The character is the perfect outgrowth of Mark Twain’s creation. This writer takes us inside the head of a man who must pretend to be stupid though he reads the great books, he gives lessons to children on how to fool white people into thinking that they are dumb. Example. A slave could not warn a white of an onrushing fire without a slowed and brainless warning. To yell fire would offend slave masters. The journey of James is unexpected and rewarding for the reader.

I promised myself I wouldn’t dive into any more space horror stories, but “Julia,” Sandra Newman’s retelling of Orwell’s 1984 from Julia’s point of view, completely swept me up. Naturally, when I saw James hit the shelves—a reimagining of Huck Finn through Jim’s eyes—I couldn’t resist. I was curious, but also wary, because I knew this story would be as psychologically traumatic as I feared. And I wasn’t wrong.Reading James is a deeply personal experience, especially as a Black woman, knowing that the only thing separating me from that nightmare of slavery is the year I was born. The narrative forced me to confront the reality that my great-grandparents and countless others who share my skin color endured this hellscape. It’s more than just history—it’s a stark reminder that they were treated as “it,” less than animals, mere property. This is the kind of story that takes a physical toll on me every time I bear witness to it, but at the same time, it’s necessary.One of the things I found most powerful was how James fills in the emotional and psychological blanks left by Huckleberry Finn. In Everett’s hands, Jim is more than just a loyal protector or a man enslaved. The inner thoughts and eventual confession he shares go beyond the brutality of slavery, offering an explanation for why he’s so devoted to Huck. This complexity and depth made the retelling masterful—it’s still settling with me, but I can already say it was absolutely worth the read.Another aspect that haunted me was the subtle but consistent pattern Everett weaved through the story—everyone who helped Jim, except Huck, met a tragic end. It’s hard to tell if it was a coincidence or a chilling reflection of how dangerous it was to aid a Black person back then, but either way, it made clear just how easily Black lives were discarded. That’s a stark, painful truth to digest.Percival Everett’s writing is as sharp and introspective as ever, breathing new life into a character who has long been a symbol but rarely fully understood. His retelling connects a lot of plot points and unspoken questions from Huckleberry Finn in ways that are satisfying, thought-provoking, and deeply unsettling. It’s one of those stories that will stay with you long after you’ve closed the book.

Percival Everett’s James follows Jim, who, along with Huck Finn, embarks on a journey down the Mississippi River. Jim is fleeing slavery, while Huck is escaping his abusive father while remaining loyal to his friend.The narrative powerfully conveys the dehumanizing reality of slavery: the constant threat of being bought and sold, the relentless pursuit, the denial of identity and rights, arbitrary violence, sexual assault, and the forced separation of families. The book poignantly illustrates the racism of the south that stripped enslaved individuals of their humanity.Spoiler alert but not shared: A surprising plot twist added an unexpected layer to the story and the author’s message.While well-written and a relatively quick read, some sections, particularly the extended chase sequences, felt somewhat slow and simplistic.I will be more intrigued by Everett’s potential sequel to James. If written, it will be fascinating to learn what becomes of Jim and his family during the Civil War and then Reconstruction. How does this educated former slave rebuild his life after escaping the South’s oppressive system? Now free, what social barriers, prejudices, and hardships do he and his family encounter as they strive for a better future for themselves and their descendants? This is an underrepresented narrative in much of today’s writing on this subject, and I believe Everett could tell it compellingly.This is the second book I’ve read by Percival Everett. His novel Erasure was a five-star masterpiece. James, while different, was surprising to me based on my experience with Erasure but James was certainly thought-provoking.”You can see by my review, I was captured by Jim, the main character. What is to become of this man and his family?

I challenge you to a find a more charming, genuine, loving, hilarious, and creative collection of stories anywhere. This book is hilarious and a fun read, but more than that this book is a model for aspiring writers to create, and sets the standard for self-expression, realization, or whatever you want to call it. Myers has somehow managed to capture her own experience in a way that is not only likeable but irresistible. If you have ever had an awkward moment, if you have ever felt pressured by someone, if you have ever felt ashamed for things you should not be ashamed of, and if you have ever wanted to see a story about someone learning to love themselves so they can fall in love with their soulmate, then this book is for you.

