As much as I loved The Spiderwick Chronicles, I can't say the same thing for Beyond The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Nixie's Song. The cover art was just as intriguing as the previous volumes, but for me that is where the intrigue stopped. A new family of characters is introduced, but there is very little, if any, character development. I had no connection with the main characters and would not have been sad had they been destroyed by the local giant. I felt that the creators were trying to do two things: 1) Promote their original series as well as Arthur Spiderwick's Field Guide to the Fantastical World Around You; and 2) Create a series that will appeal to fans of Lemony Snicket's Series of Unfortunate Events. I am sure many readers will enjoy this book. I however, nearly didn't finish the book out of pure boredom. Also, readers and parents need to be aware of a few instances of inappropriate language.
Umami By Jacob Grant New York: Viking, an imprint of Penguin Random House LLC, 2024. Picture Book. Umami is a little penguin who is sick of eating the same thing everyday, cold fish --ugh! She becomes determined to find new foods and flavors, so Umami begins a journey across the sea in search of something different to eat. She reaches a place with a plethora of delicious options, and tries bitter, sweet, sour, and foods with umami (just like her name!) among others. Umami decides to bring all these delicious new flavors back for the other penguins to try in a feast. But, will the other penguins enjoy this new experience? Filled with charm and humor, Umami is a diverse romp through a universal experience --am I willing to try something new? What will it be like? The idea of trying new foods and flavors make it especially relatable, and the appealing illustrations will have many readers ready to hop out on a culinary adventure. A humorous and sweet ending, caps off this delig...
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