The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

"If you have no intention of loving or being loved, then the whole journey is pointless."

by Kate DiCamillo

4 out of 5 stars

Image source: goodreads

Book Title: The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane
Author: Kate DiCamillo
Illustrator: Bagram Ibatoulline
Publisher: Chandlewick Press
Number of Pages: 208
Year of Publish: 2009
ISBN: 978-0-7636-4942-5

Once, in a house on Egypt Street, there lived a china rabbit named Edward Tulane. The rabbit was very pleased with himself, and for good reason: he was owned by a girl named Abilene, who adored him completely. And then, one day, he was lost. . . . Kate DiCamillo takes us on an extraordinary journey, from the depths of the ocean to the net of a fisherman, from the bedside of an ailing child to the bustling streets of Memphis. Along the way, we are shown a miracle -- that even a heart of the most breakable kind can learn to love, to lose, and to love again.

More info:

Goodreads

To be honest, I really didn't know about this book. When Kak Chei said that the book that we have to read together is this book, I was clueless. Hmm, what kind of book is this? At first, I thought that this book is a simple children book, but the fact said otherwise. It is more than that.

Edward is a China doll. His owner is Abilene--a young girl that really care toward Edward. She always treat Edward like a living creature. So does Abilene's grandma, Pellegrina. Edward at first didn't know about love. Even, he had no trust to love. He never expect that he can love and being loved. But, something happened to Edward. He was separated from Abilene and then his journey was begin. He meet many peoples in his journey. After all of that, Edward realize that life is actually full of love and sweet.

Edited by me

One thing for sure that I want to say is, why Edward's illustration should be like that? It's scary, in my humble opinion. In my imagination, Edward should be shaped as a cute bunny doll. Hmm, but, as long as I remember, that shaped is match with Edward's characteristic. Lol.

Right then, I like the story anyway. It's beyond my expectation. So, 4 stars for Edward Tulane.

Sincerely,

Puji P. Rahayu

The Book of Forbidden Feelings

"100 years of airplane mode."

by Lala Bohang

3 out of 5 stars

Image credit: goodreads.com

Title: The Book of Forbidden Feelings

Author: Lala Bohang

Layout: Natasha Tontey

Editor: Siska Yuanita

Publisher: Gramedia Pustaka Utama

ISBN: 978-602-03-3189-8

Reading via Gramedia Digital

I wanted to say, "I would love to know your obsessions, Is it landed house, gadgets, power, domestic life, succulent plants, achievements, money, work, more likes and followers, health, validations, sex, organic food, pets, perfect selfies, children, sports, religion, relationship, minimalism, perfection, muscles, urban toys, shoes, traveling, or fame?" but nobody is prepared for that kind of question on a first date. 

So I said, "You look great."

More info:

Goodreads

Howdy!

It's been a while since the last I read a poem book. Ehm, actually, I don't know how to call this kind of book. You know, it's not literally a novel.. but it's not a collection of poetry too. Ah, I know! Let's call this kind of book as an illustration book. Wait... Graphic Novel, I supposed.

"Self destruction also plays an important role as a self medicine."

Right, then, the last time I read graphic novel is when I read Story for Rainy Days by Naela Ali. Now, I read another graphic novel that written by Lala Bohang. Well, actually, I know about this book since a long time ago. But, me being me. I am literally lazy to read. Even, I have to admit that I got a reading slump.. and also blogging slump. My bad for this. I am trying, tho. But, in the end, not as good as I expected before. So, here is my story about Lala Bohang, The Book of Forbidden Feelings.

The Book of Forbidden Feeling -- Lala Bohang.

