The Boy from Tomorrow by Camille DeAngelis

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I've watched several movies before that have the same theme just like in this novel, such as the Hollywood movies Frequency and The Butterfly Effect, and Korean movies Ditto and Il Mare. Thus, I was not expecting much when I've asked for the reading copy of this from the publisher.

This book really did exceeds my expectations because of how impressive Camille DeAngelis in writing it. Readers will be hooked once they start reading the story of the incredible friendship of Alec to the Clifford sisters, Josie and Cassie, even there's a 100-year gap. And in spite of the fact that they will never all get to meet at present time, the ending is still absolutely great and heartwarming.

The Boy from Tomorrow may be categorized as a children's fiction or a middle-grade book, but adult readers will surely enjoy this amazing novel — it is a great and highly recommended for light-reading. Lastly, it is so easy to decide that this is one of the books that I can put into my favorites this year because how I really enjoyed reading it.

The Gallery of Wonders: Books for kids: A magical children's fantasy series. by Marc Remus

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Holly O' Flanigan lives with her distant relatives, the Smorall's, in Donkleywood; her parents died in an accident when she was still a baby so she never got the chance to know them. She used to live with her grandfather, Nikolas, but she was taken from him by the government because they perceived that he was unfit to take care of Holly. Instead of a relative, the Smoralls treat her like a maid and they made her sleep and always hide in the attic after she's done with her chores.

Her grandfather is a painter and lives alone in his studio and Holly inherits her grandfather's passion for painting. However, she thought that she is not good because she lacks the skill and talent. Unfortunately, there was a fire in her grandpa's studio and he jumped out of the building. Prior to that, Holly and her friend, Brian, saw a peculiar man and creatures outside. The next day, Holly received a package with a letter and it contains several things: a jar of white powder, a gadget with a funnel-like attached in the side, and a book that is an Encyclopedia of Magora written on it.

Holly's life changed once she received the said package. Unexpectedly, Holly and her friends Brian and Rufus; together with her obnoxious classmate Amanda; and nosy neighbor, Ms. Hubbleworth, they were all transported to Lake Santima in Cuspidor when a painting became a portal in Holly's attic.

The Gallery of Wonders is the first book in The Magora Book Series, and while reading, it greatly reminds of the well-known classic book series of Chronicles of Narnia. Moreover, I can't help but compare it to the Harry Potter series because there's a Cliffony Academy of the Arts, prophecy, talking tree house, and animated creatures such as trolls and griffins in the story. I reckon that Marc Remus' huge inspirations for writing are C.S. Lewis and J.K. Rowling because of the flow of the story and several similarities in some instances. Despite that, middle graders, young adult readers, and those who are fond of fantasy and adventure stories will enjoy this novel.

Nick the Sidekick by Dave Whamond

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story of Nick the Sidekick is a lighthearted read that will delight readers of all ages. I like how Nick's tale tells us that it doesn't matter what abilities we have; as long as we have the willpower to achieve our dream, we can make it happen. Also, about Super Fantastic Guy's personality of always taking the credit reminds everyone not to follow his example.

Honey Moon Dog Daze by Sofi Benitez

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are a dog lover like me, you will also love this book by Sofi Benitez. Honey Moon rescuing the dog she later named Stormy is the start of her and her friend Becky to start a dog walking business. Along the way, they also met Isabela who happened to be a volunteer at the animal shelter, where Honey Moon and her mom has to surrender the dog Storm.

The story of friendship and the funny antics of the dogs the Sleepy Hollow Howlers have to walk are just a few of the reasons why this book made a worthwhile reading. Not to mention that young readers will also get learn a lot from this including being responsible, compassionate and helpful.

The Adventures of Super Diaper Baby by Dav Pilkey

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dav Pilkey is a witty writer and followers of the Captain Underpants series already knew that. In this spin-off, there are undeniably funny scenes and names such as Starbutts and Deputy Doo-doo. If you want a good laugh, you must read this series as well as the author's other works. This is categorized under children's books, but I reckon that this is more appropriate for readers 12 and above.

The Long Haul by Jeff Kinney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is one of the best books in this series that I've read so far. The funny road trip of the Heffley family will definitely make anyone laugh including that part where Manny won that pig. I thought that pig will never be reunited with Manny but in the end, that pig saved them.

Cabin Fever by Jeff Kinney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

One of the best parts of this book is when Greg and Rowley are bullied by a kid who's in kindergarten. The part where Greg found out that his younger brother Manny is the culprit behind their lack of electricity is really hilarious. Can't believe that kids younger than Greg can pull this kind of action against adults. hahaha!

The Ugly Truth by Jeff Kinney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I don't approve how Greg treats his best-friend Rowley but after all what happened, at least they back as being friends in the end. I like how Greg's Gammie advised him not to hurry growing up and just enjoy his time as a teen now. Young readers of this series also must remember the lessons hidden behind the funny stories in this series because they are written especially for them.

Dog Days by Jeff Kinney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was expecting that this 4th book could have loads of funny stories of Greg with a dog(s). I know expected too much but despite that, I did enjoy the diary entries written. I was just a little disappointed that Greg and his family didn't have that many happy memories with Sweetie while the dog is with them. But at least, his Grandma was able to keep the dog in the end. Maybe some are not really a dog person/people after all.

