Tom of Finland’s work has transformed from midcentury gay pornography to twenty-first-century art, but its troubling dimensions, as well as the ways it has creatively shaped the desires of a diverse range of queer people, cannot be ignored.

Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/articles/2024/05/09/toms-men-tom-of-finland/

I was curious to dive into a horror story with an indigenous mythology. Indian Burial Ground by Nick Medina. With its dual timelines and building horror, the author delivers an eerie tale you’ll remember long after you’ve closed the book.

Indian Burial Ground
by Nick Medina
Genres: Horror
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate

Rating:

All Noemi Broussard wanted was a fresh start. With a new boyfriend who actually treats her right and a plan to move from the reservation she grew up on—just like her beloved Uncle Louie before her—things are finally looking up for her. Until the news of her boyfriend’s apparent suicide brings her world crumbling down. But the facts about Roddy’s death just don’t add up, and Noemi isn’t the only one who suspects something menacing might be lurking within their tribal lands.

After more than a decade away, Uncle Louie has returned to the reservation, bringing with him a past full of secrets and horror and what might be the key to determining Roddy’s true cause of death. Together, Noemi and Louie set out to find answers…but as they get closer to the truth, Noemi begins to question whether it might be best for some secrets to remain buried.

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We first meet Noemi Broussard, who dreams of leaving the reservation and beginning a new life. All of that is shattered when her boyfriend ends up dead from what folks are saying was suicide, but the facts don’t add up. After more than a decade away, her Uncle Louie returns to the reservation and he just might have answers. Missing bones, strange deaths, supernatural occurrences and indigenous folklore about her people & alligators made for an interesting tale.

The tale that unfolds is told in the before and now. The past occurs in the eighties and is told from the voice of a younger Louie and the current from his sister, Noemi. It was a fascinating, spine-tingling tale that unfolded slowly. Admittedly, I struggled with the pacing. The “events” when they occur held me captive, but the in-between bits dragged in spots. As a result, I stopped and started in fits. I almost wonder if I would have done better listening to this one.

I loved the lore and stories about the people and their origin. Medina painted a realistic look at the troubles experienced on the reservation from poverty to alcoholism.

For those looking for a supernatural horror that blends realism, cultural elements and indigenous folklore, I recommend checking out Indian Burial Ground.

Amazon | Audible

Source

Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/04/indian-burial-ground-by-nick-medina.html

In A Place Unmade, author Carla Seyler weaves an intricate tale of corporate intrigue and environmental consciousness. The novel centers around Valentina Sorelli, a marketing director and graduate student, who uncovers a plot of corporate espionage led by Jack Stillman, threatening her company’s research. With the help of Sam, Stillman’s son, and a diverse group, including corporate whistleblowers, the FBI, and her classmates, Valentina embarks on a mission to thwart this underhanded scheme.

Seyler’s writing is marked by a blend of descriptive storytelling and light-hearted humor, balancing the gravity of the novel’s themes with engaging dialogue and comedic elements. The narrative delves into pressing issues like biodiversity loss and the ethics of patentable genetics, encouraging readers to reflect on these significant environmental concerns. The character development is a highlight, with Valentina Sorelli portraying a determined and resourceful protagonist. Her journey is not just a thrilling adventure against corporate malfeasance but also a source of inspiration. The cast, including Sam, Leo, and Tala, enriches the story with their diverse backgrounds and perspectives. Even antagonists like Jack Stillman are given a nuanced portrayal, adding depth to the narrative.

The plot is unique and engaging, pulling the reader into a world where the realities of food supply and corporate power are questioned. Elements of suspense, action, and romance further enliven the story, ensuring that the book remains a compelling read throughout. Seyler skillfully uses this fictional narrative to highlight critical environmental issues, making A Place Unmade a thought-provoking novel that resonates with contemporary concerns.

Pages: 399 | ASIN : B0CX3YTCQ2

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/16/a-place-unmade/

Dancing Between The Raindrops: A Daughter’s Reflections On Love And Loss by Lisa Braxton is the memoir of Lisa’s family, the love and joy throughout the years as well as the hardships, challenges, grief, and loss that come with being a part of a union as strong as the nuclear family. In this book, Lisa reminisces on her being a painfully shy child growing up in Connecticut, her mother’s writing talent and aspirations, becoming aware of and dealing with racism from a young age, taking care of and losing both parents to cancer as well as dealing with breast cancer herself, and so much more. This heartfelt book is a reflection and an homage to the beauty of life and being human, the basic human needs, emotions, and desires, and the fact that the good and the bad are both essential parts of life.

Lisa writes in a beautiful tone, expressing undeniable gratitude and love towards her family members on each page of the book. Her honesty and raw emotions are what set her work apart from similar memoirs. Reading this piece felt like a lifelong friend sitting down for a coffee and telling me about all the stuff I’ve missed out on from the last time we saw each other. It deals with a lot of sensitive topics, including taking care of an elderly parent when they most need you, grief from losing a loved one, and being discriminated against on a racial level, to name a few.

Each chapter being a story of its own makes the book and its message even more powerful and real. One of the stories that touched me the most early on in the book was one of Lisa’s first times dealing with racism in school. Someone had told the African-American kids to go back to where they came from, and just reading about the way Lisa felt at that moment was heartbreaking. She explains that she felt confused because, yes, she has African ancestry, but how can she go back to a place she had never been to? Furthermore, her parents and grandparents were all born and lived in the U.S. The confusion in that little girl’s mind is something that will stick with me as a reader for a long time.

