Book Reviews

Browse our extensive archive, to find a great match for your next book club meeting!

All the Light We Cannot See: A Novel Cover
Rating: 4.5/5

All the Light We Cannot See Review

Anthony Doerr's 'All the Light We Cannot See' dazzles with its vivid prose, weaving a captivating WWII tale. The characters are richly layered but time shifts can confuse. A must-read for historical fiction lovers!

The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Complete Series Cover
Rating: 4/5

The Spiderwick Chronicles Review

The Spiderwick Chronicles whisk you away on a magical adventure. Captivating plot, cheeky twists, and richly detailed artwork. Characters shine, though some need depth. Perfect for young readers seeking excitement, with a hint of chaos here and there.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians 5 Book Paperback Boxed Set (w/poster) Cover
Rating: 4/5

The Lightning Thief Review

Percy Jackson mixes ancient myths with modern-day humor, creating a fun adventure. The book shines with witty characters and surprising plot twists. While some parts feel predictable, it's an engaging read with lessons on friendship and bravery.

The Inferno (Signet Classics) Cover
Rating: 3.4/5

Inferno Review

Inferno offers a thrilling blend of history and suspense. Dan Brown keeps you on your toes, though sometimes sacrificing depth for speed. Great for those seeking excitement, less so for history buffs.

The Hate U Give: A Printz Honor Winner Cover
Rating: 4.5/5

The Hate U Give Review

"The Hate U Give" is powerful. It tackles social justice like a linebacker. Starr Carter, the main character, grows like a sunflower in sunlight. Some parts drag, but it leaves you thinking deeper about the world.

Apples Never Fall Cover
Rating: 3.5/5

Apples Never Fall Review

"Apples Never Fall" weaves a thrilling mix of family drama, mystery, and Moriarty's wit. This tale keeps you guessing while unraveling relationships with humor. A fun yet thought-provoking read. Pros: engaging, twists. Cons: a bit lengthy.

Catch-22 cover
Rating: 4.5/5

Catch-22 Review

Heller's 'Catch-22' is a whirlwind of laughter and chaos. The absurdity of war pairs with sharp wit, creating a satirical masterpiece. Characters are lively, yet confounding. It's a wild ride through madness and humor.

The Sympathizer: A Novel (Pulitzer Prize for Fiction) (The Sympathizer, 1) Cover
Rating: 4/5

The Sympathizer Review

The Sympathizer, by Viet Thanh Nguyen, beautifully spotlights the internal tug-of-war of our protagonist. His dual loyalties make for compelling reading, though the book could use fewer characters to avoid confusion. Still, it’s gripping and thought-provoking!

Beautiful Disaster: A Novel (Beautiful Disaster Series) Cover
Rating: 3.5/5

Beautiful Disaster Review

Beautiful Disaster is like watching a soap opera with popcorn. Abby and Travis fight, make up, then fight again. It’s messy but weirdly charming—I laughed, cringed, and cheered. Not classic literature, but sure kept me awake at night!