Early Reader Review: You're Not a Real Dog Owner Until… by Jason Chatfield & Scott Dooley

Source: From Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

You're Not a Real Dog Owner Until… by Jason Chatfield & Scott Dooley 

Series: You're Not a Real ____ Until ...

Publisher:  Andrews McMeel Publishing
Publication Date: April 29, 2025  

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

The definitive reflection of what it is to be a dog owner/parent, from dog park politics to inevitable messes and all the fun and love in between. Written and illustrated by two of The New Yorker magazine's best-loved cartoonists, You're Not a Real Dog Owner Until... is a must for any dog lover.

This book presents a delightful collection of observations about having a dog from award-winning comedian/cartoonist duo Scott Dooley and Jason Chatfield. These hilarious cartoons pair New Yorker-style illustrations with relatable details about having a dog. For example, you're not a real dog owner until...

•  You have to nix the word "walk" from your vocabulary as if it holds dark magical powers.

•  There are dog park friends who you only know by their dog’s name.

•  You've had to mediate a cease-fire between your dog and the Roomba.

•  Your dog has "protected you loudly" from thousands of "potential intruders" who've dared to walk past your front door (Most often during Zoom calls).

•  Your dog eats a healthier, more balanced and nutrient-rich diet than you have ever eaten in your life.

•  You have a voice you only use with your dog

•  You also have a voice for your dog.

A cross between The Far Side and For Dummies, this series offers insights into worlds we live in, whether it's where you live, what you love or even who you are, the "You're Not a Real..." series lets you know you're not alone in doing things some may think are crazy that are totally normal to you and your tribe!

Review: 

This adorable collection of comics is a love letter to life with dogs—full of sweet, funny, and oh-so-relatable observations that will make any dog owner smile (and maybe tear up a little too). From the quirks of different breeds to the unique bond between dogs and humans, each page offering a moment of joy or.... reflection. Sometimes hitting a bit too close to home.

The illustrations are charming yest simple, and it was fun to see all the different depictions of dogs and their owners. Some comics felt like they were pulled straight from my own life, while others will definitely strike a chord with fellow dog lovers depending on their experiences. There's also a mini story threaded throughout that quietly builds to a heartfelt moment—it’s subtle but powerful, and it definitely tugged at my heartstrings.

This is a super quick, easy read that’s perfect for picking up when you need a smile. I’d absolutely recommend it as a giftable book for any dog owner or animal lover. It’s a lovely little celebration of the joy (and occasional chaos!) our four-legged friends bring into our lives.

Early Reader Review: Anything by Rebecca Stead

Source: From Netgalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review. 

Anything by Rebecca Stead, Illustrated by Gracey Zhang 

Publisher:  Chronicle Books
Publication Date:  April 29, 2025 

 

Format: Ebook


Rating:


Goodreads Synopsis: 

Newbery Medalist Rebecca Stead’s first picture book is a transporting tale about the power of an honest wish, the courage to speak it out loud, and the imagination to bring it to life.

What’s more powerful than a secret wish? A wish you say out loud.

Anything paints a tender picture of a father and daughter moving into a new home. Dad brings a birthday cake for the new apartment to celebrate their new beginning and tells his daughter she can wish for anything (or, more precisely, “three Anythings”). Over the course of the day, she wishes for some of her favorite things, including a rainbow and “the biggest slice of pizza in the whole world."

But she keeps some of her wishes inside. Because what she really wants is to go back home to their old apartment, with its big blue bathtub and space in the closet for hide-and-seek. When she finally admits this last wish, her dad takes her on a journey, and by the book’s final pages, she is home . . . in every way that matters.

Pairing an enchanting story from Rebecca Stead (author of the Newbery Medal-winning When You Reach Me) with delightful artwork from Gracey Zhang (illustrator of the Ezra Jack Keats Award-winning Lala’s Words), Anything is pure magic. A story that will resonate with every young reader, it is a powerful reminder that sometimes making a wish is a way of telling ourselves we're ready for something new.

SINGLE PARENT BOOK FOR This book is perceptive and relatable, inspired by Rebecca Stead’s childhood living half-time with her dad. Rebecca wanted to write a book about a father and daughter finding each other in the world of the imagination and has been crafting this one for nearly twenty years.

