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Leo's Magical Journeys #2
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel
Fourteen-year-old Leo thought he was signing up for an ordinary summer job at Magnolia House Hotel. But he quickly discovers this isn’t your average inn—it’s a secret sanctuary for characters who’ve fled their own broken storylines. From detectives to princesses to mysterious visitors from realms of starlight and magic, the guests arrive desperate to rewrite their fates.
When Leo stumbles upon a hidden book club beneath the lobby, he realizes he might hold the key to saving the hotel from a ruthless corporate takeover. Now, armed only with his creativity and a few wild ideas, Leo must help his new friends—and himself—find a story worth fighting for.
When Leo stumbles upon a hidden book club beneath the lobby, he realizes he might hold the key to saving the hotel from a ruthless corporate takeover. Now, armed only with his creativity and a few wild ideas, Leo must help his new friends—and himself—find a story worth fighting for.
- GenresMiddle GradeFantasy
264 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 25, 2025
14 people are currently reading
47 people want to read
About the author
Tsvi Jolles
6 books36 followersTsvi Jolles writes stories for young readers and reflective fiction for adults. His middle-grade novels explore imagination, loss, and belonging, while his literary work focuses on family, memory, and the quiet strangeness of everyday life. He lives in Georgia with his family.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
July 7, 2025
This book was hard for me to rate, because the only reason it isn’t five stars is because of how juvenile it is. I rate off of enjoyment, and if I was eight years younger, this would have been a five star read. Instead, I give it a three. The premise and idea of this book are so interesting, and I would love to see someone, this author or not, translate it into an adult/ya book.
The execution of this was really just too young for my test, and thats the main reason it is three stars. That said, there are most definitely some middle grade books that I would give five stars too.
For some reason, I really struggled to find anything that makes me feel attached to Leo or the other characters. Which is a main, and very important, aspect of most middle grade books.
Other than that though, the execution of this book was fairly flawless and done very well.
Narrator: this is going to sound terrible, but for me, (for me!!) it helps build the world (when characters have internal dialogue) to have a narrator that sounds like them. For example, Leo is a part Columbian 13 yr old boy, and I felt like that was really missing from the audio. The narrator felt like a woman with mortgage and taxes, even throughout Leo’s internal dialogue. That said, this is me being super nit picky, because it didn’t bother me terribly.
Anyways! Thank you netgalley, appreciate you guys as always ❤️
The execution of this was really just too young for my test, and thats the main reason it is three stars. That said, there are most definitely some middle grade books that I would give five stars too.
For some reason, I really struggled to find anything that makes me feel attached to Leo or the other characters. Which is a main, and very important, aspect of most middle grade books.
Other than that though, the execution of this book was fairly flawless and done very well.
Narrator: this is going to sound terrible, but for me, (for me!!) it helps build the world (when characters have internal dialogue) to have a narrator that sounds like them. For example, Leo is a part Columbian 13 yr old boy, and I felt like that was really missing from the audio. The narrator felt like a woman with mortgage and taxes, even throughout Leo’s internal dialogue. That said, this is me being super nit picky, because it didn’t bother me terribly.
Anyways! Thank you netgalley, appreciate you guys as always ❤️
August 28, 2025
I received an advance reader copy of this book to read and listen to in exchange for an honest review via netgalley and the publishers.
>>This book was a hybrid read, meaning I read the netgalley ARC and listened to the audio book together <<.
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel is a beautiful, imaginative, and fun story about a teenage boy who gets a summer job to help his hard-working and exhausted mother. Little does Leo know that the hotel job he's been given is actually at a magical hotel that provides sanctuary to characters from books who have fled their broken storylines. With the mysterious guest detectives' guidance, Leo becomes entangled on helping guests rewrite their stories and fates within them and somehow stop the new owner of the hotel from tearing it down to build over it.
This was such a beautiful and magical read that was so unique. The audio is so lovely to listen along to and really brings the book to life. Leo is such a mature and empathic character, and I loved seeing him grow and find the courage to fight for what is right and important.
>>This book was a hybrid read, meaning I read the netgalley ARC and listened to the audio book together <<.
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel is a beautiful, imaginative, and fun story about a teenage boy who gets a summer job to help his hard-working and exhausted mother. Little does Leo know that the hotel job he's been given is actually at a magical hotel that provides sanctuary to characters from books who have fled their broken storylines. With the mysterious guest detectives' guidance, Leo becomes entangled on helping guests rewrite their stories and fates within them and somehow stop the new owner of the hotel from tearing it down to build over it.
This was such a beautiful and magical read that was so unique. The audio is so lovely to listen along to and really brings the book to life. Leo is such a mature and empathic character, and I loved seeing him grow and find the courage to fight for what is right and important.
June 27, 2025
Leo And The Crazy Genre Hotel is a fun, creative book of hope, perseverance, and the power of books and all the places they could take you. The concept is wonderful - I love it for a younger YA read, and the writing gets you. I love that the author added Latin roots with language, food, and some heritage into the book. Overall, I thought the concept was magnificent, however, the execution wasn't quite it. The story felt like it needed a little more, and whenever we seemed to get that "more," it just never seemed to fit quite right.
I think this is a great book, and it is one that I wouldn't mind buying for my kids, but it just wouldn't be my favorite.
Thank you NetGalley and Tsvi Jolles for this ARC.
I think this is a great book, and it is one that I wouldn't mind buying for my kids, but it just wouldn't be my favorite.
Thank you NetGalley and Tsvi Jolles for this ARC.
June 23, 2025
Not gonna lie, I’m kind of jealous that I can’t work a summer job at Magnolia House. Or attend one of its magical, time-traveling bookclub meetings.
Lots to love about this book. From the characters to the hotel itself. Even before the more « fantasy » elements of Magnolia House were revealed, this story carried an undeniable magic. Didn’t realize that this was the second installment of a series when I picked it up, so I’ll have to go back and read the first soon.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Tsvi Jolles, for an ARC of this book!!
Lots to love about this book. From the characters to the hotel itself. Even before the more « fantasy » elements of Magnolia House were revealed, this story carried an undeniable magic. Didn’t realize that this was the second installment of a series when I picked it up, so I’ll have to go back and read the first soon.
Thank you to NetGalley and the author, Tsvi Jolles, for an ARC of this book!!
