Here are three books I read in October 2023 that I gave five stars! What have you read lately and enjoyed?

The International House of Dereliction by Jacqueline Davies was a wonderful, not too spooky middle grade mystery/ghost story–perfect for fall reading. Ten-year-old Alice is moving for the eleventh time. But when Alice arrives at her new home, she can’t take her eyes off the house next door, the stately dark house now dilapidated and condemned. Alice sneaks in and realizes she’s not alone. Three ghosts have been watching, and they need Alice’s help to solve their unfinished business, before it is too late. This is a perfect read for kids (and adults) who want that ghostly-spooky vibe, but also want to sleep at night. I just loved it. 

Behind the Seams: My Life in Rhinestones by Dolly Parton, Holly George-Warren (Contributor), Rebecca Seaver (Contributor) was an absolute DELIGHT. I loved listening to Dolly and hearing bits of her music interspersed with conversations about her clothes. She is a treasure and an inspiration, and I highly recommend this lovely little book. 5 shiny rhinestones for sure.

I listened to The Woman in Me by Britney Spears in one day. What a powerful, heartbreaking, behind the scenes story. This has given me so much to think about–especially about how the media treats young female stars