Friday, August 21, 2026

Review: Where's Waldo? Spooky Spot the Difference



With fall and Halloween approaching, this feels like the perfect time to pick up Where’s Waldo? Spooky Spot the Difference by Martin Handford. If you’re looking for something to get you into the Halloween spirit, this book is a great choice. Look closely and see just how many of the differences you can spot. 

In this book, Waldo and the gang are on a pumpkin hunt for Halloween. Readers have to look very carefully at the pictures and find all of the differences hidden throughout the puzzles. Along the way, you’ll spot plenty of spooky characters, including zombies, ghosts, vampires, and monsters. All of these details make the book an engaging and interactive experience. 

What I like most about this book is that it makes you slow down and really pay attention to what you are looking at. With so many details in each picture, you have to take your time and look closely. I like that it makes you notice things you might normally miss. Some differences are easier to find than others, so it can be fun to keep looking until you spot them all. 

The Halloween theme makes this book especially fun for fall. It would make a great activity for a cozy afternoon at home. I think it would also make a great addition to your little one's boo basket!




Where's Waldo? Spooky Spot the Difference (Candlewick Press - on sale now)

 

Join Waldo on a pumpkin hunt for Halloween. With hundreds of spot-the-differences to find among zombies, ghosts, vampires, monsters, and more for children aged six and up!


Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from Candlewick Press for review purposes. All opinions are my own.


Tuesday, March 17, 2026

Mayhem and the Mortal review

Mayhem and the Mortal: A Morally Gray Hero Enemies-to-Lovers Fantasy Romance

Mayhem and the Mortal by Shanora Williams



I ended up really enjoying Mayhem and the Mortal. The story pulled me in pretty quickly, especially with Zaira being so determined to save her sister that she’s willing to risk everything. I liked that she felt strong, but still human. She makes tough choices and doesn’t always have things figured out.

The world was interesting and felt dangerous in a way that kept the journey exciting. The Shallows felt vivid and unpredictable. The setting is harsh and strange, full of creatures and magic that make every step forward feel risky. It gives the story a strong sense of adventure and that there’s going to be something unexpected coming. A lot of moments I genuinely wasn’t sure what was going to happen next.

I also really liked the dynamic between Zaira and Thane. Their interactions and banter kept me hooked. I love a morally gray hero and some good enemies to lovers tension.

Overall this was a fun fantasy adventure with all my favorite things... action, magic, and romance. I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes from here. Book 2 please!

** Thank you Red Tower Books for the gifted ARC. **