July 1, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the audio ARC of this one. I loved the narrator and story of this one. Definitely going to add physical copy to my library. This was just a unique take a fantasy! I love the characters!
“One den for book renegades. One kid will save them all.”
“One den for book renegades. One kid will save them all.”
April 18, 2025
Leo's summer gets a lot crazier when he takes a job at a sedate old hotel in the town he and his mom just moved to. At first, it seems like he'll just be run off his feet by some of the more demanding guests, but Leo starts to notice something strange about a few of the guests: they seem an awful lot like characters from books seeking refuge from thoughtless authors. Much more worrying is the shadow of demolition that stretches over the hotel, and Leo realizes that if he doesn't do something, these runaway characters may lose their last safe escape. But there are more things lurking behind the shadows than Leo realizes, and when his mother embarks on a new romance, Leo is left to pull things together on his own, even if it gets him into one disaster after another.
I can honestly say I've never read another book like this one, but I'd love to find more like it. Leo's character has grown since book 1, and while there are a lot of unexpected twists in this book, it has a beautiful heart and some really solid writing. Reading this book so soon after Tangerines has made it clear just how much the author has improved his craft, and it's making me hungry for whatever comes out of Tsvi Jolles's mind next. Although, first, this book has inspired me to re-read the Hobbit, among other classics, and I'm not sorry.
I can honestly say I've never read another book like this one, but I'd love to find more like it. Leo's character has grown since book 1, and while there are a lot of unexpected twists in this book, it has a beautiful heart and some really solid writing. Reading this book so soon after Tangerines has made it clear just how much the author has improved his craft, and it's making me hungry for whatever comes out of Tsvi Jolles's mind next. Although, first, this book has inspired me to re-read the Hobbit, among other classics, and I'm not sorry.
April 26, 2025
I love that this story has Spanish speaking people representation. Specially in a realistic way for those who left their native land and have adopted English language and now have some Spanglish 😅🤣 I love the magical vibe throughout the story, the MC character development was very satisfying. It's a charming quick read that will leave you wanting more ✨️
August 12, 2025
After loving the first adventure with Leo, I knew I had to jump into the next installment as soon as possible. With a lovable cast of characters and some higher stakes, I enjoyed the tale of a quirky hotel and the lessons it served for our cast, as well as the power of determination.
This story takes place the summer after the first book, and with Leo being 14 soon, moving fully into the Young Adult category. Leo and his mom have moved to Fairhope, Alabama (near Mobile) and to help his mom in contributing to the family income, takes a job at one of the quirkiest hotels out there. It’s very old fashioned (there’s no computers) and each room comes with a book. And that’s the least strange things about this hotel. Yes, magic is involved.
The characters were interesting and fun. The returning characters, like Leo and his mom get developed even more and I love seeing familiar faces come back. The new characters were rather interesting, with their own quirks, and I think my favorite was a certain storybook character from a fantasy realm that I’m not going to get into. I do like how many of the characters are hard working and determined, while others have their own demons to deal with.
The lessons are more subtle and mature in a way. It’s about how there isn’t “one right path”, how much a moment can change entire lives, and facing the consequences for your mistakes (and Leo makes a lot of them in this book). It also has some bittersweet moments, including the ending. Leo has to learn and grow in many ways, and realizes that he can’t solve a big problem like saving the hotel alone. I do appreciate some of Leo’s ideas as well. Many moments had me smile, like talking about the New Orleans Saints bad call, and mentioning some fourth wall breaking moments, which actually does make sense in context.
The one thing that brought the score down a bit was the pacing. It took a bit for the story to get going and overall, the pacing was good, but not as great as the first book. There was also a moment where I thought something did happen, but didn’t happen until a later chapter. Also, I felt like the fates of a couple of the characters (the storybook ones) were still in the air.
Once again, Diana Bustelo narrates with a very expressive storyteller voice, which is fitting for a story like this, and she enhances the already immersive prose.
If you’re looking for something unique and out of the box, give this book a try!
*I received a review copy from Netgalley and Brave Fawn Books. All opinions are my own.*
This story takes place the summer after the first book, and with Leo being 14 soon, moving fully into the Young Adult category. Leo and his mom have moved to Fairhope, Alabama (near Mobile) and to help his mom in contributing to the family income, takes a job at one of the quirkiest hotels out there. It’s very old fashioned (there’s no computers) and each room comes with a book. And that’s the least strange things about this hotel. Yes, magic is involved.
The characters were interesting and fun. The returning characters, like Leo and his mom get developed even more and I love seeing familiar faces come back. The new characters were rather interesting, with their own quirks, and I think my favorite was a certain storybook character from a fantasy realm that I’m not going to get into. I do like how many of the characters are hard working and determined, while others have their own demons to deal with.
The lessons are more subtle and mature in a way. It’s about how there isn’t “one right path”, how much a moment can change entire lives, and facing the consequences for your mistakes (and Leo makes a lot of them in this book). It also has some bittersweet moments, including the ending. Leo has to learn and grow in many ways, and realizes that he can’t solve a big problem like saving the hotel alone. I do appreciate some of Leo’s ideas as well. Many moments had me smile, like talking about the New Orleans Saints bad call, and mentioning some fourth wall breaking moments, which actually does make sense in context.
The one thing that brought the score down a bit was the pacing. It took a bit for the story to get going and overall, the pacing was good, but not as great as the first book. There was also a moment where I thought something did happen, but didn’t happen until a later chapter. Also, I felt like the fates of a couple of the characters (the storybook ones) were still in the air.
Once again, Diana Bustelo narrates with a very expressive storyteller voice, which is fitting for a story like this, and she enhances the already immersive prose.
If you’re looking for something unique and out of the box, give this book a try!
*I received a review copy from Netgalley and Brave Fawn Books. All opinions are my own.*
July 22, 2025
Un libro middle-grade de fantasía, amistad y el viaje de personaje de un nene de 13 años que tiene una aventura en un hotel que lo emplea durante el verano. Creo que es un libro que mi hijo de 12 años disfrutaría muchísimo, para mí fue un poco difícil enganchar, creo que debido a que la forma en la que se desarrollan los eventos está narrado, visto y protagonizado por un niño, todo es infantil, ingenuo y desordenado.
