Articles
Here’s everything, ordered from newest to oldest
Revel in all the bookish things…
18 Books to Break Your Heart
It’s m’duty to tell you that this article contains affiliate links, which earn me commission at no extra cost to you. Here’s my disclosure policy. Sometimes, what you need from a book is a good, hard cry. Here are a few tear-jerky titles that will take you on an...
20 Books About Hoaxes, Humbugs, and Tall Tales
It’s m’duty to tell you that this article contains affiliate links, which earn me commission at no extra cost to you. Here’s my disclosure policy. Hey! What's that over there???? Made you look! 🤪 Oh, pranks. They are fun for the prankster, but not usually for the...
Books with deceptive, manipulative characters
It’s m’duty to tell you that this article contains affiliate links, which earn me commission at no extra cost to you. Here’s my disclosure policy. These books feature characters that scheme, manipulate, and deceive to get what they want, concealing their true...
Books you don’t know by authors you do
Not every book written by a famous author rises to fame. Here are a few hidden gems by timeless names. I hope you find something you like! 1. A Pair of Blue Eyes by Thomas Hardy In remote Cornwall, nineteen-year-old Elfride Swancourt falls for Stephen Smith, a...
Reflections on Aunt Philippa and the Men
These questions accompany The Novel Envelope, Vol. 2, July 2025. I can't wait for you to read this hilarious story about a wedding nearly thwarted. After you've read it—not before to avoid spoilers—use these questions for personal reflection, class discussion,...
Fictional towns we wish were real
Here’s to the bookish towns we wish were real. Whether nestled in the countryside, hidden in bustling cities, or shimmering just beyond the edges of reality, these fictional towns beckon us.
Books That Capture Summer on the Page
It’s m’duty to tell you that this article contains affiliate links, which earn me commission at no extra cost to you. Here’s my disclosure policy. Oh, the joy of summer reading. Here are some books that are either: set during the summer, or evoke those languid,...
Lesser-Known Classic and Vintage Children’s Books That Hold Up for Adults
Check out these lesser-known classic and vintage children’s books that adults will enjoy in their own right.
Book Club Guide for Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
Grab this book club guide for Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier, and you’ll have everything you need to read this classic suspense novel with your friends.
The Sweet & Shortlist: Shy, Awkward Protagonists You Can’t Help But Love
Discover three books (a classic, a backlist book, and a new release) that feature shy, awkward protagonists who manages to be lovable and not annoying.
Year in Books Template (Free Printable)
This year-in-books template will help you track, reflect, and award everything you read this year.
Printable Book Club Discussion Guide: Deep questions to ask about any book
Here’s a printable book club discussion guide with thought-provoking questions that will work for any title and spark lively conversation.
Book Club Guide for Emma by Jane Austen
Grab this book club guide for Emma by Jane Austen, and you’ll have everything you need to read this classic romance with your girlfriends.
The Sweet & Shortlist: 3 Quick, Light Reads
If you’re looking for quick, short reads, then I’ve got three book recommendations for you. A forgotten classic, a backlist gem, and a new release by a small press.
Uncover Your Perfect Agatha Christie Whodunit
Dive into a world of mystery with my Agatha Christie quiz and uncover which lesser-known whodunnit is perfect for you!
Quiz: Which Lesser-Known British Classic Should You Read Next?
Here’s a fun, quick quiz that’ll tell you which lesser-known British classic novel is your perfect match. You’re seven questions away from your next great read.
Which Fictional BFF Are You?
Take this quiz and find out which bookish BFF you are most like—and get book recommendations to go with your results.
Quiz: Which Jane Austen Heroine Are You?
Which Jane Austen heroine are you most like? Take the quiz to find out—and get some book recommendations to go with your results.
9 Easy Ways You Can Support Authors You Love
Here are nine easy ways you can support authors you love. Just a small effort on your part can make a big difference to emerging authors.
Book reviews for February 2024
My book reviews for February include quite a mix! Fantasy, mystery, nonfiction, and middle-grade historical fiction.
Book reviews for January 2024
My book reviews for January 2024 include a heap of wonderful children’s fiction, plus a fantasy that’s pure fun.
How to screen a book for content warnings and triggers (with video)
Here’s exactly how I find triggers and content warnings for books so that I’m not caught off guard by story elements that I’d rather avoid. Like clowns.
Book reviews for December 2023
My book reviews for December include a massive classic, a regency romance, and a newly published YA fairy tale.
Book reviews for November 2023
My book reviews for November include some great YA fiction and some tiny books that pack a punch.
35 Winter Books for Moms: Holiday reads, winter classics, and family faves
Snuggle up by the fire with one of these 35 winter books for moms. There’s nothing better than burrowing into a blanket by the fire and turning pages while the snow falls outside.
Book reviews for October 2023
Come and check out my book reviews for October 2023. I’ve got throwback kids’ fiction, a landmark fantasy, and some solid women’s fiction.
The pros and cons of reading Christian fiction
What are the pros and cons of reading Christian fiction? Here, I list five things I love about Christian fiction and five things that I find disappointing.