I hope the author finds this review, but we all hope that, I think.As a 60 year old grandmother, I’m pretty sure I fall into “not the expected target audience,” and I’m proud of it. I became a fan of Elyse’s social media videos a couple of years ago. In a word, she is relatable. And she speaks to a crowd of people who are grateful that someone is saying outloud what we’ve thought our whole lives.Along the way, I also discovered that she was a songwriter and singer. So I wasn’t surprised to learn that she’d written a book too.But while writing (and finishing) a book is a massive undertaking, the question remained “Did she do it well?”I couldn’t wait to find out.The answer is, she did, she really, really did.All the powerful extended sometimes achingly difficult metaphors, the stream of consciousness passages, all the analogies, the illustrations, the wonderful, relatable awkward scenes all culminate in a brilliant, easy to read book.There were so many lines, so many scenes, that I cannot quote them all. But I am probably fondest of the moments between Elyse and Jonas. He reminded me a bit of my own husband in our early days. I needed him to be exactly what he was–patient and unafraid of my brokenness and outright weirdnesses.But this is about more than just me. This is about a brilliant young author who should do this again. I hope she has her next book planned.There’s an audience out here that is listening.Tell us more!

Found Elyse on YouTube and enjoyed her content (especially since I also live in Nebraska). Elyse writes like she speaks in the best possible way: honest, real and a bit neurotic. Feels like you’re just chit-chatting with a friend. Also loved the illustrations.

Elyse Myers’ book is beautifully written. Every chapter feels intentional and heartfelt. Still, I found myself wishing it were longer. You can sense there are so many “in-between” stories she’s lived but hasn’t shared yet.Much of the book centers on friendship and relationships: the messiness, the humor, and the quiet ache that comes with both. The mix of hand drawn illustrations and bits of poetry adds this gentle, creative touch that feels so her.Between the lines, you can feel an undercurrent of unspoken pain, like there’s more she’s still holding close. The chapter “To Whom It May Never Concern” captures that perfectly. Maybe someday she’ll tell those untold stories. Even in what she does share, there’s honesty, warmth, and a reminder that vulnerability doesn’t always have to come wrapped in resolution.And I can’t not mention her love story with Jonas—it’s beautiful. You can see how God brings the right people into our lives at just the right time. Their story feels like a real example of God purposefully brining two people together.

Elyse!!!!!YOU ARE A WRITER GIRL!I’ve read 60 books so far this year and I can confidently say this is my best read of the year. I can hear YOU, and I can also hear neurodivergent girls like me in every word you wrote. I was kicking my feet and giggling the second I saw Jonas’ name. The creativity and the heart you put into this is off the charts. The last chapter made me cry like a baby. Keep writing girl, I will read every word you put out!

I really hope that Elyse takes her writing even further to give us more books! Pre-ordered her book immediately in June and was still as excited about it if not more, once it came!I can hear her in her pages! Reading everything the way she would have said it out loud. I find myself laughing out loud and it only made me love her even more.The book is beautiful, fun, and pleasing to the eyes and brain! Just like its author.It’s a 10 for me, dog.

I found it a disappointing read. I didn’t think her style translated well to the page, most of what I interpreted as charming in her online persona comes off as immature and self-indulgent in her writing. Lacked emotional resonance and I felt like it mostly just fell flat. Wanted to like it, I really did.

Unfiltered, witty, and emotionally spot-on.Elyse Meyers writes like she speaks—with rhythm, honesty, and a rare comedic brilliance. Her stories made me laugh out loud and then pause to reflect, often within the same paragraph. I saw myself in her words, especially the messy, beautiful parts. If you’ve ever felt awkward, anxious, or just deeply human, this book will feel like a warm, hilarious hug.

Cynthia Erivo’s Simply More is not your typical celebrity memoir. Instead of a linear life story, she offers a series of beautifully written vignettes that feel like intimate conversations. Each chapter is short but powerful, weaving together themes of family, queerness, artistry, and resilience.What makes this book stand out is Erivo’s honesty. She doesn’t shy away from painful moments—like her father’s absence or the silence around her queerness—but she transforms them into lessons about strength and authenticity. Her reflections on representation, especially her journey to playing Elphaba in Wicked, are inspiring and affirming.The hardback edition is stunning, with a bold design that mirrors the book’s message of embracing “too muchness.” It feels like a keepsake, something you’ll want to revisit and underline.Whether you’re a longtime admirer of Cynthia Erivo or simply someone who’s ever been told you’re “too much,” this book is a reminder that “too much” is exactly enough. It’s heartfelt, empowering, and deeply resonant.Highly recommended for fans representation, and anyone seeking courage to live unapologetically.

