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Cover of the memoir "A Fatal Inheritance"

“A Fatal Inheritance” by Lawrence Ingrassia

5 out of 5 stars. Very interesting read. The author did a good job of thoroughly describing the scientific history of the area of cancer genetics and how it related to his own family’s experience. The dense science focused chapters were followed by a chapter or two focusing on the author’s family history which helped reinforce the topic’s relevance. I already had an interest in genetics due to my own medical history, but this was fascinating. It also highlighted how complex the human genome is and how long discoveries can take. The author also explored some of the ethical implications and dilemmas from said discoveries (and technologies) which some may not have initially thought about. Highly recommend for anyone interested in learning more about genetics and the role they play in disease development, medical research, etc. 

Cover art for the novel Closer to Okay by Amy Watson

“Closer to Okay” by Amy Watson

2 out of 5 stars. The premise of Closer to Okay by Amy Watson sounded interesting but unfortunately I was disappointed. I felt that some parts of the novel were disjointed or random. For some reason I also found myself wanting a little more background about Kyle’s life with her grandmother. I did appreciate that the author included a note at the beginning talking about how this story may be triggering for some people. I think that is important because even as someone without a history like Kyle’s, I found the book difficult to read at times.

Cover art for the novel Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett

“Unlikely Animals” by Annie Hartnett

4.5 stars out of 5. Unlikely Animals by Annie Hartnett is a novel full of history, family drama, small town mysteries, humor, and personal growth. The plot sounded intriguing; Emma is a young woman born with what her family and friends call “the charm”. Growing up she was able heal minor ailments just by touching someone. After graduating college Emma returns to the small town she grew up in to figure out what she was gong to do with the rest of her life… her healing touch is gone. Another reason for returning home was to help care for her dying father. Upon returning home Emma learns that her former best friend has been missing for months.

Cover for the reference book "Accessible Vacations"

“Accessible Vacations: An Insider’s Guide to 10 National Parks” by Simon Hayhoe

3 out of 5 stars. Traveling to America’s National Parks is something that my family has talked about off and on over the years. Surprisingly, I haven’t been to any of the National Parks here in Michigan but I have been to Great Smokey Mountains. Therefore when I saw a guidebook called Accessible Vacations: An Insider’s Guide to 10 National Parks by Simon J. Hayhoe was available on NetGalley I got excited. Sadly, I was overall disappointed with the book. Scroll down for more details.

Cover art for the novel "The House on the Cerulean Sea"

“The House in the Cerulean Sea” by TJ Klune

5 out of 5 stars. I have seen people posting about The House on the Cerulean Sea by T.J. Klune but only recently sat down to read it and I am so glad i did!! It’s such a sweet and meaningful story. The writing style is easy to follow and relaxing while also tying in important ideas related to inclusion. The story follows Linus Baker’s experience investigating an orphanage for magical youth located on a remote island. I instantly fell in love with the children – each one has a distinct personality (and magical background). I found myself saving numerous quotes from the book (below are a few of my faves). Readers are left with questions to think about such as what makes someone good? Bad? What makes a group of people a family? In a time when there is so much fear, confusion, and hate, The House in the Cerulean Sea encourages you to re-examine your thoughts and ideas about people who are different from “the norm.”