This book picks up where the first book left off. Lucy has learned who her father is…survived an attack…and is trying to find her way in this new reality she finds herself a part of. Jude is forcing her to train with him in order to harness and improve her demon powers. He is also training Dylan at the same time…which is driving Lucy’s hormones crazy. She loves Marcus and can’t figure out why her mind is even thinking of Dylan that way. On top of that, a new threat has come on the scene that is forcing Marcus away from her while presenting a new enemy that she must face. When she learns the reality of what happens when a demon dies, she is determined to keep her father safe. But when she conjures up a plan that requires summoning the king of demons, will she be able to do it? Or is there another way? Because if there isn’t…then there is going to be quite a price to pay… I enjoyed reading the story. The characters are great. The story takes so many twists and turns that it is hard to figure out who the good guys are. Every action has a part in moving the story along…and I am still left with questions that will hopefully be answered in the next book. Overall, a good book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Rosanna Ingramhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngRosanna Ingram2021-08-13 23:04:022021-08-15 21:32:17The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Rosanna Ingram
After reading the second installment of this series, I am just as impressed as I was with the first book! The plot is face paced and continues to build toward what I expect will be an epic conclusion.
The relationship between Lucy, Marcus and Dylan continue to become more and more intertwined. As Marcus’ past comes back to stare them all in the face, there are new characters and new twists introduced. I couldn’t help but to become more and more pulled in to the book as more secrets are uncovered!
Definitely looking forward to reading the last book in this series and seeing how the author wraps it all up! Although, secretly, I am hoping that there are spin-offs of other characters!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Desiree Ottingerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDesiree Ottinger2021-08-13 10:24:062021-08-15 21:15:26The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Desiree Ottinger
I was a great fan of the previous novel in the series, so needless to say I was super excited to read this installment. And seriously the first one was amazing, but this one did wonders just as much if not more! I was a die hard Twilight series fan in my teen years, but this one for me is even better of a paranormal teen series. I am getting great enjoyment from the series and watching Lucy grow and progress for her great destiny and learning more truth on who and what she is destined for.
The book takes off with our main characters trying to live life as their suppose to. Lucy and Jude have more a relationship than they used to, and Lucy is learning more about the truth of herself. I enjoyed seeing the father and daughter things with them grow and prosper. Though Lucy does not take his word lightly, and personally I do not blame her. Still, Jude is trying his best to earn his trust. In truth though, is there hidden reasons for why Jude is really needing and wanting his daughter’s love so bad or is there more things underneath myself as the reader am not aware of yet? I felt as reading though, it probably is just a hunch, but Jude may be knowing something he isn’t letting on? I could easily be way off.
And still I stand as Team Marcus. Marcus is a sweetheart, he may not be a ride or die bad boy as Dylan is. I enjoy their fondness for one another. Things take a unsuspected turn to say the least when the father of Marcus appears out out of the blue. Instantly I had trust issues. I was right. He had different goals then we would have thought as well as making sure Lucy is gone from this earth as to reason of her being Jude’s daughter. His name of Garett. And his intentions were not truth as I mentioned, but truly set off a new course of events. Still, I enjoyed bringing him into this series. As I feel his introduction will set off a curve for the next installments in the series.
As things progress things get much harder Lucy. Things she believes in, as well as the words of those she cares about, becomes all too questionable. She had already been going through a lot, she needed her friends close for guidance as well as her protection, but when you cant even be sure of your own instinct of whom is deserving of your trust what is a girl to do?
Things take an expected turn towards a battle with Garett. This was a well written scene and lot of things happened. The light perhaps sort to say was seen at the end of the tunnel, or a realistic point with the battle with Garrett I know for a fact more questions may arise in the next novel, and I truly can not wait to read it. A girl has her Gargoyle and her Demon. With that said, with danger pretty much at every turn and constantly checking your back, are they really enough protect her? Or will they be her downfall?
