ŷ������

I might be down to read Powerless..

Other than that here are some books I have on my TBR that are cocked and ready to go:

.

Just some ideas

It's really hard for me to read anything that is young adult, concerning 'romance' because I have been a substitute teacher for so long at a little school. I feel pervy reading about kids in high school or high school age getting frisky... if that makes sense.

Michelle's Empty Nest wrote: "What we did was actually this:


6. Team Reading Challenge
2 bonus points per book if the entire team reads the same book in a month


The Buddy Read is different.


5. Discussions
5 points for ac..."

Definitely more interested in the team read

Shandrea wrote: "It's really hard for me to read anything that is young adult, concerning 'romance' because I have been a substitute teacher for so long at a little school. I feel pervy reading about kids in high s..."


Totally understandable! I taught middle school for years, so I get it!!

Shandrea I hear you, any ideas on what you would like to throw out there?

If your looking for the diversity, romance, adult, and a book about books there is this one. But it is holiday themed soooo
3 PTS to BLIZZARD

I'm stretching the family with my Elijah of Buxton book. but really the book is all about community and family ties/support. so I think it should work for that one.

I listed some of the books that I have ready to go, above. But I think I would be good to read your suggestion: Powerless..?

Powerless works for about 3 different challenges right now, so I'm going to plan for it this week-ish.

I can do that. seeing if I can find a copy now.

Michelle's Empty Nest wrote: "Powerless works for about 3 different challenges right now, so I'm going to plan for it this week-ish."

I am just finishing Powerless up. Avoid thinking of Hunger games and it will be ok. 🤣

I'm hoping to get Powerless done. I am knee deep in I'll give you the sun. Is powerless a quick read??

Hi team will be putting my books in before the end of the month

🌟 March Book Quest: Secrets and Lies! 🌟

Welcome to March, adventurers! This month, we’re diving into the shadowy world of Secrets and Lies—where mysteries unravel, truths are hidden, and nothing is as it seems. Get ready for twists, turns, and thrilling revelations as we explore the darker side of storytelling.

📅 Monthly Theme: Secrets and Lies
This month, challenge yourself with books that keep you guessing. Here are your reading tasks:

📖 Read a book that involves a significant secret that changes the course of the story.
📖 Read a book with an unreliable narrator.
📖 Read a book where a character has a hidden identity.
📖 Read a book featuring government conspiracy.
📖 Read a book about keeping family secrets.
📖 Read a book where lies lead to major consequences.
📖 Read a book with plot twists and surprises.
📖 Read a book about uncovering historical secrets.
📖 Read a book featuring espionage or spies.
📖 Read a book where social media secrets are exposed.

🎯 Bonus Genre: Mystery/Thriller
To earn extra points, choose books from the bonus genre of Mystery/Thriller!

�ʵ Themed Reading Week: Books Set in Different Countries
From March 19-25, embark on a literary journey around the world! Read books set in diverse locations to immerse yourself in different cultures and perspectives.

��� How It Works:
> Read books that fit the Books Set in Different Countries theme.
> Earn 15 points for each book read during the themed week.


Important Announcement for Teams
As I was updating spreadsheets, I noticed a few teams have members who haven’t read anything this month. I’m happy to help find replacement players for missing members, but I can’t keep track of everyone on my own. If your team is missing a member and you’ve tried to contact them without success, please let me know ASAP so I can find you a replacement.

For teams that have a period of time where a replacement can’t be found, I’m allowing MOD books to keep the team afloat. This ensures your team stays active and competitive while we work on filling the gap.


Happy reading, adventurers! Let’s uncover the mysteries and lies hidden within the pages of our books this March. 📖��

Wow, some of these are going to be tough/very specific to find!


Last month was horrible for me. Let's see what this month holds...

Uhhhhh. Yea... I agree... Wow... this is the first time I have done this challenge and I didn't know it was going to be so challenging... Sorry in advance to my team, I'm not sure how many of these I am going to get done..

Guess its a mystery type of month 🤣

lol..

what are MOD books?

Shandrea wrote: "what are MOD books?"

For teams that have a long period of time where a replacement can’t be found or if a team member disappeared for an entire month, I’m using my own (MOD) read books to keep the team afloat. This ensures your team stays active and competitive while I work on filling the gap. They would be books that I actually read that fit the task, and only the amount of the missing members BPM.

Does that make sense? We have 1 team so far that needed them for January, due to 2 completely missing members, which have since been replaced.

Ahhh okay. Gotcha, thank you!

