Moonbound by Robin Sloan

A few months ago, I was wondering when Robin Sloan’s next novel was coming out because I really enjoyed Mr Penumbra’s 24-Hour Book Store and Sourdough. I was delighted to get this ARC and it uplifted me after a not as good read. This novel was set in the post-apocalyptic future which is a setting I do not gravitate towards. It was sci-fi but had elements of fantasy and classic middle grade fantasy classics. At times, it reminded me of Studio Ghibli and anime. I felt immersed in the world building and the adventures of Ariel the 12 year old boy protagonist and the Chronicler. There were many side characters and quests. My small quibble was that there were perhaps too many side quests, but most things played a role in Ariel’s journey. The writing had the same interesting yet lighthearted tone of Sloan’s previous novels. It’s a distinct tone that I’ve found engrossing as a reader. I had a great time. I’m looking forward to reading the print copy for the maps.

Thank you to Netgalley for the Advanced Reader Copy. This book was published June 11, 2024.

Read on Kobo Libra 2. May 29-June 1, 2024.

I Want to Eat Your Pancreas by Yoru Sumino, illustrated by Idumi Kirihara, translated by Beni Axia Conrad

This was a two volume manga omnibus about two high school classmates who become friends when the introverted boy discovers the popular’s girl’s secret of terminal illness. The story had good character development and developed a strong platonic friendship between the leads. There is a twist which is very sudden and in keeping with the theme of mortality and randomness of life, but it was very jarring. Not sure if that was the right plot device. Aside from that, this was good manga.

Read June 2, 2024.

Period Power: Harness Your Hormones and Get Your Cycle Working For You by Maisie Hill

Read by the author. This was fine. I was already familiar with most of the concepts and conditions. It’s a bit more “woo” than I would have liked since there were treatments here which need more scientific research. I understand that things are understudied but until we have studies, most things are guesswork and placebo. Overall, the book has a good message about trying one’s menstrual cycle and giving the message to have more agency in women’s health.

1.5x. May 27-June 4, 2024.

I Left the House Today! by Cassandra Calin

Very cute and funny comics. Some were very relatable to me.

June 5, 2024.