It is 12am, I have been reading this beautiful piece of work since 10:30pm. I need to turn to a new page after each one finishes. Perfect moments of conversation you can almost hear her speak to you, love the short chapters and the long chapters. Everything about this book is addictive. She makes you bring it back to you with questions for you to answer. It’s bright, shiny, glimmering hope page after page. It’s joy and appreciation. It’s gorgeous ????

Cynthia Erivo, that woman of big voice and bigger spirit—beloved sister to the multitudes online—has set down her truth on paper. Her memoir, Simply More: A Book for Anyone Who Has Been Told They’re Too Much, arrived today in the form of an audio book read by herself. Across two hundred and eight pages, she gathers the pieces of her life: the South London girlhood, the drama schools, and the winding road that carried her to the bright lights of the West End and Broadway.In these pages, Erivo looks back at the father who turned away from her. She was only sixteen, standing in a London train station, when he disowned her. There is a deep irony in it, she notes, for she carries his mark still: she shares his singing voice and the gap in her front teeth. In speaking to NPR, she says she has found a place of acceptance, a “strange apathy” that settles like dust after a storm. She is not waiting for him anymore. “I don’t wish him harm,” she says, “but it’s not like I’m waiting for some grand resolution.” She has released the need to mend what was broken by another’s hand.She writes, too, of the journey to her own heart. For years, as a teenager, she hid her love for women, keeping it quiet and small. It was not until her late twenties that she walked fully into that light. It has not been an easy road for her mother and sister to understand; it is a river they are “still navigating,” she says, even as she stands firm in who she is.The world has not always been kind to her brilliance. Erivo bears witness to the stinging racism and the small cuts of microaggressions she endured in her work. She remembers the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, where they asked her to sing from behind a curtain so white classmates could lip-sync to her voice—wanting the gift, but not the woman. And when she stepped into the shoes of Celie for The Color Purple in London, the critics complained. They said she was not “gray” enough, not “decrepit” enough, that the violence was not enough. Imagine that—telling a Black woman she does not look broken enough.But these trials have only deepened the well from which she draws. They shape her song and her spirit, fueling her return to the stage as Elphaba, opposite Ariana Grande in Wicked, where she defies gravity once more.

I absolutely loved this! Finished it in one day! I believe Cynthia values privacy, so to have this glimpse into her life and thought processes throughout her journey is great! She encourages everyone to be unapologetically themselves, something I struggle with myself. Her story opens my mind up to see that even at 43, if I’m willing to put in the work and accept myself (both limitations AND abilities), the possibilities still available to me in life are numerous. Find your gifts, walk in your calling, and be simply more. Thank you, Cynthia ❤️

Will this book actually help you live to 100? Maybe not, but it will definitely help you live well with whatever time you’ve got. It’s told with Dick Van Dyke’s signature humor and joie de vivre, and I could really hear his voice in the writing. It’s told in short anecdotes about his life – the funny and heartbreaking, the poor decisions and the ones that brought him joy. Fans of Dick Van Dyke will enjoy this collection. Be ready to cry and laugh.Content warnings: some swearing; multiple near-death scenarios; mentions of smoking and alcoholism; accidental injury to animals; mentions of his affair; death from cancer; brief mentions to feeling sexually pressured by strangers; brief description of disturbing content from a horror movie role that Van Dyke turned downThank you to NetGalley and Grand Central Publishing for the free eARC. I post this review with my honest opinions.

This is a great book. It’s funny, great stories, and excellent advise.

