It's OK NOT to Share…and Other Renegade Rules for Raising Competent and Compassionate Kids

by Heather Shumaker
It's OK NOT to Share…and Other Renegade Rules for Raising Competent and Compassionate Kids cover
Good Books rating 4.67
Technical
  • ID: 2958
  • Added: 2025-10-16
  • Updated: 2025-10-16
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
goodreads.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19
excellent 5.00

The reviewer loved the immersive world and audiobook performance of 'The Monsters We Defy', praising its unique setting in 1925 Washington, DC, and the exploration of themes like colorism and classism. They appreciated the slow-burn romance and the character of Zelda, who looks out for the main character, Clara.

The reviewer was captivated by 'The Monsters We Defy', particularly the immersive world and the exceptional audiobook performance by Shayna Small. The story's setting in 1925 Washington, DC, and its focus on Black characters allowed the author to delve into themes of colorism and classism, which the reviewer found fascinating. They appreciated the slow-burn romance and the character of Zelda, who provides both fighting skills and emotional support to the main character, Clara. The reviewer also enjoyed the mystery of Clara's past and the way the story unfolds, revealing details gradually. The spirit world and the deals made with Enigmas added an intriguing layer to the narrative.

Quick quotes

    I love a good immersive world in fantasy and speculative fiction, where you feel like you could be in the setting.

    I really appreciate a story that doesn’t immediately tell you the why, but allows the story to unfold and lets you work out what happened for yourself.

    I really loved her character and the way she looks out for Clara.

themontessoriroom.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19
brilliant 4.50

The reviewer praises 'The Monsters We Defy' for its joyful yet intense narrative, blending Black history, conjuring, and heist elements. They highlight the rich character development and the novel's exploration of Black joy and resilience amidst historical and supernatural threats.

The reviewer finds 'The Monsters We Defy' to be a scintillating adventure set in 1925 Washington DC during the Harlem Renaissance. The novel masterfully combines Black history, conjuring, and superstitions to create a compelling heist story. The characters are well-developed, each with unique abilities and backstories that add depth to the narrative. The reviewer appreciates the balance of joy and intensity, as the characters navigate dangerous spirits, mobsters, and historical threats. The novel's exploration of Black joy and love, despite the constant dangers, is particularly noteworthy. The heist itself is thrilling, with unexpected twists and a mix of mythical hero's journey, murder mystery, and historical elements. Overall, the reviewer is highly impressed by the novel's ability to blend different genres and create a rich, engaging story.

Quick quotes

    The reviewer is extremely pleased with how joyful yet stunning a read 'The Monsters We Defy' was.

    Hope exists just within the grasp of the characters, but the odds are increasingly out of their favor as more spirits pursue the ring.

    Penelope has put a tremendous amount of effort into elevating the Black history of DC without sacrificing a well-told story.

barnesandnoble.com · Unknown · 2025-10-19
fantastic 4.50

The book is praised for its unique blend of African American folk magic, historical setting, and a compelling heist plot. Readers appreciate the well-developed characters and the intricate magic system with its associated tricks and curses.

This book stands out for its imaginative fusion of African American folk magic and historical fiction set in 1920s Washington, D.C. The heist plot is engaging and the characters are well-developed, each with unique powers and corresponding curses that add depth to the story. The setting is richly detailed, bringing the Harlem Renaissance era to life with a diverse cast of characters. The magic system is particularly intriguing, as each power comes with a significant downside, adding tension and realism to the narrative. The book also tackles themes of slavery and forced labor, making it a compelling read that combines entertainment with social commentary.

Quick quotes

    A magical heist with an all-Black cast set in a Harlem Renaissance-inspired Washington DC? Yes, pls.

    Prohibition era heist / fantasy novel, set in Black Washington.

    Absolutely wonderful. A fantasy heist novel set in 1920s DC that combines African American folk magic, history, and romance is a tall order, but Leslye Penelope did a fantastic job bringing this story to life.

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