Meena Meets Her Match (Meena Zee, #1) by Karla Manternach

Meena Meets Her Match by Karla Manternach
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I loved this first book in the Meena Zee series, I will definitely be reading these and passing along to my granddaughters! Meena looks at the world in terms of bright colors and how "anything" (including trash & other disgusting stuff) cab be used for her art projects in school and at home. But the bright colors darken when Meena has a medical event that turns her world upside down. Also her best friend, Sophie stays in now at recess and Meena is upset and angry about this. I loved all the characters, the plot was so enjoyable, and all of the resolutions were authentic. I especially liked the Author Note at the end. I also liked that this book was for 3rd graders, a middle grade beginner book, readers will enjoy and ask for more!

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A Gentleman's Guide To Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee

The Gentleman's Guide to Vice and Virtue by Mackenzi Lee
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I listened to this amazing audiobook narrated by Christian Coulson as part of the 2018 HUB Reading Challenge and this book also won Best Fiction & Stonewall awards! Oh did I love this book!!! Monty, Percy, and Felicity were the best and strong protagonists in this 18th century adventure that shines a light on sexism (poor Felicity) racism (Percy and the pirates) and violence and abuse (toward Monty). Monty can't wait to tour Europe for a year - lots of drinking, women and men and the time to think over and over again how much he loves his best friend, Percy. Having grown-up with each other they have spent all of their time together. But as Monty gets into trouble- kicked out of Eaton- his father makes sure this will not be their FUN TOUR and sends a guide along to babysit them and make them endure all the culture and none of the fun. I loved seeing spoiled, brash, self-centered Monty step up- he really does take risks for others, while I did not like to see him so thoroughly drunk all the time because then he would do and say things that got them all into trouble. But when Monty learns Percy has kept a secret from him, he does not give up in trying to keep Percy with him, trying to save him, and also in the process becoming a new, improved Monty. I loved his optimism and joy of life and his can do spirit. A roaring great read/audiobook. I am so looking forward to the next book in the series about Felicity!!!

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