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penguinna's reviews
305 reviews
The Haunting of Hill House by Shirley Jackson
dark
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
1.0
I chose this book as a means to relax after the incredibly busy and exhausting days I've recently experienced. Sadly, I could not concentrate on the excellent book I'm currently reading, so in the meanwhile, I opted for something short yet emotionally stimulating: a ghost story.
The book revolves around a group of strangers who decide to spend the whole summer doing research on a haunted house. Each of them has one thing in common: they all caused paranormal activities in their lives. Despite warnings from others to stay away, they courageously venture into the Hill House, only to find themselves involved in a series of unexplainable bizarre occurrences.
Sounds intriguing, doesn't it? This is sadly one of those examples where the synopsis is better than the book itself. In the first half of the book, literally nothing is happening. The second half of the book feels like notes of a person going insane.
Throughout the story, nothing is explained, starting from the characters' supernatural abilities, ending with the events that unfolded in the Hill House. At the end of the book, I questioned myself: what was the purpose of it all?
The book revolves around a group of strangers who decide to spend the whole summer doing research on a haunted house. Each of them has one thing in common: they all caused paranormal activities in their lives. Despite warnings from others to stay away, they courageously venture into the Hill House, only to find themselves involved in a series of unexplainable bizarre occurrences.
Sounds intriguing, doesn't it? This is sadly one of those examples where the synopsis is better than the book itself. In the first half of the book, literally nothing is happening. The second half of the book feels like notes of a person going insane.
Throughout the story, nothing is explained, starting from the characters' supernatural abilities, ending with the events that unfolded in the Hill House. At the end of the book, I questioned myself: what was the purpose of it all?
Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman
challenging
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
As sweet as the previous 3 volumes, the 4th one is just as sad. Heartstopper #4 primarily focuses on Charlie’s mental health. With an eating disorder and OCD, Charlie embarks on a very difficult journey of admitting that he doesn't feel well and seeking help.
It is also tough for Nick to realize that love cannot cure everything. Supporting a partner with mental disorders can be overwhelming for anyone, not to mention a 16-year-old. Nick tries to encourage Charlie to confide in his parents, but it proves to be more challenging than expected.
This part of the series has resonated with me deeply, as I had a similar experience not too long ago. I could fully understand Charlie, and I could see my own partner in Nick: not knowing what to do but trying their best at the same time. It is not easy to be on either side, and Heartstopper portrays it in the best way possible.
Unfortunately, eating disorders are prevalent among teenagers, and this book can be immensely helpful in encouraging readers to seek professional help if they find themselves facing similar experiences.
I wholeheartedly recommend this book, along with the entire series, to readers of all ages, especially young adults. It tackles so many significant topics and provides solace, reminding you that you're not alone on your journey.
Heartstopper Volume 3 by Alice Oseman
emotional
funny
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
🗼 In the third book of the series, we follow Nick and Charlie on their school trip to Paris. They are now officially a couple, but they find themselves confronted with the challenging task of keeping their relationship secret. Throughout this trip, they continue to get to know each other better, and we also have the opportunity to learn more about other characters in the book, including Tara and Darcy, Tao and Elle, Aled, and many more.
🏳️🌈 This part of the story focuses on the challenges of coming out. Unfortunately, even in today's society, LGBTQA+ individuals still face difficulties in fully expressing themselves. Coming out is not a one-time event; it is a continuous process. And while some people, such as Nick's mother and their friends, can be supportive, others, like Nick's brother and some classmates, can be violent and harmful.
❤️🩹 That's why this book addresses the topic of mental health extensively. It tackles stigmatized issues like self-harm and eating disorders, shedding light on their existence and seriousness. Alice Oseman does a fantastic job of raising awareness about these matters.
☀️ "Heartstopper #3" is an exceptionally well-crafted work that made me feel like I was part of Nick and Charlie's close-knit group of friends. It is a heartwarming and delightful read, touching on important themes, and providing a wonderful and relaxing experience.
🏳️⚧️ Last, but not least, the book has a bonus in the end: a short story about Elle’s first day at the girl’s grammar school after her coming out as a trans girl.
🐧 More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
🏳️🌈 This part of the story focuses on the challenges of coming out. Unfortunately, even in today's society, LGBTQA+ individuals still face difficulties in fully expressing themselves. Coming out is not a one-time event; it is a continuous process. And while some people, such as Nick's mother and their friends, can be supportive, others, like Nick's brother and some classmates, can be violent and harmful.