Delightful. Just like Van Dyke. It felt pretty much like an ol’ friend simply sitting in my living room sharing stories and memories. In other words, very readable and personal. I liked the fact that despite the title, he emphasizes early on that there are really no set rules. Instead, you’ll get lots of stories that seemed to encompass his entire life. And what a life it has been. I’m pretty sure my first intro to him was via the Dick Van Dyke Show but have followed his career off and on over the years. How cool was it to see his appearance in the recent, updated version of “Mary Poppins” with Lin-Manual Miranda essentially playing his past role as Bert.Dick Van Dyke’s optimism and humor shine through. I’ve been lucky enough to have read a couple of his past books, including a biography where he divulged that despite the smile and humor we saw on screen, his life wasn’t always clear sailing, so it was wonderful to see he’s living his best life nowadays. True, as he notes, to use a phrase borrowed from elsewhere, old age isn’t for sissies. He admits to the aches and pains and associated with aging, his challenges of the past, his losses, and to the loneliness as old friends leave us, not to mention his cheerful admission of forgetting the lyrics to songs at times. Given that here he is, nearly 100, singing with an a capella group called the Vantasix, it made me grin to imagine him losing the melody but finding it eventually without shame. Almost sounds like it could be a television show, huh? You rock, Dick.I won’t detail the “rules for living” he shares, more like things “I’ve learned in nearly 100 years that may or may not apply to you but may amuse you”, so you can discover them for the first time personally. His love of family, especially his praise for the role wife Arlene has played in his life, is touching, as are memories of his family and former friends and co-stars. I opted to just read and enjoy, to be honest, so don’t have many notes to share. For me, and I think for others, Dick Van Dyke has accomplished his main goal, to lift us up by sharing a piece of himself. And, oh, I just grinned. Sat down to type and realized I’ve been running around barefooted, which he’d obviously approve. It’s called earthing, he notes, and he highly recommends it. So glad I’ve been following this bit of advice much of my life. Thanks #GrandCentralPublishing for giving me an early peek at this absolutely delightful tale. Dick Van Dyke continues to inspire and lift us all up.

Arrived promptly but dust jacket was scuffed up really bad.

I am mostly a reader of MM romance, but when I saw this book was available, I knew it was one I was going to enjoy. I just didn’t realize how much.First off, as mentioned in the second chapter, “Make Your Own Rules,” there aren’t actually 100 rules here, and some of them may seem similar. That said, there are so many wonderful life lessons to be learned. Each one has its own short, easily digestible chapter, which makes for quick and smooth reading. It’s also not linear, timeline-wise, but that comes across as more of a benefit than a drawback, as it keeps the book from turning into another autobiography. Mr. Van Dyke also makes it clear that the reader is welcome to work these “rules” into their life in whatever way they see fit, if at all.Many of the anecdotes covered in the book are humorous, some are poignant, and all are relevant and timely. So many great stories are told here as well; everything from egg tricks to walnuts, from Mr. Van Dyke’s “Oscar” to his phone calls with Cary Grant. He introduces us to Dark Van Dyke, talks about his barbershop quartet (the Vantastix), and explains how and why Halloween became such a big part of his life. He introduces us to the loves of his life, including how fate was involved in meeting his wife, Arlene. And in introducing us to his assistant, Jimmy, he shows that it’s never too late to respect someone when they tell you who they really are.There’s an interesting thread of self-awareness woven through these tales and lessons as well. It’s clear Mr. Van Dyke understands the ways in which his age has limited him – and the ways in which it hasn’t! He also doesn’t sugarcoat anything from his past or present, which is appreciated.All in all, I’d consider this book an absolute must read – and reread!(On a more personal note, as a huge Buster Keaton fan, I loved seeing his name come up a few times throughout the course of this book!)Many thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the chance to read this book. This is my honest review.

100 Rules for Living to 100 was such a gem! Admittedly, I have never seen any of his movies or shows, but like most people, I know of Dick Van Dyke. It was so fascinating learning more about his story, and I found myself falling just a little bit in love with this sweet, funny, joyful gentleman. I loved the book’s style, with him having a “rule” for living that is accompanied by a story about his life. I found myself laughing out loud, smiling like a crazy person, and even getting misty-eyed.Tom Bergeron did an exceptional job with the audiobook. Most of the time, I forgot it was even him telling us the stories. I highly recommend 100 Rules for Living to 100 to everyone, young and old. Off to watch everything Dick Van Dyke has ever been in…

Conservatives will love it. We learn a lot about Tyrus’ upbringing and background, but the best parts are his observations about the current state of our political environment, both serious and humorous. He’s spot on!

Great book Tyrus.. absolutely love it & love the forward by President Trump

What in the horrible erotica is this nonsense? Supposed to be masculine looking like the pin up for a gay romance novel is wild.

Funny and entertaining..thought his life stories were great. Now I want to see his show

Great book. Once again Tyrus tells it like it is. I could put it down.

Great book, real stories about how it really is.