When updating your sheet, I noticed that Jill has not added any books for March. I will confirm with them whether or not they are still participating, and get back with you.


🌟 Welcome to Quarter 2 of Book Quest Adventures! 🌟

📅 Monthly Theme: Adventure Awaits
This month, pack your bags, grab your compass, and prepare to get lost in the wild unknown—because the greatest stories are found off the beaten path!

Here are your reading tasks:
📖 Read a book set in an unexplored or remote location on Earth, such as a dense jungle, desert, or hidden island.
📖 Read a book about space exploration.
📖 Read a book featuring time travel.
📖 Read a book where someone climbs a mountain.
📖 Read a book set on an epic road trip.
📖 Read a book about exploring ancient ruins.
📖 Read a book featuring ocean voyages or sailing adventures.
📖 Read a survival story set in the wilderness.
📖 Read a quest-based story with clear missions or goals.
📖 Read an adventure involving extreme sports.

🎯 Bonus Genre: Fantasy
To earn extra points, choose books from the bonus genre of Fantasy! The following sub-genres are eligible: Epic Fantasy, High Fantasy, Fantasy Romance or Romantasy, YA or Young Adult Fantasy.

📚 Q2 Mini Challenge: Genre Swap
It’s time to step out of your comfort zone! For Q2, we challenge you to try something new. Pick a book from a genre you typically avoid or have never tried before. Just remember, it can’t be the same as the BONUS genre for that month.
Points: Earn 30 points for completing the book and sharing insights about your experience with the genre! (max 1 book per month, 3 per quarter)


Happy reading, adventurers! Let’s embrace the spirit of adventure together! 📚��

I have a REF error on the spreadsheet.

Genre Swap hard for me because I read everything. All due to these challenges 🤣

Do we still have time to update march's books? I have books to add.

Anyone interested on a team book this month?
Here are some ideas
📖 Read a book featuring time travel.

📖 Read a book where someone climbs a mountain.

and maybe
📖 Read a book featuring ocean voyages or sailing adventures.
- Niclay joins All-honored Golden Empress.

Also these fantasy options but not sure what they would go towards.

Does your team need a check-in with the following members?
�� Jill
�� Shandrea
�� Holly

.
.
.


🌟 May Book Quest: Courage & Resilience 🌟

📅 Monthly Theme: Stories of Strength
This month, we’re diving into tales of bravery—whether in the face of war, illness, injustice, or personal demons. Real or fictional, these stories remind us how resilience lights the darkest paths.

Reading Tasks:
📖 Read a book about overcoming disability or illness OR a character adapting to a major life change.
📖 Read a book set during wartime that highlights courage.
📖 Read about standing up to bullies/oppression OR a workplace/community rebellion (e.g., The Radium Girls).
📖 Read a book where a character overcomes great odds (e.g., poverty, discrimination, trauma).
📖 Read about a natural disaster/crisis OR a "rebuilding after tragedy" story.
📖 Read an underdog story (sports, career, or personal struggle).
📖 Read about social justice movements OR a courtroom/legal battle for change.
📖 Read a book addressing mental health challenges OR a character’s emotional recovery journey.
📖 Read about immigrant experiences (fiction or non-fiction) OR a diaspora cultural reconnection.
📖 Read a book where characters confront their biggest fears OR train for an impossible mission.

🎯 Bonus Genre: True Stories of Grit
Earn extra points for memoirs, biographies, or narrative non-fiction (e.g., Educated, Born a Crime, Hidden Figures).

📚 Q2 Mini Challenge: Genre Swap
Don't forget! Step outside your comfort zone! Pick a genre you typically avoid (excluding memoirs/biographies this month).

�� Accommodations for Omnilegent Readers (For those who read widely!)
If you don’t "avoid" genres, use a workaround:
1️⃣ Genre Frequency: Pick a genre you rarely read (e.g., romance once a year).
2️⃣ Subgenre Exploration: Try a subgenre you’ve never touched (e.g., cozy mystery �� noir).
3️⃣ Reader’s Choice + Justification: Any book that’s a stretch for you—just explain why! (Example: “I usually read thrillers, so this slow literary fiction is a change!��)

Points: 30 pts for completing + sharing insights (max 1 book/month).

🌠 FORMAL BUDDY READS WITH TASK PAIRINGS
I thought I would add some information on what tasks the May FBRs work for. These are always optional, but they count toward the buddy read bonus!

