en-US Mon, 09 Jun 2025 23:34:12 -0700 60 144 41 /images/layout/goodreads_logo_144.jpg Review7642579367 Mon, 09 Jun 2025 23:34:12 -0700 /review/show/7642579367 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 4 stars to Black as Hell, Strong as Death, and Sweet as Love: A Coffee Travel Guide (Paperback) by Steven P. Unger
bookshelves: 2025-reads, review-copy, ebooks
As an ardent lover of filter coffee, I picked up this book with great curiosity—and it didn’t disappoint. What I expected to be a light read turned out to be a deep, immersive journey into the global culture, history, and rituals surrounding coffee. From Ethiopia and Jordan to Paris, Istanbul, Turin, Cuba, New Orleans, and beyond, the chapters paint a vivid picture of how coffee connects people across countries and cultures.
Each place's brewing techniques, serving customs, and the ceremonial importance of coffee are meticulously documented in crisp prose that brings the scenes to life. The rich, vibrant photographs not only complement the text but elevate the reading experience, adding layers of visual storytelling. I especially loved the thoughtful quotes that open each chapter—they set the tone beautifully.
This book is much more than a guide; it’s a celebration of coffee as both art and ritual. Scattered throughout are fascinating facts—some surprising, even shocking. For instance, did you know coffee was once banned in 1600s Istanbul under threat of death? Or that Ethiopians used almost every part of the coffee plant centuries ago, long before brewing became widespread?
Each chapter ends with curated recipes, beverage suggestions, and contact recommendations, making it both practical and inspiring. While it would’ve been great to see more countries included, what’s here is rich, layered, and satisfying. It’s not a book you rush through—you can flip to any section and find something compelling.
Though it leans slightly textbook-like at times, the blend of storytelling, travel, history, and culture more than makes up for it.
If you love coffee—not just drinking it, but understanding its place in the world—you’ll definitely enjoy this one. I now know with joy that wherever I go, I can sip my favorite drink while appreciating the diverse, beautiful traditions behind it.
]]> Review7639748483 Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:46:04 -0700 /review/show/7639748483 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 5 stars to The Third Girl (Paperback) by S.C. Shannon
The Third Girl is a fast-paced psychological thriller that grabs you from the first page and never lets go.
Centered around three childhood friends—Christina, Emily, and Penelope—the story explores the long-lasting impact of a traumatic event that shattered their lives.
Christina receives a cryptic message and decides to check it out. When she returns to the same town where it all began, she's forced to confront the ghosts of the past. But what really happened to Penelope? And can the others ever truly heal, physically or emotionally? This is the crux of the story.
Told through three distinct points of view and weaving between past and present timelines, the narrative is layered yet flawlessly constructed. Despite the multiple perspectives and shifting timelines, the plot remains sharp, coherent, and utterly engrossing. I found myself flying through the pages, completely absorbed, and read the entire book in one sitting.
The author masterfully builds suspense—each chapter ends with a cliffhanger that urges you to keep going. Everyone seemed suspicious at first, yet somehow appear innocent as the story unfolded.
The final twist? Completely unexpected and chilling. The culprits were shockingly ruthless, and the reveal left me stunned.
What I liked most was how vividly each character was brought to life. Emily’s inner turmoil, Penelope’s resentment toward her mother, and Christina’s teenage crush on Ryan—all felt authentic and relatable.
Christina’s struggle to reclaim a sense of normalcy after the kidnapping is portrayed with raw emotion and depth. Her trauma feels real and relatable, making her journey all the more compelling and heart-wrenching.
Even the minor characters had weight and purpose in the plot. The flashbacks to the girlsâ€� youth were especially well done, with nostalgic touches that reminded me of my own teen years—until things took a dark turn.
This book highlights how easily a situation that began as a harmless prank but spiraled horribly out of control and turned into something far more sinister. The Third Girl isn’t just a crime thriller—it’s a haunting exploration of memory, trauma, and the choices that shape us.