❤️🩹 That's why this book addresses the topic of mental health extensively. It tackles stigmatized issues like self-harm and eating disorders, shedding light on their existence and seriousness. Alice Oseman does a fantastic job of raising awareness about these matters.
☀️ "Heartstopper #3" is an exceptionally well-crafted work that made me feel like I was part of Nick and Charlie's close-knit group of friends. It is a heartwarming and delightful read, touching on important themes, and providing a wonderful and relaxing experience.
🏳️⚧️ Last, but not least, the book has a bonus in the end: a short story about Elle’s first day at the girl’s grammar school after her coming out as a trans girl.
🐧 More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time by Mark Haddon
adventurous
challenging
emotional
informative
sad
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
4.0
🌌 Christopher is 15. He loves red color, night walks and his rat Toby. Also, Christopher has Asperger’s syndrome. He has difficulties understanding other people’s emotions, and… is passionate about math and sciences.
⚠️ Each case of autism is unique. Despite raising awareness about autism spectrum disorders, Haddon portrays the protagonist as a stereotypical genius gifted with remarkable abilities. In order to appreciate this book, it is essential to take Christopher's experiences as unique to him and not representative of individuals with autism as a whole.
🐩 One night, Christopher stumbles upon the lifeless body of a neighbor's dog, ruthlessly slain with a garden fork. Now his plan is to identify the murderer. However, during his investigation, Christopher uncovers something far more significant: the revelation of his family's darkest secret, a discovery that turns his life upside down.
🌃 Every chapter of the book corresponds to a prime number. And in every second chapter, Christopher tells us another mind-blowing fact about the universe. The book is very easy to read and to follow. It is a total page turner that shows us the world from the perspective of a courageous autistic boy, who is trying to find his place in a very complicated world.
⚠️ Each case of autism is unique. Despite raising awareness about autism spectrum disorders, Haddon portrays the protagonist as a stereotypical genius gifted with remarkable abilities. In order to appreciate this book, it is essential to take Christopher's experiences as unique to him and not representative of individuals with autism as a whole.
🐩 One night, Christopher stumbles upon the lifeless body of a neighbor's dog, ruthlessly slain with a garden fork. Now his plan is to identify the murderer. However, during his investigation, Christopher uncovers something far more significant: the revelation of his family's darkest secret, a discovery that turns his life upside down.
🌃 Every chapter of the book corresponds to a prime number. And in every second chapter, Christopher tells us another mind-blowing fact about the universe. The book is very easy to read and to follow. It is a total page turner that shows us the world from the perspective of a courageous autistic boy, who is trying to find his place in a very complicated world.
Heartstopper Volume 2 by Alice Oseman
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
⛰️ After being left on a gripping cliffhanger in the first book, I couldn't resist diving straight into Heartstopper #2!
🌈 This part of the series delves into Nick's personal journey of self-discovery and understanding his sexuality. The book primarily focuses on his evolving emotions for Charlie and his own identity.
🧡 In Heartstopper #2, we join the main duo as they spend time with friends and families. Almost each character is incredibly lovable, and their unwavering support for Nick creates an atmosphere of acceptance and warmth. Heartstopper is the kind of book I wish I had the chance to read as a teenager.
🧁 One of the standout qualities of Heartstopper is its inclusivity. The characters are very diverse and well crafted. As you gain insight into someone's background and understand their personal circumstances (Tao), you'll find yourself sympathizing with their feelings, even if their behavior initially seemed negative. (Though Harry remains a total ass, at least for now!)
☀️ The book concludes with a bonus story about Tara, Nick's first love, and her girlfriend Darcy, letting us know a bit more about their relationship.
🎨 Once again, the illustrations are marvelous, and thanks to the fast-paced and engaging plot, Heartstopper #2 can easily be devoured in just 2-3 hours. However, I found myself savoring the experience, unwilling to let it end too quickly. :)
💭 More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
Five Little Pigs by Agatha Christie
mysterious
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
As it always happens with Agatha Christie, I was absolutely sure that this time I guessed the murderer correctly. And, as always, I DID NOT!