I bought this because I thought it was a gay porno but it turned out to be a pretty good book! A+

Locked in by the end of the Author’s Note.

I was thrilled with excitement when I learned that this book was to be released in 2025. I have been a fan of Sir Anthony Hopkins’ acting for over 50 years. I preordered both the book and audible version and have impatiently waited for this month to arrive. My review of the book: Magnificent! He is a superb author and has filled this memoir with his life experiences (and also some photos) from childhood to the present. He shares not only details of his private life and career, but also his inner thoughts, feelings, and self-growth during his lifetime. Many of his film and theatre performances are discussed, and near the book’s end some advice for any young actors. I sincerely thank Sir Anthony Hopkins for writing this wonderful memoir because he has seemed to be such a generally private personality and now his phenomenal memory and words have helped me to know him better.

As soon as I heard about this book, I preordered it. I’ve always been a big fan of Anthony Hopkins. I also purchased the audiobook.I am impressed at how honest Anthony is about his life. The good, bad and the ugly. Thank God that he got sober and has had a long successful career so that his fans can enjoy and admire his work.It is sometimes painful to read, but in the end I love him even more because he exposes who he really is.

Anthony Hopkins is much more complex than I thought. I enjoyed listening to his autobiography. He has grit and humility from the years of defiance and self-loathing. I didn’t know he had a daughter well, I am sure I googled his past some time back. I took more of a personal liking to him during our era of Covid, listening to his piano playing. His love of poetry. When I think back to is acting career, I could see his own torment through his ability to melt into his characters. The fact that he always thought, “You want me to…”, “Why choose me…”, “I don’t care if they don’t choose me..” when in reality he fed off of his stage education and all the “greats” he was blessed to have received their experiences and words of “wisdom”. He took great pride in performing on stage and in films with his own touch on a character. He is so perplexed that he has lived such a long and full life but, I feel that when someone has something to finish; something to share with others, it comes in the time when we have been prepared, through the journeys of our lives. I could not have read this book because I need to feel the author, hear their story in their own words. I enjoyed listening while walking, driving, writing. He spoke of so many facets of his life, school years, the military; his father and mother in marriage and the struggles he remembered. Working his way up the ladder of success and in the end, telling us to remember where we come from because that is what molds us as we age. A truly interesting human being. Thank you, Mr., Hopkins, for sharing the raw, untainted versions of yourself.

Loved this memoir-what a sensitive & excellent writer is Sir Anthony Hopkins! Couldn’t put it down-many life lessons to be learned here. Thank you for your honesty Sir!

I didn’t know what to expect going in, but this life was far more exciting and sad and loving than I had ever imagined.Of course, I’m familiar with Anthony Hopkins’ work, but this goes so deep into his life. It’s not just about the many successes, but how hard his life was and how he eventually was able to overcome the hurdles.We can learn so much about how to the manage the ups and downs in our own lives.Thank you so much!

This book is a gift! Not just to actors but all of humanity. Beautiful and heartrending and motivating. Your soul will thank you.

I really didn’t know what to expect from this book. There was a lot about his childhood and school days which seemed very sad to me. Yet he overcame the lack of encouragement that I feel children need. I related very much to his attitude towards life. His willingness to be so open in the book struck me as opposite to his philosophies presented earlier in the book but I suppose that shows his willingness to embrace people.

Loved this book. Hopkins describes his inner states at various times in his life so beautifully and skillfully. Highly interesting. Couldn’t put it down.

If you’ve ever loved a song, felt the goosebumps at a live-show moment, dreamed of speaking to your heroes and found your voice anyway — this book will resonate. It’s funny, heartfelt, beautifully written, and often feels like the soundtrack playing just beneath the words. I closed it feeling inspired, nostalgic, and grateful for stories that remind us what it means to chase something — music, identity, belonging.A must-read for music fans, film lovers (hello, Almost Famous roots), and anyone who has ever been the outsider looking in. Crowe’s journey is quirky, bold, and above all, deeply human.

Inspiring way to look at one’s life, through the love of music and how it narrates one’s history. Very insightful way of also looking at one’s family dynamics. Cameron Crowe is deeply personal and engaging and goes even deeper into sharing who he is and how he was shaped beyond the biopic Almost Famous.