If you're in the mood for a tightly written, emotionally charged thriller that keeps you guessing until the very end, this one is definitely worth picking up.
]]> Review7639733691 Mon, 09 Jun 2025 00:32:51 -0700 /review/show/7639733691 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 5 stars to Criminal Poetry: Crhyme Time (Paperback) by F.E. Birch
bookshelves: 2025-reads, review-copy, ebooks
This is a compelling collection of 86 poems that spans a wide emotional and thematic range—from crime, grief, and loss to love, resilience, and guarded hope. Though unified by an undercurrent of darkness, the poems are far from uniform.
Each one stands apart, offering its own rhythm, voice, and perspective, some intense and visceral, others sharp with wit or gentle melancholy.Most of the poems are brief, sharp, and pack a punch—making the collection easy to pick up and read in moments. But their brevity doesn’t mean they’re light. These verses stay with you, stirring memories, prompting reflection, and unlocking an unexpected depth of emotion. Some pieces resonated more deeply than others.
Themes of trauma, violence, and emotional vulnerability recur throughout, though not always directly. The poems don’t always spell things out; they invite you to read between the lines and feel your way through.
One of the collection’s strengths is its unpredictability. Some poems rhyme, most don’t. Some read like narrative fragments, others like emotional snapshots. All feel authentic. The tone can shift from eerie to poignant in a heartbeat.
Though the collection is raw and at times unsettling, it feels entirely intentional—perfectly in tune with the themes suggested by the title.It doesn’t shy away from discomfort, but instead leans into it—because sometimes the best poetry doesn’t soothe, it stirs.
The book’s design also deserves a mention—the blood-dripped cover is bold and symbolic, matching the mood of the poems inside.
Overall, this is more than a themed anthology—it’s an exploration of the shadows we carry and the language we use to express what’s hard to say. Some pieces will stay with you long after reading. Even if you’re not typically drawn to poetry, this collection might surprise you. It’s unflinching, thoughtful, and a reminder that poetry, at its core, is about connection—even when it explores the darker corners of the human experience. Be sure to read the TW before diving in. ]]> Review7634708626 Sat, 07 Jun 2025 06:20:27 -0700 /review/show/7634708626 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 4 stars to Chinese Parents Don't Say I Love You: A Memoir of Saying the Unsayable with Food (Kindle Edition) by Candice Chung
bookshelves: 2025-reads, paperbacks, review-copy
This is the kind of memoir that quietly nestles into your heart! What begins as a simple, almost offhand admission—that she’s never told her parents “I love you”—unravels into a tender, poignant, and at times wry exploration of culture, emotional restraint, family estrangement, and the language of food.
Newly single after a long relationship, Candice, a food journalist, is not only reeling from heartbreak but also adjusting to the loss of her most loyal dining companion. When her Cantonese parents unexpectedly step in to accompany her on her culinary outings, Candice is faced with more than just awkward mealtimes. Can they share a meal without digging up decades of distance? Can something as simple as food begin to fill the gaps that words never could?
In a culture where “I love youâ€� often goes unsaid, Chung asks what love looks like when it’s expressed through gestures instead of declarations—through packed lunchboxes, hard-earned silences, and dishes cooked just right. Her memoir captures the ache of growing up in a household where affection is carefully folded into rituals but rarely spoken aloud.
Rather than follow a traditional narrative arc, Chung invites readers to sit beside her as she flips through her photo album, sharing moments that shaped her: the sting of a breakup, the awkwardness of first dates during a pandemic, the unspeakable ache of cultural and generational disconnection.
While food is the thread that ties her story together, this is not a book about recipes. There’s a subtlety in how she lets food carry emotion where words fall short. Meals become a space where discomfort, affection, and attempts at reconnection play out.
The book ebbs and flows with the rhythm of memory—sometimes fragmented, sometimes meditative, but emotionally honest. At times the first half felt disjointed. The second half of the book, shifts its focus more toward her family, especially her parents, and that’s where the emotional weight truly lands. The silence between them, the unsaid words hanging in the air, the unspoken hurts and inherited expectations—they all come to the fore in deeply affecting ways.
