I know I’m getting this month in review up late. But July has been super busy for me and continues to be so. Thankfully in the next week or so it should slow down a bit. Did you guys have a productive June when it came to reading?I read about my average of twelve to thirteen books. I also managed to get a lot of my arcs done. So I think it was pretty productive. I’ll put up a July goals list this coming week too.
As the above graphic shows, I read a good number of graphic novels. I feel like they are my bread and butter. Graphic novels are the thing I request most often from NetGalley.
In general my favorites from June include Hijabi Butch Blues. I’d like to go back and read Stone Butch Blues, the book that inspired Lamya H. But I think I’m going to have to buy it because I can’t find it on any of my library accounts.
I also enjoyed Cry Out Loud, the new graphic novel by Tara O’Conner, which is coming out in the fall. It has perfectly spooky vibes and great art, and I’ll probably be rereading it when the weather starts to get cool. Another favorite graphic novel was Atana and the Firebird. I haven’t gotten a hold of the second one yet, but I’m very much looking forward to seeing how the story continues.
The Stars Too Fondly was a bit of a surprise because I was just trying to get some queer books read for June, and it ended up being one of my favorites. I’m going to look for more Queer sci-fi and fantasy in these coming months, so let me know if you have any suggestions.
Sunrise on the Reaping was pretty good. It didn’t wreck me emotionally in the same way I’ve seen it wreck other people. Sure, it was extremely sad, and it made Haymitch’s arc in The Hunger Games even sadder. But I think it suffered from the fact that I sort of was spoiled for it, I’m not sure I would have been too surprised even if I hadn’t been spoiled, though.
The plot was obvious in a good way. Suzanne Collins is writing this at very critical time politically and I think that reflects in the narrative. The book highlights the time-consuming nature of organizing a resistance and the numerous failed attempts that precede success.
On a bit of a lighter note. I loved Maysilee Donner more than I thought possible she was so sassy. She was so sassy and was the perfect counter to Haymitch. The arena itself was brilliant in how it tied in the late plot of the book. I loved seeing some old favorites like Wiress, Beetee and Mags.
Overall though the book was probably around four stars. It was very good as everything Suzanne Collins writes is however it still doesn’t top the original trilogy. I had a pretty good month though and I believe I’m doing pretty good at keeping to my promise
Rose's Book Garden 