The Last Straw by Jeff Kinney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Actual rating: 4.5 (round off to 5)

I was torn between giving this 4 and 5 stars so I thought I just rate it in between. I like this series but this particular installment didn't make me burst out laughing, unlike the first two books. This issue tackles Greg's being wimpy in sports and being not man enough so I can't relate that much. Maybe male readers and followers of this series could appreciate this 3rd book.

Rodrick Rules by Jeff Kinney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Anyone who has a sibling or siblings could relate to Greg in this 2nd installment. Aside from Manny, Rodrick is one of my favorite character in this series. Rodrick could be a little pain in the ass for Greg but behind his facade, he cares and love for his younger brothers even though he just doesn't want to admit it.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I've read the first five book in this graphic novel series way back then and I re-read them now so I can finally write a review. This series is one of my favorite because of how hilariously the experiences of Greg in middle school, neighbors and with his family were written. I can't speak for others but I could only guess that whoever dislikes this has no funny bone in them.

The Splendid Baron Submarine by Eric Bower

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Although that The Splendid Baron Submarine is already the second book in The Baron Inventions series, this is a standalone novel and readers could still able to follow on who is W.B. and his family is. Aside from the Baron's fun adventures, this book is also filled with hilarious experiences and banters of their family.

This is a light-read because I was able to finish this within 5 hours; I was still craving for more right after I'm through with this. I' will also try to check out the first and the upcoming third book in this series because I like Bower's way of writing: comical and light yet, it provides useful information about some historical facts and inventions in the past.

Northstars Volume 1: Welcome to Snowville! by Jim Shelley

MY RATING: 5 of 5 stars

While reading this, I was thinking of giving this four stars. However, when the dragon Winter Wyvern was summoned by Krampus, I know that five perfect stars are more appropriate to rate this entertaining comic series written by Jim and Haigen Shelley.

Holly and Frostina are both likable characters but for me, I think the dragon is the best character because of how funny he is. I can't wait for the second volume of this and hope I can read more of Winter Wyvern in that installment.

Gordon: Bark to the Future! by Ashley Spires

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Adventures of the agent dog Gordon in this graphic novel will entertain not only young readers but the adult readers as well. It is really funny how Gordon think and act, especially on what he thinks the aliens that invade their space. I had a great time reading this short but quite comical story of his escapade, and I'm sure that there will be more positive feedback from other readers.

The Mysterious Benedict Society by Trenton Lee Stewart

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

It's almost a month since I've started reading this book. Usually, I could finish a thick book like this within a week or just several days. But I got bored in the first part because of the slow pacing of the story. I only got hooked on the story from the half part till the end.

There are at least 4 other books in this series but I'm not sure I will spare time to read them. This first book is like a preview for me if the book a series is good or not and I'm a little disappointed with what I've read here.

Be a Unicorn: Live Life on the Bright Side by Sarah Ford

MY RATING: 5 of 5 stars

This cute and little book will indeed make anyone happy because it contains adorable illustrations and a lot of motivational advice. The recommendations are the usual ones we always hear and read but, the unicorn is a great addition to put a smile on anyone's face.

If you're looking for mood booster, this picture book might be the solution you're looking for. It will not only cheer you up, it will also uplift your self-esteem and will inspire you to do what is good and right.

Gumby Graphic Novel Vol. 1 by Jeff Whitman

MY RATING: 4 of 5 stars

The 1st volume of Gumby Graphic Novel has certainly brought a lot of nostalgic memories of me watching the TV series of this during my childhood. I remember watching re-runs of this during the 90's on Nickelodeon & Cartoon Network, so I was really happy when I saw this comic series of the ever famous green clay cartoon character.

There are nine stories in this first installment: An Alien Abundance; The Land of Ice Cream; Model-y Crew; Treasure of the Obellos; Goo's Gone; All That Nin-Jazz; Gran Adventure; Green With Envy; and The Sour Note! Either a fan or not of Gumby, the adventures of Gumby and his friends in these stories will cheer anyone as it what this group typically does.

Thanks to Papercutz for providing the ARC of this.

Megabat by Anna Humphrey

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The story of Daniel and his new found friend Megabat is absolutely adorable! I know that this is a middle-grade book, but I really don't care because I enjoyed reading the story for it is undeniably cute and engrossing.

Once in a while, adults like me should read stories like this because it is lighthearted that will make them smile and laugh while reading. Megabat is highly recommended for all ages; it will be appreciated and loved by anyone especially those who are a kid at heart.

Shadow Weaver by MarcyKate Connolly

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book of MarcyKate Connolly is a fantasy fiction novel that tells about the story of Emmeline, one of the lucky people who was bestowed by the Cerelia Comet to possessed a magical power within them. She can mold shadows around her into anything she would like it to appear, thus she's called a shadow weaver; a certain shadow also always accompanies her and its name is Dar.

Emmeline was born and grew up with Dar who is always beside her; she treats it like as her only friend because her parents and the people within their estates avoid and fear her because of her power. Because of certain events, Emmeline and Dar decided to run away from home to avoid the soldiers who want to capture them. Along the way, they met Lucas, a boy who possessed the light magic, and his family; Emmeline was welcomed into their cottage and through her stay, she learned a lot on why they were being pursued by the soldiers and who is behind it.

This first book in the series is a little bit short so anyone could be able to finish reading this within a day or two. In spite of that, it has a riveting story that will make readers look forward to what will happen to Emmeline. I know that it will be quite a while before the second installment will be released, but I'm already excited about how will they defeat the villain.