The 48 books I read and the 5 I started but did not finish reading in 2023.
- Mikayla Young
- May 29, 2024
- 13 min read
The 48 books I read and the 5 I started but did not finish reading in 2023.
In 2023, I read 48 books across various genres, age categories, and star ratings. I started reading but did not finish five books owing to a lack of interest and predictability, among other reasons. Continue reading this page to see the genres, age groups, and formats of books I read, as well as my comments on each, ranging from DNFs to 5-star ratings.
The DNFs of 2023
The Reader by Traci Chee
· A 1st in a series- young adult novel- fantasy fiction- 2017 published.
o Unfortunately, I lost interest and quit reading the book on page 194. The book's premise, storyline, and characters are all intriguing; nevertheless, I did not finish the book because I found it difficult to keep track of all the characters and because the point of view would abruptly shift, making it difficult to determine which character was speaking.
Unless by Carol Shields
· standalone-adult novel-fiction
o dnf’d at page 65 due to low intrigue.
The Darkness Knows by Cheryl Honigford
· 1st in a series-adult novel- historical mystery
o dnf’d at page 178 due to it being a re-read which unfortunately meant the plot was too predictable which caused low intrigue.
Legacy: Women Poets of the Harlem Renaissance by Nikki Grimes
· standalone-adult novel- nonfiction poetry-2021
o dnf’d at page 39 due to low intrigue and the fact that the book seemed to focus more on the Harlem Renaissance movement than the women poets of the movement.
This Place: 150 Years Retold edited by multiple authors.
· Standalone- adult graphic novel- nonfiction anthology- 2019
o dnf’d at page 92 due small font size and poor topic cohesion on the e-book version.
The 2/2.5 stars – aka the decently enjoyed but the bad outweighed the good or it was not for me- books.
Happily, Ever After by Anna Quindlen
· standalone children’s novel- fantasy fiction- 1997-2 stars.
o A good short story with an easy-to-follow plot, good illustrations to help immersion and imagination, and excellent writing. Overall, I enjoyed it, but it was not a story that spoke to me.
Locke and Key Volume 1 by Joe Hill
· 1st in a series- young adult graphic novel- paranormal fantasy-2015-2 stars.
o The notion was intriguing, but the characters, mood, plot, and art style lacked detail and growth.
The Wampus Cat: Grandpa’s Tall Tales by Francine Woods
· -standalone- children’s picture book- folklore fiction- 2017- 2 stars.
o The characters, atmosphere, writing, and plot were adequate, but they required more development, details, and flowability. Children interested in folklore picture books may love this one, however.
Jane Austen: Her Heart Did Whisper by Manuela Santoni
· - standalone- Young Adult Graphic Novel- Biography/fiction- 2018- 2.5 stars.
o The characters required more growth, the atmosphere needed more details and development, the writing was engaging, and the plot was reasonable and simple to follow.
This is Not a Drill by K.A. Holt
· - standalone- middle-grade novel- mystery fiction-2022-2.5 stars.
o The characters were decent but might have been improved with greater growth and rational thinking. To be more immersive, the mood and school setting required further details and flushing out. The writing was great, but the text message format made it difficult to connect with the characters when a traditional novel format might have benefited. The plot was semi-realistic, but I don't think it was completely appropriate for the intended middle-grade audience.
Comedy of Errors by William Shakespeare
· - standalone- adult play- classic fiction- 2008-2.5 stars.
o I listened to the audiobook as part of the Rory Gilmore Book List Challenge. The audiobook was fine, but I couldn't connect with the characters or keep track of the story.
Bright Winter Night by Alli Brydon
· - standalone- children’s picture book- poetry- 2022-2.5 stars.
o The story and artwork were well-developed, engaging, and beautiful, but it wasn't for me. The intended audience, children, will enjoy this nice winter narrative about animals getting together, as well as the beautiful artwork.
Game Over by M.C. Ross
· - standalone- middle-grade novel- science fiction fantasy- 2022-2.5 stars.
o The characters were realistic at times and well-written, yet they sometimes acted and spoke older than their years. The atmosphere was adequate, but it required more development and details to provide a more immersive experience. The writing was enjoyable and flowed nicely. The plot, while enjoyable, seemed to have holes in it, making it complicated to understand at times.
Aussie Rules by Jill Shalvis
· -standalone- adult novel- romance mystery- 2006- 2.5 stars.
o The characters, while amusing, hilarious, and realistic at times, required more overall development. The mood, writing, and plot were adequate but could have used more growth, logical thinking, and specifics.
The 3/3.5 Stars- aka good and enjoyed them but felt they were missing things that would have made them better/standout- books.