Well, to be honest, I don't really pay attention about what this book talking about. I know that Lala Bohang tried to tell us about love, life, passion, and other feeling through her writing and drawing. Okay, I got a mixed feeling when I read it. In some parts, I could relate with the so-called quote. Sadly, in another parts, I was like... hmm... questioning? What she want to talk about. But, let it be, in my opinion. I know that I ain't someone who can understands something so easily. I know that I need a time to really feel  the story. Oh, well, even though that in some parts I didn't get it, I still like the way Lala Bohang's writing. The illustration too. It's a good one and I like it. Hmm, I like the cover too. It's simple and attractive. So, it will make anyone curious to buy and read this book, in my humble opinion. I have to admit that I interest to read this book from the cover.

"I'm gonna explode into peaces. This is too much."

Well, if you wanna feel corny, just read this graphic novel. You will know that you have a mixed feeling that really... hmm.. tiring? Maybe. But, wait, I would like to warn you, If you are really that pessimist in life.. hm.. don't dare to read this book.

3 stars for the cute illustration.

Sincerely,

Puji P. Rahayu

If My Moon was Your Sun

"You can't always see the moon, but you know it 's always there. Right?" -- Grandpa.

by Andreas Steinhofel

4 of 5 stars

Image source: goodreads.com

Title: If My Moon Was Your Sun
Author: Andreas Steinhofel
Illustrator: Nele Palmtag
Translator: Mathew A. Anderson
Genre: Children fiction, illustration book
Publisher: Plough Publishing House
Date of Publish: November, 1st 2017
Number of pages: 80 pages
ISBN: 9780874860795
I got this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Did you hear the story about Max, the boy who kidnapped his grandfather from a nursing home ? You didn't see it on the news? Well, let me tell you about it.

Max lives in a small town, much smaller than yours. His grandpa is losing his memory, but still remembers quite a bit. You can imagine how they hurried, Max and his grandpa, followed by old Miss Schneider, who insisted on coming along. Why were they in a hurry? Because everyone was after them. Max had skipped school to rescue his grandpa, and they were just starting out on what promised to be one of the best days of their entire lives.

A touching story about dementia and the special relationship between grandparents and grandchildren, with full-color illustrations and a read-along CD audiobook featuring twelve classical pieces for children by Georges Bizet and Sergei Prokofiev.

More info:

Goodreads

Well, in my opinion, If My Moon was Your Sun is quite different compared to another children's book that I've read before. But, it doesn't mean that I don't like this book. I really like it. The story and the illustrations are really heart-warming. 

The nursery house

One day, Max woke up from his sleep. He felt something missing. After he thought for a sec, he realized about something and decided to make some crazy plan. So, he started to prepare everything. Then, he went out to go to nursery house. Well, long story short, Max missed his grandfather. No wonder if he want to do something. Some plant that wouldn't please his mom if she knew. Do you know what Max would do? Yeah, Max would kidnap his grandfather along with Miss Schneider. What will happen next? Just read the story, guys!

Max and Miss Schneider

First of all, I would like to say, good job for the story! Maybe, you will think that this book is only about Max's adventure with his grandfather, but, there's something behind it. There is some moral value that Steinhofel want to share with. It's about family, and in some way is about the knowledge of moon. Second, I really like the illustrations. It's really good and very impressive. In my opinion, it's more like painting--and in some way, it remind me with Naela Ali's work at Story for Rainy Days. I like the color combination and the drawing itself. Nele palmtag has done her job nicely! Thumbs up for her.

Max and his grandfather

So, if you wanna know more about the story, just buy this book and feel the excitement when you read it.

4 stars for the nice painting.

Sincerely,

Puji P. Rahayu

The Girl Who Said Sorry

All I can do is be myself. Without apology!

by Hayoung Yim

5 of 5 stars

Image credit: goodreads.com

Title: The Girl Who Said Sorry
Author: Hayoung Yim
Genre: Children fiction, illustration book
Publisher: Rhyming Reason Books
Date of publish: October 5th 2017
Number of pages: 16 pages
ISBN: 9780993717499
I got this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Too girly or too boyish. Too thin or too fat. Too quiet, too loud. Be ambitious, but don't hurt feelings. Be inquisitive, but don't interrupt. Be outspoken, but don't be bossy. Most of all, be yourself--but be a lady.