I loved this book installment with a passion The author, she truly is a marvelous author. I am truly hooked on this series. I can not get my hands on the next book fast enough. Her writing always brings so much to the table. She wrote a wonderful first book in this series, and did wonders with this one. More with the dangers, the story line, what Lucy is destined for, as well new characters through out this novel that you really want to know more about. I also enjoyed reading of the characters of the previous book and seeing their growth a this one started up up until the final page.
Highly recommend this book and this series in general. Its interesting to say the least. It has great action and danger as well as character development which is very well done. All in all, its great series to lose yourself into. Trust me, I am not be part gargoyle, or demon, ( at least I don’t think so) but this book has an aspect for everyone to enjoy who reads it! Highly recommend, you will not be disappointed!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorrene Huismanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorrene Huisman2021-08-13 07:44:242023-08-05 15:32:23The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Lorrene Huisman
I gave a 4.5 review on the last book and this one is right up there with it! Pauline has once again outdone herself with this storyline. Lucy, our MC, has really started coming into her powers and is allowing Jude to teach her and Dylan the ropes, so to speak. She is still juggling school, her nanny job, her new-to-her father, the major secrets, and now even more. Dylan is a completely different version of himself in this book than he was in the last and it’s far more interesting to see his internal debates with himself while the book progresses. Marcus has some new drama in his life and it will directly affect everyone involved in this story. There was so much I wasn’t expecting and many times I caught myself yelling at the characters out loud! I read this one a bit slower because there was so much to unpack, but I am still looking forward to the conclusion of this story. There is so much left open and I cannot wait to see how it all unfolds. If you haven’t read it yet, DO IT. Start with book one and let Pauline take you on an adventure!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tamisha Janayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTamisha Janay2021-08-12 11:29:002021-08-12 22:56:19The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Tamisha Janay
Cat Anderson has an interesting story behind her name and behind her family. Cat and Robin, best friend and cousin, are starting the 8th grade. When Cat goes to her last class, she finds something very strange, there are boxes in the classroom and no teacher. Cat races back to her guidance counselor to get it straightened out. Cat is given a few options, she makes a choice to take culinary, at least for the day until she can get into Art with Robin. When Cat discovers that her crush, Toby, is not only in the same class but would be in her group, Cat is desperate to stay in the culinary class. When Cat bakes for the first time ever, something strange happens. Will this happen every time she bakes? What does her mother know about it? Why won’t she tell Cat?
This sweet tale of discovering who you are and the quirkiness of your family was a great listen. I enjoyed the characters. I loved hearing my name as a character (Thanks for including me! I only hope I can be that cool of an aunt in real life.)! I was shocked when the story ended the way it did. I hope there is a sequel that can tell me what happened. This is a story that can be enjoyed by all ages. Oh my Goshness is entering my lexicon!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00M Policicchiohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngM Policicchio2021-08-12 09:44:302021-08-12 22:54:43Bake Believe AUDIO BOOK by Cori Cooper – Review by M Policicchio
The Girl and the Gargoyle is the second book in The Girl and the Raven series by Pauline Gruber. If you have yet to read book one, I would definitely recommend starting there.