La idea me pareció magnífica, la promesa de magia, fantasía y aventura siempre me llama la atención, pero su ejecución fue un tanto decepcionante. Entiendo que el prota es un niño, pero algunos eventos son inverosímiles aún dentro del género y los protagonistas. No sé si es algo cultural, (aunque si es, yo puedo opinar porque soy colombiana COMO LA MAMÁ de la protagonista), pero yo jamás dejaría a mi hijo de 13 años solo en casa mientras me voy de viaje con su antiguo profesor de historia que ahora me está tirando los perros. Entendería si lo hubiera dejado con una abuela, con un familiar, pero ¿¿¿cómo lo vas a dejar completamente solo por días enteros??? A los 13 sigues siendo un niño, creo yo, y yo siento que una mamá colombiana EN OTRO PAÍS no dejaría a su hijo de esa manera. Claro que era necesario para la trama, pero ahí es donde entra ese detalle de "eventos mal manejados en la trama". Siento que muchos aspectos de la trama y del worldbuilding se pudieron aprovechar mejor y que muchos otros quedaron inconclusos, una lástima.
Por otro lado, la parte fantasía mágica de la trama llega demasiado tarde para mi gusto. Todo es muy situacional y monótono por medio libro antes de que se ponga interesante. Me hubiera gustado un poco más de focalización en el club lector viajero del tiempo del Hotel Magnolia.
Esto siguiente ya es personal, pero cuando escuché esa parte (fue audiolibro), solo pude pensar "GENTRIFICACIÓN, FUCK IT" y es que . Me gustó mucho que hubiera tantos personajes latinos, el prota siendo mitad latino, la cantidad de cultura puesta fue agradable, y es directamente representación colombiana, lo sentí bien representado, pese a que obviamente comen arepas todos los días como todo colombiano (?) No lo juzgo, sin duda si la mamá fuera mexicana, comerían tacos porque ese es su estereotipo y al parecer es inseparable de los personajes con sus países.
Ahora, sobre la narración del audiolibro en sí, debo decir que me encantó. Amé que la narradora al momento de hablar en español modula el acento cuando es un hablante nativo, de modo que se oye genuino, y que lo "americaniza" cuando las palabras en español son dichas por un estadounidense. Es un detalle espectacular que pudiera retratar así, por medio de los dialectos, las personalidades de los personajes. Tiene varias voces de la misma narradora, ella es espectacular en lo que hace, creo que fue un acierto que narrase esta novela, le pone el sentimiento necesario y da las emociones correctas. Me encantó.
En fin, fue un libro que disfruté pese a sus toques inverosímiles, no solo eventos, sino actitudes de los personajes que no me dejaron conectar al punto de sentir que eran personas reales. Un niño o adolescente seguro lo disfruta por montones, así que sí lo recomiendo. <3
La idea me pareció magnífica, la promesa de magia, fantasía y aventura siempre me llama la atención, pero su ejecución fue un tanto decepcionante. Entiendo que el prota es un niño, pero algunos eventos son inverosímiles aún dentro del género y los protagonistas. No sé si es algo cultural, (aunque si es, yo puedo opinar porque soy colombiana COMO LA MAMÁ de la protagonista), pero yo jamás dejaría a mi hijo de 13 años solo en casa mientras me voy de viaje con su antiguo profesor de historia que ahora me está tirando los perros. Entendería si lo hubiera dejado con una abuela, con un familiar, pero ¿¿¿cómo lo vas a dejar completamente solo por días enteros??? A los 13 sigues siendo un niño, creo yo, y yo siento que una mamá colombiana EN OTRO PAÍS no dejaría a su hijo de esa manera. Claro que era necesario para la trama, pero ahí es donde entra ese detalle de "eventos mal manejados en la trama". Siento que muchos aspectos de la trama y del worldbuilding se pudieron aprovechar mejor y que muchos otros quedaron inconclusos, una lástima.
Por otro lado, la parte fantasía mágica de la trama llega demasiado tarde para mi gusto. Todo es muy situacional y monótono por medio libro antes de que se ponga interesante. Me hubiera gustado un poco más de focalización en el club lector viajero del tiempo del Hotel Magnolia.
Esto siguiente ya es personal, pero cuando escuché esa parte (fue audiolibro), solo pude pensar "GENTRIFICACIÓN, FUCK IT" y es que . Me gustó mucho que hubiera tantos personajes latinos, el prota siendo mitad latino, la cantidad de cultura puesta fue agradable, y es directamente representación colombiana, lo sentí bien representado, pese a que obviamente comen arepas todos los días como todo colombiano (?) No lo juzgo, sin duda si la mamá fuera mexicana, comerían tacos porque ese es su estereotipo y al parecer es inseparable de los personajes con sus países.
Ahora, sobre la narración del audiolibro en sí, debo decir que me encantó. Amé que la narradora al momento de hablar en español modula el acento cuando es un hablante nativo, de modo que se oye genuino, y que lo "americaniza" cuando las palabras en español son dichas por un estadounidense. Es un detalle espectacular que pudiera retratar así, por medio de los dialectos, las personalidades de los personajes. Tiene varias voces de la misma narradora, ella es espectacular en lo que hace, creo que fue un acierto que narrase esta novela, le pone el sentimiento necesario y da las emociones correctas. Me encantó.
En fin, fue un libro que disfruté pese a sus toques inverosímiles, no solo eventos, sino actitudes de los personajes que no me dejaron conectar al punto de sentir que eran personas reales. Un niño o adolescente seguro lo disfruta por montones, así que sí lo recomiendo. <3
July 2, 2025
This second installment gave me the same warm, fuzzy, whimsical and witty vibes I experience each time I watch the Night at the Museum movies, particularly the interactions with Robin Williams' interpretation of Roosevelt (though split between two characters in this story.)
Confession time: when I requested this book for review, I didn't know it was part of a series. Having discovered, I decided to listen to both audiobooks one after another. And I have to say this storyline was a nice spin on the previous book's themes of found family, trusting in yourself and fighting for what you believe "with words, not with your fists."
Confession time part 2: midway through the story, there's a subtle twist I did not see coming, which is something that hadn't happened to me in quite a while when reading a Middle Grade book. So props to the author for that!