What's a girl to do in a world filled with contradicting gender expectations, aside from saying sorry?

The way we teach politeness norms to children is often confusing, changing based on gender--and can have lasting effects. And while everyone should be courteous and accountable for their actions, apologetic language out of context can undermine confidence and perceived capability.

Within the subtle yet beautiful illustrations and powerful rhyme of "The Girl Who Said Sorry," developing girls will learn that self-expression and personal choices can be made without apology, and with confidence.

50% of profits from this book is donated to Girl Up, a United Nations Foundation campaign dedicated to empowering young girls to take action on global issues

More info:

Goodreads

Sorry. I am sorry for can't being perfect. I am sorry for everything I did. I know that everyone don't want me to do that. I am really sorry.

As a girl, you must be realize that the society ask you too much. They want you to be the girl that they want to. They never ask your opinion. They never give you a chance to speak up by your own voice. When we think about this deeply, we should know that everything in this world still into patriarchal system. When woman or girl should act and behave according the traditions. In the end, woman or girl still get the limit to express themshelves.

The excerpt

First, I thought that this The Girl Who Said Sorry was just like another children's book. But, the author, Hayoung Yim, tried to make this book different. She tried to include many moral value about a girl in society. Honestly, I really like the way Yim did what she did. I could relate with the story. The illustrations itself was really simple. But, the meaning behind it was so complicated and of course relate with the real condition in my society.

In essence, one important thing that Yim would to tell to the reader is, no matter what society want to, you should be your own self if you wanna be happy and no need apology for everything that you do.

5 stars for the discourse behind the story. 

Sincerely,
Puji P. Rahayu

Polar Bear Postman

This is Milk, the post master at Polar Bear Post Office. He delivers happiness when he delivers the mail.

by Seigo Kijima

4 of 5 stars

image source: goodreads.com

Title: Polar Bear Postman
Author: Seigo Kijima
Genre: Children's fiction, illustration book
Publisher: Museyon
Date of publish: November, 1st 2017
Number of pages: 32 pages
ISBN: 9781940842219
I got this ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Milk is the polar bear postmaster of the forest. One day he receives a card that says “Please help!” It is from a red-crested crane couple whose chick has gone missing. Spring gives way to summer and Milk receives another post card—this time from a red-crested crane couple who live in another district telling him that they have been taking care of a lost crane chick and asking for help in finding its family. Milk is modeled on an actual polar bear living in the Kushiro Zoo in Hokkaido, who is so adept at walking erect on his two hind legs that visitors say he looks like a person in a bear suit. The bear is joined in this amusing story by a variety of animal species native to Hokkaido

More info:

Goodreads

Like I said before, I really like to read children's book. Why? Because, the book itself is cute and heartwarming. So does this book. Polar Bear Postman is an illustration book by Seigo Kijima. When I read this book, I started to fall in love with the illustrations. In my opinion, it looks like oil painting and of course, it was really good.

First excerpt.

Mr. Milk is a postman at Polar Bear Post Office. He usually works at his office to stamp all of the mail that received by the post office. Then, he would deliver it to every creature in the forest. One day, he got some letter that addressed to him. In that letter, a couple of red-crown crane told him that their baby was missing. Mir Milk knew that this problem was serious. So, he decided to ask every creature in the forest about that little-baby. He was brave enough to ask the fox and the eagle. After that, he asked help from his friend to look for the baby. Finally, some good news came and Mr. Milk succeed help the red-crown crane couple. 

Second excerpt

The story from this book is really simple. That's why I like reading children's book. I don't have to use much effort to finish it. I like the way Seigo Kijima write his work. The bear, Mr Milk, is really cute. Maybe, if I can meet him, I will hug him instantly. Then, the story won't make the reader confuse. The important thing from children's book is the moral value, and I think Kijima could deliver his value through this simple story.

