That Blue Sky Feeling, Vol. 1 by Okura

Illustrated by Coma Hashii Translated by Jocelyne Allen 4 stars I finished Okura’s I Think Our Son is Gay series and absolutely loved it so I thought I’d give his original webcomic story a try. Noshiro is starting at yet another new school. He doesn’t have a problem making new friends, but when he encounters…

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Moomin: The Complete Tove Jansson Comic Strip, Vol. 2 by Tove Jansson

4 stars Another delightful, insightful, and wonderfully odd collection of comics. From hiring a maid to building a house, there are big changes in store for Moomin and his family in this volume. Notable characters are added to the cast including Mrs. Fillyjonk, Little My, and Misabel. Wonderful artwork that matches the whimsy, absurdity, and…

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I Think Our Son Is Gay, Vol. 5 by Okura

Translated by Leighann Harvey 5 stars A heartwarming ending to a fantastic series. I have loved watching all the characters grow and learn in each volume. In the final volume, we see Hiroki explore his love of dance and become a bit more confident, Yuri start digging into his lack of interest in romantic relationships,…

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Evidence: Poems by Mary Oliver

5 stars This is the second collection I’ve read from Mary Oliver and I loved it just as much as the first. Beautiful, splendid, contemplative poetry centered around the natural world and life in general. So many wonderful images invoked on every page. A fantastic reflection on life and the joy of witnessing the animals,…

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Gorgeously Me! by Jonathan Van Ness

Illustrated by Kamala Nair 4 stars An adorably sweet book with wonderfully bright illustrations. Told through flowing rhyme and a catchy refrain, the book encourages self-love and acceptance, teamwork, helping others, and individuality. Beautiful messages and a soothing rhythm. The artwork is absolutely beautiful. Gorgeous details and colors. A wonderful, heartfelt read. Goodreads

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I Think Our Son Is Gay, Vol. 4 by Okura

Translated by Leighann Harvey 5 stars Absolute perfection. This is such a wonderful, wholesome series. This volume focuses on friendships growing apart, stereotypical assumptions and society’s conditions on acceptance, body image, and gender norms. I love how much Tomoko has developed and learned through her interactions with Hiroki as well as her coworkers. We also…

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Pengrooms by Paul Castle

3.5 stars Such a sweet story. Pringle and Finn make fantastical custom cakes for various animal couples and help make their weddings perfect. When it’s time for the penguins own wedding, the other animals return the favor. This is so cute. The illustrations are adorable. A nice gentle story without a big conflict. Also includes…

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The Secret Ingredient by Paul Castle

3 stars Another adorable cake-themed adventure featuring Pringle and Finn. In this one, the penguin couple delivers various birthday cakes to their animal friends until it’s time for a very special birthday cake and a new addition to the family. Sweet artwork with lovely details. A gentle story that makes for a soothing read. These…

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