BIG Change can feel hard or even scary. This book about moving is for anyone facing new beginnings or uncertainty and the emotions that come with navigating the unknown, from fear and anxiety to excitement and hope. It’s a reassuring and uplifting read that shows a child—and her dad—using their imaginations and emotional connection to make room for something new.

FATHER-DAUGHTER This is a heartwarming portrait of a beautiful father-daughter relationship built on love and trust. By the end of the story, she follows his example of generosity and is able to grant his wish, however small. This pitch-perfect ending will stay with readers long after the last page turns.

Perfect facing change, new beginnings, or uncertainty (such as moving, divorce, loss, or grief)Parents seeking a comforting, uplifting book to share with children. Educators and therapists looking for resources to coach young readers through challenges and change Father’s Day or birthday gift for dad. Fans of Rebecca Stead books, including When You Reach Me, The List of Things That Will Not Change, and The Lost Library Fans of Gracey Zhang books, including Lala’s A Story of Planting Kindness, When Rubin Plays, and the many award-winning titles she has illustrated

Review:

 This beautifully crafted children’s book captures the essence of change—its initial uncertainty and the blossoming hope that follows. The narrative follows a little girl navigating the intimidating feelings of change, perfectly mirrored by the artwork that evolves from a subdued greyscale to a vibrant, rich palette. This transformation is not just visually stunning; it symbolically represents the journey from fear to optimism.

At the heart of the story is the extraordinary bond between a loving father and his imaginative daughter. From the very beginning, her father’s support is palpable as he encourages her to make wishes, offering a world where she can choose “anything.” His ability to adapt and provide reassurance provides not only comfort but also an empowering message: even when change seems overwhelming, there is beauty and possibility waiting on the other side.

This book is an inspiring resource for children experiencing uncertainty—whether due to big life changes or moving to a new place. It gently reassures young readers that while change can be scary, it also opens up a world of color, opportunity, and personal growth. A must-read for families seeking a heartfelt story that celebrates resilience, love, and the magic of possibility.

Building the Book Pile #485

Welcome to Building the Book Pile!

Good Morning!

I hope everyone had a lovely week and weekend up to this point! 

 Here is my weekly recap:

Monday- Thursday : I was in the office for work Mon-Thurs this week and it was pretty relaxed. I had a number of meetings and we watched some Cricket IPL - each of my teammates picked a team after March Madness brackets when bad and we have been competing internally with a sport we all just learned. My team is not doing well. On Thursday evening, we went out for drinks with some of my partners friends, it was a fun time but we got home later than anticipated... and forgot to drop my car off at the garage...

Friday: I was WFH but needed to get up early with my partner to do and drop that car off. I just needed an inspection, so nothing crazy. It got done. The day was full of chores and emails and the sun was out which was really nice. Then when we picked up the car in the evening we stopped by our local pub for dinner.

Saturday: We had so many errands to run this weekend, the first stop - our local United Ag, to buy a mower. We have had 3 used (like buy off FB marketplace used) ride mowers and I am so tired of them lasting a year and breaking bc they are so old, so we bit the bullet and bought new FINALLY this year. ...MY mower should be dropped off next week, which is good because it looks like the lawn needs it. After that we popped over to Hobby Lobby and Runnings, for some art supplies for my partners next class and for some treats for the chickens and grabbed Chipotle for lunch (it is my favorite!). In the evening, my hubs hosted a Zoom art party for me (my bday is Tuesday) and my family and friends all came and we painted/ drew and had a blast!

Sunday - Since yesterday was so packed....today, I think we will head to the grocery store and I plan to read for as much of the day as I can. I have 2 books to wrap up if I want my TBR to stay on track for the month. I have been slacking. I also signed up for JIAM 2025 Audiobook challenge for June... I have quite a few audiobooks stacking up and would love to have a designated time to bounce through them 😊

How was your week last week, any plans for this week?