The story follows Carla Lemarchant, who learns from her aunt and uncle that her mother, Caroline Craile, died in prison for poisoning her father, the renowned painter Amyas Craile. In a letter written before her death, Caroline insists on her innocence.
Carla wants to know what exactly happened 16 years ago. That’s why she turns to Hercule Poirot to help uncover the truth. Poirot interviews the five witnesses to the murder and uses the nursery rhyme to organize his thoughts regarding the investigation.
🐷 The little piggy who went to market is Philip Blake, a stockbroker and the best friend of Amyas.
🐷 Meredith Blake, the herbalist, is the little piggy who stayed home.
🐷 The little piggy who had roast beef is Elsa Greer, Amyas’s lover and model.
🐷 The governess Cecilia Williams represents the little piggy who had none,
🐷 And the little piggy who cried "Wee! Wee! Wee!" all the way home is Angela Warren, Caroline’s younger half-sister and an archaeologist.
The book's structure is unique compared to other works by Christie that I read, as it tells the same story from multiple perspectives, adding new details and complicating the plot. While, in my opinion, it's not her best work, “Five Little Pigs” is still a well-crafted mystery that will blow your mind.
Heartstopper Volume 1 by Alice Oseman
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
☁️ Every time I saw a comfort tag on bookstagram, I asked myself: what could I write there if I were tagged? I could never recall any book from memory that I could award with the title of “my comfort book”. However, I finally found one when I got myself a copy of Heartstopper.
🌈 This graphic novel narrates the story of how a teenage friendship slowly develops into romantic feelings. Charlie Spring, a 14-year-old, gets assigned to the same form group as Nick Nelson, an 11th-grade student who plays rugby. Charlie has already discovered that he prefers boys, and he falls for Nick almost immediately. However, Nick is still in the process of understanding his own self.
🎨 The book is incredibly cozy and comfortable. It can be read within a couple of hours, but I took my time reading it slowly to enjoy the story as long as possible. The drawings by @aliceoseman are marvelous, and I found myself admiring them for minutes, discovering more and more details.
🦋 The story itself is so beautiful! It reminds me of falling in love, when you experience butterflies in your stomach and can't help but smile every time you see the person you like. Every moment spent together feels so precious, and once you're alone, you can't stop thinking whether it's all happening for real.
💌 In summary, Heartstopper #1 was such a precious and relaxing read for me. I never imagined a book could make me so happy.
💭 More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
🌈 This graphic novel narrates the story of how a teenage friendship slowly develops into romantic feelings. Charlie Spring, a 14-year-old, gets assigned to the same form group as Nick Nelson, an 11th-grade student who plays rugby. Charlie has already discovered that he prefers boys, and he falls for Nick almost immediately. However, Nick is still in the process of understanding his own self.
🎨 The book is incredibly cozy and comfortable. It can be read within a couple of hours, but I took my time reading it slowly to enjoy the story as long as possible. The drawings by @aliceoseman are marvelous, and I found myself admiring them for minutes, discovering more and more details.
🦋 The story itself is so beautiful! It reminds me of falling in love, when you experience butterflies in your stomach and can't help but smile every time you see the person you like. Every moment spent together feels so precious, and once you're alone, you can't stop thinking whether it's all happening for real.
💌 In summary, Heartstopper #1 was such a precious and relaxing read for me. I never imagined a book could make me so happy.
💭 More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
If We Were Villains by M.L. Rio
dark
emotional
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
While I was excited about starting this book, it didn't meet my expectations and left me disappointed. As a result, my review is very critical compared to all the glowing reviews it has received.
After serving a ten-year prison sentence for murder, Oliver decided to reveal the truth about what happened at the Dellecher Shakespeare Conservatory.
My main issue with the book was the excessive use of Shakespearean quotations. While I appreciate his art, reading it on every page became tedious, and it distracted from the plot. The characters often spoke in phrases from his works, which made it difficult to focus on the meaning of their dialogues.
The characters were unlikable and stereotypical. For example, when the hottest girl in town, Meridith, revealed her biggest fear was not being taken seriously, everyone acted shocked, but it was a typical fear for someone in her position. Additionally, some parts of the story seemed absolutely irrelevant, such as Oliver's sister's eating disorder and his toxic comments about it. This problem was not developed in the plot at all.
