The Secrets of Worthington Orphanage by R.A. Douthitt

 Today's read was just released last week. I really wanted to get to it by then but wanted the time to sink in and enjoy the creepiness. Because I had a very good suspicion that this was going to head in that direction. The author just happens to be one of my favorite paranormal authors, and I adored the series, which this one acts as a prequel to (if I understood that right). 

Anyway, ghost and spook fans should get excited because if this one holds everything I suspect it will, it will be quite the fun read.

 

THE SECRETS OF WORTHINGTON ORPHANAGE

by R.A. Douthitt

Middle Grade Paranormal

250 pages

ages 10 to 18

When shadows linger and whisper their secrets, danger is never far behind…

Young orphan Darla Sue Jeffries never imagined the horrors lurking behind the pristine façade of Worthington Orphanage. No one could have.

Desperate to escape the clutches of Ruby Worthington, the cold and calculating director, Darla is determined to expose the truth about the orphanage’s chilling past. With only her wits, the memories of her beloved family, and the help of two ghostly allies, Darla unearths a web of lies that stretches far beyond the orphanage walls.

But Darla isn’t the only one seeking justice. Investigative reporter George Lawson is close to unraveling Ruby's deadly secrets. But he must confront the powerful forces determined to keep the orphanage's dark history buried. Can he release his story before tragedy strikes?

As the past and present collide, Darla faces a harrowing risk her life to save the forgotten children of Worthington Orphanage or succumb to the same fate that claimed so many before her.

In this gripping tale of courage, betrayal, and the unyielding pursuit of justice, The Secrets of Worthington Orphanage will haunt you long after the final page.

GOODREADS     /     AMAZON      

MY TIDBITS

Ghosts, dark secrets, and mystery swirl together to create a haunting and grabbing adventure.

Darla isn't ready for the orphanage but doesn't really have a choice, since her parents both died and her brother has already been sent to a boy's home. While she's sure her grandmother has tried to find the best home for her, it doesn't take long for the orphanage's wonderful facade to crack. Already the first night, Darla doesn't only meet other girls but the ghosts of children, who had passed. All claim that breaking the rules could easily leave her locked below without food and water with no hope of ever coming out. Determined to escape, Darla soon realizes the only way to freedom is to expose the horrors the orphanage holds, but they go much deeper than she could imagine.

Right away, the reader can't help but sympathizing with Darla and hope that she makes it through, but she never plays the victim, either. Darla might have a heavy, emotional load when her grandmother drops her off at the orphanage, but she's level-headed and tries to take things in stride. Her fears, concerns, hopes, and goals are understandable as she steers the social situations within the orphanage, not always perfectly but as best she can. The other characters gain enough depth to make them interesting as Darla works with them or deals with whatever situations they bring. There's enough sense of friendship and hope to keep the tale from growing too dark, and the tension holds the entire way through.

This isn't a light, ghost read. The deaths of the ghosts were harsh, which might make this a difficult read for more sensitive ghost fans. The danger is raw and obvious, and the intentions of the evil characters aren't puffed over. So, this is one for upper middle graders even if Darla starts off with a younger flair, at first. She grows quickly as the mystery unfolds. And the clues are well-laid making it very hard to guess where everything is going until the end.

Readers, who enjoy mysteries with bite and ghosts with an air of grit, will enjoy this one.

And here she is...

​Ruth A. Douthitt is an award-winning Christian fiction writer based out of Phoenix, AZ. She currently writes fiction for children and women's fiction and nonfiction for adults.

A teacher, speaker, professional artist, podcaster, runner, and an avid reader of biographies and history, Ruth loves all things creative.

http://www.artbyruth.com/

What's Coming in April?

With March coming to a close...and what a month that's been...I'm looking forward to seeing what April holds. Well, I already know it holds Easter (yay!) and several birthdays in our household. One even on Easter. So, it's a party month. Hopefully, the book pile contains the same energy.

And speaking of that book pile...after a closer look, it appears I have a pretty even mix over the age groups. The spookiness of last month doesn't seem to have dribbled over into April too much. Instead, the upcoming sunshine has taken control. I have a handful of mysteries, a few fantasies, and a couple science fiction tales, too. Those are popping up more and more in my stack, which is great since this genre always seems a step behind the others. There are a few reads, which include animals, and a couple nonfiction ones as well. I can safely say that April holds as much variety as the Spring flowers do. 

Not convinced? Here's a quick impression of what's coming up.

