FDL Reads: Reviews - Fondulac District Library

A Quick and Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns

A Quick & Easy Guide to They/Them Pronouns by Archie Bongiovanni and Tristan Jimerson

Reviewer: Cindy, Youth Services Assistant

Genre: Nonfiction Graphic Novel

Suggested Age: 10 & up

What is This Book About? This short comic book is exactly what it sounds like. It tells you how to use the gender-neutral pronouns “they” and “them” when referring to one person. It also briefly introduces readers to nonbinary identities and includes tips for people coming out as nonbinary.

My Review: This is a great resource for teachers, managers, parents, or pretty much anyone. I definitely recommend this book to people who have only vaguely heard of gender-neutral pronouns but don’t understand why some people use them or what any of this means. Many of us were raised not really knowing that gender neutral pronouns are an option, so it can seem like kind of a foreign concept at first. This book shows that the whole thing is actually really simple and necessary and can become second nature after some practice. If for some reason you feel that reading a graphic novel is a little too juvenile for you, try reading some other books about people who use gender neutral pronouns, such as the ones listed below, or check out Merriam-Webster’s short article on they/them pronouns. There are increasingly more resources available on this topic, but this one is, like the title suggests, quick and easy.

Three Words That Describe This Book: Quick, Easy, Informative

Give This a Try if You Like… I Wish You All the Best by Mason Deaver, Gender Failure by Ivan Coyote & Rae Spoon, Finna by Nino Cipri

Rating: 5/5

Find it at the library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2021-02-11T15:46:06-06:00February 11th, 2021|

FDL Reads: Spy x Family. Vol 1

Spy x Family by Tatsuya Endo

Reviewed by: Atlas Agunod, Circulation Assistant

Genre: Comedy, Graphic Novel

Suggested Age: Teens and Adults

What is This Book About? This book is about a strange family who is brought together because of a spy named Twilight. Twilight is sent on a mission like nothing he’s faced before. His main task is to get close to a political figure in order to stop an impending war. There’s one big problem though…his target is a recluse who is extremely suspicious of others. This means there’s only one way to get close to him: Twilight must put together a fake family and enroll his fake child into the same school as his target’s children. His fake family must know nothing of his mission or of his real identity. As Twilight welcomes an adopted daughter from a shady orphanage and a fake wife who just wants to stop being asked why she’s single, it is revealed to us that they have secrets of their own as well. His daughter is a telepath and his wife is an assassin! As they all work to keep their secrets hidden from each other and from the world, hilarious situations ensue.

My Review: I loved this series way more than I expected to! I went into this thinking it would be a more serious story about a spy family, but I was completely wrong. We follow most of the story through the telepathic daughter, Anya, who is only six years old. She knows everybody’s secrets due to her telepathy, but because she is so young, she doesn’t understand the seriousness of her parents’ “occupations” and passes them off as just being super cool. It’s interesting to see how their family dynamic plays out when they’re all hiding something, especially because Anya knows exactly what they’re really thinking all the time. Aside from the interesting dynamic, all of their secrets create unique and funny situations that are exciting to read. I recommend this book for anybody who is looking for something funny that still has an intriguing story.

Three Words That Describe This Book: Silly, unique, exciting

Give This a Try if You Like: Komi Can’t Communicate, One Punch Man, Assassination Classroom

Rating: 5/5

Find it at the library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2021-02-04T14:39:41-06:00February 4th, 2021|

#FDL: Staff Favorites From 2020

Genna liked Nobody Will Tell You This But Me: A true (as told to me) story by Bess Kalb:

“Using her passed grandmother’s voice and stories, the author tells not only of her grandmother, but of the four closest women in her lineage and connections even between generations that have not met. To say I was moved by this book is an understatement. To tell you I had to put it down four separate times because I couldn’t read through my tears, as it made me think of my late grandmas and their influence on my life, would be the truth.”

Katie enjoyed The Tea Dragon Society by Katie O’Neill:

“This book follows the story of Greta, a blacksmith apprentice, and the people she befriends as she becomes entwined in the enchanting world of tea dragons – which are tiny and cute (though utterly helpless) magical creatures whose horns sprout leaves and berries! The Tea Dragon Society is literally the coziest, most heartwarming book I’ve ever read and it’s perfect for anyone looking to immerse themselves in a beautifully illustrated world, filled with equally beautiful messages and a truly diverse cast of characters. (Disability, neurodiversity, and LGBTQIAP+ are all artfully represented!!)”

Melissa recommends Black Klansman by Ron Stallworth:

“Although the events in this book took place over forty years ago, the existence of racist subcultures in this country is unfortunately still relevant today. This book was engaging and humorous without sacrificing the gritty reality of events. The only drawback this book had for me was that I wished it had been longer.”

