My thoughts: Children absolutely love search and find books. No matter the subject matter, they become engrossed in finding the most minute detail in books of this type.
In Search and Find Animals by Libby Walden the fold out pages make this very durable book even more fun and the amount of interesting critters to find is fantastic. Going from the barnyard to the tropical forest, the young reader will be engaged in this unique opportunity to find the animals. As the books is opened, you see that on the left is a flap and the instructions direct the child to search for what is hidden under the flap. This continues with cold climate animals (penguins, etc.), jungles, the sea, the African savannah, and the forest.
And there is more than just the specific animals for which the reader is to search. There are more animals and objects that can capture the child's attention and become a focused learning point.
The colorful illustrations are cute and whimsical and easy for the child to identify. This can be a fun, entertaining, and educational exploration into the animal world.
I highly recommend for the home with young children.
About the book: Can you find a pair of birds playing badminton, a gibbon with a ribbon, and a starfish shining in the spotlight? In Search and Find: Animals, young children are prompted to search six busy foldout scenes to find theHa illustrations highlighted on the large flaps. Each colorful spread features 20 things to find, plus additional amusing animals on a farm, in the Arctic, under a jungle canopy, beneath the waves, across the savannah, and in the nighttime woods. As readers explore the pages and find the animals, they will encounter other creatures scampering about—so parents can help children identify and learn the names of even more animals.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity on behalf of Silver Dolphin Books to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given.
My thoughts: This is an incredibly touching story written with lovely flowing words that ring true to the time, location, and era of the tale. The story is of an older man who recalls his youth and his running. But as important as the recollection of an older man is, the respect showN to him by a younger generation and the respect for the elderly it will instill in young readers is truly wonderful.
The story resonates with wonder as the joy of the older man is recalled and captures the attention and imagination of the young boy, proving that interests and goals span the generations helping young Liam see that going to help Harry proves beneficial for both Harry and Liam.
I strongly encourage adults to find ways in which their young children can engage the senior population learning their stories and finding things they can do to help the aging population. This story shows a way the generations can benefit from each other and also is a powerful story.
About the book: "That's reet, lad! Run! There's a wolf at your tail! Run for your lovely life!" A joyful, uplifting story of times gone by, from the internationally acclaimed author of Skellig. A joyful, uplifting story of times gone by from the internationally acclaimed author of Skellig, illustrated in full colour by the award-winning illustrator of A Walk in London. Liam just wants to go out running with his mates - it's not long till the Junior Great North Run, and there's training to be done. But Mam needs him today, to help old Harry clear out his house. Harry knows a thing or two about running. When he was a lad, he says, he ran all the way from Newcastle to South Shields. "But Harry," says Mam, "that's thirteen miles!" Harry grins. "Different times," he says. This is the story of that day: of sweltering heat, clattering boots, briny sea air and the heavenly taste of ice cream; the day when Harry and his pals ran and ran and ran through the blazing sunlight all the way to the sea.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Candlewick Press to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and are freely given. Winner's copy is provided directly to them by Candlewick.
My thoughts: There has been a lot of press recently about fairy tales and specifically about "Beauty and the Beast." A recently released film has drawn interest and piqued hearts young and old with its tale of love overcoming ugliness.
There are books on Beauty and the Beast that facilitate enjoyment on various levels. And today we're looking at a beautifully drawn coloring book from Silver Dolphin Books that has quotes from the original story.
This is a quality product that older children, teens, and adults will enjoy coloring with highly detailed drawings that will fascinate and draw out the creative spark in the most avid "colorers." The designs are quite intricate and very pretty reminiscent of Walter Crane's art. Coloration will require very fine points and care to be done well.
About the book: This enchanting coloring book is full of wonderful pictures, patterns, and borders to be colored in, as budding artists immerse themselves in the story of Beauty, who goes to live with the terrifying Beast in order to save her father…and then gradually learns to love him. All the key scenes and characters are here to color in as you relive this most romantic of fairy tales.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from MMPublicity to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given. Winner's copy is provided directly winner by publicist or publisher.
To celebrate the release of On Duck Pond by Jane Yolen and illustrated by Bob Marstall (4/11/17), blogs across the web are featuring exclusive content from Jane and Bob, plus 10 chances to win a set of On Bird Hill and On Duck Pond !