The prose is sharp, reflective, and often tinged with sardonic wit. Lovers are referred to by job titles, moments of vulnerability are wrapped in dry humor, and literary references are sprinkled throughout adding layers of introspection. Yet Chung never centers herself as the most interesting thing in the story. She allows the emotions, questions, and cultural contradictions to speak louder, exploring rather than explaining.
Ultimately, Chinese Parents Don’t Say I Love You is not about confrontation, but about curiosity. It’s about learning to hear what’s been said all along through shared meals and fleeting glances. It’s a heartfelt reminder that love doesn’t always sound like “I love you”—sometimes, it looks like “You can always come home.â€�
If you’ve ever grown up in a family where love was implied more than expressed, or if you’ve ever struggled to bridge the cultural divide between generations, this book will resonate deeply. Nostalgic, wistful, quietly powerful—this is a story that lingers long after the last page. ]]> UserStatus1075958247 Sat, 07 Jun 2025 06:19:47 -0700 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf is starting <a href="/book/show/221480832-chinese-parents-don-t-say-i-love-you">Chinese Parents Don't Say I Love You</a>. ]]> Review7634197824 Fri, 06 Jun 2025 22:53:52 -0700 /review/show/7634197824 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 5 stars to Bhujang Shetty: And the Lost Treasure of Basrur Paperback â€� 22 April 2025 (Hardcover) by Gautham V. Kedoor
bookshelves: 2025-reads, review-copy, paperbacks
This is one of those books that pleasantly surprises you—what starts with a quirky, intriguing title soon unfolds into a story that offers so much more than you'd expect. Set against the rich and colorful backdrop of coastal Karnataka, this novel is a charming medley of history, humor, mystery, and heart.
At the center of it all is Bhujang Shetty, a juice shop owner with aviator goggles, a head full of dreams, and exactly zero detective training. When he stumbles upon a local legend about a lost treasure in Basrur, he decides to swap his fruit knives for a magnifying glass—dragging his loyal and hilariously grounded friend Rathnesha along for the ride. What follows is a madcap adventure filled with ancient secrets, dusty archives, unexpected detours, and coconut trees—not to mention some serious Indiana Jones energy all mixed with some charming Udupi street charm.
The writing is snappy, witty, and infused with coastal flavor. The narrative flows smoothly which is unexpectedly zesty, sometimes chaotic, completely refreshing.
From laugh-out-loud banter to clever plot twists, the story manages to stay both lighthearted and meaningful. It brings to life forgotten historical nuggets without ever sounding like a lecture!
What I really liked about this book is that it imparts a sense of place. The towns of Udupi and Basrur come alive through vivid descriptions and affectionate portrayals. The coastal setting isn’t just a backdrop but it’s a character in itself, adding warmth, humor, and texture to the story. I felt I was a part of the story as Bhujanga bumbled his way through clues.
Bhujanga himself is a wonderful character. Equal parts clueless and confident, dramatic and endearing! His friendship with Rathnesha is another thing I loved in this book, filling it with playful jabs and sincere camaraderie. Their dynamic adds richness to the fast-paced plot, and their contrasting motivations add surprising depth.
This isn’t just a treasure hunt. It’s a story about chasing what you truly want and holding on to unlikely friendships.
The humor is never forced; it bubbles up naturally, making the book feel warm, genuine, and immensely readable. The tone stays breezy even when brushing up against real historical events, which makes this a perfect pick if you’re in a reading slump.
The eye-catching cover and the fast pace will keep you flipping pages well past bedtime. It's easy to fall in love with this book—a joyful ride that feels more like a celebration than a suspenseful chase.
If you love stories rooted in local flavor, sprinkled with comedy, and carried by characters who are quirky but full of heart, this is one adventure you don’t want to miss. Highly recommended!