PROPHECY

This book is said to be a mix between The Princess Bride and Game of Thrones. I don't think I have to say anything else as to why I wanted to get my hands on it. If it delivers, of course. It's a fantasy story about a girl, who is fighting for her freedom and a thief. There should be tons of action, intrigue, and romance, too. Hopefully, not too much romance...I like my books exciting with romance on the side. I'll let you know if it lives up to these high expectations on the 3rd.

Young Adult Fantasy

ROSIE'S GARDEN

The cover screams Spring and working outdoors...exactly what the next weeks will hold for us, here on the farm. So, I had to take a look at this one. I'm not sure what the story is about, but I'm hoping it holds some inspiration as well as lovely characters. I'll grab up this one on the 8th and see what it holds.

Picture Book

CODE NAME SEVEN

I'm going to stay in the 'original story' direction and take a peek at the first book in this brand new series. It centers around a world where the 'breath of a star' transforms people in impossible ways. I'm not sure what that means, but it should hold intrigue, deal with mystery, and have a teen girl, who is unwilling dragged into the middle of everything. Or something like that? I'm not sure if this is heavy fantasy or science fiction or... hmmmm. No idea. I'll know more on the 11th.

Young Adult Fantasy

THE MISSING BOOK

This is part of a series for chapter book readers, who aren't ready for 'bigger' middle grad novels, yet. It should circle around forming friendships as well as the search for a missing book. I'm not really sure what to expect but have no doubt that it will be full of goodness...that's the impression I'm getting, anyway. I'm going to be exploring this one on the 12th.

Chapter Book

THE ZUZU SECRET

The bearded dragon on the cover caught my attention instantly. Definitely original...but the blurb also runs into the realm of sibling relationships, which is something else I enjoy. These two siblings, however, harbor secrets and need to learn how to steer through their lies and learn a few things along the way. And of course, there's the bearded dragon. I'm going to explore this one on the 14th.

Middle Grade Contemporary

THE CHILD AND THE TREE

After all the unique reads, it's time for something a little calmer. This picture book heads toward nature and should offer emotional, lyrical moments. It will explore the relationship between a child and a tree, and should hold lots of good vibes and warmth. We're looking at this one on the 19th.

Picture Book

THE BARKING PUPPY

While meandering through upcoming titles, this one caught my attention. Maybe because it seems to take a very different tone than many middle grade reads that are currently hitting the shelves. This one should be about friendship, patience, and, obviously, dogs. I'm curious where this read will go and hope it grabs and keeps the reader in the pages. I'm snuggling up with this one on the 21st to find out.

Middle Grade Contemporary

PEPPER MASALAH AND THE KASHMIRE PRINCESS

Fly carpets lead to mystery and adventure in these pages...or so it claims. I'm excited to see where this journey goes, especially since it plays out in Australia. I'm hoping for some cultural and mythical goodness as well as a fun adventure for younger chapter book readers. See if this book holds all of that with me on the 24th.

Chapter Book Fantasy

KAT'S GREEK SUMMER

After the rich pile of fantasy and imagination, I'm looking forward to heading into a contemporary read. Even better, this one heads to Greece and explores some history and culture, while diving into the rich relationship surrounding families. The main character seems to have a problem with lying and needs to deal with the consequences of letting them weave a web over time. Get ready to learn more about this journey with me on the 25th.

Young Adult Contemporary

 

GET DRESSED!

I always smile when I get my hands on a lovely, non-fiction read...and this one takes an original direction. It heads into the direction of fashion and goes through history to take a look at the various trends throughout time. I'm hoping for some very interesting insights because I have no doubt that there will be some surprising tidbits hidden in these pages. I'll be taking a peek on the 29th!

Middle Grade Nonfiction

Every month, I have more books to read than I could ever dream of getting to. But my schedule changes often, thanks to the ever drifting publishing market. My schedule wiggles, shifts, and even opens up. That's where Joker Reads come in. These are books I'm looking forward to picking up and will find a way to squeeze them in, at one point.

I just don't know when.

THE OMEN GIRL

This one doesn't hit the shelves until October, but I'm itching to take an early peek. It handles a girl with special talents, a dangerous contest, and omens. Everything will circle around omens. I'm expecting danger, action, and.... hmmm...  actually, I have no idea. But I'm ready to find out. Oh, and this one is a graphic novel. So, it will be a fun quick read. Hopefully, with top-notch illustrations, too.

When am I taking a look at this one? Well, that's the question, isn't it?

Young Adult Fantasy    /    Graphic Novel

What's the Actually Factually Difference? by Jane Wilsher

Today's read heads into one of my favorite directions—nonfiction! This is the section of the library that my kids always headed to  (and still head to) first. So, I was smiling when I got my hands on today's read. 