Although I would've liked to see more literary characters featured, the interactions effectively relay the messages while subtly changing the tone towards a less child-like and more tween point of view and thought process. Having a fluid pace and active dynamic helps the readers grow along Leo and see him adapt to the chaotic and unexpected changes life may bring.
This time, the life lessons are more profound, focusing on showing that sometimes taking the wrong leads you to a path you wouldn't have found otherwise; and that owning up to your mistakes and learning from them while facing the consequences.
I can't wait to see what new challenges lie ahead for Leo in his magical adventures!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Victory Editing for providing me an ALC in exchange for an honest review!
Confession time: when I requested this book for review, I didn't know it was part of a series. Having discovered, I decided to listen to both audiobooks one after another. And I have to say this storyline was a nice spin on the previous book's themes of found family, trusting in yourself and fighting for what you believe "with words, not with your fists."
Confession time part 2: midway through the story, there's a subtle twist I did not see coming, which is something that hadn't happened to me in quite a while when reading a Middle Grade book. So props to the author for that!
Although I would've liked to see more literary characters featured, the interactions effectively relay the messages while subtly changing the tone towards a less child-like and more tween point of view and thought process. Having a fluid pace and active dynamic helps the readers grow along Leo and see him adapt to the chaotic and unexpected changes life may bring.
This time, the life lessons are more profound, focusing on showing that sometimes taking the wrong leads you to a path you wouldn't have found otherwise; and that owning up to your mistakes and learning from them while facing the consequences.
I can't wait to see what new challenges lie ahead for Leo in his magical adventures!
Many thanks to Netgalley and Victory Editing for providing me an ALC in exchange for an honest review!
July 15, 2025
*A big thanks to Brave Fawn Books and NetGalley for providing me an Audiobook ARC of this book; this in no way affects my honest review*
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel by Tsvi Jolles offers a fun and quirky premise, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
The idea of a hotel where characters from different books come together in a secret sanctuary after fleeing broken storylines is clever and creative, and I can appreciate the playful, imaginative nature of the world Jolles has built.
Leo is a likable character, and his journey through this bizarre and ever-changing hotel kept me engaged for the most part.
However, the pacing felt a little weird at times. While the concept is intriguing,
I think it could have been developed more deeply to give the world more depth and complexity, but this is targeted towards middle graders, so this just could be because I’m older.
Overall, Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel is a charming and imaginative read, it’s fun for readers who enjoy whimsical and inventive stories.
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel by Tsvi Jolles offers a fun and quirky premise, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
The idea of a hotel where characters from different books come together in a secret sanctuary after fleeing broken storylines is clever and creative, and I can appreciate the playful, imaginative nature of the world Jolles has built.
Leo is a likable character, and his journey through this bizarre and ever-changing hotel kept me engaged for the most part.
However, the pacing felt a little weird at times. While the concept is intriguing,
I think it could have been developed more deeply to give the world more depth and complexity, but this is targeted towards middle graders, so this just could be because I’m older.
Overall, Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel is a charming and imaginative read, it’s fun for readers who enjoy whimsical and inventive stories.
May 19, 2025
Tsvi Jolles offers us a wonderfully nuanced look into the life of a teenager, Leo Hernandez. He is a young man finding himself and his place in a new community—from his first job, encounters with challenging people, changing relationships, exploring his creative gifts and imagination, making tough decisions, and standing up for what’s good and right. I loved following along with Leo again, in this highly imaginative, literary-laced, magical adventure with a great, colorful cast of side characters. Here, the power of story—and some fun time-travel—helps save a place, a home, heals hearts and offers all the cast a new chapter in life, a fresh start. This tale is written with so much heart, warmth, humor and tender moments that live long in the heart after reading. I look forward to more magical journeys with Leo and seeing where they take him—and us—along the way!
May 24, 2025
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel by Tsvi Jolles
5/5 Stars 🌟
Tsvi you did it again! This book was absolutely amazing and I’m really happy to see Leo and a lot of my favourites return!
Thank you so much so sending me this in my emails to review!
The use of books and well known titles added such a different and creative difference from the original book while also still keeping in with the theme of the original book!
The feeling of mystery and time travel with magic mixed in was really exciting to see and loved every twist and turn.
I missed Leo and Shane but was happy to see the references and also see some blossoming friendships develop here too!
Honestly I can’t wait for you all to get a copy of this book for yourselves and enjoy the beautiful work that Tsvi brings to the world. ❤️
5/5 Stars 🌟
Tsvi you did it again! This book was absolutely amazing and I’m really happy to see Leo and a lot of my favourites return!
Thank you so much so sending me this in my emails to review!
The use of books and well known titles added such a different and creative difference from the original book while also still keeping in with the theme of the original book!
The feeling of mystery and time travel with magic mixed in was really exciting to see and loved every twist and turn.
I missed Leo and Shane but was happy to see the references and also see some blossoming friendships develop here too!
Honestly I can’t wait for you all to get a copy of this book for yourselves and enjoy the beautiful work that Tsvi brings to the world. ❤️
May 20, 2025
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel, Leo's Magical Journeys, Book 2 by Tsvi Jolles is not exactly what I thought it would be. It is a teen story with many storybook characters who have been treated with carelessness or neglect in the books. The hotel that Leo works at for the summer is in danger so the characters who live there are too. Leo has his own problems along with the hotel takeover, but those things are not in his control so he works with what he can do.
On a deeper level, wouldn’t many of us want to rewrite our stories or at least have an opportunity for a redo. Mostly we can must work with what we have too. It is a story to make you think.
On a deeper level, wouldn’t many of us want to rewrite our stories or at least have an opportunity for a redo. Mostly we can must work with what we have too. It is a story to make you think.
July 8, 2025
I listened to this audio book as an ARC on Netgalley for a fair and honest review.
This book starts off with Leo starting a summer holiday part-time job in the Marigold house hotel. Soon after, strange things start to happen with characters seemingly jumping straight out of the pages of books and a time travelling book club in the hotels basement. I loved the adventure!
The narrator has a smooth voice and the production was very well done. Each character had their own characteristics and were easily identified. The narration was clear and precise.
This book starts off with Leo starting a summer holiday part-time job in the Marigold house hotel. Soon after, strange things start to happen with characters seemingly jumping straight out of the pages of books and a time travelling book club in the hotels basement. I loved the adventure!