From award-winning and NY Times bestselling children’s author of more than 350 books, Jane Yolen, and award-winning illustrator, Bob Marstall, On Duck Pond is the first sequel to the acclaimed On Bird Hill, which launched the children’s picture book series written for the esteemed Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the world authority on birds.
In On Bird Hill, Yolen and Marstall took readers on a surreal journey with a boy and his dog, as they stopped, looked, and noticed things along their path—ultimately discovering the miracle of the birth of a baby bird. On Duck Pond continues the journey of the boy and dog story, this time in a new place—a serene pond, filled with birds, frogs, turtles and other creatures going about their quiet business. Their intrusion stirs the pond into a cacophony of activity, reaching climactic chaos, before slowly settling back to it’s quiet equilibrium.
This beautiful and enchanting sequel is sure to delight On Bird Hill fans and millions of readers and fans of Jane’s popular classics.
About the Author: Jane Yolen has authored more than 350 books, including the Caldecott-winning Owl Moon, which every budding young ornithologist owns, You Nest Here With Me, which is a popular new favorite, and the New York Times bestselling series How Do Dinosaurs. Jane Yolen’s books have been translated into over 20 languages and are popular around the world. Janes husband, David Stemple, was both a well known bird recordist and a professor of computer science and he taught the entire family how to identify birds. Many of Jane’s books are about wildlife subjects, especially the winged kind. Jane lives in Easthampton, MA. Visit her online at janeyolen.com.
About the Illustrator: Bob Marstall is the illustrator of nine nonfiction children’s books, including the The Lady and the Spider, which sold over a quarter-of-a-million copies and was a Reading Rainbow selection. Bob has also been honored with an ALA Notable; an IRA Teachers’ Choice; a Smithsonian Magazine Notable Book for Children; and three John Burroughs selections.
In addition, two of Bob’s books are included in the New York Times Parent’s Guide’s “1001 Best Books of the Twentieth Century.” Bob Lives in Easthamton, MA. Visit him online at bobmartsall.com.
About the Cornell Lab:The Cornell Lab of Ornithology is a world leader in the study, appreciation, and conservation of birds. Our hallmarks are scientific excellence and technological innovation to advance the understanding of nature and to engage people of all ages in learning about birds and protecting the planet. birds.cornell.edu
GIVEAWAY
One (1) winner will receive a set of both
On Bird Hill and On Duck Pond -- a great Earth Day gift!
Welcome to Day #7 of the One Good Thing About America Blog Tour!
To celebrate the release of One Good Thing About America by Ruth Freeman (3/14/17), blogs across the web are featuring exclusive content from Ruth and 10 chances to win a copy of One Good Thing About America, as well as a chance to win a Skype visit with Ruth in the Grand Prize Giveaway!
Two Truths and a Liewith Ruth Freeman
What a fun idea this is! I haven’t played this game in years, and not often back then. Okay, it took me a while to come up with truths and lies but I think I’m ready to play. Hope it’s fun for you, too!
Two Truths and a Lie about Ruth Freeman:
When I was 12 my family spent a year traveling in Europe. My father, a middle-school math teacher, took a year’s sabbatical, carefully planned out the year and rented out our house. Then we bought a Peugeot station wagon in Paris and drove from Scandinavia to Sicily and everywhere in between. I’ve loved traveling ever since.
I never excelled at sports, but there was one (and only one) time when I won a diving contest at the pool where we swam in the summer. In my age group we had to do two dives. I did what we called a “pencil” dive, going in head first, arms at sides. That went pretty well. For my next dive, I was doing a swan dive. I was sure, with everyone watching, that this one would not go well. But what can you do but go for it? I jumped off and flew. I still don’t know how I won but I did.
I was in a play with Meryl Streep. She was two years ahead of me at Vassar College and we were both drama majors. In one production, an 18th c. English tragedy, she was cast as the lead (what else?) and I got to play her maid, or to be more exact, her maid’s maid. I had no lines but I was amazing at holding her dog and peeling potatoes.
Two Truths and a Lie about One Good Thing About America:
I sent the manuscript for my story to 12 different publishers and was rejected by all of them. I stewed for a while (okay, for quite a while), because of course I thought this was the greatest book ever written, then sent it to one more publisher, Holiday House. The editor, Mary Cash, called me two weeks later with an offer.