]]> Review7614656429 Sat, 31 May 2025 04:22:25 -0700 /review/show/7614656429 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 5 stars to Amazing Contributions of Ancient Indian sages to ‘STEAMâ€� (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) : Amazing Contributions of Ancient Indian sages ... Technology, Engineering, Arts and Maths) by Sri
bookshelves: 2025-reads, review-copy, paperbacks
I was genuinely excited to dive into this book—the title alone sparked my curiosity. What I discovered inside was even more fascinating. This book serves as an eye-opener for anyone interested in learning about the profound yet often overlooked contributions of ancient Indians to various branches of science and knowledge.
Divided into five well-structured sections, the book explores the contributions of ancient Indian sages across the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics (STEAM). It highlights how these visionaries laid the groundwork for numerous discoveries and inventions long before the modern era.
One of the aspects of the book is how it traces back to the 4th century AD, often referred to as the Golden Age of India—a time when knowledge flourished and then the time when the world’s first university was established. The book emphasizes how Indian thinkers were at the forefront of innovation, setting the stage for many developments that would shape the world for centuries to come.
What sets this book apart is its reader-friendly format. Each sage’s biography, key contributions, and even their illustrated portraits are presented clearly and concisely. The information is organized thoughtfully, often as bullet points, making it easy to absorb without feeling overwhelming.
The language is simple and accessible, with Sanskrit terms thoughtfully translated into English, ensuring that readers from all backgrounds can understand the content.
As I read through the book, I couldn’t help but marvel at how such advanced thinking and innovation emerged at a time when modern technology didn’t exist. It challenges the common assumption that scientific progress is a purely modern phenomenon.
Books like this are so important—they help us appreciate the rich intellectual heritage of India and shine a light on contributions that often go unrecognized in mainstream narratives. The author has done a commendable job of bringing this knowledge to the forefront.
This book is not just for children—it’s a valuable read for anyone interested in STEAM. It would also make an excellent gift for curious young minds, especially those fascinated by science and history. Inspiring, informative, and thought-provoking, this book deserves a place on every bookshelf.
]]> Review7614122888 Fri, 30 May 2025 20:54:40 -0700 /review/show/7614122888 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 5 stars to Godwin's Revenge (The Race Is On) by O.C. Heaton
bookshelves: 2025-reads, review-copy, paperbacks
Another gripping installment in The Race Is On series, this book continues to deliver a thrilling mix of science fiction, ethical dilemmas, and emotional depth. While it may not have been quite as fast-paced as the previous three books, it still kept me hooked with its fascinating characters, evolving plotlines, and the ever-intriguing world of LEAP technology and masqs.
The story picks up four years after the events of Atom Inc., with familiar characters returning alongside some compelling new ones. Uma remains a complex figure—morally grey, emotionally torn, and deeply human. Her actions, though at times frustrating, reflect a desperate parent trying to do what she believes is right. Jude, one of the new additions, stood out as a smart and capable character I quickly grew to like.
The book’s structure, with its date- and location-specific chapter headings, adds to the realism, grounding a high-tech narrative in a very believable world. The pacing was steady, with a strong opening chapter and an intense, fast-moving final stretch that made it hard to put the book down. The suspense builds brilliantly—especially around the question of Ethan’s fate—which kept me reading late into the night.
What makes this series so compelling is how it blends thought-provoking themes with high-stakes drama. It dives deep into the darker, more tragic consequences of technologies like LEAP and masqs, raising questions about morality, sacrifice, and privilege. I especially appreciated how it touches on real-world issues like tech companies and social media, making the story feel both futuristic and relevant.
While some chapters introduced minor characters and plotlines that felt less essential, they still added richness to the world-building. The author’s skill in portraying flawed, believable characters really shines, making it hard to know who to root for—and that’s part of what makes the story so gripping.
With plenty of twists, emotional moments, and a jaw-dropping ending, this book has cemented The Race Is On as one of my favourite sci-fi series. I’m already counting down the days until book five—because after that cliffhanger, I need to know what happens next!