Becky’s favorite was American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins:

“I highly recommend this book. Lydia and her son, Luca are very realistic, sympathetic and well- developed characters and their struggle to escape from a Mexican cartel that murdered their family is a frightening, thrilling tale, but this book is so much more than just an exciting and riveting tale.”

Jessica liked Do You Dream of Terra-Two by Temi Oh:

-“It was a bit like Lord of the Flies in space. It showed more of the psychological and interpersonal issues that would crop up with space travel.”

Susie liked The Great Hunt by Robert Jordan:

“I started the Wheel of Time series last summer and have been really enjoying it so far. I have read up to book four, but this second novel has been my favorite so far. It has great characters and twists that I could not have imagined.”

Cindy enjoyed The Rise of Kyoshi by F.C. Yee:

“I was surprised by how good this book is! You definitely need to be familiar with Avatar: The Last Airbender and/or Legend of Korra to understand what’s going on in it, but it’s really interesting and well-written.”

Katie G. loved The Silent Patient by Alex Michaelides:

“Perfect for any fan of thrillers, this novel will keep you guessing until the very end. Alicia Berenson has spent six years in a mental institution after murdering her husband in cold blood. Her newly assigned psychotherapist, Theo Faber, believes he can help shed light on Alicia’s motives, as she has remained silent ever since the grisly murder. As Faber begins to put the pieces together, you realize not all is as it seems. The truth, he learns, does not always set you free.”

Sylvia liked Lincoln on the Verge: Thirteen Days to Washington by Edward Widmer:

“This book is that most wonderful of things: a nonfiction book that reads with the excitement and passion of a well-written novel. The prose rockets along, much like the Presidential Special rolling quickly down the tracks from Springfield to Washington. And I do have to add, it is deeply surreal to read this book now, after the inauguration of a new president and the Capitol riots of January 6 – because much the same situation was in place in 1861. As an interesting nonfiction read, this book is highly recommended. As an example of history repeating itself, it’s unparalleled.”

Cassie enjoyed Love, Sugar, Magic: A Dash of Trouble by Anna Meriano:

“This was the first book of the series. I read all three that are out and they are all fabulous!”

Post by Susie Rivera, Reference Specialist

#FDL is a weekly update on all things Fondulac District Library and books.

Susie Rivera2021-02-05T13:43:03-06:00February 4th, 2021|

FDL Reads: I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness

I’m Still Here: Black Dignity in a World Made for Whiteness by Austin Channing Brown

Reviewed by: Becky Houghton, Reference Assistant

Genre: Nonfiction

Suggested Age: Adults, Older Teens

What is This Book About? Austin Brown details her life growing up as a Black girl/woman in a White America. Her first encounter with racism came at age seven when her parents explained that they had named her Austin so that applying for jobs as an adult would be easier for her i.e. “employers would see the name and think that she was a white male.” Growing up and attending predominately white schools and churches, Austin had to learn to “love her blackness” and later in life to “teach white people about racial justice.” In this era of increasing racial unrest, Austin challenges all of us to examine our attitudes and confront our often hidden prejudices

My Review: I found this book to be very powerful. I was, however, surprised to recognize my own subtle prejudices. Austin herself recognizes that “ the persistence of racism in America-both individual and societal-is altogether overwhelming.” This book challenges us all, both blacks and whites, to examine our beliefs and actions. As a diversity educator, Austin Brown deals with those beliefs, customs, stereotypes and actions that prevail at all levels in our world. I believe, with Austin, that “doing nothing is no longer an option.” All America must deal with our prejudices and work together to change our attitudes now. We can wait no longer for racial equality and racial justice to prevail.

Three Words That Describe This Book: Powerful, Convicting, Timely

Try This if You Like...Why Are All the Black Kids Sitting together in the Cafeteria by Beverly Tatum or Black Lash by George Yancy.

Rating: 5/5

Find it at the library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2021-01-27T15:16:53-06:00January 27th, 2021|

FDL Reads: The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

The Book Woman of Troublesome Creek

By: Kim Michele Richardson

Reviewed by: Melissa Friedlund, Reference Assistant

Genre: Historical Fiction

Suggested Age: Adult, Teen

What is This Book About? This book combines two historical anecdotes of Depression era Kentucky: the Pack Horse Library Project and the blue people of Troublesome Creek. With an ailing, coal-miner father and few prospects for a husband, Cussy Mary Carter, also called Bluet, is a nineteen-year-old who holds her own as a Pack Horse Librarian and one of the last blue people of Kentucky. She is proud of her library work, providing reading materials to the isolated and desperately poor inhabitants of eastern Kentucky in 1936. Despite the treacherous trails on her route through the hill country, Cussy Mary navigates a world filled with dangers and struggles…some because of her work and some because of her blue skin.

