Book Review: The Little Bee by Nicola Killen

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The Little Bee  by Nicola Killen  is a children's picture book about a girl name Ollie who follows a bee to a magical, secret garden. But, the next day, the beautiful garden was gone, and the little girl misses her new friends. What will she do? This beautiful book has an expected publication date of May 5, 2026. I'd like to thank NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Children's Publishing, and Beach Lane Books for approving my request for a digital Advanced Readers Copy (ARC) of The Little Bee . I received a copy for free in exchange for my honest review. Nicola Killen wrote such a beautifully worded story that I found myself immersed in the story, and I'm not even the target audience. It's a charming tale that should encourage children to explore nature and make them want to plant their own secret garden.  Equally beautiful were the illustrations. I found myself taking the time to actually look a the pictures as I read. It's a great story to read   at bedtime  with ch...
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Book Review: I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy

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book review im glad my mom died jennette mccurdy

I'm Glad My Mom Died by Jennette McCurdy is a heartbreaking memoir of former child actress Jennette McCurdy, best known for her roles on Nickelodeon's iCarly and Sam & Cat.  Jennette wanted nothing more than to please her mother so at six years old, she went on her first audition.  From there, Jennette starts restricting her calorie intake with the help of her mother.  Things get worse for Jennette, and she takes us on her journey to overcome many things.

This is a book I wouldn't have read had the book club I belong to not chose it for our February 2023 meeting.  I vaguely knew who the actress was, but the title of her autobiography was a huge turn off for me.  With that being said, I am so glad that I bit the bullet and read her story.  I now know why Jennette chose the title she did.  The grass was definitely not greener on her side.

I can not believe all the things Jennette had to endure from her mother, including but not limited to vaginal and breast examinations,, the mother bathing Jennette into her teens and at times forcing her and her older brother to shower together, and being encouraged by her mother to starve herself so Jennette didn't develop breasts in the hopes to get younger roles longer.  There is so much more that went on behind closed doors, but you'll have to read the story to see what else Jennette endured.

I'd have to say that I'm Glad My Mom Died is well written and intriguing.  However, I would never say it's humorous like many of the synopses say.  It is a heartbreaking and disturbing read.  Jennette McCurdy's story may have triggers for people with eating disorders, addictions, or abuse.  Five out of five stars.

 

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