book review: The Extraordinary Disappointments of Leopold Berry V-01 by Ransom Riggs

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 5/5

The faux-distressed VHS tape cover of this book instantly drew me in, reminiscent of my childhood. The story within the pages then managed to fully transport me.

Leopold Berry feels like a reflection of every one of our childhoods. I adored the bond with his best friend Emmett, although their play cinematography took them to the magical place of Sunder, something unfortunately my friends and I weren't capable of when growing up. 

These two friends, along with another companion they acquire along the way, try to uncover the clues left by Leopold's mother to determine whether his strange visions and knack for magic mean he could be the one to help save Sunder.

I was invested from page one, whether it was Rigg's delightful world-building or a desire to discover what would happen to the characters as the plot deepened. I wish this was wrapped together with volume 2 because I am dying to know what happens next! I have requested Vol 2 through NetGalley and am crossing my fingers I get it!

check out our in-stock products!

fort & field's specialty is sourcing products from around the world.

As a small business importer, ever-changing tariffs and significantly increased shipping costs have made it difficult to keep our entire assortment in stock and at reasonable prices. However...we've still got a wonderful selection available for the holidays! 

Check out "all products" to shop the bells, party supplies, and giftables that are in stock. If something piques your interest, snatch it up as what I have of most items is all I have left and will not be restocked until the cost of importing is reduced!

 

 

Also check out the "scratch & dent" section. I will be using this interim time to sort through and clean out some older and damaged stock. Scratch & dent items are final sale.

book review: Hoist House - A Novella and Stories

⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 4/5

With deep roots in the state, the author sets all six short stories and the concluding novella in Minnesota. Local readers will enjoy references to familiar towns and establishments, though these details never detract from the experience for those that do not hail from the state.

Robertson is a remarkably efficient writer. She crafts diverse and compelling characters, evocative settings, and deep emotion using very few words -- one story spans less than two pages yet delivers a complete, impactful narrative. The final novella follows early immigrants navigating language barriers, class structures, and shifting family dynamics while working the local iron ore mines. While fascinating, the novella feels a bit dense. Packing so much story and dialogue into a short format leaves the plot feeling crowded. It would make a wonderful full-length novel, giving the rich storyline more room to breathe. 

Ultimately, this collection is highly recommended for anyone seeking thought-provoking stories about identity, sexuality, and personal growth. I will definitely be reading more of Robertson's work.