This book was released the beginning of February and holds a collection of many facts and tidbits. It appears that it's one to be picked up every now and then, and not necessarily read all in one go (although I'm sure there will be such readers, too). I'm hoping there will be some interesting facts and a little bit of fun.

Oh, and it's MMGM day (Marvelous Middle Grade Monday), so if you love middle grade reads, head on over HERE to discover more suggestions from other readers. 

Ready to see if there's something new to learn in these pages? 

WHAT'S THE ACTUALLY FACTULLY DIFFERENCE?

by Jane Wilsher

Illustrated by Liz Kay

words & pictures

Middle Grade Nonfiction

112 pages

ages 8 to 11

What's the actually factually difference? One question. Over 200 particularly pernickety answers. Wow friends and family with the answers and more in this detailed encyclopedia, ideal for picking up over and over again.  

What's the difference between a country and a continent? What's the difference between an alligator and a crocodile?And what about a wormhole and a black hole? Well, there are seven continents and nearly 200 countries. You’d need to run faster from a gator than a croc, but a croc has sharper teeth and a flatter snout. And as for the trickiness of black holes and wormholes, you'll have to read inside to find the answer to that one. . .  

What's the Actually Factually Difference? is an upbeat, fact-packed encyclopedia exploring the difference between over a hundred pairs. With sections on space, the body, the world, food, technology, transport, animals, and more, What's the Actually Factually Difference? is an accessible introduction to all kinds of popular subjects for children, extending learning by drilling down into the ‘actually factually’ detail of what’s what.

For every pair, the same taxing question, "What’s the difference between?", is asked and answered. Each time, both words are defined, including any similarities and differences. Additional pull-outs and facts are also included for every pair. Authored by Jane Wilsher with detailed and amusing artwork from Liz Kay, every fact is brought to life with humor and wit in this expansive title.

What's the Actually Factually Difference? opens up a world of facts and quizzing with family and friends. This fresh and fun encyclopedia brings non-fiction to life in an exciting new way, making it the perfect next adventure for curious young minds. 

GOODREADS    /     AMAZON    /     B&N

MY TIDBITS

Facts and information hit with with dizzying fun for those who love to know more about tons of different things.

Some things appear to be very similar, so much so that it's hard to know exactly what the differences are, such as  meteors, meteorites, and meteoroids. This book takes a look at all sorts of things, which often can be mixed up or misunderstood. 

The read starts with a quick introduction to various ways the book can be 'used' in more ways than just a read. There are a couple hints for various ways to work it into games and more. The book is divided into thirteen chapters, which include everything from things found in space to plants to historical tidbits and more. There's a very thorough index at the end to help keep everything organized and easy to locate. In each of these chapters, many pairs of terms are presented with quick explanations and very short, extra facts in little bubbles. There's a chaotic atmosphere to the format, which keeps the enjoyment and excitement high. Yet, it's no trouble to sort through the information. The facts are clear, interesting, and include more known things as well as lesser known ones. Some are more difficult concepts, while others are fairly 'easy'. In other words, it makes sure to touch upon a wide variety of interests to give a little something for everyone.

The illustrations are bright, bold, and bring across aspects of the facts in clear fashion, while keeping the atmosphere light. It's clear that the author and illustrator wanted to steer away from dry and boring, and they accomplish this nicely.

And here they are...

Jane Wilsher is an author and editor from the UK, and the founder of bop Publishing. Jane is the author of What Do Scientists Do All Day? (Wide Eyed, Editions, 2020), An Encyclopedia of Unbelievable Facts (Frances Lincoln Children's Books, 2021) and 21 Things to Do With a Tree (Ivy Kids, 2023).

Liz Kay is a freelance illustrator based in Yorkshire. When not busy doodling, Liz is usually found hiking and biking around the Yorkshire countryside and playing tennis for my local club. She’s worked on a variety of commissions across illustrated maps, hand lettering and calligraphy, greetings cards, infographics, children’s books, newspapers and magazines, and animation.

What is Love About, Minimoni? by Rocio Bonilla

Today's read comes from a well-loved children's book author in Spain. It's the third highlighting this main character and has already been translated into several languages...which I'm assuming means that it's going to be good. I mean, if it's done that well, it must be good, right? I do enjoy finding lovely kidlit from around the world, so I just had to pick it up when I saw it. Plus, the cover caught my attention. Who doesn't enjoy a dragon in the story?

Or maybe there isn't really a dragon in the story? After reading the blurb and skimming online to create this post, I'm not sure the dragon is truly there. More metaphorically. Perhaps. Not sure. Will see.

So, it's time to open it up and see what's inside!

