Laurens Reading Blog

Took: A Ghost Story by Mary Downing Hahn My rating: 4 of 5 stars Took: A Ghost Story was one of the first books that truly drew me into the horror genre. Looking back, I can see how much it shaped my early fascination with spooky stories. I have always been captivated by ghosts, so it is no surprise that this book immediately captured my attention when I first read it in early middle school. For its intended audience, the book is exceptional. It is eerie, suspenseful, and delivers just the right measure of fear without becoming overwhelming. Its accessible style allows readers to engage with the story effortlessly, making the haunting atmosphere and unfolding mystery its primary strengths. Although my taste in horror has evolved and I now gravitate toward novels with deeply layered characters and lingering psychological tension, I still regard Took fondly. At the time I read it, I was completely engrossed and unable to put it down. Its story, reminiscent of...

Calendar of Crime: Stories by Ellery Queen My rating: 3 of 5 stars Calendar of Crime: Stories by Ellery Queen is a collection in which the legendary detective faces a new mystery each month over the course of a year. The narrative begins with the reunion of the surviving members of Eastern University’s first graduating class, where a secretive Inner Circle has been formed around a crooked business arrangement. When three of the members die within a year, fear spreads among the remaining alumni, prompting one to seek Ellery Queen’s assistance just before Christmas. From that point onward, the detective must navigate a series of intricate puzzles, demonstrating that crime has no off-season. While the collection is cleverly constructed and may appeal to some readers, it was not to my taste. At the time I read it, I was still exploring what kind of books resonated with me, and this felt somewhat juvenile compared to my preferred style. I tend to e...

The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein My rating: 4 of 5 stars The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein was the first larger book I ever read on my own as a child, and I remember feeling incredibly proud of myself. Being dyslexic, I often felt underestimated by teachers, and attempting this book on my own was a small act of defiance and achievement. I read it during my free time, determined to prove to myself that I could tackle something bigger than the usual picture books. Beyond the personal accomplishment, the book carries a profound and multifaceted message. It can be seen as a parable about unconditional love and selfless giving, but it also invites reflection on exploitation, selfishness, and the imbalance that can exist in relationships. Themes of generosity, gratitude, and the dynamics between giver and receiver resonate deeply. Some interpretations suggest it serves as a cautionary tale for adults, reminding us to recognize and respect those...

The Ugly Pumpkin by Dave Horowitz My rating: 4 of 5 stars I first encountered The Ugly Pumpkin by Dave Horowitz when I was in first grade. My sister, who was in fifth grade at the time, read it aloud to my class as part of her school assignment. Even now, nearly twenty years old, I remember that experience vividly. The story carries a meaningful message about beauty and acceptance. It shows that if you feel out of place, it might simply mean you are looking in the wrong space. This lesson resonated deeply with me, not only because of the narrative itself but also because of the memory of my sister reading it to me. The book had a genuine emotional impact and has remained memorable over the years. For its warmth, clarity, and enduring message, I would give it four stars. It is a simple yet powerful story that has stood the test of time in my memory. View all my reviews