Once again, my reading roundup is a little bit late but it’s been a hectic few weeks. I didn’t read a ton last month (at least compared to previous months) but I had a decent haul of wonderful books. So here’s what I read along with some thoughts on each title:
- Witch Hat Atelier Vol. 2 by Kamome Shirahama and Stephen Kohler – A jaw-droppingly stunning book filled with mythology and incredible art.
- The Girl from the Other Side: Siúil, A Rún, Vol. 1 by Nagabe and Adrienne Beck – A creepy, atmospheric manga with a compelling story and world.
- Zachary Ying and the Dragon Emperor by Xiran Jay Zhao – After reading Iron Widow, I knew I was going to be on board for anything and everything Xiran Jay Zhao put out into the world. This is no exception, melding together lore with history for a wonderful urban fantasy adventure that is sure to resonate with young readers everywhere. In addition to the fantastical elements that make the story so engaging, it’s infused with history and educational components that get you thinking. Xiran Jay Zhao has such a strong voice that comes through in all of their writing and I adore the passion that is infused in all of their stories. It feels as though they’re pulling from their own culture and personal experiences to craft these characters into complex, multifaceted characters. While there are rightfully comparisons to the Percy Jackson franchise, clearly Zhao’s love of Yu-Gi-Oh! shines through. This book proves that while Xiran Jay Zhao is a relatively new voice in fiction and fantasy, they’re a force to be reckoned with and we’ll be seeing a lot more from them over the years.
- Lumberjackula by Mat Heagerty and Sam Owen – An absolutely delightful story about a half-vampire, half-lumberjack young person who has to make a bit choice about what to do next in life. Will he follow in the footsteps of his vampire father? Or will he become an entrepreneur like his lumberjack mother? Or will he learn to follow his heart and passions to figure out what HE wants? Wonderful art, a sweet story, and wholesome themes and messages throughout that will resonate with young people everywhere! – OUT JULY 19, 2022!
- House of Hollow by Krystal Sutherland – Hauntingly exquisite and nothing like I thought it would be in the best possible way. I went into this story relatively blind and not expecting such a dark urban fantasy fairytale and was utterly captivated from start to finish. Twists, turns, and page-turning suspense kept me on the edge of my seat. The only thing that stopped me from consuming this in a mere day or two was my love of sleep that tends to eclipse my desire to stay up to keep reading. Otherwise this was an incredible book and I loved every moment of it.
- Lightfall: Skyggen by Tim Probert – An absolutely wonderful sequel to an incredible and beautiful graphic novel. Can’t wait for the next installment!
What did you read in May? Leave a comment or reach out on socials and say hello!