]]> Review7592888087 Fri, 30 May 2025 20:50:47 -0700 /review/show/7592888087 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 5 stars to Fantastic Flora: The World’s Biggest, Baddest, and Smelliest Plants (Hardcover) by Ann McCallum Staats
Did you know that a human can safely sit on the enormous leaf of the Bolivian water lily? Or that the Traveler’s Palm is actually related to the ginger and banana families? And believe it or not, there’s a plant that eats meat—and another that looks like meat! Fascinating, isn’t it? To uncover more such surprising and quirky facts about the plant kingdom, The Fantastic Flora by Ann McCallum Staats is a must-read.
The book is divided into four captivating sections: The Big, The Bad, The Smelly, and The Exceptionally Strange—each spotlighting some of nature’s most bizarre and extraordinary botanical wonders. From towering plants and carnivorous species to those that smell downright awful or look completely out of the ordinary, this book takes you on an unforgettable tour through the plant world.
Each featured plant comes with intriguing details about its growth, structure, unique adaptations, and bizarre quirks. The author goes beyond just naming plants—she dives into their anatomy, and botanical background, and even throws in curious fun facts that add an extra layer of enjoyment.
What makes this book shine is how it doesn’t just stick to the stars of the show. Scattered throughout are random botanical nuggets that make you pause and marvel at the natural world in a whole new way. The vibrant illustrations bring each plant to life, making the reading experience even more engaging and visually delightful.
The book also includes a handy glossary, a bibliography for further reading, and an index—making it a great resource not only for curious readers but also for educators and classrooms.
Informative, entertaining, and visually appealing, The Fantastic Flora is perfect for middle graders and up. Whether you’re a budding botanist or just someone who enjoys a good science read, this book makes a great addition to your shelf—or an excellent gift for young nature enthusiasts!
]]> Review7598497070 Sun, 25 May 2025 11:05:44 -0700 /review/show/7598497070 Padmajha [PJ] Me and My Bookshelf gave 5 stars to The Best Kids Cookbook: 60 Fun and Simple Recipes to Get Kids Cooking (Hardcover) by Danielle Kartes
bookshelves: 2025-reads, review-copy, ebooks
This fun and practical cookbook is packed with over 60 kid-friendly recipes that children can make with a little adult supervision. It’s more than just a recipe collection—it’s a complete intro to the kitchen for young chefs who are eager to learn, experiment, and enjoy cooking.
The book starts with a warm and welcoming Introduction, followed by helpful sections that lay the foundation for kitchen success. These include Tips for Being a Good Cook and Baker, How to Use the Book, and an easy-to-understand guide to Recipe Symbols—like icons for gluten-free recipes, heat, skip it and more.
A standout feature is the Starter Kitchen section, which goes beyond just cooking basics. It teaches essential kitchen skills like cleanliness, safety, organization, and preparation. Young cooks will also learn how to properly use cooking tools, measure ingredients, and understand the differences between the different utensils and cooking methods.
The book also includes helpful hacks, kitchen guidelines, and an easy-to-follow vocabulary section that demystifies common cooking terms. There's guidance on how to adapt recipes for gluten-free diets and how to swap ingredients to create different flavors or accommodate preferences and dietary needs.
Recipes are grouped into six exciting sections that cover everything from breakfasts, lunchbox ideas, dips and spreads, main dishes, sides, to sweet treats. Each recipe includes the prep time, cook time, serving size, and relevant symbols. You'll find a list of supplies, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions that are easy to follow. Each recipe also features a fun tip or serving suggestion and a vibrant, mouth-watering photo of the finished dish that’s sure to inspire.
From well-loved classics like breakfast burritos and quick ketchup to creative recipes like Spicy Watermelon Fries and oven-fired chicken tendies, the variety is both satisfying and surprising. Many recipes are naturally gluten-free or come with simple adaptations—clearly noted beside the original ingredients.
All in all, this cookbook is a wonderful resource for children who enjoy helping in the kitchen or want to start cooking more independently—with a bit of guidance. It is engaging, and filled with delicious possibilities, making it an ideal pick for young food enthusiasts or a thoughtful gift for curious cooks-to-be.
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