Ahh, I wanna read another children's book again. It really made my day :D

4 stars for the cute bear.

Sincerely,
Puji P. Rahayu

Stories for Rainy Days Volume 2

I never feel that I am the one who loves more or he is the one who loves more. Our love is equal.

by Naela Ali

3 of 5 stars

Image source: Goodreads

Title: Story for Rainy Days Volume II

Author: Naela Ali

Date of publish: February, 2017

Designer: Naela Ali

Illustrator: Naela Ali

Editor: Katrine Gabby Kusuma

Publisher: POP

ISBN: 978-602-424-290-9

Read via Scoop

It was still raining.
As her cat looked outside
the window where the raindrops
fell on to the monstera leaves,
she put that furry little thing
on her lap and continued
reading the stories.

More info:

Goodreads

Reading the volume II of Story for Rainy Days still make me heartwarming. It was good and also, make me feel sad. Even though for the illustration, I like the first volume, but this book still good. I like the way Naela did her creation. 

Love is not a competition of winning each other's attention. Love is a teamwork.-- pg. 5

You are home to me. A place I will miss when I'm away. A place where I belong.-- pg. 24. 

Actually, I am really wondering, is this book based on Naela's story? Or, this is just her thinking about life and relationship? I have to admit that I am a drama queen. I could sad because of what I read.. I could laugh because of what I a heard. I could angry angry because of what I saw. So, when I can literally cry because of Naela's word, it's just because I couldn't handle to cry.

His body was still with me but his heart had been away for so long that I didn't notice when was the last time I had it in mine.-- pg. 85.

The thing from Naela's work and word are, I could relate in some parts. Like, I wanna scream and say, "this is so me". If I am not mistaken, Naela said that actually November is her month. She is really waiting for November. Then, something happened, so she really hate November. Well, I have the same experience. For me--and for another people, February is really a sweet month. But, something happened and I decided to say that, I hate Valentine. Wait, is this story appear on the first volume? Eugh. Sorry for my mixed-mind. Fyuuh. I just checked and it was true that the story about November is on this volume.

November was my favorite month. The month I was always looking for. But now, November is just another month passing. Nothing special to look forward to.-- pg. 95.

People have their own way of saying goodbye, it might be cruel or it might be so tender that you didn't notice it was a farewell.-- pg. 104. 

Well, most of Naela's word is about relationship. The thing that.. I don't really success of. Lol. Oh, c'mon, Puj. What do you expect from your past relationship? Nothing, right? Just give you more pain, tho. Not pain, actually. Just something that would make you stuck. Stuck to get close with another person. Yeah, could be. I mean, I couldn't really easily to get close with another person. Maybe, it's because of my mind still stuck and think that... relationship just make me hurt. Lol. I still couldn't believe what relationship could affect me after all this time. It's been more than five years but I still hesitate to get another story of my own relationship.

I think love is no different than cactus. Everybody knows that it's going to hurt if you touch them, but you touch it anyway. -- pg. 143.

Maybe we will meet again, in the older version of us. That day we will be ready for each other. Not right now, when we are so destructive, killing each other with our own egos. One day, I will be right for you and you will be right for me. Not today, but someday. Eventually. -- pg. 163. 

Okay, then, in essence, I am falling in love with what Naela Ali's do. She is amazing and has a good talent. I think I wanna know about her latest book. Eugh, actually I am a little bit sad because I couldn't attend her book launching because I was sick :( Right, then.