Keep It Together Keiko Carter by Debbi Michiko
· – 1st in a series- Middle-grade novel – contemporary fiction (2020) – 3 Stars.
o The plot and atmosphere both lacked details and compelling features, even though the story was good. Unlike the primary female main character Keiko, characters Aubrey and Jenna have excellent character development. More growth and emphasis on communication and effort from all three characters in the story would have substantially strengthened the story and characters.
You Should See Me in a Crown by Leah Johnson
· - 1st in a series- young adult novel- contemporary romance- 2021- 3 stars.
o The characters were satisfactory, although they could have been developed further. The atmosphere was fantastic, but more details would have made it more immersive. The writing was good, except for a few instances of what appeared to be repetitive speech. The plot was decent, but it required more growth to become outstanding and fleshed out.
Chrysanthemum by Kevin Henkes
· - standalone children’s novel- contemporary fiction-2007-3 stars.
o The audiobook was a brief and quick listen. Overall, the audiobook felt a little plotless, but it may be a nice and short audiobook for children to listen to before, during, and after bedtime.
Bambi: Life in the Woods by Felix Salten
· -1st in a series- children’s novel- classic fiction-2013-3 stars.
o The plot was easy to understand and fascinating, with decent character development, but it wasn't for me. Children who appreciate wild animals, forest settings, or hunting nature and picture books would most likely enjoy this book.
Princess Princess Ever After by Katie O’Neill
· -standalone children’s graphic novel-fantasy romance- 2014-3 stars.
o The story was nice and well-developed, yet it felt old in 2023. Children who appreciate princess stories and picture/graphic novel books will likely enjoy this.
Gemina by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
· -2nd in a series- young adult mixed media novel-science fiction thriller- 2018-3stars.
o The characters were good and likable, but they lacked development and originality compared to the previous book in the series. The mood, writing, and plot were good, but they could have used more elaboration, flushing-out, and logical thinking.
Hunter x Hunter Volume 1 by Yoshiro Togashi
· - 1st in a series- young adult manga- fantasy fiction- 2016-3 stars.
o The characters were enjoyable but underdeveloped at times. The mood, writing, and plot were all good, but further developments and details would have made it much better.
Cobwebs from a Library Corner by John Kendrick Bangs
· - standalone- adult novel- nonfiction poetry- 2014-3 stars.
o The characters, settings, writing, and plot were all excellent.
The Chemistry of Love by Sariah Wilson
· - standalone- adult novel- romantic fiction- 2023-3 stars.
o The characters were enjoyable, despite the female main character's obsessive obsession with her crush and her lack of development. The ambiance was pleasant, but it lacked detailed information to make it immersive. The writing was superb, despite the female character's problem of continually thinking about and comparing others to her crush. The plot was enjoyable, but additional development of the narrative and characters would have improved it greatly.
Only on the Weekends by Dean Atta
· - standalone- Young Adult novel- Romance/verse- 2022-3.5 stars.
o The characters were well-written and understanding. The atmosphere was wonderful, but more details would have helped the readers feel more immersed. The writing and plot were well-done, simple to follow, and entertaining.
Join the Club, Maggie Diaz by Nina Moreno
· - 1st in a series- middle-grade novel- contemporary fiction- 2022-3.5 stars.
o The characters were decent, but they could have been even better with further development. Aside from a few minor issues, the atmosphere and writing were good. The plot was interesting and easy to follow, although feeling a little hectic at times.
Sal and Gabi Break the Universe by Carlos Hernandez
· - 1st in a series- middle grade- science fiction fantasy-2019-3.5 stars.
o The characters were sympathetic and funny, although development was missing at times. The atmosphere was pleasant, but it might have benefited from additional development and specifics. The writing was enjoyable yet occasionally unclear. The plot was decent and semi-easy to follow, however, the book's synopsis did not provide a good explanation or summary of what the book is about in terms of the journey and major obstacle.
June Reimagined by Rebekah Crane
· - standalone- new adult novel- romance contemporary-2022-3.5 stars.
o The characters were good and likable, but overall development was missing. The mood was pleasant, but additional details were required for a more immersive experience. The writing was solid, easy to read, and pleasant. The plot was simple and enjoyable to follow.
Indian Myths – Editor Jake Jackson/Multiple authors
· - standalone- adult fiction/nonfiction collection- mythology folktales- 2018-3.5 stars.
o The book was educational and intriguing, but I felt it focused too much on the 12 brothers/Gods rather than general Indian mythology and tales. - Part of the Flame Tree Mythology and Tales Collector's Edition.
Turtlebread by Kim Joy
· -1st in a series-new adult graphic novel- contemporary fiction-2023-3.5 stars.
o The characters were wonderful, loveable, amusing, and realistic at moments, but they could have used more specifics. The art style contributed to a pleasant and immersive mood. The writing was strong and flowed nicely. The plot was enjoyable, cute, and emotional.