Book reviews for September 2023
My book reviews for September 2023 include a super-short planning how-to for busy moms, plus some good fiction and children’s books.
Book reviews for August 2023
Check out my book reviews for August 2023. This month was dominated by stellar middle-grade books and disappointing adult novels.
Is it okay to read explicit books?
Is it okay to read explicit books that contain an overabundance of sex, violence, and cussing? How much is too much?
57 Comfy Books to Snuggle Up With This Autumn: Fall’s Finest for Moms
Autumn is the perfect time to cozy up with a book. Here are my favorite fall books for moms who are looking for a seasonal read to recharge their batteries.
25 Encouraging Books for Christian Homeschool Moms
The ultimate booklist to bounce back from mommy burnout. Whether you need a pep talk or some strategies to try, these 25 encouraging books for Christian homeschool moms have your back.
Book Reviews for July 2023
My book reviews for July 2023 include a gracelaced devotional, a stellar new middle-grade, a true crime story, and one of the oldest stories known to man.
Book Reviews for June 2023
My book reviews for June 2023 include two brand-new romances, a book on the parables of Jesus, and my first WW2 historical fiction in a LONG time.
18 Sunny Summer Reading Book Lists for High School (No Depressing Stories)
Need a book to hand your teen this summer? These summer reading book lists for high schoolers are loaded with great books that won’t leave them feeling depressed or stressed. Here comes the sun!
Escape into a World of Words: 19 Summer Reading Book Lists for Middle Schoolers and Tweens
These 19 summer reading book lists for middle school will have your 7th and 8th graders escaping into a world of words that will capture their imagination and (just maybe) turn them into lifelong bookworms!
Adventure Awaits: 23 Summer Reading Book Lists for Upper Elementary Students (Ages 9-12)
These 23 summer reading book lists for upper elementary kids will keep your 9- to 12-year-olds stocked with awesome literary adventures that’ll last all summer long. Perfect for 4th, 5th, and 6th graders.
How I created a FUN summer reading challenge for my kids (that’s EASY for me!)
Not crazy about your library’s summer reading challenge? Here’s how I created a custom summer reading challenge for my kids. It’s simple and fun. What more can you ask?
Book Reviews for May 2023
My book reviews for May 2023 include a backlist title by an author I love, a DNF of a mega-popular novel, and some great kids books (as always).
Dive into Imagination! 21 Summer Reading Book Lists for Early Elementary Kids (Ages 6-9)
Dive into these 21 summer reading book lists for early elementary kids that will help your emerging reader fall in love with books over summer break!
22 Superb Summer Reading Book Lists for Mom
This collection of summer reading book lists for mom will explode your TBR with beach reads. Here’s to easy, entertaining summer reading!
Summer Reading Challenge 2023
Looking for a FUN summer reading challenge to do with your family? One that isn’t too blah or bonkers? Well, do I have something for YOU!
Book Reviews for April 2023
Here are my book reviews for April 2023. My reading revolved around Shakespeare’s birthday and Middle Grade March. Come see what’s new!
Michelle’s Master List of Book Reviews
Here’s my master list of book reviews. Yep, every book I’ve reviewed on the site so that you can find what you’re looking for in a flash.
5 Free printable reading trackers for adults
Here are 5 free printable reading trackers that are perfect for adult book lovers! The bundle includes soft colors as well as black and white versions.
Book Reviews for March 2023
My book reviews for March 2023 include a few ADORABLE romcoms, an emotional novel that brought me to tears, and lots of fun middle-grade series.
3 Printable Pride and Prejudice Reading Schedules: Finish in 1, 2, or 4 Weeks
Finally check this classic novel off your bucket list (even if you don’t do classics). Choose from three Pride and Prejudice reading schedules to finish in 1, 2, or 4 weeks.
Best Page-Turner Books, According to 12 Devoted Readers and Authors
Say goodbye to that reading slump! Here are the best page turner books that’ll have you reading past your bedtime, according to 12 readers and authors.
Book Reviews for February 2023
Here are my book reviews for February 2023. I’m in the middle of a doorstopper classic. I read YA fantasy, a modern romance, and a bunch of kids books.
Book Reviews for January 2023
Here’s what I read in January 2023. One stellar memoir. A nostalgic new middle-grade novel. Loads of children’s books.
Papa Panov’s Special Christmas Read-Along
Read the short story Papa Panov’s Special Christmas, written by Ruben Salliens and translated by Leo Tolstoy. Or listen to me narrate the story to you on audio.
Your Year in Books 2022
Here’s how to take a snapshot of your Year in Books. I’ll show you mine for 2022, and you can use it as a template to map your best-loved reads of the year.
Book Reviews for Winter 2022
Here are my book reviews for winter 2022. Lots of five-star books this month, including two atmospheric literary novels and (probably) the best motherhood book I’ve ever read.
Christmas at Red Butte Read-Along
Join us for a festive holiday read-along of “Christmas at Red Butte,” a charming short story by L. M. Montgomery. Great for homeschool literature and book club-style discussions.