The narrator has a smooth voice and the production was very well done. Each character had their own characteristics and were easily identified. The narration was clear and precise.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 20, 2025
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel (Leo's Magical Journeys, #2)
by Tsvi Jolles
The book is told from the point of view of Leo is a story of using books to find magic. The old Town hotel finds new life through books and characters. This connection creates a tapestry story that shows how real some stories are to readers. I found this a great book for young readers. The way you are introduced to young adult readers, to the classics will create an interest in the stories to readers. The book shows how even with just a little hope the most dire of circumstance can be changed.
by Tsvi Jolles
The book is told from the point of view of Leo is a story of using books to find magic. The old Town hotel finds new life through books and characters. This connection creates a tapestry story that shows how real some stories are to readers. I found this a great book for young readers. The way you are introduced to young adult readers, to the classics will create an interest in the stories to readers. The book shows how even with just a little hope the most dire of circumstance can be changed.
June 23, 2025
This book was an adventure and a joy to read from start to finish! Journey through not just the life and summer of a teen boy but the twists and turns of a full literary journey! I loved the historical aspects of the book as well as the use of Spanish and English, and all of the literary Easter eggs hidden in the pages!
June 19, 2025
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for letting me review this book. This was a fun read and I like how there was Spanish and then the English translation after it. I like how Leo keeps trying regardless of the outcome and books really can be magical.
July 2, 2025
I was given an advanced reader copy of this work in audio format free of charge from Netgalley in return for an honest review.
The Narration is excellent and does a wonderful job of bringing the story to life. Each character has their own voice and manner of speaking. The characters that speak Spanish use it and its always translated. This is the perfect read for a summer afternoon. Any time spent at Magnolia House is pure joy and magic. Loved it
The Narration is excellent and does a wonderful job of bringing the story to life. Each character has their own voice and manner of speaking. The characters that speak Spanish use it and its always translated. This is the perfect read for a summer afternoon. Any time spent at Magnolia House is pure joy and magic. Loved it
December 26, 2025
Magical
Such a lovely story. I enjoyed in a lot but I do wish it had a better ending. Happy reading!
Such a lovely story. I enjoyed in a lot but I do wish it had a better ending. Happy reading!
May 27, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for eARC in exchange for a review.
There are things I loved about this book. After reading the first book, I liked the development of Leo into being more confident about himself. Book 1 had Leo more likely to stay introverted and to dwell on what other people thought about him to the point where he almost kept himself from trying new things. In this book, Leo takes chances and goes to work at a hotel, rolling with the problems that come up with guests and his coworkers without losing his stride too much.
The plot was interesting, the idea that the hotel that Leo works at for the summer sometimes plays refuge for book characters that are fleeing the bad endings of their stories. However, not enough was given of this interesting idea. The book, as in Leo's story, had two book characters as guests at the Magnolia Hotel, and that was it. There was not enough explanation for how they managed to get out of their books to enter Leo's world. There was no information about how book characters knew to go to the Magnolia hotel to begin with.
The other half of the story was Leo trying to save the Magnolia Hotel from being torn down. Again, a plot that could have been a great way to show how Leo has matured, to show how he uses his interest in books to connect with people and draw more attention to the hotel but the main part of this storyline involved some methods that had me scratching my head. I don't want to spoil the story for future readers but I will say that the twist almost seems to come out of nowhere. It didn't meld enough for me to feel satisfied with the ending.
In terms of characters, I feel like readers weren't given enough time with some to have their connections with Leo feel genuine. Leo's best friend Shane, from book 1, is mentioned a couple of times but is never seen on the page, even in a text message, which makes no sense to me in an age where teens have the whole world at their fingertips with just a phone at their disposal. Missy Carter, who is in charge of the book club mentioned in the synopsis, is seen hanging around but is largely missing until Leo really needs her to help him save the hotel. Mr. Jenkins returns from book 1 but after helping Leo figure out a breakfast problem for the hotel, he whisks Leo's Mom, María, off to a vacation in New Orleans. It kind of felt like the characters needed to be written out for Leo to have to fix everything on his own. Also, it honestly, it did not sit well with me that an almost 14-year-old was left alone for a week while his parent went on a vacation, a deserved break or not, as Leo claimed it was for his mom.
Pacing was a little weird at times. Leo would talk about Missy as if he knew quirks about her, predicting how she'd react to something happening on the page, and I was left thinking how does Leo know this? Did I miss it somewhere because Missy was literally missing for a large part of the story. Things like this left a disjointed feeling between points of the story.
In the end, I feel like this book had too many ideas trying to take center stage. I wanted more downtime with Leo learning the ins and outs of the Magnolia Hotel and its inhabitants. I wanted more time with runaway book characters and Leo helping them to take charge of their fates and forcing their authors to make their stories change for the better. If there is another book for Leo, I hope it takes the time to sit with Leo like book 1 did, so readers have a chance to see his growth, rather than being kept at an arm's distance while he runs around trying to save the world.
Rating on my scale: 4.5 Stars. It just kind of went off the rails, if that makes sense. The book I started reading is not the book I finished reading, and that is a sad thing indeed.
There are things I loved about this book. After reading the first book, I liked the development of Leo into being more confident about himself. Book 1 had Leo more likely to stay introverted and to dwell on what other people thought about him to the point where he almost kept himself from trying new things. In this book, Leo takes chances and goes to work at a hotel, rolling with the problems that come up with guests and his coworkers without losing his stride too much.
The plot was interesting, the idea that the hotel that Leo works at for the summer sometimes plays refuge for book characters that are fleeing the bad endings of their stories. However, not enough was given of this interesting idea. The book, as in Leo's story, had two book characters as guests at the Magnolia Hotel, and that was it. There was not enough explanation for how they managed to get out of their books to enter Leo's world. There was no information about how book characters knew to go to the Magnolia hotel to begin with.
The other half of the story was Leo trying to save the Magnolia Hotel from being torn down. Again, a plot that could have been a great way to show how Leo has matured, to show how he uses his interest in books to connect with people and draw more attention to the hotel but the main part of this storyline involved some methods that had me scratching my head. I don't want to spoil the story for future readers but I will say that the twist almost seems to come out of nowhere. It didn't meld enough for me to feel satisfied with the ending.