In some ways, this is a typical YA coming-of-age type of story. There is school, friends, love triangles, and other teenage problems to navigate. But then, throw in being half witch/half human, demons, and extracurricular combat lessons to help you stay alive…..that’s Lucy’s crazy world! I thought this was a great second instalment, as with all good books in a series, it raises more questions than it answers and leaves you wanting more. The pages turned so fast throughout this story, it’s action-packed and you need to know what happens next!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lianne Proberthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLianne Probert2021-08-12 07:27:382021-08-12 22:53:50The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Lianne Probert
The Girl and the Gargoyle: YA Paranormal Romance by Pauline Gruber is the second book in the Girl and the Raven series. This is a series that needs to be read in order in my opinion as you are introduced to all the characters in book one. I thought this was a brilliant follow up to book one. The author really knew how to push the story further and to make it even more exciting than the first. It took no time of effort to fall back in with Lucy’s storyline. She is an easy character to connect with and become invested in. The relationship between the main characters is such an interesting one to watch develop. It is complex and has depth that really adds to the overall story. The story is quite fast paced. It feels like a lot happens throughout the book and but it never feels overwhelming. The author handles the story and the pace with ease and the whole book just has a great feel to it. This book is definitely the best so far and I cannot wait to read the next one.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kerry Bakerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKerry Baker2021-08-11 15:04:282021-08-12 21:46:43The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Kerry Baker
Bake Believe is an adorable story about a young girl going through crushes, school, family, and… something special. This book was definitely one of a kind. It’s a coming of age novel with a relatable young character and all of her friends and family. Read this if you like cute stories about young children figuring out where they are meant to be in life. The narrator is great and fits the story really well from a teens perspective.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Kayla Octavianohttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngKayla Octaviano2021-08-11 00:28:272021-08-11 08:18:44Bake Believe AUDIO BOOK by Cori Cooper – Review by KAYLA OCTAVIANO
“Bake Believe” has officially turned me on to audio books. It was such a cute story, and the way it was told really had your imagination running. The narrator made that story everything and more. I listened to it every chance I had, and the time fly by each chapter making it hard to believe it was as long as it was. The story starts with Cat who is newly entering 8th grade. Her and her cousin Robyn are excited for new electives, boys, and a great new year. First day of school she is put into an elective for culinary arts. New and unfamiliar because her mother does absolutely no cooking unless its frozen or pre-made its a new experience for her. She excited to bake and be with her classmates but soon starts to receive odd behavior from her mother who doesn’t want her to cook or take the class. As the story unfolds we learn that there are family secrets deep within Cats family, and while her aunt bakes with love and her mother scorns the kitchen as whole its Cat who we find with some extraordinary powers in the kitchen. Its a very fun story and each chapter ending provides a recipe related to the chapter. Kids and adults will appreciate this book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Laurenhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLauren2021-08-10 19:31:072021-08-11 08:13:03Bake Believe AUDIO BOOK by Cori Cooper- Review by Lauren West
What a cute story by Cori Cooper! I listened with my daughter and she enjoyed it so much. Bake Believe’s main character Cat is a spunky teenager that is unapologetically herself. As she shares her view of the world with us, we learn that like many other teenagers, she is into boys, friends, and living life to the fullest. Cat’s world is turned upside down when a mishap in her school schedule caused the reveal of a huge family secret. The secret has Cat learning to grow and mature while understanding more about herself. This story is fun and inspiring. The narrator Katie Penate did an amazing job portraying each character’s individuality and making the story come to life! If you have a young teen in your life, consider this book.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Nakyshia Legerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngNakyshia Leger2021-08-10 18:52:202021-08-11 08:09:37Bake Believe AUDIO BOOK by Cori Cooper – Review by Nakyshia Leger
Bake Believe is a charming sweet story about a preteen who ends up in a class about cooking! I often found myself chuckling while reading and reminiscing about those days where the smallest inconveniences seemed like the end of the world! This book was great, and was narrated very nicely! I loved the sass and im sure we can all see ourselves in Cori Coopers characters! Great job!!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00April McCoyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngApril McCoy2021-08-10 16:56:372021-08-11 08:05:55Bake Believe AUDIO BOOK by Cori Cooper – Review by April McCoy
I really enjoyed this book by J.U. Menon. Dream Catchers is a story about a girl, Radhika, and the journey she undertakes in the dream world Prestoria. Radihika’s journey had it all, adventure, danger, laughs, and some surprises. J.U. Menon created a vibrant and colorful world in Dream Catchers and it was a joy to be a part of it. I look forward to reading more from J.U. Menon.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Cindy Rushinhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCindy Rushin2021-08-10 10:24:372021-08-11 07:26:50The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Cindy Rushin
