Jocelyn's Reviews

Sulwe, like too many real children, cannot see her own beauty, outside or in. A myth about the sisters Night and Day helps her see her true self, “Dark and beautiful, bright and strong.” Vashti Harrison’s gorgeous art brings life this all-too-real story by Lupita Nyong’o that will lift your heart. It’s perfect for any child who needs help seeing themselves, to be reminded that not all beauty is the same, or who dreams of stories the stars might tell. - Jocelyn

Fair warning: this book is not for the squeamish of stomach. But if you have a fascination (and sense of humor) with the science of death and/or the macabre, this will be oh-so-rewarding. Caitlin Doughty writes as if you were sitting with your snarky friend who knows so much you’d hate her a little, if you weren’t so interested and entertained, answering questions received from real, live, uncensored children. Need I even mention the cute, creepy, absolutely beautiful illustrations by Dianné Ruz? If you or anyone you know—or better yet, a child you know—thirsts for blood-knowledge, pick this up. - Jocelyn

If you have any interest in linguistics or LGBT history, you will not be disappointed in picking this up. Paul Barker details a thorough, but accessible, history of the secret LGBT language Polari. Intermixed is Barker’s own story of his relationship with Polari. Highly entertaining, you’ll find yourself figuring out the proper way to read “Varda the bona palone?” off the page, and connect in some way to those whose love and lives depended on this language. - Jocelyn

This book is a modern classic of satire and what it means to be human. The apocalypse is coming, and a vivid cast of characters will do battle (well, more cause nuisance to each other) in an attempt to either stop or hinder it. The collaboration of Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman is seamless, and brilliant creativity and hilarity ensue. Whether you watch the miniseries or not, you won’t regret treating yourself to this book. - Jocelyn

People calls this book a “Pride & Prejudice-like send-up”, and that’s what this is: Kevin Kwan has channeled Jane Austen to write a witty, satirical rom-com told from an American-Born Chinese traversing the rarified (and often ridiculous) air of the upper echelons of Kwan’s native Singapore. Pick this up for the love story, pick it up for the drama, the incredible side characters, or just the crazy richness – this book is guaranteed to transport and entertain. - Jocelyn

A tattoo artist and budding CEO, haunted by their shared past, are given a second change – at love, but more importantly at their own lives. I was pulled in from the start to this taut tale of redemption, betrayal, sex, and romance. With complex characters, sizzling tension, juicy drama, and intricate tattoos (and desert) I finished this book fully satisfied – but ready for Alisha Rai’s next installment. - Jocelyn

Amberlough delighted me and broke me and did it all over again. A Jazz-age alternate world of queer spy-vs-spy shenanigans and cat-and-mouse politics, featuring the rise of a conservative facist government in a diverse and throbbingly alive world. Possibly a little too real in our current real-world, but author Lara Elena Donnelly kept me hoping against reason for the characters, even as she broke me down. Fair warning: you will immediately need to pick up the sequel. - Jocelyn

McBride’s story of self-discovery, determination, and love made me check my privilege, cheer, and cry. She earnestly and intelligently reflects on her life, from coming out as a trans woman, to walking to corridors of power, to falling in love and losing her husband. This compelling read highlights how far we still have to go towards actual liberty and justice for all. - Jocelyn

This is a perfect summer nonfiction read for anytime you want an escape. Finnegan paints with vivid strokes the places and times that shaped his identity as a surfer, from Hawaii to Santa Cruz, to parts few of us will ever hear about, much less see. The passion of a surfer will keep you turning pages that exude salt air and the feel of the ocean beneath a board under your feet. - Jocelyn