This is an excellent book that should easily delight any of the Boomer crowd (to whom I belong) as well as anyone who wants a clear eyed and well narrated world of music and the arts. If you remember the Joni Mitchell line “stoking the star maker machinery, behind the popular song”, this book gives you a glimpse of that world in a highly entertaining and engrossing way. So many tales of great musicians, what makes them tick, and very often showing how they became the great artists they are. Cameron Crowe is an exceptional writer that has that rare ability to let you feel like you’re in the room with him as much when he talks about his family life as when he is engaged in a conversation with a great musician.I’m looking forward to re-watching his epic “Almost Famous” since I know the book will dovetail well with it. Again, Cameron Crowe has that ability to make you feel like “you were there”. That’s my recollection of that movie, as well as the overall flow of the book.In the end, this is a grand book about music by a man who both writes musically and obviously loves music. Highly recommend.

Cameron Crowe and I are the same age (give or take a month or two) and he has captured everything about being a huge rock and roll fan in the 1970s and 1980s just perfectly in his wonderful new book: The clothes, the hair, the manner of speech, the weed, and especially being uncool.Back in those prehistoric times there were so few sources of info about your favorites bands and artists.I can remember anxiously waiting for the next issue of Rolling Stone to appear in the mailbox and reading the whole thing within an hour of its appearance. The articles by Cameron Crowe were such a significant part of those times.In his new book, the stories he tells of growing up with his parents and siblings ring so true and are so poignant.Especially struggling to convince his parents of the virtue, artistry, and necessity of rock and roll. The chapters where he talks about his relationship with his sisters and his mother (and their relationship with his mother) are very touching and very perceptive. As with all of his work, he has such a keen eye for the small details and subtle interactions that color everything in a relationship.Some of the chapters on his family are extremely moving and you can tell that even though the Crowe family of the 1970s may have been a little bit off-kilter, there was an abundance of love for each other in the family and that same love for each other is demonstrated through the years and throughout the book.The stories of his adventures with The Allman Brothers, Ron Wood, David Bowie, Kris Kristofferson, Gram Parsons, Emmylou Harris, Rota Collidge, Ronnie Van Zant, The Who, and all the others put you right there next to him.They are a wonderful and detailed look into the work of a great (and very young at that time) writer and reporter.Again, such a wonderful and poignant book. So worth the read.Many thanks Mr Crowe for your memories.They brought back so many great memories in my mind.Scott G.

This memoir in essays should be mandatory reading for music lovers and movies lovers.

Finished “The Uncool:A Memoir” by Cameron Crowe.The beginning started out a bit slow for me but by the time I finished understood why, it’s the foundation of his story.Quite honestly I didn’t know much about him but saw an interview and it piqued my interest and now I’m glad and have more reading to do. Filled with humor, pathos, joy and a ton of music history from my era. Love of music is a common thread through many of my friendships so his recollections resonated in so many ways. Thank you. Teri Murray

The only thing better than reading this book yourself is listening to Cameron Crowe narrate the audiobook (so seriously, get both!) Not only do you get a backstage pass to meet the musicians that created the mixtape of our adolescence (if you grew up calling radio stations & listening to cassettes), but Cameron’s deeply engaging tone and content make it feel like you’re just hanging out or maybe road-tripping together. I listened to the entire book in one sitting on a long drive, and truly hated to reach the end- the time flew by. I highly recommend this wonderful memoir! PS. One of the stars of this book is Cameron’s mom, Alice (aka Alicia) Crowe. You’ll fall in love with her and no doubt find yourself quoting her snippets of wisdom.

Bought the book & the audio also.Could not stop listening. Very witty, funny and a great story.Written clearly that there was no need to rewind; you got it the first time. Only rewound to hear the Cool Wows, Whoas, & Whats again!”It’s all happening!”Love it.

This book is a delightful challenge for readers of all ages. It begins with simple puzzles but gradually ramps up to more complex ones that require deeper thought and focus. What makes it especially engaging is the option for clues when needed, ensuring you’re never completely stuck.It’s the perfect gift for someone who spends their days working their brains and don’t know how to shut it off at night. The puzzles provide an enjoyable mental workout to focus your brain away from daily stresses. Much better than mindlessly scrolling through social media, it’s a great way to wind down.I’ve even brought a couple of puzzles into staff meetings as a fun icebreaker for a group of accountants. The number-loving crowd seemed to enjoy them more than expected. It’s a clever mix of fun and brainpower!

