the book, they never pressed pause and even the ending leads readers to believe that there is more. I continue to hope for a sequel!
The Four Agreements: A Practical Guide to Personal Freedom by Don Miguel Ruiz
challenging
informative
inspiring
reflective
fast-paced
3.0
I found this book to be extremely interesting and I could not stop reading. The agreements themselves provided a sense of comfort and it was very intriguing to read about someone else's philosophy. With that being said there are some points that I strongly disagree with. However, this book is great for challenging your own personal ideologies and strengthening your own understanding for what you believe in.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Ableism
Macbeth (No Fear Shakespeare) by SparkNotes, William Shakespeare
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
slow-paced
4.0
The Woman Outside My Door by Rachel Ryan
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
One of the best books I have ever read. If I could give more stars, I would. I never knew what to expect and I was intrigued at every point. Readers never know what direction the book could go in, the clues throughout the book allow readers to get creative and attempt to solve what is going on alongside the main character. The plot twist is totally unexpected and the ending provides readers with a rollercoaster of emotions. I would definitely reread this multiple times and I will be recommending this book to everyone!
The Storm by Amanda Jennings
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
One of the best books I have ever read. I could not stop reading! This book is beautifully written and everything flows nicely together. The events were perfectly displayed and I could not have seen that plot twist coming from a mile away, I absolutely loved the ending and can not think of anything that would have been better. Every time I think of this book I continue to hope for a sequel. The story was so captivating and gripping, I finished reading it in two days, I could not get enough! I would gladly recommend this book to anyone.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This book is beautifully written even though it captures horrendous acts of what happened during this time. The book does an amazing job at getting readers to feel the emotions that the characters felt. It is very interesting to learn about what went on and throughout the story the writer gives explicit details through the eyes of Lale. The story was written very clearly and gives readers a sense of appreciation for being able to hear such a heartfelt story.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Genocide, Hate crime, and Antisemitism
Moderate: War
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
adventurous
dark
hopeful
mysterious
relaxing
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Overall, I cannot say I enjoyed this book and found it disappointing. I found the main character more annoying than likeable. However, witnessing the slow progression of the effects on the characters, especially Eleanor, was very interesting and captivating. This book can easily be described as dull and boring but it had a small amount of good parts. It is a quick read, but only if you can find the motivation to finish it. The ending was unexpected and mysterious. I found the writing style interesting and different, it had some amazing illusions and foreshadowing. Unfortunately I would not necessarily recommend this book to a lot of people.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Mental illness, and Suicide
Moderate: Death of parent
Minor: Grief
The Diary of a Nobody by George Grossmith, Weedon Grossmith
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
The overall book was very easy and quick to read, I enjoyed the strong majority of it. Although I cannot deem it the "funniest book in the world", there were definitely parts that got a quick laugh. The simplicity of the book is what makes it so relatable and although some scenes can seem humiliating, it is great to see these misfortunes be played out in an inconsequential manner. It is a great reminder for readers to not focus on the small things and to continue living. The ending was rushed and unfulfilling but I would definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy quick, non-stressful reads and to those who enjoy reading charming and more light-hearted experiences.