Linking up this week with the Caffeinated Reviewer and her Sunday Post series.

xo steph

Coming up on the Blog

Early Reader Review: Anything by Rebecca Stead (Youth)

Early Reader Review: You Aren't a Dog Owner Until... by Jason Chatfield (Adult, GN)

Early Reader Review: Don't Disturb the Pirate by Rhiannon Findlay (Youth)

Blog Tour: Review - Falling on a Duke by Stefany Nunes (Adult)

Books Received Recently...  

For Review:

 

Welcome to the Forest: The Harvest Party by Katie Risor  - From Edelweiss for review.

The Book of Heartbreak by Ova Ceren - from the publisher for review. 

Have you missed anything lately?

Blog Tour: The Best Wrong Move by Lily Parker (Adult) -5 stars

Blog Blast: Just Another Meet Cute by Jenn P. Nguyen (YA) - Excerpt and Giveaway

Donating Caffeine is greatly appreciated ... Donate on Ko-fi

What have you been reading?  How was your week? Feel free to leave a comment!

Happy Reading! 

Blog Blast: Just Another Meet Cute by Jenn P. Nguyen

Just Another Meet Cute by Jenn P. Nguyen 

Publisher: Scholastic Press
Publication Date:  May 20, 2025

 

B&N

iBooks

About the Book

Boy saves girl stuck on a disastrous hike. What could go wrong? So. Much.

Just Another Meet Cute is the joyful and funny story about what happens when you realize you’re dating the wrong twin.

When seventeen-year-old Nina Riley gets saved by a super cute Knight-in-Faded-Khakis just as she lands in an embarrassingly ‘ahem’ sticky situation during the most disastrous hike known to man, she wasn’t exactly looking for a meet cute. She really just needed some peace and quiet from her complicated family. Unfortunately, he disappears before she can properly thank him or get his number. All she has is his name (Ian Nguyen) and a navy jacket with a dog keychain, a gym card, and laundromat receipt. But a meet cute is a meet cute. And armed with years of watching Veronica Mars and a techy cousin, it should be simple enough for Nina to find the boy of her dreams, right? But when she finally tracks him down, he’s different than she thought ―right down to his name. Ryan is just as cute as she remembers, but the chemistry isn’t there like it was before. After a few dates, she meets Ryan’s family: his sweet grandma, his enthusiastic sisters, and his twin brother ―​​​​​​​―Ian.

    “Are you sure we’ve never met before? Because you look very familiar.”

    “No, I don’t think so.” His eyes flickered down to my empty coffee cup still on the seat between us. “Nina. That’s a pretty name. Now I’m sure I would have remembered you.”

    Except he didn’t.

    Narrowing my eyes, I searched his face for something—anything—but he continued to give me a small polite smile.

    Then two things hit me at once.

    First, maybe he didn’t recognize me because of my makeup. I mean, I was wearing more than I usually did. A lot more. I barely recognized myself when I looked in the mirror this morning. Plus, on my hike, I wore those huge sunglasses that covered half my face. And my hair was in a ponytail.

    Second, if he didn’t remember me . . . then maybe this was my chance to make another first impression. A better one. Like WAY better. It wouldn’t even be hard. I was already off to a pretty good start. This was practically the definition of a rom-com meet cute, one that would make it into the theaters.

    I mean, sure, I planned the whole thing, but a meet cute was still a meet cute, right? And it’s not like I planned the crazy car. That was a happy coincidence.

    “So . . .”

    I straightened on the bench. “Yes?”

    Kicking his left foot at the sidewalk, Ryan jabbed a thumb over his shoulder. “I was thinking, after we talk to the police do you—do you want to get some ice cream with me? I know this place nearby that makes awesome homemade waffle cones. It’s the least I could do, since you saved my life.”

    For a split second, as he gazed down at me with such an earnest expression on his face, a pang of guilt seeped into my gut. He was such a nice guy, both now and on the hike. He probably wouldn’t mind if I told him the truth. After all, the more I lied to him now, the worse it was going to get.

    But when I opened my mouth, nothing came out.

    The thing is, it wasn’t every day that I got a chance to rewrite history. Instead of being the weird girl he met on the hike who got injured and wet her pants, I could be the cool girl from the coffee shop. The one who knew about Spider-Man comics and liked mystery novels. The one who went around saving people and probably had her entire life planned out. And definitely didn’t have any family issues. The girl I always wished I could be, at least for a little bit.