At first, I was skeptical that I would enjoy a logic puzzle. The grid looks a little daunting.In reading the reviews, it sounded like a good way reduce my screen time, though.I am so happy that I bought this book! I am only on puzzle number 42 and have purchased every book available on Amazon. The author takes you through a very thorough example in the beginning to introduce you to a basic logic puzzle. In full transparency, I also watched a YouTube on how to complete these. By the fifth puzzle, I had it down! And it is so satisfying to solve these.The book has great paper quality for looking like it’s newspaper print. It’s not. It’s a little bit thicker so stands up to erasing!. It’s also nice that as the book advances and the puzzles get a little more difficult. The book is not monotonous at all.This reads like a comedy murder mystery, which is highly entertaining. There is a diverse character base which keeps showing up to commit murdle! I have definitely laughed out loud while working through this book.Expertly written. Easy to get the hang of. Awesome way to use your brain and reduce a little bit of screen time. Highly recommend!

This puzzle book is an absolute gem for anyone who loves **logic puzzles with a twist**! The progression from **easy to difficult** keeps things engaging, allowing both beginners and seasoned solvers to challenge themselves at their own pace. The **spiral binding** is a fantastic feature—it lays flat perfectly, making solving comfortable and hassle-free. Every puzzle is crafted with clever clues and intriguing mysteries, making each solve feel satisfying and rewarding. **Easily my favorite puzzle book**—it’s thoughtful, immersive, and an absolute joy to work through! Highly recommended for anyone who loves a mix of logic, deduction, and fun!

Murdle: Volume 1 offers a series of intriguing mysteries that progressively challenge your deductive reasoning. The puzzles are well-structured, with a mix of difficulty levels that keep you engaged throughout.

I love this book so much I also bought Vol 2 and Vol 3. I completed Vol 1 and it was a real joy, and I’m half way through Vol 2! I love that there is a storyline go to along with the puzzles.The one-magnifying glass level (Elementary) are the easiest and should not be a problem for most peopleThe next are the Medium difficulty. Here you are given only two clues and statements from each suspect, which could be either a truth or a lie.Hard difficulty brings not only an additional suspect, weapon and location, but you must also determine the motive. Personally, I found these easier than the Medium difficulty – but that’s just me.Lastly we have the Impossible difficulty. Here we have the same number of suspects, weapons, locations and motives as the Hard difficulty, BUT with an added truth or lie statement from each of the suspects.PROS:For those not familiar with logic puzzles, there are 8 pages of excellent instructions and techniques on how to go about solving the puzzles.The grids are very adequately sized (they’re large) and there’s lots of room to write notes. There’s a section toward the end immediately before the answer section where you can get an additional hint for every puzzle. It’s nice that this is well hidden so you don’t see it accidentally.The puzzles are very well designed such that you sometimes must read the detail description of the suspects, weapons, locations and motives in order to get the correct clue.The answers are actually a continuing storyline. It’s fun to follow along with the mystery!CONS:Sadly there are a few. Because the paperback is not in color, the shaded areas where the locations and weapons are listed and described can be difficult to read at times. For example, Locations can be either outdoors or indoors, and that is sometimes part of a clue. The background and the print color of the words ‘outdoors’ and ‘indoors’ are too similar making it very difficult to read. This is also an issue with the Weapons. Suggestion: make it the same as the Suspects; black on white not white on gray.Once you get to the Hard and Impossible puzzles, you have the suspects, locations, weapons (and motives), clues and solving grid on FOUR pages. You’re flipping back and forth from the clues, to the suspects, to the clues, to the locations, to the grid, to the weapons, to the clues…. etc. You get the idea.Overall, I’m so happy with this puzzle book. I love logic puzzles but struggle with those that include a lot of math. These are so much fun because there’s actually a story to read. The descriptions are very humorous as well and quite a few ‘tongue in cheek’ expressions.Finally: If you want some casual fun while stressing your brain, then you’ll love this group of puzzles. However, if you are looking for a hard-core, math heavy, little-to-no-clues puzzle book, this isn’t for you.

I bought this book for my son but found myself asking him a few nights a week if I could borrow and do one. I have now taken over the whole book so I will need to buy him a new one.

Fantastic logic puzzles of varying difficulty. Very good waste of time.