The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon. I loved this middle school age read. Its the first in the Prestoria series and its a great read full of adventure and fun. Its the story of Radhika Varma who lives with her brother and Aunt. She goes to school, has friends and has a wild imagination. Radhika doesn’t realize she has special powers so when she dreams of a certain man and he seems to be telling her something she is scared at first but then realizes she needs to listen to him. Realizing she has been picked to compete in Prestoria in the real of nightmares she knows she has to use that imagination to save her life! Will Radhika be able to win this challenge and get home safe and sound before morning or will she be in more trouble than she ever imagined. This will be such a fun read for kids.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tausha Treadwayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTausha Treadway2021-08-10 09:02:092021-08-11 07:26:26The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Tausha Treadway
What a page turner! New threats enter the lives of Lucy, Marcus, and Dylan. Lucy and Dylan train harder than ever, Marcus learns more about himself, and new characters are introduced. The character developments, plot, and details are incredible. You’ll be on the edge of your seat and dying to read the next book by the end!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Ashley Mandellhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAshley Mandell2021-08-10 06:55:472021-08-11 07:23:03The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Ashley Mandell
The Dream Catchers is a fast paced fantasy book, through Indian folklore . Set in the land of dreams, the heroine Radhika Varma is picked to compete in a challenge in Prestoria, the realm of nightmares. She has to rely on her overactive imagination to save herself. She has to create her own defenses and fight against the demons, and travel to a mystical gateway before dawn to win the challenge. Similar to Jumanji, if she fails to do so, she is locked in her dreams. But then there are more challenges than what meets the eye. She is accused of assaulting one of the other dream catchers. Will she clear her name and emerge victorious from the challenge forms the crux of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the story, it reminded me of Jumanji time and again. A very good fantasy around Indian myths, I loved every bit of it.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Anantha Rusumhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngAnantha Rusum2021-08-09 22:33:242021-08-10 22:43:38The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Anantha Rusum
The Dream Catchers by J.U. Menon is an amazing book for all ages! I read this to, and along with, my 7-year-old daughter and we both loved it! The characters are believably realistic and the plot is extremely imaginative. We were all imaginative children once, and The Dream Catchers transported me back to that time of wonderment and awe. J.U. Menon’s writing is descriptive, yet easy enough for younger readers to understand. This book pulls you in from the beginning and takes you on an amazing adventure through the dream world of Prestoria. I look forward to more books by J.U. Menon.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Mandy Otthttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMandy Ott2021-08-09 21:53:372021-08-10 22:39:51The Dream Catchers: Prestoria Series Book 1 by J.U. Menon Review by Mandy Ott
This book had me on edge throughout the entirety. I loved it and I want another one. I loved the concept of the dream catchers and their Journey and the trials each one went through to test the strength and willpower as well as their own demons. It’s always crazy to see what feeds our inner beast and what compassion can do for others. This story has Radhika coming out of her shell after the death of her parents and finding friends and enemies in unlikely places. Who can she trust? Read on and find out!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Charlene Yateshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCharlene Yates2021-08-09 21:31:222021-08-10 22:36:41The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Charlene Yates
The Dream Catchers: Prestoria is a great fantasy read! Radhika has such compassion for others and so much perseverance. I really loved reading about Prestoria and the challenges that Radhika and her friends are faced with. Learning about this other world and uncovering its secrets will keep you turning pages. Nothing is as it seems so pay attention! I can’t wait read Book 2!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Carlahttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngCarla2021-08-09 20:43:322021-08-10 22:30:46The Dream Catchers ( Prestoria ) by J. U. Menon – Review by Carla Clemmons
Wow, this book is quite the surprise and in a good way. Radhika has this imagination that is just mesmerizing and she starts having these dreams. Nothing like having a dream that involves seeing an old man but no one else can see him as she starts to see him in real life in town. Radhika has to complete these “Challenges” in Prestoria and hopefully she overcomes or she will remain in Prestoria forever. This book has so much adventure, imagination, fun and mystery. This book was truly enjoyable for all ages!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Lorralei Hoernerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngLorralei Hoerner2021-08-09 20:40:062021-08-10 22:30:20The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Lorralei Hoerner
The book was definitely an adventure for the characters and myself! The author does great in creating tangible and authentic relationships between the characters in this story! I enjoyed seeing some of the Indian Mythology, but I was hoping for more as there was a large variety of Catchers. The concept of the challenges within the dream world of Prestoria was intriguing, however I really struggled to see the tasks the characters were to beat clearly. It did get a little more defined in the latter half of the book, but I struggled to keep up with what exactly was going on. Even so, I would recommend this book for reading as the characters are very relatable, the plotline is consistent, and imagination runs wild.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00MaeLeadstonehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngMaeLeadstone2021-08-09 19:52:342021-08-10 22:29:22The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by May Leadstone
This is an excellent read for boys and girls in middle school! An imaginative world built around challenges that the characters have to overcome in their dreams. The characters are all well developed and relatable. There are twists galore that keep you reading to see what will happen next and moments when you’re on the edge of your seat reading!