WHAT IS LOVE ABOUT, MINIMONI?

by Rocio Bonilla

Algar Editorial

Picture Book

32 pages

ages 4 to 8

Minimoni loves to walk with her dog Max, they understand each other very well. On the other hand, it is sometimes more difficult for older people to understand, like when they talk about love... They say that it is capable of moving mountains, but that, at the same time, it is found in small things, or that it makes us fly. But if love cannot be seen, touched or painted, how can they know what it is?

GOODREADS   /   BROMERA

MY TIDBITS

Small, big, invisible, or cuddly...the hunt for the definition of love isn't as easy as it seems.

Minimoni loves her dog and spaghetti. So simple. She doesn't get what adults are always claiming love means, though. When they talk about love, things get confusing. It's strong enough to move mountains yet delicate...light as air but grows like a plant. It makes no sense, but Minimoni has decided she's going to get to the bottom of the mystery. No matter what.

Minimoni is a carefree character with spunk, curiosity, and energy. With her dog constantly at her side, it's hard not to like her. As she explores the mystery of love, it's no problem to understand her confusion...and her reasoning puts a smile on the face. She's logical, and that gives the entire thing a good dose of humor and heart. It radiates from every page in the most enjoyable way. 

The illustrations are playful and bring across each moment with emotion. Even when Minimoni has serious considerations, she's imaginative, and this comes across wonderfully as little hints of silliness always are sprinkled in. 

It's a feel good book to snuggle up with and enjoy all the way through.

You can learn more about Rocio Bonilla and her amazing books HERE!

Viral Hit Vol. 1 by Taejun Pak

 I'm on the edge of screaming 'Happy Book Birthday' this one, since it comes out the beginning of April, but I'm going to hold it back. Still, I'm very excited to have the chance to take a quick peek at it before it hits the shelves.

This read seems to go in the direction of bullying, internet, and more, and I'm hoping it takes an interesting and original twist. Action would be nice but with thought. So, let's see if it's a whammy or not.

VIRAL HIT VOL. 1

by Taejun Pak

Illustrated by Kim Junghyun

Webtoon Unscrolled

YA Action   /   Graphic Novel

288 pages

ages 12 and up

COMING...

APRIL 1st!!!

Scrawny high school student Hobin Yu is probably the last guy you’d expect to star in a video channel that revolves around fighting. Tormented by bullies and working a part-time job to pay for his mother’s medical expenses, Hobin Yu is truly at the bottom of his school’s hierarchy. After he accidentally uploads a video of a fight with his classmate and goes viral, Hobin starts to think there may be another solution to his bullying and money problems.

After following some advice from a mysterious creator, Hobin is soon knocking out guys stronger than him and raking in more money than he ever dreamed. But the pressure starts to build, and one day Hobin might meet his match.

This graphic novel collects episodes 1–8 of the sensational WEBTOON comic Viral Hit.

GOODREADS

MY TIDBITS

Fight scenes mix with deeper themes of bullying and collecting social media views to create a read with more heart than first appears.

Hobin Yu is skinny, unimportant, and simply trying to figure out how to hold everything together while his mother is being treated for cancer. That includes paying the bills, and his part-time job doesn't really quite make ends meet. The severe bullying at school doesn't help matters, either. When he agrees to help one of the bullies record a video for the guy's new channel, he ends up in a physical fight with him...which accidentally gets uploaded and immediately achieves tons of views. Not even near to being a fighter, Hobin still finds himself with the possibility of earning the money he needs...if he can figure out how not to get completely destroyed in the process.

There are some obvious triggers in these pages (bullying, fairly violent fight scenes), and the first of these hits with a strong impact to make the tale grab right away. Hobin Yu is easy to sympathize with, while everyone around him comes across as simply terrible. It's a rough school and the bullying is harsh. The tale takes about 25% of the book to get going as readers sink into his situation. Hobin Yu's actions are easy to understand as he tries to use things for his advantage, while not completely losing his moral compass. 

While the fight scenes will grab fans, there's more to these pages. Hobin Yu has a lot to learn and struggles to find balance in the entire situation. He also doesn't feel good in his own skin and, I'm assuming, this will offer character growth throughout the next volumes. There's a little, tiny hint at romance and new forming friendships. But everything has a long way to go. 

The illustrations are well-styled for the theme and let the fight scenes come across with punch. The text is well written and flows naturally. Some of the scene changes jolt and take a second to figure out where the next moment comes from, but the story, interestingly, grows on the reader as it goes on, and these problems don't bother as much as they could. I'm hoping that the rest of the series will bring more depth to the characters surrounding Hobin Yu, but this is only the beginning. And it is a solid beginning.