Delicates by Brenna Thummler
· -2nd in a series- young adult graphic novel-paranormal fiction-2021-3.5 stars.
o The characters, atmosphere, writing, and plot were all good and easy to follow, but there could have been more details, growth, and flowability.
Lost Treasure of the Emerald Eye by Elisabeth Dami
· - 2nd in a series- middle-grade novel- fantasy fiction- 2014-3.5 stars.
o The characters were endearing, sweet, and decent, but stronger logical thinking and overall development would have been beneficial in the end. The atmosphere was reasonably immersive, although it could have used more details and development. The narrative and art style were adorable, simple to understand, and engaging. The plot was enjoyable but somewhat perplexing.
Same Time Next Year by Tessa Baily
· - standalone- adult novella- romantic fiction- 2023- 3.5 stars.
o The characters were good, but it was difficult to connect with them because of the rapid changes in time and location throughout the plot. Despite the fast-paced nature, the environment was pleasant and immersive. The writing was excellent and enjoyable. The plot was lovely, enjoyable, and simple to follow.
The 4/4.5- aka the excellent but a few issues kept it from being a 5-star read-book.
Heartstopper Volume 1 by Alice Oseman
· – book 1 in a series- young adult graphic novel- Romance/Fiction- 2020 – 4 stars.
o The graphic style, characters, and narrative were all excellent, making the plot enjoyable and simple to follow. The plot was decent, but it might have been better with more logical reasoning and growth.
Just Beyond: Scare School by R.L. Stine
· - 1st in a series- middle-grade graphic novel- mystery thriller- 2019-4 stars.
o The characters were good and well-developed despite lacking logical thinking a bit. The atmosphere was lacking a bit of detail and images that would have helped make it more immersive and enjoyable. The writing was decent but would have been better with more details in certain aspects of the story like the setting and better logical thinking of the characters. The plot was good except for a few minor problems.
The Mitten by Jan Brett
· - standalone- Children’s novel- picture book fiction- 2014-4 stars.
o The characters were cute and beautifully crafted. The atmosphere was extremely well-done and immersive. The writing was excellent and easy to understand. The plot was well-executed, with only a few minor issues.
Illuminae by Amie Kaufman and Jay Kristoff
· 1st in a series- young adult mixed media novel- science fiction thriller- 2017- 4 stars.
o At moments, the characters were entertaining, witty, and relatable. The atmosphere was well-done and detailed, making it easy to immerse oneself in it. The writing and plot were fine, although there were a few issues with following the plotline and characters.
Sheets by Brenna Thummler
· - 1st in a series- young adult graphic novel- paranormal fiction- 2018-4 stars.
The characters were well-developed and endearing. The ambiance was pleasant, but more details in certain locations would have made it more vivid. The writing was excellent and enjoyable. The plot was decent and easy to follow, but it could have used more depth and flow.
No Castles Here by A.C.E. Bauer
· - standalone- middle-grade novel- fictional fantasy- 2007-4 stars.
o The characters were well-written, relatable, and varied in age and background. The ambiance was pleasant, yet it lacked details at moments. The writing was good and had a nice flow. The plot was well-written, with effective character development, lessons, and storytelling.
Race to the Sun by Rebecca Roanhorse
· - standalone- middle-grade novel- mythological fiction- 2021-4stars.
o Each character was given a distinct personality and qualities, making the experience feel new, refreshing, and pleasant. The scenario was intriguing and well-presented for readers, with only a few misconceptions about when, where, and what type of setting the characters were in throughout their voyage. The writing was medium-paced, with a concentration on characters, particularly the main character Nizhoni, rather than the storyline, but it was overall easy to read, follow, and immerse oneself in while reading. The plot was well-paced, yet at times seemed to be sidetracked or lost to focus on character development.
Animal Encyclopedia: Land Mammals by Juan Alonso
· - standalone- young adult educational collection-animal science/fiction collection- 2019-4.5 stars.
o The book includes a wealth of expertise and information regarding land mammals. More photographs of the various breeds of land animal varieties would have improved the book significantly. Recommend for children interested in learning about land mammals.
Library on Wheels: Mary Titcomb and America’s First Bookmobile by Sharlee Green
· - standalone- middle-grade nonfiction- biography nonfiction- 2018-4.5 stars.
o The research was excellent, and the graphics accompanying the material are stunning and immersive. Despite a few doubts, the authenticity was good. The writing was adequate, but it might have been improved with additional development and information. Understanding the history of libraries and librarians had a personal influence. Recommended for anyone interested in learning about the history of bookmobiles and Mary Titcomb.