    And this was something I was definitely going to take advantage of.

    Plus, technically, I wasn’t doing anything wrong. Not really. I was just tweaking our meet cute story a teensy bit. If he didn’t remember me, then it wasn’t really my fault.

    I gave him a bright smile. “Make it a double scoop and you’ve got yourself a date."

About the Author

Jenn Nguyen fell in love with books in third grade and spent the rest of her school years reading through lunchtime and giving up recess to organize the school library. She has a degree in business administration from the University of New Orleans and still lives in the city with her husband. Jenn spends her days reading, dreaming up YA romances, and binge watching Korean dramas all in the name of 'research'.

Find the Author

Website | Twitter | Goodreads

Blitz-wide giveaway (INT)

Print copy of Just Another Meet Cute + Swag

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Blog Tour: The Best Wrong Worst Move by Lily Parker

The Best Wrong Move by Lily Parker 

Publisher:  Choc Lit Contemporary Romance: A Joffe Books Company
Publication Date:  April 24, 2025 

 

About the Book: 

Every girl dreams of the perfect proposal.

And my boss thought it would be a ‘media moment’ if I proposed to my boyfriend, Rex, live on national TV. With everyone watching.

Rex said no.

Now I’m a social media sensation for all the wrong reasons and hiding out in Hawaii.

But because the universe apparently hates me, so is Rex . . . with his supermodel new girlfriend!

To avoid total humiliation I need to find my own irresistible date. And the gorgeous surfer who looks like he’s walked straight from the ocean and into my fantasies is the perfect solution.

He needs a distraction. I need help.

Dom is the perfect fake date and the heated looks between us are enough to convince everyone we’re in love.

But why are the fake sizzling kisses suddenly beginning to feel all too real . . .

❤️ Spicy Romance 🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶

❤️ Opposites attract

❤️ Holiday

❤️ Friends-to-lovers

❤️ Fake dating

❤️ Forced-proximity

Rating: 

 

In this heartfelt and steamy romance, Liv is still reeling from the humiliation of a viral moment that shattered her confidence. Seeking solace, she retreats to Hawaii, hoping to escape the whispers and rediscover herself. What she doesn’t expect is Dom—a massive, brooding surfer with the intimidating presence of a mob boss and a heart of gold. He’s not the dating type, preferring his solitude and questioning anything that disrupts his quiet life. But when he meets Liv, something shifts. He watches, he listens, and before he even realizes it, he’s falling—fast.  

Their fake-dating arrangement starts as a convenient cover, but the sparks between them quickly turn into a blazing fire. Dom’s thoughtfulness and quiet intensity make every moment between them electric, and readers will be fully invested in their slow-burning yet passionate romance.  

Then there’s Rex. Ugh. Cocky, cringeworthy, and the definition of a tool, he embodies everything Liv needs to leave in her past. Every moment he was on the page made my skin crawl, and I couldn’t have been happier that Liv had moved on—she deserved so much better. Thankfully, the hilarious JuJu balanced out Rex’s presence, delivering some of the best comic relief and keeping things light when needed.  

Beyond the romance, the book shines with its found family dynamic, as Dom’s close-knit circle of friends adds depth and warmth to the story. Watching Liv not only reclaim her confidence but also find a place among people who truly see her made this a truly satisfying read. If you love emotional growth, sizzling romance, and a hero who falls first and hard, this is the book for you. 

About the Author

Lily Parker is a full-time romance writer, former professional matchmaker, and an avid seeker of absurd adventures. After years of helping other authors bring their stories to life, she decided it was time to write the kinds of books she’s always wanted to read. With a knack for blending humor, heart, and unforgettable characters, Lily creates stories that pull readers in and leave them believing in love—no matter the odds. When she’s not writing, you can find her planning her next venture with her family or daydreaming about just one more happily-ever-after.

Find the Author

Facebook | Instagram | Threads

Building the Book Pile #484

Welcome to Building the Book Pile!

Good afternoon! Happy Monday!