Anne of Green Gables Gifts to Delight Kindred Spirits
Want to find just the right gift for the kindred spirit in your life? These Anne of Green Gables gifts are perfect for fans of the beloved novels.
Jane Austen Gifts That Ardent Admirers Will Adore
Find the perfect Jane Austen gifts for every type of fan. Regency romantic? Witty ironic? This Austentatious gift guide has you covered.
Book Reviews for September 2022
Here are my book reviews for September 2022. This month, I’m sharing a celeb book club pick that I actually enjoyed, plus the audiobook to rule them all.
Book Reviews for August 2022
My 5-star book reviews for August 2022 include the latest Amor Towles and Andy Weir, plus several children’s award-winners.
Book Reviews for July 2022
My book reviews for July 2022 include a Regency romance, deep Christian nonfiction, and two major DNFs.
Book Reviews for June 2022
Book reviews for June 2022 are in! One divine classic, plus several cozy romances, and some literary novels that gave me mixed feelings.
Looking for authors similar to Jane Austen? Here are 8 to get you started
Jane Austen is in a class by herself. But, if you’ve devoured all her novels and want more, here are seven authors similar to Jane Austen that die-hard fans will love.
28 best mystery audiobooks that’ll keep you guessing (and gasping)
Huzzah for mysteries! They’re even better in the hands of a talented narrator. This list of best mystery audiobooks has a bit of everything, from classics to cozy plots to gritty thrills.
Best books for the nursery that baby AND mom will love
What are the best books for the nursery? I’ve got you covered with my family’s most loved, most requested picture books that will stand the test of time (and a thousand rereads).
Book Reviews for May 2022
Here are my book reviews for May 2022, including two great nonfiction titles, a slow-burn romance and a totally unexpected children’s classic.
Book Reviews for April 2022
My book reviews for April 2022. Lots of great fiction, children’s stories, and one motherhood book.
20 Best books to read in springtime
Here’s my go-to list of books to read in spring, when you’re craving something bright, warm and active.
Read to relax (here’s why it works)
I read to relax and destress, and I bet you do, too. But WHY is reading so relaxing? Here’s why books are your fast track to R&R.
Let’s lose ourselves in books!
Losing yourself in a book is more than just enjoying a bit of entertainment. It’s sanctifying to your soul. Here’s why.
Book reviews for March 2022
My book reviews for March 2022. I read middle-grade, historical romance, and mommy encouragement.
10 Easy Patterns to Knit and Crochet While Listening to Audiobooks
Audiobooks and yarn go together like rama lama ding dong. Here are my favorite EASY patterns to knit and crochet while listening to audiobooks.
Minimalist reading tracker template (free printable)
Need a free, printable reading tracker template? Here’s a bundle that you can download and use right now for free. Includes color and B&W.
9 Charlotte Mason Podcasts for Homeschooling Encouragement in 2022
There is a Charlotte Mason podcast to support you in every stage of your homeschool journey. Here are a few of my faves!
Best books to get lost in (the immersive and unputdownable)
When life gets crazy, there’s nothing like a book to sweep you away. Here are the best books to get lost in.
55 Reading journal prompts that work for ANY book (+free printable)
Grab your favorite pen! Here are my best reading journal prompts for adults, kids, and even book clubs.
List of period dramas based on gorgeous novels
Here’s the ultimate list of period dramas based on beautiful novels. They’ll inspire you to devour more books—especially those rich, romantic classics you’ve been meaning to read.
Why the world needs readers (like you)
Is being a reader that important in the big scheme of things? Actually, YES, it is. Discover why the world needs readers now more than ever.
How to listen to an audiobook for free (right now, legally)
Audiobooks are pricey. But you can listen to an audiobook for free—right now AND on the up-n-up. Here’s how.
Redeeming Love Movie Review (by a longtime fan of the book)
What do fans of the classic, Christian romance novel think of the movie? Here’s my Redeeming Love movie and book review.
The best way to listen to an audiobook (so you enjoy it)
Here’s the best way to listen to an audiobook—so that you actually enjoy the experience. Discover why so many people LOVE books on audio.
Best books to get back into reading after a major slump
Been a while since your last page-turner? Here are the best books to get back into reading after a long literary lull.
How can you tell if a book is good?
Is this book any good? It seems like it should be an easy question to answer. Here’s a simple way to figure it out for yourself.
Is reading books good for you?
Is reading books good for you? Or is it a time-waster that detracts from your spiritual walk?
Reading is not a guilty pleasure
Why do you feel so guilty for taking time to read books? Let’s release the guilt and embrace the gift.
Get back into reading books again (and LOVE it!)
“I used to love reading, but somewhere along the way, I stopped. I want to read more like I used to, but I don’t even know where to start. Help me rekindle the spark!”
What was THE book that made you a reader?
You’ve been a reader for as long as you can remember. Now think back. Way, way back. When did it start for you? Can you remember a specific book that lit the first flame?