In terms of characters, I feel like readers weren't given enough time with some to have their connections with Leo feel genuine. Leo's best friend Shane, from book 1, is mentioned a couple of times but is never seen on the page, even in a text message, which makes no sense to me in an age where teens have the whole world at their fingertips with just a phone at their disposal. Missy Carter, who is in charge of the book club mentioned in the synopsis, is seen hanging around but is largely missing until Leo really needs her to help him save the hotel. Mr. Jenkins returns from book 1 but after helping Leo figure out a breakfast problem for the hotel, he whisks Leo's Mom, María, off to a vacation in New Orleans. It kind of felt like the characters needed to be written out for Leo to have to fix everything on his own. Also, it honestly, it did not sit well with me that an almost 14-year-old was left alone for a week while his parent went on a vacation, a deserved break or not, as Leo claimed it was for his mom.
Pacing was a little weird at times. Leo would talk about Missy as if he knew quirks about her, predicting how she'd react to something happening on the page, and I was left thinking how does Leo know this? Did I miss it somewhere because Missy was literally missing for a large part of the story. Things like this left a disjointed feeling between points of the story.
In the end, I feel like this book had too many ideas trying to take center stage. I wanted more downtime with Leo learning the ins and outs of the Magnolia Hotel and its inhabitants. I wanted more time with runaway book characters and Leo helping them to take charge of their fates and forcing their authors to make their stories change for the better. If there is another book for Leo, I hope it takes the time to sit with Leo like book 1 did, so readers have a chance to see his growth, rather than being kept at an arm's distance while he runs around trying to save the world.
Rating on my scale: 4.5 Stars. It just kind of went off the rails, if that makes sense. The book I started reading is not the book I finished reading, and that is a sad thing indeed.
May 25, 2025
I'm so glad I got to read this wonderful middle-grade book; Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel which is book two in Tsvi Jolles’s Leo’s Magical Journeys series.
If you pick this up and haven’t read book one, Leo and the Magic Guitar of the Ozarks, the author gives you a glimpse into what you have missed but I would recommend it for any young reader who loves the idea of music and magic being all around you. Book two takes both Leo and the reader on a journey as he and his Mom begin a new life away from all they have both known.
The Magnolia Hotel itself sounds like it’s stepped out of a movie and I for one would love a summer job there if it existed because all isn’t quite as it seems, the love of literature runs through its foundations and has done for nearly a century and the author breathes so much life into this wondrous hotel that the reader will easily see it in their mind’s eye. I couldn’t help but envision places from Wes Anderson movies - because it sounds both ornate and run down but still beautiful if you know what I mean.
I loved once again the relationship between Leo and his Mom, although we see a lot less of her this time because there are a lot of new faces that come Leo’s way. Once again I liked how Leo’s Mom tended to slip into her native Spanish when she spoke, often mixing it up with English as she went and it had a realism to it that I think adds so much not just to the character but to their relationship as a whole. There’s also the former teacher from book one who has continued his romance with Leo’s Mom and it was lovely to see her blossom etc and yet be so aware of her son’s needs - again these little nuances give so much to the book.
This is a story of magic, and the magic of the written word and I loved how some fictitious faces many readers both young and old will know, come to life for those who know. It seems as natural as anything for them to be a part of The Magnolia. Jolles writes them with the respect they deserve and takes little from the character we know from their original text. I loved this book, and read it over several hours because I just wanted to see where the story would take Leo and myself - I certainly didn’t expect some of the adventures he found himself on. I hope he gets to go on more, and perhaps we will see his best friend in them because I missed the camaraderie of the first one between Leo and Shane - he may be growing up but it seemed strange that we didn’t even get texts or calls from his friend since childhood.
If you pick this up and haven’t read book one, Leo and the Magic Guitar of the Ozarks, the author gives you a glimpse into what you have missed but I would recommend it for any young reader who loves the idea of music and magic being all around you. Book two takes both Leo and the reader on a journey as he and his Mom begin a new life away from all they have both known.
The Magnolia Hotel itself sounds like it’s stepped out of a movie and I for one would love a summer job there if it existed because all isn’t quite as it seems, the love of literature runs through its foundations and has done for nearly a century and the author breathes so much life into this wondrous hotel that the reader will easily see it in their mind’s eye. I couldn’t help but envision places from Wes Anderson movies - because it sounds both ornate and run down but still beautiful if you know what I mean.
I loved once again the relationship between Leo and his Mom, although we see a lot less of her this time because there are a lot of new faces that come Leo’s way. Once again I liked how Leo’s Mom tended to slip into her native Spanish when she spoke, often mixing it up with English as she went and it had a realism to it that I think adds so much not just to the character but to their relationship as a whole. There’s also the former teacher from book one who has continued his romance with Leo’s Mom and it was lovely to see her blossom etc and yet be so aware of her son’s needs - again these little nuances give so much to the book.
This is a story of magic, and the magic of the written word and I loved how some fictitious faces many readers both young and old will know, come to life for those who know. It seems as natural as anything for them to be a part of The Magnolia. Jolles writes them with the respect they deserve and takes little from the character we know from their original text. I loved this book, and read it over several hours because I just wanted to see where the story would take Leo and myself - I certainly didn’t expect some of the adventures he found himself on. I hope he gets to go on more, and perhaps we will see his best friend in them because I missed the camaraderie of the first one between Leo and Shane - he may be growing up but it seemed strange that we didn’t even get texts or calls from his friend since childhood.
September 3, 2025
I liked this one better than the first book. Leo is a little older in this and he wants a summer job and so he ends up finding a flyer for this crazy hotel and when he goes in he learns that it's going to be the last summer of this hotel because it's getting sold.
as he starts working the front desk he starts meeting these guests who are straight out of a book and then he learns that they actually are characters from books. there's something about the hotel that has this portal-esque kind of thing where book characters who are in need of somewhere to go and up here.
there is kind of a little fourth wall break here because it is mentioned that that's how Leo found his way there because he's also a book character and I thought that that was a really clever.
anyway I enjoyed the majority of this book however I have an issue that just ruined it a little bit for me because it wasn't handled well.
this might be vaguely spoilery but I don't think it really adds anything to the plot and to be honest I don't think it was a necessary part so I'm going to just spell it out.
