This retelling of "One Thousand and One Nights" is such an enjoyable read. I loved the different aspects the author added to the story and I love how much culture was explored in the stories. It came across not only through the words and dialect, but food and clothing as well. I loved how the themes of betrayal and loyalty were explored. I definitely have to read the second book.

This is a coming-of-age story with elements of magical realism peppered in. With the first read, you can't really tell what's real and what's fiction. That could be magic, or just the narrator's childhood perception of the world. I will definitely have to read it again to pick up on all the clues and Easter eggs. It was equal parts funny, sad, and terrifying. Altogether an intriguing read. Thanks @Bigwig for the gift!

I bought this for $3 on a whim and I don't care what the second one costs. This was a great YA read. This fantasy world is so rich in the way the author built the various cultures and customs. The story follows a young girl after she is chosen to be the body double of the hated princess. It has a little bit for everyone: fantasy, romance, sci-fi. I thought this book would just be fun; it was excellent. Daud spared no expense for her debut novel.

Korean folklore at its finest. This was a beautiful book in so many ways: the imagery, the story, the relationships, the lessons. This is a modern retelling of the Korean fable Sim Cheong. The story read like a classic fairytale I feel that everyone could enjoy. It is also a great representation of the spirit world in the Asian tradition. If you want a fun escape into a fantasy land, but a story full of heart, this is your book.

This is one of the two books that I think everyone should read in their life. I think this book is especially poignant for women. All the characters were diverse. None of them were a stereotype, but rather unique with strengths and flaws. This book explores female relationships, race, and religion and somehow ties all that in with bee keeping in a magical way. It's an incredible story that will resonate with you.

This book started out like a lion, but ended as a lamb. Gaiman set up this fantasy world well, but the character development and relationships fell short and the story lost its allure by the end. This is a rare occasion where I prefer the film over the book.

I was excited to get this, soon to discover that it's written entirely in verse. I let out a sigh. However I bought the book, so I figure I better give it a try. 24 hours later it has become one of my favorite books. The author weaves a plot through the verse; yet there are passages that read like individual poems. I enjoyed the light-hearted story, while still exploring heavier themes. It's a modern fairy tale and I couldn't put it down.