📔 The Bone Shard Daughter (Andrea Stewart)
�� Revolution against oppression (Task #3)
�� Overcoming political trauma (Task #4)
�� Confronting legacy of parental abuse (Task #10)

📚 The Light Pirate (Lily Brooks-Dalton)
�� Climate disaster survival (Task #5)
�� Disability adaptation (Task #1)
�� Rebuilding community (Task #9 immigrant/diaspora angle)

🔮 Shadow and Bone Trilogy (Leigh Bardugo)
�� Wartime courage (Task #2)
�� Underdog Grisha vs. Darkling (Task #6)
�� Mental health allegories (Task #8)

🌙 A Witch in Wolf Wood (Lindsay Buroker) - Extended 1Q
�� Small-town oppression (Task #3)
�� Midlife career restart (Task #4)
�� Magical fear-confronting (Task #10)

Happy reading, questers! May your TBRs be brave and your takeaways inspiring. 📚💪

Ooh now may be the month to check out Shadow and Bone

I am a little late getting caught up, I had surgery on Monday and the recovery us taking a bit longer than it should have. So sorry about that team.

Hello Team! I see that Holly has not updated anything for April, nor checked in here in the thread. Do you need a replacement? Has anyone reached out to her?

I have messaged Holly...I'll let you know.

I haven't heard back from Holly yet. We may need a replacement player.

mod message sent and the �� Deadline to reply, check in, or log books is by 11am CST tomorrow (5/12/25). I will replace her at that point with a backup, and will give you mod books for April.

Adding Ruth to your team!

Hello! I'm glad to join your team and have added my May books, to date, to the team SS. This is an exciting challenge, and it'll help me follow-through on getting my reviews written and posted! LOL!

I appreciate any tips you have or info re buddy reads so I can contribute by maximizing points earned as much as possible. 😉📚

Welcome, Ruth! Glad to have you with us!

Ruth if you have any books on your TBR that can fit the following prompts:
Read a book set during wartime that highlights courage.
I'm thinking of
Read about a natural disaster/crisis OR a "rebuilding after tragedy" story.
Read about immigrant experiences (fiction or non-fiction) OR a diaspora cultural reconnection.
just post some ideas and we can choose as a team to read any of those as a team.

Otherwise here is a good place for other Buddy reads.
/topic/group...

Catherine wrote: "Ruth if you have any books on your TBR that can fit the following prompts:
Read a book set during wartime that highlights courage.
I'm thinking of
Read about ..."

Thank you, Catherine! The English Wife does have good ratings and looks like a promising historical fiction book. I think I may have already read something that fits the set during wartime task, assuming the Cold War is acceptable.

Here are some ideas for books (nonfiction and fiction) that fit the immigrant experiences task:

(view spoiler)[The Undocumented Americans
Dear America: Notes of an Undocumented Citizen
The God Who Sees: Immigrants, the Bible, and the Journey to Belong
The Next Great Migration: The Beauty and Terror of Life on the Move
The Next Great Migration: The Story of Movement on a Changing Planet
After the Last Border: Two Families and the Story of Refuge in America
One Mighty and Irresistible Tide: The Epic Struggle Over American Immigration, 1924-1965
Separated: Inside An American Tragedy
Everyone Who Is Gone Is Here: The United States, Central America, and the Making of a Crisis
The Ungrateful Refugee
The Good Immigrant
The Land of Open Graves: Living and Dying on the Migrant Trail
Once I Was You: A Memoir of Love and Hate in a Torn America
The Warmth of Other Suns: The Epic Story of America's Great Migration
The Beekeeper of Aleppo
Americanah
Catalina
Exit West
The Sympathizer
American Street
The Sun Is Also a Star
Americanized: Rebel Without a Green Card (This is YA nonfic, but has a lot of humor and might be a nice take on the immigrant experience mixing serious with lighthearted.) (hide spoiler)]

I have access to the Beekeeper of Aleppo. Lets read that as it will help me on another challenge as well.


/book/show/4...

Catherine wrote: "I have access to the Beekeeper of Aleppo. Lets read that as it will help me on another challenge as well.


/book/show/4..."

Hi Catherine. I placed a library HOLD on The Beekeeper of Aleppo, but it's a roll of the dice if I'll get it soon enough to read it this month. And besides, no one else has spoken up about joining us for a team read.

I found that The Changeling also meets the definition of Task #9 (immigrant experience). I have that one on my TBR for May, so it could be an option too.

I still need something for Task #5 (natural disaster OR rebuilding after a tragedy). Was trying to fit this one into a BR, but all the BR books have really long library HOLD times, so it's unlikely I'll get one in May.