Heartstopper Volume 4 by Alice Oseman
· - 4th in a series- young adult graphic novel- contemporary romance- 2022-4.5 stars.
The characters were well-developed and endearing. The mood was pleasant, but additional details were required for a more immersive experience. The writing was excellent and entertaining. The plot was solid and simple to understand, although it felt a little repetitious of prior novels in the series.
The Life and Times of Rowan Daley by Rex Owens
· - standalone- adult novel- historical fiction- 2021-4.5 stars.
o The characters were well-developed, entertaining, and at times relatable. The ambiance was pleasant, but more information in some sections and fewer details in others would have enhanced the immersive experience and flow of the story. The writing and plot were nice, but it felt like playing tug of war at points owing to the rapid time changes of a few months to two years.
The 5 stars- aka the enjoyed, minor problem here or there but ultimately a favorite read- books.
Animal Encyclopedia: Jurassic Animals by Juan Alonso
· - standalone-Young Adult educational collection- animal science/nonfiction-2022- 5 stars.
o The art style was fantastic, making the book immersive. The information on Jurassic species was excellent, however, additional photographs of the many breeds/types would have been appreciated. Recommended for children who wish to learn about or adore dinosaurs.
This Adventure Ends by Emma Mills
· - standalone- young adult novel- contemporary romance- 2017-5 stars.
o The characters were well-developed, with various personalities and emotions, making them relatable to the readers. The setting was well-written and engaging. The writing was nicely done, with only a few small grammar and flow issues. Despite a few minor issues, the plot was well-written, easy to follow, and enjoyable.
Down Cut Shin Creek: The Pack Horse Librarians of Kentucky by Kathi Appelt and Jeanne Cannella Schmitzer
· - standalone- middle-grade nonfiction- historical nonfiction- 2019-5 stars.
o The study was thorough and informative. The authenticity brings to life the first library and the future revival of numerous libraries. Even in 2023, the writing was approachable and contemporary. Personal influence refers to the various ways in which books, people, and librarians can have a significant impact on communities. Recommended for anybody interested in the history of Kentucky's pack horse librarians and their impact on libraries and communities.
The Kingdom of Fantasy by Elisabetta Dami
· - part of a series- middle-grade picture novel- fantasy fiction- 2003-5 stars.
o A fantastic, wonderfully illustrated story about a mouse on an adventure. Good, easy-to-follow plot and language, with beautiful graphics that draw readers into the book's universe and characters. Recommended for children looking for fast, easy-to-read fantasy books with illustrations.
Cinderella is Dead by Kaylnn Bayron
· - standalone- young adult novel- fantasy retelling- 2021-5 stars.
o The characters were beautifully written and developed. The characters were relatable at times, hilarious, and endearing. The mood was well-written and quite immersive. The writing was excellent, with only minor grammatical or flow issues. The plot was excellent, with an unexpected, incredible, and unique twist to the tale of Cinderella. Recommended for readers looking for Cinderella retellings with a distinctive spin.
Love Radio by Ebony LaDelle
· - standalone- young adult novel- romance contemporary- 2022-5 stars.
o The characters were well-developed, thoughtful, likable, and relatable. The mood was pleasant, with a few minor concerns. The writing was excellent, with a smooth flow and a delightful reading experience. The plot was simple to follow, well-developed, and entertaining.
Medusa by Jessie Burton
· - standalone- young adult novel- fantasy mythology- 2020-5 stars.
o The characters were good, although feeling a little underdeveloped at points. The mood was pleasant, and the art style contributed to an immersive experience. The language and plot were excellent, easy to understand, and amusing.
Bookworm by Cookie O’Gorman
· - standalone- young adult novel- contemporary romance- 2023-5 stars.
o The characters were incredibly lovable, developed, and relatable. The atmosphere was excellent, detailed, and immersive. The writing was fluid, easy to read, and pleasant. The plot was simple to follow, realistic, and entertaining.
The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan
· - 1st in a series- re-read- middle-grade novel- fantasy mythology- 2006-5 stars.
o The characters were diverse, likable, well-developed, and relatable. The environment was extremely vivid and detailed. The writing was excellent, the flow was seamless, and the chapter titles were fantastic. The plot was excellent, simple to follow, and amusing.
The Dragonet Prophecy by Tui T. Sutherland
· - 1st in a series- re-read – middle-grade novel- fantasy fiction-2013-5 stars.
o The characters were lovable, well-developed, amusing, and occasionally sassily relatable. The mood was well-written and engaging. The writing was good, flowing smoothly, and pleasant. The plot was captivating and easy to follow, and the plot surprise was brilliantly executed.
All the books I read and Dnf’d in 2023 were listed above.
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