I am so glad this is a series because that means there are more of these books! My children will be reading these this school year!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Desiree Ottingerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngDesiree Ottinger2021-08-09 19:41:502023-08-05 15:32:49The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Desiree Ottinger
The Dream Catchers: Prestoria series is a children’s fantasy recommended for ages 8-12, but I can assure you that all ages will enjoy it. The first installment in the series by J.U. Menon is so engrossing, that before I knew it, I was finished. Not only is this book engaging and filled with vibrant imagery, but it is so intriguing that I’m sure it could hold the attention of the most distracted child (or adult). Filled with Indian myths and folklore, the author truly takes the reader on an adventure to a dream world that will challenge the boundaries of your imagination. Our main character, Radhika, is a wonderful protagonist for young readers, and she comes across many relatable circumstances. I highly recommend this book. This will definitely be one I read to my daughter when she gets old enough to enjoy it! Can’t wait to read the second book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Christine J. Spulakhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngChristine J. Spulak2021-08-09 15:27:322021-08-10 22:20:53The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Chrissy Spulak
The Dream Catchers, Prestoria, is book 1 in a series by J. U. Menon. The book is aimed for ages 8-12, but I would highly recommend it for older children as well as adults!
This book kept my attention from the very beginning and even as an adult I truly enjoyed the writing style and the storyline and adventures within. Radhika is the main character. She has a very active imagination and is selected to take part in a special challenge taking place in Prestoria, the mysterious realm of nightmares. Taken on an adventure while asleep, Radhika learns about friendship, loyalty, and forgiveness. If you have young readers in your life, especially with an interest in fantasy, I would highly recommend this book! I am excited to see where the author takes this series and cannot wait for the next book!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sarah Devereauxhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSarah Devereaux2021-08-09 15:16:002021-08-10 22:19:26The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Sarah Devereaux
This is the fist book I have from this author and I’m now a fan. I love a good fantasy book but this author exceeded all my expectations. This is the first book of the Prestoria series and it was the perfect way to start a series. I could not stop reading this book until the very end and I can’t see what happens next to these amazing characters.
Radhika Varma has an amazing imagination. She always thinks of different creatures. Radhika is excited when she finds out that she will be in a challenge in a land called Prestoria. This is the land of nightmares and she is a little nervous. Radhika is only armed with her imagination by one of the Dream Catchers. She has no idea what has getting into when she meets some of these creatures like the Vyalas. Radhika has only until dawn to complete her challenge or she will end up not coming out. Will Radhika got out with a victory or will she become a new member of Prestoria?