📣 June Reading Update: Who Am I, Really?
Focus: Identity, Self-Expression, and Truth
Bonus Genre: Young Adult (YA)

Dear Book Questers,

June is approaching, and with it comes a powerful theme that’s as personal as it is universal: Identity. For this month, we’re diving deep into stories that explore self-expression, truth, reinvention, and the journey to becoming who we truly are (or think we are).

Whether your character is discovering a new passion, grappling with mental health, living a double life, or leaving behind a world that no longer fits, each book you read in June helps you explore the question: Who am I, really?

📝 June Tasks
�� Read a coming-of-age story.
�� Read a book with a character living a double life.
�� Read a book where a name (or nickname) carries deep significance.
�� Read a story told in an unconventional format (e.g., diary, podcast, letters, dual timelines).
�� Read a book with an unreliable narrator grappling with personal truth.
�� Read a book about someone joining or leaving a community, cult, or belief system.
�� Read a book about someone exploring or embracing their gender or sexual identity.
�� Read a book where someone finds a new talent or passion.
�� Read a book that deals with a character's journey through depression or anxiety.
�� Read a book where a character reinvents themselves—for better or worse.

📚 Why June Matters (More Than You Think)
Not only is this a beautifully introspective reading month, but it’s also a foundational month for something exciting that’s coming in July. 👀 I won’t spoil the surprise (yet), but let’s just say�� it’s collaborative, it’s meaningful, and it’s something we can’t do without everyone onboard.

So, if your team’s had a quiet season, this is the moment to rally. Message your squad, check in with missing teammates, and make sure no one’s left behind. Because next month? We’ll need everyone’s voice to make it work—and trust me, you won’t want to miss what’s coming. If you need me to check in with a team member, now is the time to ask!

Get ready to read, reflect, and reconnect with who you are—and who you’re becoming. 💫

Ruth wrote: "Catherine wrote: "I have access to the Beekeeper of Aleppo. Lets read that as it will help me on another challenge as well.


/book/show/4..."

..."

True, the book looks fun so I have got it from libby but I do have #9 already completed and that book has a high page count and with no one else showing interest in a team read perhaps we can skip a group read this month 😍

Catherine wrote: "Ruth wrote: "Catherine wrote: "I have access to the Beekeeper of Aleppo. Lets read that as it will help me on another challenge as well.


/book/show/4......"

Agreed... I see you've got a couple of monster books and I would not want to lose those gigantic points!

Let's try to stir up some interest in a team read in June. Maybe we can start looking for a 200-300 pp book now that everyone can agree on, and this will give a little more lead time to check out something from the library. It helps if we avoid recently published books since they're in the highest demand and therefore have the longest hold time.

Jill, Michelle, and Shandrea... how is you reading going in May? Catherine and I have accumulated 261 points so far... more to come. 👍🏼

I have some unfortunate news. I've been having episodes where I blackout and I actually ended up in the ER with a busted head from one of the latest times. This has brought on a whole slew of appointments which just seem to be leading to more and more follow-ups and new specialists. I just don't think I can allot the time needed to continue on with this challenge. I feel it would be best to drop out at this time. I apologize for letting the team down.

Thank you so much for sharing this with us. Your health absolutely comes first, and we all completely understand. Please don’t ever feel like you’re letting anyone down �� your wellbeing matters most. We’re all sending you strength and wishing you the best as you focus on getting better. 💛


With that, I want to welcome Shaw to the team as our new player. Shaw, we’re really glad to have you with us! Please check in when you can, and I’ll update the spreadsheet and next steps for this month’s books.

Take care, everyone, and let’s keep supporting each other however we can.

I have also send Shandrea a 48-hr check-in request, and allotted you mod books for APRIL.

Shaw, as Michelle hasn't added any May books, please feel free to use any books you have read this month for the May prompts. You have been added to the SS.

Hi team! I’m Shaw and I’m excited to join y’al!

Michelle's Empty Nest wrote: "I have some unfortunate news. I've been having episodes where I blackout and I actually ended up in the ER with a busted head from one of the latest times. This has brought on a whole slew of appoi..."

Hi Michelle... I'm glad you're taking care of yourself, and I hope to join you on a future team challenge someday when you're at a place where you feel ready to participate. Be well!

Shaw wrote: "Hi team! I’m Shaw and I’m excited to join y’al!"

Welcome to the team! This is my first month in the challenge as I'm a replacement too. Glad to have you. 😄

Michelle, take care of yourself 💕