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Mikayla's Bookish Creatives
Reading and exploring cultures, worlds, and more 1-2 books at a time.


Hawaiian Landscapes, Mythology/Folklore, and More Rise to the Surface in The Shark Prince by Malia Maunakea
The Hawaiian Islands hold stories that reach deep into the ocean and the land, blending nature, culture, and myth. The Shark Prince by Malia Maunakea brings these elements to life in a way that captures the imagination and honors Hawaiian heritage. This book invites readers to explore a world where the sea and its creatures are more than just background—they are central to identity and adventure.
Mikayla Young
5 days ago7 min read


Exploring Transformation and Growth in The Year We Became More by Amber Irene
Change shapes us in unexpected ways. Amber Irene’s The Year We Became More captures this truth through a compelling story of personal growth and transformation. This blog post explores the book’s themes, shares insights from my reading experience, and offers questions and activities to deepen your connection with the story.
Mikayla Young
Feb 248 min read


Bravery and Community Take Center Stage in "Wombat Waiting" by Katherine Applegate
Books that explore themes of courage and connection often leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages. Wombat Waiting by Katherine Applegate is one such story, weaving a heartfelt narrative about friendship, bravery, and the power of community. This blog post dives into the details of the book, offering a synopsis, review, questions for reflection, activities, and information about the author.
Mikayla Young
Feb 237 min read


Celebrating Heartwarming Animal Friendships in "The Unlikely Tale of Chase and Finnegan" by Jasmine Warga
Stories about friendship and self-discovery often resonate deeply, especially when they come wrapped in humor and heart. The Unlikely Tale of Chase and Finnegan by Jasmine Warga offers just that—a charming narrative that explores the unexpected bond between two very different characters. This post dives into the book’s details, shares a thoughtful review, suggests engaging questions and activities, and provides information about the author and where to find this delightful re
Mikayla Young
Feb 236 min read


Embark on an exhilarating journey of dragons and mystery in "The Last Ember (The Aerimanders Chronicles Book 1)" by Lily Berlin Dodd
Have you ever wondered what might occur if you discovered a dragon egg, a creature believed to be long extinct and exceedingly dangerous?...
Mikayla Young
May 28, 20255 min read


Mizzy the Marvelous Detective excels in the captivating middle-grade mystery "A Skeleton in the Closet" by Claire Hatcher-Smith.
In the world of mystery fiction, few books create the same buzz as "A Skeleton in the Closet," the first installment of Claire...
Mikayla Young
May 18, 20256 min read


Exploring a Tale of Divination, Adventure, and Community in "A Method for Magic and Misfortune" by Craig Kofi Farmer
In the captivating world of modern literature, few authors manage to blend the magical with the everyday like Craig Kofi Farmer does in...
Mikayla Young
May 8, 20257 min read


Kristina Rahim's Confectionery Chronicle: Unwrapping the Layers of Family and Identity in "The Doughnut Club"
In the world of children's literature, the journey to find oneself can be both engaging and profound. Kristina Rahim's "The Doughnut...
Mikayla Young
Apr 18, 20256 min read


Hercules, Reimagined: John Wiswell's Paws-itively Gripping Tale
In the world of contemporary fantasy literature, few authors capture the imagination quite like John Wiswell. His latest work, Wearing...
Mikayla Young
Feb 18, 20255 min read


The Twin Paradox: Exploring Mia Araujo's Kaleidoscopic Wonderland in "Afia in the Land of Wonders"
An Exciting Journey Awaits In children's literature, few stories have the captivating charm of Alice's Adventures in Wonderland . This...
Mikayla Young
Jan 13, 20254 min read


Exploring Matilda's Journey: A Review of One Step Forward by Marcie Flinchum Atkins
Marcie Flinchum Atkins' engaging novel, One Step Forward , transports readers to a pivotal moment during World War I. The story revolves...
Mikayla Young
Jan 8, 20253 min read


Not So Fast by Karen Booth: A Unique Blend of F1 and Romance
In contemporary romance, Karen Booth's "Not So Fast" stands out by blending the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing with a deep dive into...
Mikayla Young
Dec 24, 20243 min read


Dating by Romance Tropes: A Review of The Romance Rivalry by Susan Lee
In the world of young adult literature, romance novels have a unique ability to captivate readers. Susan Lee's "The Romance Rivalry"...
Mikayla Young
Nov 26, 20244 min read


Discover the Power of Literature: The Boxcar Librarian: E-ARC Book Review and Discussion Questions
"The Boxcar Librarian" by Brianna Labuskes, a charming mix of adventure, nostalgia, and a sprinkle of magic, making it a captivating read.
Mikayla Young
Nov 5, 20245 min read


Exploring The Blanket Cats: A Thoughtful Book Review and Discussion Questions
Dive into the cozy world of The Blanket Cats , penned by the talented Kiyoshi Shigematsu. This collection of short stories weaves...
Mikayla Young
Oct 9, 20243 min read


Make Me a Mixtape by Jennifer Whiteford: Where Music, Life, and Romance Combine
Book Overview Reading Log and Rating Review Discussion Questions Book Overview Make Me a Mixtape by Jennifer Whiteford Publisher:...
Mikayla Young
Sep 5, 20244 min read


The Heir of Achilles: A Tale of Courage and Mystery
Book Overview Reading Log and Rating Review Discussion Questions Book Overview The Heir of Achilles by Patrick Garvey Publisher: Pelion...
Mikayla Young
Aug 16, 20243 min read


Summer Reading List: Books I read in July 2024
July 2024 - Monthly Reading Wrap Up - Featuring book reviews and discussion questions for each book mentioned.
Mikayla Young
Jul 31, 202411 min read


Unleash Your Inner Race or Car Fan with "Drive" by Cynthia L. Copeland
Are you ready to buckle up and speed through the pages of a thrilling race car adventure? Get ready to rev your engines with "Drive" by...
Mikayla Young
Jul 17, 20246 min read


"What Should I Read Next? A Monthly Book Roundup of Read Books in June 2024"
June 2024 - Monthly Reading Wrap Up - featuring book reviews and discussion questions for each book.
Mikayla Young
Jul 15, 202416 min read


A Monthly Roundup of Books Read in May 2024
Summaries of books that have been read All The Ways to Go by Jessie Janowitz Between late-night library escapades and starting a Go club...
Mikayla Young
Jul 15, 202411 min read


E-ARC Book Review and Discussion Questions: Come As You Are by Jess K. Hardy
Are you ready for a captivating journey into the fictional world of Bluebird Basin? Jess K. Hardy leads us through a spellbinding...
Mikayla Young
Jul 2, 20244 min read


"Three City Kitties: A Purr-fect E-ARC Review and Discussion Questions"
Three City Kitties by Ashley Barron Publisher: Owl Kids Genres: Children’s Fiction, Arts and Photography Recommended ages: 5+ Netgalley...
Mikayla Young
Jun 18, 20242 min read


"Exploring the Power of Friendship and Resilience in 'Popcorn' by Rob Harrell: A Review and Discussion Guide"
Popcorn by Rob Harrell Publisher: Penguin Young Readers Group/ Dial Books Genres: Children's/Middle Grade Fiction Recommended age: 13+...
Mikayla Young
Jun 12, 20243 min read
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