People always ask you what the title of your book is while you’re working on it. I never know, but was using a title of “Talking Funny.” There’s a place in the story where another student asks Anaïs why she talks funny, and I liked having an action verb in the title. But my editor (this is why we have editors) picked One Good Thing About America. I’m so glad she did!
There really is a rare mineral from Africa that is used in cell phones and other electronics. I knew little about the mineral, called coltan, before I started writing this story. But when I needed more information about Anaïs’ father and his work with the mines in the Democratic Republic of Congo, I found a lot of articles and a documentary online about this billion-dollar, and largely unregulated, industry. It is a fascinating and painful story about greed, an area’s natural resources and the miners themselves (often children). Because coltan is in so many of the devices we use everyday, I think we have a responsibility to know more about where and how it is mined.
Two Truths and a Lie about Anaïs:
Next year, for Halloween, Anaïs wants to go as a Christmas tree. She’s planning on wearing all green and wrapping herself up in strings of Christmas lights. She’s asked Mr. Dan to please figure out how to make the lights turn on…or even better, flash! Bingo!
Anaïs' favorite movie is Twilight because people fly up into trees and do superhuman things and there are vampires. It’s exciting and kind of romantic, too.
When Anaïs grows up she wants to be a doctor, as she says in the story, but in her spare time she also wants to be a pop singer with Jenna and Brittany. She is already designing the beautiful dress she will wear.
Answers:
Two Truths and a Lie about Ruth Freeman: # 2 is a lie. I did enter a diving competition because my mother was complaining I never entered any of the swimming races. I did a regular dive and then a “pencil” dive. I certainly didn’t win, but I didn’t kill myself either. I have never been much a swimmer. More the leave-me-on-the-beach-with-a-book type. Now I live in Maine, so swimming is not much of an option!
Two Truths and a Lie about One Good Thing About America: # 1 is a lie. There was a time when I sent a manuscript off to at least 12 publishers (and probably more), but it was for my first picture book, Bedtime. For One Good Thing, my editor and I worked through the several versions of it together, so I knew what she wanted and what I needed to do to get it to the final stage.
Two Truths and a Lie about Anaïs: # 2 is a lie. So, when I knew I was going to be writing this post, I asked one of my students what her favorite movie was. She is also from Congo and about the same age as Anaïs. I was expecting her to say Frozen or something along those lines. Instead, she starts telling me about some movie, she couldn’t remember the name, but from the way she was miming the action it was full of guns and violence and I don’t know what else! I am going to put my author’s foot down here and declare that Anaïs’ favorite movie is the new Beauty and the Beast.
*****
Stop by Word Spelunking tomorrow for the next stop on the tour!
ONE GOOD THING ABOUT AMERICA is a sweet, often funny middle-grade novel that explores differences and common ground across cultures. It's hard to start at a new school . . . especially if you're in a new country. Back home, Anaïs was the best English student in her class. Here in Crazy America she feels like she doesn't know English at all. Nothing makes sense (chicken FINGERS?), and the kids at school have some very strange ideas about Africa. Anaïs misses her family . . . so she writes lots of letters to Oma, her grandmother. She tells her she misses her and hopes the war is over soon. She tells her about Halloween, snow, mac 'n' cheese dinners, and princess sleepovers. She tells her about the weird things Crazy Americans do, and how she just might be turning into a Crazy American herself.
About the Author: Ruth Freeman grew up in rural Pennsylvania but now lives in Maine where she teaches students who are English language learners, including many newly arrived immigrants. She is the author of several acclaimed nonfiction picture books. One Good Thing About America is her first novel..
GRAND PRIZE GIVEAWAY
One (1) winner will receive a signed copy of One Good Thing About America for their personal collection, as well as a 30 minute Skype visit with Ruth Freeman to the school of their choice and a signed copy for the school's library.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of the book. Grand Prize is provided by the author and publicity group. Winner of Chat With Vera's giveaway will receive their prize from the publicity group. I was not compensated for this post which was provided by MMPublicity.
My thoughts: This is a beautiful picture book with characters drawn from the imagination of Jonathan Emmett and fleshed out with the colorful drawings by Poly Bernatene. Not your ordinary and run-of-the-mill Frog into a Prince fairy tale, this one allows the reader to delve deeper into conscious thought and think out of the box exploring the sense that all is not as it may seem and that one can't always trust what is written in every book.