Yesterday I was just plain lazy and didn't take the time to get a Book Pile post up - sorry. I had some time today though and figured I would  put in the work/ effort! Here is my weekly recap:

Monday: Back to the office for work. We had a Faculty/ Staff session about the impact politics are having on visas and things like that. Talked a lot of protocol as well. Being in a higher education setting right now is a bit difficult, but always hoping that our students are safe. 

Tuesday - Wednesday: More office time and lots of meetings, I also came in and worked late those nights, so things got a bit thrown off at home. Luckily we have awesome people coming over to help Charlie (Frenchie) mid-day.

Thursday - Friday: I was WFH again with more meetings on Thursday. Then I stayed up late reading a book, I think I finally put it down at 1:30am (oops) so Getting up on Friday was hard, but my workload was lighter, so I spent time on some data projects and chores. I also took some time to have lunch outside on Friday, which Charlie loves. He has a little bed out there and was happy to bask in the sun.

Saturday: It was my partner and I's 15th wedding anniversary, sadly he had to pop into work though.  It was SO nice out -  in the 70s! So while he was gone I spent the morning weeding and prepping the garden beds. We can't really put anything in until ~Mother's day (aka safe frost date) but the 5 veggie beds are all set and ready for planting. The we went to a late lunch together and popped into the bookstore to grab some books. We spent the afternoon watching shows and reading together- it was really nice.

Sunday/ Easter: We had a chill day. We did some planning for the week - chores/ clean up/ meal plan etc. and then relaxed. It got SO windy so anything we wanted to do outside we just postponed for now. We don't really celebrate Easter, but I was texting with my family all day seeing what they go into - my Dad went golfing with my brother and my nephew was more excited about the Easter Bunny than Santa this year.

Bringing us to today(Monday)- back in the office and working... well writing this for now as a break, then back to work. Today was an email heavy morning and it has since slowed down, so I am prepping for the week of meetings ahead.

How was your week last week, any plans for this week?

Linking up this week with the Caffeinated Reviewer and her Sunday Post series.

xo steph

Coming up on the Blog

Blog Tour: The Best Wrong Move by Lily Parker (Adult)

Blog Blast: Just Another Meet Cute by Jenn P. Nguyen (YA) - Excerpt and Giveaway

Books Received Recently...  

For Review:

 

 

 

Don't Disturb the Pirate! by Rhiannon Findlay - From Netgalley and the Publisher for review.

Watch Us Crack by Gabriella Lepore - from the publisher for review

I Killed the King by Rebecca Mix and Andrea Hannah - from the publisher for review

Bought

 

The City of Dreaming Books by Walter Moers (Adult)

The Last Bookstore on Earth by Lily Braun-Arnold  (YA)

Have you missed anything lately?

Recent Reads: The Isle of Ever by Jen Calonita (MG) - 5 stars

Donating Caffeine is greatly appreciated ... Donate on Ko-fi

What have you been reading?  How was your week? Feel free to leave a comment!

Happy Reading! 

Recent Reads: The Isle of Ever by Jen Calonita

Source: From Netgalley and the Publisher in exchange for an honest review. This in no way alters my opinion or review.

The Isle of Ever by Jen Calonita 
Series: Isle of Ever #1
Publisher: Sourcebooks Young Readers
Publication Date:  March 25, 2025

 

Format: Ebook

Rating:

Goodreads Synopsis: 

Bestselling and beloved author Jen Calonita delivers the first in a brand new series featuring a girl who will inherit a mysterious fortune if she can break a centuries-old curse!

Days after her twelfth birthday, Everly "Benny" Benedict learns she's the heir to a fortune! But to collect the inheritance, she first has to play—and win—a game. Following clues that her ancestor left, Benny must locate a small island that vanished long ago, according to legend.

She has only two weeks to play the game and find the island. If she's successful, she'll break a two-hundred-year-old curse. If she fails, the fortune will be forfeited. And if she's not careful, she'll cross paths with someone else who is after the island's secrets, and who will stop at nothing to get them. Because, as it turns out, there's far more than a fortune at stake.

Review: 

AH! I need the next book IMMEDIATELY!

I love Jen Calonita and her middle grade fantasy series. She does a great job with her plotlines and the characters are fun, often underdogs that you can really resonate with as a reader. 