Glad to be the first review here. I cracked the book open as soon as it was delivered. There’s alot that can be said, but ultimately Nia is a shining star. I grew up watching the show and in a slightly parasocial way I feel like I grew up with her as well. Learning more about her life and experiences was a pleasure especially since our backgrounds and lives were very similar in many ways. Nia deserves this movement and deserved to tell her truth on her own terms.Despite the unfair standards she’s been held to and still held to, she has taken control of her life and only risen higher. She is another beacon for black girls and women everywhere and I couldn’t be more proud to see what a dazzling and intelligent woman she’s become. Much like her mother. Growing up, we needed stories like this because we are overlooked and mistreated. Held to such impossible standards. It feels so good to know how connected we are even with the distance between our lives and locations. This book was riveting, entertaining, informative and powerful. It resonated so deeply with me. Nia has so much class and control. Lord knows I would not be nearly as forgiving, understanding, and kind as she has been. It shows how much light fills her character. This is an excellent read for all Dance Mom fans but all black girls as well. I wish Nia even more success.

Wonderful job writing this Nia. You told your story in your time with grace and honor! This was a great read. I appreciated hearing your side of the story. I can’t wait to see all you accomplish in the future

I have watched the show since it aired and have watched the Hulu spin off as well. As a kid watching this show I never caught any of problematic things. Rewatching the show as an adult is where I caught on to all things problematic. I have always rooted for the underdogs because they have the most to give and I can relate to them. Reading Nia’s story, I had moments of tears, joy, anger. Pretty much every emotion I felt when I had watched the show as an adult. But her story is so inspiring and one that needed to be heard. I thought the book was incredibly powerful just like her. I highly recommend giving her book a read!

ABSOLUTELY NO NOTES!!! As a long time fan of the Dance Moms franchise and a black dancer who grew up white spaces myself, getting to read this book and hear about the behind the scenes of some of the most gut wrenching and relatable moments from your seven years was so cathartic. I remember watching the show and seeing these moments where Abby and the moms would hurt you in ways that only a black girl in white spaces could understand and feeling FURIOUS because I knew exactly what was going on in your head and to read it on paper in your words unfiltered is exactly what needed to happen. This was a beautiful retelling that had me tearing up at some points. VERY WELL DONE NIA! I hope to read more books from you in the future.

I watched Dance Moms from the very beginning. I was around 15 at the time, and like you, I grew up in the arts. I danced from the age of 5, and by 10 I was also singing and acting. I stayed in that world all the way until college.Growing up in The Bahamas, I didn’t have the same constant experience of being a Black girl in predominantly white spaces. But I did get a taste of it during a NYFA summer program in New York, and that memory came back to me while reading your book.Now that I’ve read your story and revisited some of the dances and key moments from the show, I’m seeing everything through a completely different lens. It made me emotional. I can see the pain, the racism, and the weight you were carrying as a child just trying to do what you loved. And you did it with excellence.I’m now back in a similar position: a Black woman navigating white spaces while pursuing a dual master’s degree. Your book came to me at the right time. It reminded me to keep going. Your feelings are real, valid, and important.And the fact that some people are “confused” or upset that the book addresses race only proves the point: they will never understand the experience, and they don’t realize that it has always been about race because that is the reality you were forced to navigate.Thank you for telling your story. Thank you for your honesty and your bravery. I grew up watching you, and you were always at the top in my eyes. You were one of the reasons I stayed watching until the end.— With love and respect ????

Nina it was always you my girl ! Thank you for sharing your experience and shedding light on the things you endured during your time on the show. This was beautifully written and read! You have always been on the top of OUR pyramid! Continue to be authentically YOU in every way! The Dr. Holly mini me she did a wonderful job in protecting and raising! They could never dim a light that outshined the scope of their lens. And to Chloe we are ready for yours too whenever you are much ???????? to you! My forever 2 FAVS

I would recommend this book to everyone I know. There is nothing that I didn’t like. I did like that Now point out that she did not blame the girls but the adults. Children learn by example of there parents and peers. Even when others say hurtful words and say they were joking it still hurts. I love the chapter on her mom and the one on Mia’s accomplishments. This is a book that many people can relate to

Nia’s story is sadly very relatable. While reading this phenomenal memoir I felt like I was reading the story of my childhood. The love of dance while battling racism were my own personal experiences and reading this book made me feel validated. So thank you Nia for sharing your story and congratulations on this major win for all of us