The owners of the hotel have a ornery man who does want to sell and in eccentric woman who does not want to sell and Leo learns that they had a daughter. when he inquires about the daughter he learns that they cut her off when she introduced her partner to them and this is all spelled out so nonchalantly like oh yeah let's just cut off our queer kids and it just rubbed me the wrong way. The man never really wants to apologize and admit that he did anything wrong and the woman does want a relationship with her daughter again but isn't quite willing to accept her either and even though they try and do this meet up at the end I don't think any of it is resolved and it's still comes across as extremely uncomfortable. I didn't like it it was not necessary. I don't know why authors feel the need to include some homophobia and queer trauma in a book that doesn't need it as a side plot point. it would have been just as easy to say that the daughter went no contact with them or that she wanted to pursue a career they didn't agree with or something trivial but not something so serious and then to handle it so nonchalantly. I didn't like it. and it definitely knocked this book down a peg.
anyway overall these two books are fine and cute and they are good for middle grade readers. they're is some issues that I wish were handled better but overall they're not necessarily openly problematic.
as he starts working the front desk he starts meeting these guests who are straight out of a book and then he learns that they actually are characters from books. there's something about the hotel that has this portal-esque kind of thing where book characters who are in need of somewhere to go and up here.
there is kind of a little fourth wall break here because it is mentioned that that's how Leo found his way there because he's also a book character and I thought that that was a really clever.
anyway I enjoyed the majority of this book however I have an issue that just ruined it a little bit for me because it wasn't handled well.
this might be vaguely spoilery but I don't think it really adds anything to the plot and to be honest I don't think it was a necessary part so I'm going to just spell it out.
The owners of the hotel have a ornery man who does want to sell and in eccentric woman who does not want to sell and Leo learns that they had a daughter. when he inquires about the daughter he learns that they cut her off when she introduced her partner to them and this is all spelled out so nonchalantly like oh yeah let's just cut off our queer kids and it just rubbed me the wrong way. The man never really wants to apologize and admit that he did anything wrong and the woman does want a relationship with her daughter again but isn't quite willing to accept her either and even though they try and do this meet up at the end I don't think any of it is resolved and it's still comes across as extremely uncomfortable. I didn't like it it was not necessary. I don't know why authors feel the need to include some homophobia and queer trauma in a book that doesn't need it as a side plot point. it would have been just as easy to say that the daughter went no contact with them or that she wanted to pursue a career they didn't agree with or something trivial but not something so serious and then to handle it so nonchalantly. I didn't like it. and it definitely knocked this book down a peg.
anyway overall these two books are fine and cute and they are good for middle grade readers. they're is some issues that I wish were handled better but overall they're not necessarily openly problematic.
April 26, 2025
This one's got a lot of heart and potential, but it didn't end up for me. On a line level, there was plenty of beautiful writing to be read. Maybe too much name-dropping than I would've liked, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. This was quick and easy to read. Perfect for a slow afternoon. The plot however... I understand that the target audience skews younger, but the plot required me to suspend my disbelief too much for my taste. The concept of a hotel as a refuge for story characters should've been right up my alley. Alas, it ended up falling flat for me. The characters were fun and quirky—maybe too quirky. Honestly, I couldn't help but think how incompetent the adults were while reading. Graciela ended up being annoying, Missy MIA for a large chunk of the story despite being the hotel manager—you get it. Because why does it fall to Leo to fix things? A lot of the development felt rushed as if I was just skimming the surface of the events instead of delving deep into the thick of things. I would've preferred more character work, too. It ended up difficult for me to immerse myself into the story. In fact, I found the foundations of the plot to be too wobbly for everything stand firm and make sense. Still, I can see other people enjoying this, especially those of a younger age. For me, however, this is a 2.5/5. Plenty of potential but lackluster execution.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 30, 2025
Leo found a summer job at the Magnolia House Hotel to help ease the burden on his single mother. He thought it would be an easy job of sitting behind the reception desk reading books, but it turns out that the guests are a lot more interesting than at a regular hotel. And not only that, but it falls to him to stop a ruthless takeover that would see the hotel torn down and its unique guests left with nowhere to go.
I'm giving this one 3.5 stars mostly because I see the potential in it as a read for younger readers, but it doesn't work when you can't turn off the part of your brain that picks at plot holes. For example, Leo's mom is so overworked and tired that he gets a job to help her out, but then she has the chance to go out of town for several days at the drop of a hat? I consider real-world details like that important to ground a story that's magical realism. And I also recognize that most of the readers in the target age range won't notice them and will just enjoy the many adventures that Leo gets to go on in his quest to save the Magnolia House Hotel.
The narration by Diana Bustelo really brings the world to life with distinct voices and accents for each character. You can instantly tell who is speaking, which makes the moments when several characters were interacting easy to decipher and, honestly, quite impressive.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for that chance to listen!
I'm giving this one 3.5 stars mostly because I see the potential in it as a read for younger readers, but it doesn't work when you can't turn off the part of your brain that picks at plot holes. For example, Leo's mom is so overworked and tired that he gets a job to help her out, but then she has the chance to go out of town for several days at the drop of a hat? I consider real-world details like that important to ground a story that's magical realism. And I also recognize that most of the readers in the target age range won't notice them and will just enjoy the many adventures that Leo gets to go on in his quest to save the Magnolia House Hotel.
The narration by Diana Bustelo really brings the world to life with distinct voices and accents for each character. You can instantly tell who is speaking, which makes the moments when several characters were interacting easy to decipher and, honestly, quite impressive.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for that chance to listen!
July 3, 2025
Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel is a fairly standard middle-grade fantasy novel. Overall, the pacing isn’t bad, and it’s an enjoyable YA story with a fun premise.
The biggest strength of the book is Leo’s personal growth. He chooses to spend his summer working at the Crazy Genre Hotel—a setting that’s immediately engaging and full of challenges and new experiences. He handles eccentric guests and unexpected situations with a good amount of composure.
The hotel itself has an intriguing concept—it hosts characters who have “escaped” from books to avoid their unhappy endings. This idea had the potential to be really compelling, but unfortunately, it wasn’t explored in much depth. Only two such characters actually appear in the story, and there’s little explanation about how they left their books or how they even knew about the hotel’s existence. This worldbuilding could’ve used more attention and consistency.