The pace was so slow, I found myself indifferent to the identity of the murderer(s). Moreover, from the start, I guessed the victim(s) and the killer(s), which ruined the impression of the book even more. The genre, in my opinion, wasn't a thriller, mystery, or suspense, but rather a tragedy.
Although I did not enjoy the ending, I cannot discuss it without revealing spoilers. Therefore, my opinion on it can be found below.
Overall, I found "If We Were Villains" tedious and wouldn't recommend it.
More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
⚠️ SPOILERS ⚠️
The ending left me sad, but I had no sympathy for Oliver. If you love someone so much, why would you "kill" them by sacrificing yourself, knowing that that person suffers from the guilt on their shoulders?
It was obvious from James' behaviour that he was suffering a lot by keeping the secret. When Oliver sacrificed himself, he did not think at all how James would feel.
In fact, when James pleaded with him to allow him to confess, Oliver ignored him, leading to James's tragic decision to commit suicide. What was this sacrifice good for?
After serving a ten-year prison sentence for murder, Oliver decided to reveal the truth about what happened at the Dellecher Shakespeare Conservatory.
My main issue with the book was the excessive use of Shakespearean quotations. While I appreciate his art, reading it on every page became tedious, and it distracted from the plot. The characters often spoke in phrases from his works, which made it difficult to focus on the meaning of their dialogues.
The characters were unlikable and stereotypical. For example, when the hottest girl in town, Meridith, revealed her biggest fear was not being taken seriously, everyone acted shocked, but it was a typical fear for someone in her position. Additionally, some parts of the story seemed absolutely irrelevant, such as Oliver's sister's eating disorder and his toxic comments about it. This problem was not developed in the plot at all.
The pace was so slow, I found myself indifferent to the identity of the murderer(s). Moreover, from the start, I guessed the victim(s) and the killer(s), which ruined the impression of the book even more. The genre, in my opinion, wasn't a thriller, mystery, or suspense, but rather a tragedy.
Although I did not enjoy the ending, I cannot discuss it without revealing spoilers. Therefore, my opinion on it can be found below.
Overall, I found "If We Were Villains" tedious and wouldn't recommend it.
More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
⚠️ SPOILERS ⚠️
The ending left me sad, but I had no sympathy for Oliver. If you love someone so much, why would you "kill" them by sacrificing yourself, knowing that that person suffers from the guilt on their shoulders?
It was obvious from James' behaviour that he was suffering a lot by keeping the secret. When Oliver sacrificed himself, he did not think at all how James would feel.
In fact, when James pleaded with him to allow him to confess, Oliver ignored him, leading to James's tragic decision to commit suicide. What was this sacrifice good for?
Strafen by Franz Kafka
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
medium-paced
5.0
The short trilogy provides strong evidence that fiction does not exist. In each book, the author represents their unique life experiences. Kafka demonstrates this skillfully, as every story immerses the reader in specific periods of his biography, including his difficult relationship with his father and his experiences during the war. Each narrative evokes distinct emotions, and once you read them, you will never be able to forget them.
📖 METAMORPHOSIS
A young salesman Gregor wakes up in a body of a bug. His parents and sister are disgusted by him, even if he had been the only one keeping the family on its feet in the last years. Through his metamorphosis, Gregor fully realizes what it means, to be a human. Despite experiencing violence and humiliation from his family, Gregor still holds onto his love for them. One of the saddest stories I've read.
📖 IN THE PENAL COLONY
The story takes us to the execution of a prisoner, who is supposed to undergo a horrific torture. A special machine slowly carves a commandment onto his body until it pierces through. The machine serves as a metaphor for a totalitarian regime, where those who serve it are mere cogs who feel no responsibility for their actions. A traveler witnesses the execution and voices his opposition to the regime, leading the officer in charge to ultimately make a difficult decision. This haunting story provides much food for thought and is one that will stick with you long after reading it.
📖 THE JUDGEMENT
It is a story about a son seeking advice from his father but instead receiving a barrage of sarcastic mockery and contempt, leading the calm narrative to transform into an insane anxious absurdity. To fully understand the meaning of this story, it is essential to be familiar with Kafka's biography, where his own father behaved similarly towards him, and Kafka felt that death was the only escape from this pressure.