I highly recommend Lisa Braxton’s Dancing Between The Raindrops: A Daughter’s Reflections On Love And Loss to anyone looking for a poignant and touching memoir. The book is a heartwarming tribute to the universal experience of love and loss.

Pages: 155 | ASIN : B0CW1N2JWN

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/16/dancing-between-the-raindrops-a-daughters-reflections-on-love-and-loss/

Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? by Cindy B. Witty, illustrated by Sally Garland, stands out as a particularly charming and insightful children’s book. The story, centered around Chris, a boy with an insatiable curiosity, captures the essence of a child’s imaginative world. Chris’s constant stream of questions, ranging from the mundane to the fantastical, not only entertains but also reflects a deep and relatable aspect of childhood.

The narrative’s strength lies in its portrayal of how Chris’s parents navigate his endless inquiries. They ingeniously propose a pet as a way to channel his curiosity, leading to Chris’s whimsical desire for a flamingo, or “falingmo” in his endearing mispronunciation. This choice is an imaginative yet grounded approach to dealing with a child’s boundless imagination. As the story unfolds, with the realization that a flamingo is an impractical pet, it takes a gentle turn towards dealing with disappointment and finding joy in unexpected outcomes.

The introduction of Angel, the sandy-colored Labrador, marks a significant shift in Chris’s journey. The gradual shift from disappointment to affection is handled with a deft touch, teaching an important lesson about adaptability and openness to new experiences. What truly elevates this book are Sally Garland’s illustrations. They do more than just accompany the text; they breathe life into Chris’s world, making the story more immersive and engaging for young readers. The combination of Witty’s storytelling and Garland’s visuals creates a captivating experience.

Curious Chris – Why No Flamingos? is a rich, multifaceted tale that delves into themes of curiosity, adaptability, and the joys of unexpected companionship. It is an excellent choice for children, offering both entertainment and valuable life lessons in a delightful package.

Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CFW25HT3

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/16/curious-chris-why-no-flamingos/

In Vizard: An Ember Files Side Story, author Shari Marshall crafts a suspenseful narrative around Juniper Berry, a young girl entangled in a web of vengeance and survival. The story begins in the aftermath of a harrowing attack, with Juniper emerging as the sole survivor. This tragedy propels her into a dangerous world where she must navigate a complex web of secrets and peril.

The book’s central theme of resilience against overwhelming odds resonates deeply. Juniper’s character is intricately portrayed, allowing readers to journey with her through challenges and triumphs. This emotional depth not only endears Juniper to the reader but also adds a layer of realism to her extraordinary circumstances. Marshall excels in creating a character who is not merely a passive participant in her story but an active pursuer of justice. Marshall’s narrative pacing is a standout feature, skillfully balancing suspenseful action with moments of introspection. This equilibrium keeps the storyline engaging, drawing readers into Juniper’s world and holding their attention until the final page. The vivid descriptions and imaginative setting further enhance the reading experience, crafting an intriguing and relatable world.

Vizard is a well-rounded novel offering a blend of intrigue, emotion, and adventure. It invites readers into a fantastical realm where themes of identity, determination, and the strength of the human spirit are explored. This book is a noteworthy addition to the fantasy genre, offering a compelling read for those who appreciate stories of adversity and triumph.

Pages: 198 | ASIN : B0CH5KYY44

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/16/vizard-an-ember-files-side-story-the-ember-files/

Fairy Day Games follows a creative and imaginative child who goes on a whimsical adventure to the Fairy Day Games, meets fairies and discovers new friends. What was the inspiration for your story?

I was actually writing another fairy story at the time and one night my husband and I decided to watch an old movie. The movie was located in a very small, quaint town which was holding an old fashioned county fair. 

My mind turned to fairies as it often does when I am writing and I wondered, what if the fairies had a fair? A whole day of fun and games organized by the fairy folk and their magical friends. What would that be like? After that, the rhymes just started coming to me.

What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?

One thing that was important to me was that I wanted to have a lot of diversity in Fairy World. That was one of the things I remembered from the fairy stories of my childhood – everyone was a different creature but it didn’t matter. They all lived and worked together and were helpful and kind, no matter if you were a fairy, a mole or an imp. There was zero discrimination. 

The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator David Gnass?

David Gnass, the very talented illustrator of Fairy Day Games, did the art for my first book A Fairy On My Sleeve, so I knew I wanted him again for Fairy Day Games. I gave him some broad guidelines and my vision for the book, then basically just gave him the reins. 

He really did a beautiful job with the illustrations. One thing I wanted was a lot of detail in the pictures, so even younger children who didn’t read yet could look at the pictures for hours and see something new each time. He certainly did accomplish this. 

As I had collaborated with him before, I wanted to see what he came up with on his own, character wise and I absolutely adore the characters he created.

Is this the first book in the series? If so, when is the next book coming out and what can your fans expect in the next story?

This is my second fairy book but it is not exactly a series, it is more of a theme. I have two more books ready for illustration – both with fairies – and two more works in progress, one being my first chapter book. 

I am also working on a musical project, a wonderful album of songs for children. The first song is going to be filmed as a video this summer and hopefully will be released in the autumn. It is all very exciting!

Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter

Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/04/16/zero-discrimination/