Things were no different with this series start - I absolutely loved The Isle of Ever! It is a beautifully built middle-grade adventure full of heart, mystery, and just the right touch of magic. The story immediately pulls you in with an island that isn't supposed to be there... and a pirate along with it. From there you are bounced to the modern day and Benny. 

Everly “Benny” Benedict is a practical and hardworking twelve-year-old who unexpectedly finds herself at the center of a mystery and possible fortune. Although a fortune is at stake, Benny is deeply engaged with the story her very great grandmother has passed down, and that emotional connection gives the book a wonderful depth beyond just the action and clues.

One of my favorite things was how the past and present wove together through journal entries and letters. It was so satisfying to see Benny decipher her ancestor’s messages, and readers will love following the breadcrumbs alongside her.

The pacing is brisk but never rushed, keeping the story engaging from start to finish. Even as an adult reader who picked up on most of the twists early, I found the reveals satisfying and well-executed. There’s a great balance between action, emotion, and puzzle-solving, and the stakes are high enough to keep the tension alive without ever feeling too dark for a middle-grade audience. 

That said, I did find myself wishing for a bit more from the adult characters. Many of them felt overly distant or standoffish, and Benny is clearly left to shoulder more than most kids her age. Her mother, in particular, seemed oddly removed at times, which only highlighted how often Benny has to navigate things alone and act far more grown-up than she should have to. While this adds to Benny’s strength and independence, it also made me ache for her in quieter moments.

Still, The Isle of Ever is an engaging, smart, and emotionally resonant read. It perfectly balances its whimsical premise with real stakes and a heroine you’ll immediately root for. I absolutely cannot wait for the next installment in the series—there’s so much more to discover, and I’m already eager to dive back into Benny’s world.

Overall, I would highly recommended for fans of puzzles, the magical realism, and bold, brave heroines with big hearts.

Building the Book Pile #483

Welcome to Building the Book Pile!

Good morning! Happy Sunday!

Getting back on track this week was so hard. Taking a note out of Lisa's book and going to go day by day for this recap...

• Monday: I had to drive my car to the dealership for a check and oil change, for most that is no big deal, but I have a Mini and all of them are about 2 hours from me. 
• Tuesday - Wednesday: I was back in the office for work, trying to catch up on meetings and all the emails that I missed while I was at the conference last week. Wednesday I also finally posted my weekly recap from last week.
• Thursday - Friday: I was WFH, I do prefer this. I feel like I am so much more productive. I got through a to do list and started working on some less stressful projects. I also make some more Sourdough. That is going well (no knife accidents), I need to make more loaves though, friends had requested some.
• Saturday: It snowed again... and we had about half an inch stick for a bit before it got warm and became rain. I was unimpressed but had a fun day planned. I went to the theater with my Dad, Sister and Youngest Brother to see The Waitress, it was really good. We all had lunch to catch up before a matinee show and my sister say a friend from school... which was extra weird bc they both live in NYC now. I love supporting the local arts when I can and this theater puts on some great shows. 
• Today: I plan to catch up on some chores, meal prep for the week, and hopefully read a bit. I know there are outside things we need to do, a gate to repair and the coop door is off a bit so we need to fix that too. We might have a few hours without rain in the middle of the day to do them. We will see. The hubs is not feeling great, so it might be a more relaxing day before the start of the week type thing instead of a to-do list day. 

How was your week last week, any plans for this week?

Linking up this week with the Caffeinated Reviewer and her Sunday Post series.

xo steph

Coming up on the Blog

I have nothing planned, but something will be popped in... TBD.

Books Received Recently...  

For Review:

 

 

Buzz! Boom! Bang! The Book of Sounds by Benjamin Gottwald - from the publisher for review.

The Enemy’s Daughter by Melissa Poett - from the publisher for review.

Have you missed anything lately?

Blog Tour: Review - Feather and Famine by Mariah Rosewood (Adult) -4 stars

Early Reader Review: The Best Daddy of All by Peter Horn (Youth) -4 stars

 

Early Reader Review: Immortal Dark by Shermon Kodi (YA) -4 stars

Donating Caffeine is greatly appreciated ... Donate on Ko-fi

What have you been reading?  How was your week? Feel free to leave a comment!

Happy Reading!