My Review: I listened to the e-audiobook available on hoopla and would definitely recommend it. The vivid, descriptive writing stood out immediately when I began listening to this book. Richardson has done a masterful job of drawing a picture for the imagination to render. I found the story to be interesting and engaging. Although it is a purely fictional account, both the Pack Horse Librarians and the blue people of Troublesome Creek were real. The author’s note at the end provides more factual context for both. Cussy Mary’s book route introduces the reader to the wide diversity of hill folk and their stories; stories that are both heartwarming and heartbreaking.

*For anyone who needs a forewarning, there is a depiction of rape and the N-word in this book.

Three Words That Describe This Book: Unexpected, Gritty, Bittersweet

Give This a Try if You Like…The Giver of Stars by Jojo Moyes, The Book of Lost Names by Kristin Harmel, The Book of Lost Friends by Lisa Wingate.

Rating: 5/5

Find it at the library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2021-02-04T09:26:13-06:00January 21st, 2021|

FDL Reads: Early Riser

Early Riser by Jasper Fforde

Reviewed by: Beth Weimer, Communications Specialist

Genre: Dystopian Satire

Suggested Age: Adults, Teens

What is This Book About?: Welcome to a world where humans are forced to hibernate through arctic winters – for their own good, of course. While most of the calorie-hoarding population sleeps dreamlessly, the Winter Consul are tasked with keeping them safe. Lured by the promise of extra pudding, blundering Charlie Worthing must fulfill his new consul responsibilities while investigating an outbreak of murder-inducing dreams and surviving treacherous coworkers, cannibalistic Nightwalkers, shadowy WinterVolk, the mythical Gronk, and more.

My Review: I’ve loved Fforde since first devouring Shades of Grey and his Thursday Next series years ago, and this book doesn’t disappoint in delivering his signature triumph of words and worlds. His flair for absurdism mixes elements of sci-fi and fantasy with razor-sharp wit and detailed satire that takes on capitalism, classism, big pharma, reproduction, bureaucracy, and more. In the midst of romping through all that, some truly poignant moments occur. Readers may find the ridiculous details overwhelming at first, but persevering will bring clarity and Fforde’s inventiveness is always fun to experience.

Three Words That Describe This Book: Clever, Farcical, Intriguing

Give This a Try if You Like… The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams, Slaughterhouse-Five by Kurt Vonnegut, Brave New World by Aldous Huxley, Shades of Grey or The Eyre Affair by Jasper Fforde

Rating: 4/5

Find it at the library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2021-01-14T20:13:25-06:00January 14th, 2021|

FDL Reads: Kid Gloves

Kid Gloves: Nine Months of Careful Chaos by Lucy Knisley

Reviewed by: Susie Rivera, Reference Specialist

Genre: Graphic Novel Memoir

Suggested Age Adults

What is This Book About? Lucy Knisley candidly talks about her own pregnancy journey, starting with infertility issues and miscarriage. Her pregnancy experience was far from magical as she suffered from horrible morning sickness, and almost died from eclampsia. The graphic novel also highlights some of the history and science of reproductive health.

My Review: Parts of this graphic novel memoir are heartbreaking and some parts are hilarious. I could identify with this author as I recently had my second baby last spring. Knisley captures the good and the bad of being pregnant and giving birth. You can have a birth plan and expectations for what it will be like at home with a newborn, but in reality, all of that can go out the window in a flash, and all you can do adapt. I also enjoyed the illustrations as well as the information/statistics she uses to educate the reader. I definitely want to check out her other graphic novels after reading this one.

Rating: 5/5

Three Words That Describe This Book: Realistic, informative, funny

Give this a try if you like: Relish: My Life in the Kitchen, Gender Queer, Good Talk: A Memoir in Conversations

Find it at the Library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2021-01-08T17:07:37-06:00January 8th, 2021|

FDL Reads: The Magic Fish

The Magic Fish by Trung Le Nguyen

Reviewed by: Atlas Agunod, Circulation Assistant

Genre: LGBTQ, Graphic Novel

Suggested age: Teens and Adults

What is This Book About? This book is about 13-year-old Tien, the son of two Vietnamese immigrants. Tien’s mother speaks mainly Vietnamese and Tien speaks mainly English. This makes it hard for Tien and his mother to communicate, but it makes it even harder for Tien to come out as gay. The story follows Tien as he comes to terms with his identity and figures out how to tell his parents.