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Heather Basshttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngHeather Bass2021-08-08 22:04:172021-08-09 18:13:32The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Heather Bass
The Dream Catchers is the first book in J. U. Menon’s Prestoria series. This children’s series is set partially in the real world and partially in the world of dreams, and draws on the Indian folklore that influences the protagonist’s imagination, and therefore the dreams she experiences. I would have loved this book as a kid, when I tried to plan to have adventures with friends when we were both dreaming. It’s such a cool premise, and Menon develops it brilliantly with the Challenge and the mysteries that surround it. Such a captivating world! Radhika is a great protagonist. She’s very compassionate and concerned for others, making her a good role model. The challenges she faces in her real life, including grief and moving to a new area and school, are as much a part of the story as the fantastical challenges she faces in Prestoria. I particularly like how her relationships with family are explored, such as her younger brother Aarav who is dealing with his grief in a very different way to his sister. This book would be great for KS2-3 readers who are confident with longer chapter books. If a child gets anxious about sleeping or dreams, or are experiencing grief, it would be worth an adult reading it before or with them and using it as a discussion prompt. This book gets a full five stars from me! A superb read!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Francis O'Sullivanhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngFrancis O'Sullivan2021-08-08 17:46:402023-08-05 15:33:38The Dream Catchers (Prestoria) by J. U. Menon – Review by Francis O’Sullivan
Bake Believe is a wonderful YA audio written by Cori Cooper. Although this book is in the YA category, I think is is great for readers/listeners of all ages. She is a new to me author and I can’t wait to see what else she has written. The story is fun and filled with magic and some great recipes. Cat is a wonderful character and she has some witty dialogue. It was a really enjoyable 8 hours of listening pleasure.
Katie Penate is also new to me narrator. I like the tone of her voice and she really made the story come to life. I look forward to more books by Ms. Cooper and those narrated by Ms. Penate.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Sunday Barnabyhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngSunday Barnaby2021-08-08 11:20:592021-08-09 17:40:20Bake Believe AUDIO BOOK by Cori Cooper – Review by Sunday Barnaby
This is the first book in the Prestoria series. It is a very enjoyable young adult story filled with danger and adventure. It’s a magical story with links to Indian myths legends and folklore. One of the things I loved about the story was the feeling of is our lead character dreaming or is everything she experiences real?
When our lead character Radhika finds herself in Pestoria she needs to find a way to get out alive. But with other hunters the same and only her imagination for help can she return before morning or will she have to live in Prestoria forever?
Really enjoyed this next part in the story, after The Girl and the Raven. We learn lots more about these awesome characters, and see a few new ones as well. Is it wrong I am still kind of rooting for Dylan to get between the girl and her Gargoyle? I know the Gargoyle is meant to be a protective beast, but Marcus sometimes veers into the controlling for me. Or maybe I just like the bad boy? I digress. Lucy gets to know dear old dad a lot better, and his character is a lot more nuanced in this book. The plot is great, full of action, and I really enjoyed it. This is a great series I will enjoy following.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Erica Shoebridgehttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngErica Shoebridge2021-08-07 20:43:442021-08-08 17:20:26The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Erica Shoebridge
This is the second book of this series which I enjoyed just as much as the first. I highly suggest reading the first book as well to help enhance your enjoyment of this series. This is a well written story about just how complicated things can get when you are dating a demon enemy who is also a gargoyle and you are half-witch and half-demon. Lucy and Marcus are about to find out. What will happen when his family comes back and they all want something different for him. But he has one determination and that is to save Lucy and her father but this is where a problem comes in, she has a plan for herself. What happens next I highly recommend reading this book to find out. They are great, strong characters that not only bring the story to life but also kept it engaging. This is a fast paced story that kept me turning pages to the end. It is full of action and worth the pick up!
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Bobbi Wagnerhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngBobbi Wagner2021-08-07 07:37:092021-08-08 00:43:22The Girl and the Gargoyle (The Girl and the Raven Book 2) by Pauline Gruber – Review by Bobbi Wagner
The storyline was wonderful for a young adult who wants to believe in some version of magic. The baking of emotions was something I wasn’t expecting and I appreciated the puns that went into this book. The narrator didn’t hit the mark for me, personally, but I have only ever listened to two audiobooks and have discovered that it isn’t my cup of tea. For anyone who enjoys audiobooks and thoroughly enjoys this genre, I think this would be a fantastic listen. My favorite parts were the recipes and the silliness involved with telling the reader how to make the things in each chapter. I definitely plan to make some of these as soon as possible.
https://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.png00Tamisha Janayhttps://itsybitsybookbits.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/IBBB_2020_logo_sq.pngTamisha Janay2021-08-06 22:06:142021-08-08 00:40:28Bake Believe AUDIO BOOK by Cori Cooper – Review by Tamisha Janay
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The Girl and the Gargoyle by Pauline Gruber