3 stars for the cat :)

Sincerely, 

Puji P. Rahayu

Goodnight, Mr. Clutterbuck

Mr. Clutterbuck is a hero of the town in his sleep

by Mauri Kunnas

4 of 5 stars

image source: goodreads.com

Title: Goodnight, Mr. Clutterbuck

Series: Herra Hakkarainen #1

Genre: Children's fiction and illustrated book

Author: Mauri Kunnas

Number of pages: 36 pages

Expected Publication: November 28th, 2017

Publisher: Elsewhere

ISBN: 0914671766

I got this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

Mr. Clutterbuck is blissfully unaware of his reputation as the busiest and loudest sleepwalker in town. Meek and mild-mannered when awake, at night Mr. Clutterbuck seeks thrills and adventures. Often the accidental instigator of chaos, Mr. Clutterbuck soon becomes the lead singer of a rock band, an entrepreneur, a disco king, and, eventually, the hero of his town.

More information:

Goodreads

Yeay! Another children book for me.

Well, when I read children book, I always remind my self that, there's always no word of late to read this kind of book. *self-defense. 

Actually, I read this book because I wanna some escape from reading article journal or any other material for my college. Eugh. I know that being a final year student is not easy. But, I just need some escape beside playing in Telegram. Ups. Yes, I am playing some game in Telegram and it's really fun. You have to try some day.

Okay. Back to this ARC. I got this ARC on Netgalley. Since the first time I joined Netgalley, I always like to read children book because I am falling in love with illustration book. For this book, I really apprecate what Mauri Kunnas did. Kunnas, in my opinion, did a great job with the story. Of course. I like what Mr. Clutterbuck did.

From the blurb, you would know that Mr. Clutterbuck was a sleepwalker. Without realizing, at every night, Mr. Clutterbuck got so many adventures. From helping some food industry until catch a thief. The thing is, Mr Clutterbuck never realized that he became the hero of the town.

When I read this, I really like the illustration. I don't know why but I felt that the illustration of this book is different from another children book that I've ever read--like Happy Birthday and Happiness doesn't Come from Handstand. It's more like painting for me than just illustrated book. Honestly, I really love it.

Then, when I searched about this book in Goodreads, I just realized that this book is the first book of the series. Lol. Should I read the next book? It could be of course. If I could acces the second book. Right then, I feel satisfy when I read this book. So fun and relaxing.

4 stars for the Mr. Clutterbuck's adventure.

Sincerely,
Puji P. Rahayu

Happy Birthday!

It doesn't matter how far you go; I will love you. Always.

by Mamoru Suzuki

4 of 5 stars

Image source: Goodreads

Title: Happy Birthday
Author: Mamoru Suzuki
Genre: Children's fiction, illustration book
Publisher: Museyon
Expected publication: November, 1st 2017
Number of pages: 32 pages
ISBN: 9781940842202
I got this ARC via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review

The occasion of a birthday provide the opportunity to look back at the long days spent waiting patiently for the baby to be born, the special day it arrives, and the miraculous perfection of every stage of its growth. Soft, warm colors and cozy images are accompanied by a spare text that perfectly captures the all-encompassing love parents for their children. This birthday book will resonate with anyone who has loved a child. It is a gift that every child deserves.

More info about this book:

Goodreads

Children's fiction would be one of my favorite genre. It wouldn't take too much time and, yeah, it doesn't need much effort to read it. When I remade account in Netgalley, I started to interest with children's fiction. One of them is this Mamoru Suzuki's work. Actually, I started to interest with this book because of the cover. Eugh, I couldn't resist a cat picture like that. So much cute.

My most favorite illustration in this book.

In essence, this book told us about a short letter from a mother to her son. The mother told her son about how he grew up from inside her tummy until when he could go anywhere. It was just a reminder about one special day when he could see the world with his own eyes. It's just a reminder that, no matter how far he would go, his mother would always remember everything about him.

I like Suzuki's work actually. The illustrations was cute and still tho, I like the cat. I always sad when I remember that my cat has been gone. But then, I still love cat. Even though this book was really thin--eugh, I just can hope that this book would be thicker, the simplest value from it has been delivered neatly. 

Finishing this book, make me wonder how's the other Suzuki's work.

Four stars for the cat.

Sincerely,

Puji P. Rahayu