My Review: I loved this book so much. I identify as LGBTQ myself, so I related to the concept of coming out a lot, but I can’t imagine how hard it would be if there was also a language barrier between me and my parents. The author told this story so beautifully, and the art was just beautiful. I really appreciated this story and I think anybody who is struggling with their identity should give it a read.

Rating: 5/5

Three Words That Describe This Book: moving, beautiful, touching

Give this a try if you like: The Princess and the Dressmaker, The Witch Boy, Heartstopper

Find it at the Library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2020-12-10T17:05:58-06:00December 10th, 2020|

FDL Reads: American Dirt

American Dirt by Jeanine Cummins

Reviewed by: Becky Houghton, Reference Assistant

Genre: Social issues thriller

Suggested Age: Adult

What is This Book About?: American Dirt is the story of a mother and son and their journey to escape cartel violence in Acapulco, Mexico that has killed their entire family. Lydia and her son Luca witness the violent murder of Sebastian, their husband and father, after he publishes a newspaper story about the Los Jardineros and their leader Javier. Sebastian along with eleven members of his extended family are killed by the cartel. Escape is the only avenue left to them – escape to the United States. The remainder of the book details the journey northward and the other migrants that they encounter on that journey.

My Review: I highly recommend this book. Lydia and her son, Luca are very realistic, sympathetic and well- developed characters and their struggle to escape from a Mexican cartel that murdered their family is a frightening, thriller tale, but this book is so much more than just an exciting and riveting tale. Cummins has written an almost poetic book filled with the love between a mother and son and those that they come to view as “family.” The journey that Lydia and Luca undertake from their home in Acapulco to Mexico City and on north toward Nogales and eventually into the United States is filled with danger and fear, but it is also filled with people–other migrants from throughout Central America. Many of these men, women and children on the train known as “La Bestia” become a new family as they share the trials and atrocities encountered along the journey. There is violence, rape, hunger, death and most of all fear throughout their travels, but the love between mother and son and their companions over shadows and triumphs over trials. Human courage is displayed. American Dirt was called “the most anticipated book of 2020” and “The Grapes of Wrath of our times” in its early reviews. I agree that it is a beautifully written, but violent tale of the struggles faced by some citizens of Mexico and other Central American countries forcing them to seek a better life in the United States. The book and author have also been criticized as unauthentic. I strongly disagree with this characterization. This is a work of fiction and Cummins never portrayed it as “truth.” Neither is this a treatise on immigration. It is a well-written work of fiction and one that I am glad to have read!

Three Words That Describe This Book: Heroic, Compassionate, Dramatic

Give This a Try if You Like: John Steinbeck’s Grapes of Wrath or Griffin’s Hazardous Duty

Rating: 5/5

Find it at the Library!

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2020-12-02T13:27:52-06:00December 2nd, 2020|

FDL Reads: The Legend of the Cherry Tree that Blossoms Every Ten Years

In honor of International Games Week, we decided to post a game review instead of a book review.

The Legend of the Cherry Tree that Blossoms Every Ten Years

Reviewed by: Isaac Jacobs, Reference Assistant

Genre: Luck, strategy, set collection

Suggested Age: 8+

What is the Game About?: What you do in this game is “collect” blossoms from a mystical cherry tree that blooms once every ten years. The goal is to collect as many as you can without failing a turn. There’s a condition that causes you to mess up a turn. If you collect three of one color blossom, the cherry tree will deem you too greedy, and fail to grant you a wish.

My Review: First of all, the art for the game is beautiful with warm golds and vibrant pinks. The pieces are just as nice, with an ornate faux-leather bag and thick cardboard screens with their own unique designs. The blossoms themselves come in six colors and are very tactile. Second, I’m not a very competitive person but my girlfriend is. Despite us having polar opposite attitudes towards multiplayer games, it turned out to be fun for the both of us and we played it quite a few times (it’s also a quick game). While the push-your-luck element isn’t very intense, it’s still enjoyable. The rules look complex, but the game is a simple one with options to increase the difficulty if needed. The instructions offer examples and don’t overload the reader with too much to read on a page.

I’d recommend it for those who are just venturing into board games, or for those who aren’t super competitive.

Three Words That Describe This Game: Aesthetic, simple, gentle

Give This a Try if You Like… A Feast for Odin, Kangawa

Find it at the Library!

Rating: 3/5

About FDL Reads

FDL Reads is a series of weekly book reviews from Fondulac District Library.

Susie Rivera2020-11-20T15:01:26-06:00November 11th, 2020|