Another major plotline involves Leo trying to save the hotel from being torn down. While this gives him opportunities to take initiative, some of the solutions felt a bit unrealistic, and certain plot twists lacked proper buildup. The ending, in particular, felt a bit abrupt and unconvincing.
All in all, Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel is a decent read for middle-grade readers, especially those who enjoy light fantasy settings. But the story tries to juggle too many ideas at once, which ends up weakening each of them.
The biggest strength of the book is Leo’s personal growth. He chooses to spend his summer working at the Crazy Genre Hotel—a setting that’s immediately engaging and full of challenges and new experiences. He handles eccentric guests and unexpected situations with a good amount of composure.
The hotel itself has an intriguing concept—it hosts characters who have “escaped” from books to avoid their unhappy endings. This idea had the potential to be really compelling, but unfortunately, it wasn’t explored in much depth. Only two such characters actually appear in the story, and there’s little explanation about how they left their books or how they even knew about the hotel’s existence. This worldbuilding could’ve used more attention and consistency.
Another major plotline involves Leo trying to save the hotel from being torn down. While this gives him opportunities to take initiative, some of the solutions felt a bit unrealistic, and certain plot twists lacked proper buildup. The ending, in particular, felt a bit abrupt and unconvincing.
All in all, Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel is a decent read for middle-grade readers, especially those who enjoy light fantasy settings. But the story tries to juggle too many ideas at once, which ends up weakening each of them.
July 22, 2025
The audiobook version of this title was disappointing. I could not get behind the narrator. And for me That takes me out of the story wondering why this person was choosen even though they don't embody the main character.
Don't get me wrong her narration was clear and she performed with feeling and heart. Unfortunatly she isn't Leo, and even with how hard she tried I still found myself taken away from the story sometimes because of it.
That being said, the story itself is wonderful. The Magnolia is a place I would love to stumble accross and have an extended stay in. I loved that even though this is the second in a series it is not necessary to have read the books in order. There are references to actions from the first book but this story stands alone as an imaginative work of fiction with characters who grow over the course of the story and a hotel you want to visit. There is more to that story than is told in this book and I would love to see the story of the Magnolia on its own. Tracing the history of the hotel through stories, how the book club started, how often the books get changed out and who if anyone determines what a rooms read should be.
Don't get me wrong her narration was clear and she performed with feeling and heart. Unfortunatly she isn't Leo, and even with how hard she tried I still found myself taken away from the story sometimes because of it.
That being said, the story itself is wonderful. The Magnolia is a place I would love to stumble accross and have an extended stay in. I loved that even though this is the second in a series it is not necessary to have read the books in order. There are references to actions from the first book but this story stands alone as an imaginative work of fiction with characters who grow over the course of the story and a hotel you want to visit. There is more to that story than is told in this book and I would love to see the story of the Magnolia on its own. Tracing the history of the hotel through stories, how the book club started, how often the books get changed out and who if anyone determines what a rooms read should be.
August 1, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for this ARC Audiobook.
In Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel 13-year-old Leo has just moved to a new town and gets a job at the Magnolia Hotel, a hotel that is home to writers, storybook runaways, and a mystery that needs to be solved in order for the Magnolia to stay open.
This book had a really strong start with a quirky cast of characters that sucked you into the story. A hotel where you are encouraged to read and are given a book to pair up with every room? Sign me up! Leo was a very real character with very real problems and you were given strong magical realism with the introduction to this hotel that housed some unique voices. I thought the narrator of the audiobook did a phenomenal job, especially with all the spanish mixed into the book.
About 2/3 of the way through the book the story started getting a little more far-fetched and it started to lose me a little bit. I just think that things could have played out better. I'm not going to say that I particularly liked the ending, but it did wrap up in a way that flowed with the rest of the story. 3.5 stars overall, rounded up for originality.
In Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel 13-year-old Leo has just moved to a new town and gets a job at the Magnolia Hotel, a hotel that is home to writers, storybook runaways, and a mystery that needs to be solved in order for the Magnolia to stay open.
This book had a really strong start with a quirky cast of characters that sucked you into the story. A hotel where you are encouraged to read and are given a book to pair up with every room? Sign me up! Leo was a very real character with very real problems and you were given strong magical realism with the introduction to this hotel that housed some unique voices. I thought the narrator of the audiobook did a phenomenal job, especially with all the spanish mixed into the book.
About 2/3 of the way through the book the story started getting a little more far-fetched and it started to lose me a little bit. I just think that things could have played out better. I'm not going to say that I particularly liked the ending, but it did wrap up in a way that flowed with the rest of the story. 3.5 stars overall, rounded up for originality.
September 9, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley for the audiobook copy of The Leo and the Crazy Genre Hotel! I have to say, the audiobook experience was wonderful—the sound effects and the voice acting really brought the story alive and made the characters feel so much more genuine. It definitely helped me stay engaged throughout.
That said, I’d rate this one 3 stars. While it’s pitched as a mystery, I personally found the unraveling of the story quite predictable. The title itself hints at the hotel being a mystery, and as the book progressed, I could already see where things were headed. I did love the bookish element—the idea that as readers, we could stumble upon something magical and unexpected any day. That part felt very hopeful and relatable.
However, I kept wishing for more. A stronger fantasy element, a touch more mystery, and deeper character development could have taken this book to another level. Some characters were likable, but others felt a bit too forced, which took away from the overall impact. By the end, I realized I had enjoyed the read, but it didn’t leave me with much to talk about or reflect on afterward.
It’s light, easy, and fun—but for me, it just didn’t stick.
⭐ 3/5
That said, I’d rate this one 3 stars. While it’s pitched as a mystery, I personally found the unraveling of the story quite predictable. The title itself hints at the hotel being a mystery, and as the book progressed, I could already see where things were headed. I did love the bookish element—the idea that as readers, we could stumble upon something magical and unexpected any day. That part felt very hopeful and relatable.
However, I kept wishing for more. A stronger fantasy element, a touch more mystery, and deeper character development could have taken this book to another level. Some characters were likable, but others felt a bit too forced, which took away from the overall impact. By the end, I realized I had enjoyed the read, but it didn’t leave me with much to talk about or reflect on afterward.
It’s light, easy, and fun—but for me, it just didn’t stick.
⭐ 3/5
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