More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
📖 METAMORPHOSIS
A young salesman Gregor wakes up in a body of a bug. His parents and sister are disgusted by him, even if he had been the only one keeping the family on its feet in the last years. Through his metamorphosis, Gregor fully realizes what it means, to be a human. Despite experiencing violence and humiliation from his family, Gregor still holds onto his love for them. One of the saddest stories I've read.
📖 IN THE PENAL COLONY
The story takes us to the execution of a prisoner, who is supposed to undergo a horrific torture. A special machine slowly carves a commandment onto his body until it pierces through. The machine serves as a metaphor for a totalitarian regime, where those who serve it are mere cogs who feel no responsibility for their actions. A traveler witnesses the execution and voices his opposition to the regime, leading the officer in charge to ultimately make a difficult decision. This haunting story provides much food for thought and is one that will stick with you long after reading it.
📖 THE JUDGEMENT
It is a story about a son seeking advice from his father but instead receiving a barrage of sarcastic mockery and contempt, leading the calm narrative to transform into an insane anxious absurdity. To fully understand the meaning of this story, it is essential to be familiar with Kafka's biography, where his own father behaved similarly towards him, and Kafka felt that death was the only escape from this pressure.
More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
The Night of Wishes by Michael Ende
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
When I was a child, I adored the animated series called Wunschpunsch. Imagine my surprise when I recently discovered that it was based on the book “The Night of Wishes: Or the Satanarchaeolidealcohellish Notion Potion” by the famous German children's author, Michael Ende. I started reading the book that very evening, and it was a delightful magical Christmas story!
The plot revolves around the dark sorcerer Beelzebub Preposteror and his aunt, the evil witch Tyrannia, who are having difficulty fulfilling the annual quota of evil deeds imposed by Maledictus T. Maggot, the devil's official. They were unable to complete the list throughout the year because the High Council of the Animals sent special agents to spy on them.
However, the noble Neapolitan Cat, Maurizio di Mauro, immediately forgot his duties and became quickly won over by Beelzebub's good food and warm bed. The Raven Jacob Scribble was dispatched to Tyrannia, and he, conversely, did his job very well.
A cat and a bird could never work together, but everything changes when Beelzebub and Tyrannia realize that each of them possesses a part of a scroll containing a magic potion that makes all wishes come true. This Wunschpunsch could solve all their problems with Maledictus T. Maggot and the Devil himself if they manage to cook it before midnight and wish all the worst for the world. However, while drinking the magic punch, one must wish for the exact opposite of what they want…
The book was a charming little magical fairytale to unwind with in the evening. The funny pictures in the book always made me smile (you can see them in my bookstagram). However, I am sad that I did not read The Night of Wishes (and many other fairytales) when I was a child. As an adult, I find that they are not as enjoyable anymore.
The animated series was produced eleven years after the book's release and tells us more funny stories about Beelzebub, Tyrannia, Maurizio, and Jacob. I am excited to re-watch all the episodes now!
More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books
The plot revolves around the dark sorcerer Beelzebub Preposteror and his aunt, the evil witch Tyrannia, who are having difficulty fulfilling the annual quota of evil deeds imposed by Maledictus T. Maggot, the devil's official. They were unable to complete the list throughout the year because the High Council of the Animals sent special agents to spy on them.
However, the noble Neapolitan Cat, Maurizio di Mauro, immediately forgot his duties and became quickly won over by Beelzebub's good food and warm bed. The Raven Jacob Scribble was dispatched to Tyrannia, and he, conversely, did his job very well.
A cat and a bird could never work together, but everything changes when Beelzebub and Tyrannia realize that each of them possesses a part of a scroll containing a magic potion that makes all wishes come true. This Wunschpunsch could solve all their problems with Maledictus T. Maggot and the Devil himself if they manage to cook it before midnight and wish all the worst for the world. However, while drinking the magic punch, one must wish for the exact opposite of what they want…
The book was a charming little magical fairytale to unwind with in the evening. The funny pictures in the book always made me smile (you can see them in my bookstagram). However, I am sad that I did not read The Night of Wishes (and many other fairytales) when I was a child. As an adult, I find that they are not as enjoyable anymore.
The animated series was produced eleven years after the book's release and tells us more funny stories about Beelzebub, Tyrannia, Maurizio, and Jacob. I am excited to re-watch all the episodes now!
More reviews by me on instagram: @penguinna_books