On the surface this is a delightful story with a twist on kissing the frog so he can become a handsome prince. It is the tale of three sisters, all princesses, two of which are engrossed with reading fairy tales and wishing for a handsome prince to marry them - even if it meant kissing a horrid frog first.
The young Princess Martha was more interested in real frogs simply because they were frogs and without the hope of one becoming a handsome prince. She peered at the frogs in the garden and spied a clever frog who dreamed princely dreams of soft beds, wonderful food, and a glorious crown. So he devised a plan to present himself to the young princesses. The story goes on that the two day-dreaming princesses wanted to lavish treats on the frog - of course hoping to change him into a Prince. After all, that is how the story in the book went and they wanted the same thing.
The adorable and fun illustrations coupled with the story are a sure-fire winning combination and a great twist on the typical frog into a prince fairy tale. I like that the reader (and the person reading to the young child) can think deeper and a bit out of the box on this one. Typically, the young child is taught and expected to believe what the story says and what the adults teach him or her. So to even entertain the thought of a young child not believing something should be carefully approached. Granted, belief a real frog can change into a real human prince is far fetched and can easily be used to teach a youngster that just because it is in a book doesn't make it a truth. Discernment between fairy tales and truth can be taught at an early age. Care does need to be exercised by the adult in the leadership position to carefully maintain the leadership role in helping the child develop the ability to know the difference between that which is true and that which is not.
I really like this book and the twist at the end. The story is cute, expressive, entertaining, and brings a bit of educational facts to the reader. The illustrations are delightful, fun, and brightly colored.I can highly recommend it for libraries and homes
About the book: Enchanted prince or just a plain old frog? Pucker up, princesses! Theres only one way to find out.
Fairy tales are just stories, or so Princess Martha believes. But when her sisters meet a talking frog, they're convinced that giving him the royal treatment will turn him into Prince Charming. After all, that's what happens in their story books. Martha isn't so sure. The more she sees of Prince Ribbit, the more suspicious she becomes. Armed with the facts, Martha sets out to expose Prince Ribbit and prove to her sisters that just because it's in a book doesn't mean it's true. But before The End, Princess Martha might just learn that lesson for herself!
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from the Peachtree Publishers to facilitate a review of my honest opinions which are freely given. Prize copy is provided and sent to winner by publisher.
My thoughts: It is always a roller coaster ride when I read a Lisa Harris novel. She packs so much adventure and suspense into the pages and the characters are so likeable - unless, of course, they are the villains.
The Nikki Boyd series has this TBI agent pursuing the bad folks and this pursuit is colored by her own personal family history where she lost a younger sister to a terrible crime. She has deep concern and compassion to those affected by similar crimes and viciously and determinedly pursues the culprits. In Pursued the characters on the run are a mother and her young daughter who are trying to escape the clutches of the girl's father and his vast criminal involvement.
The chase involves one terrible incident after another with Nikki barely escaping serious injury or death. Her climbing skills are again called into play as she rappels down a mountain to check on an automobile accident victim.
This book is easy reading that is suspenseful and action packed. The Christian element is there in the moral compass of the characters and their mention of praying. No preaching or lengthy Biblical passages. A good, clean read.
About the book: Nikki Boyd's flight into Nashville was routine--until the crash landing at the airport.
When the dust settles, Nikki discovers that the woman who had been seated next to her on the plane is missing--and no one will admit she was ever there. When she learns that Erika Hamilton had been flying to Nashville with an air marshal as a key witness in an upcoming grand jury trial, Nikki wonders if her disappearance from the crash site means she's running from trouble--or straight into it. Before Nikki can even see her family, she and her team are pulled into a missing persons case where the motives are as unclear as the suspects.
Bestselling and award-winning author Lisa Harris has planted danger around every turn in this can't-put-it-down thrill ride that will leave you stunned.
My thoughts: This is a powerful picture book whose impact can easily span a broad scope of ages for interest and direction into understanding the humanity of those whose lives are ruined by war and how kindness can lead the people through the darkness of the occasion.
John McCutcheon has taken an actual place and actual event where the Serb and Croatian war led to the Siege of Sarajevo. He has brought into the story how the war impacted the family of Drasko who is a young boy whose father sold fresh flowers in Sarajevo. Father is away at war and Drasko continues to sell the flowers to support his family.
War hits. Destruction is close and personal. The bombing was terrible.
And then, the cellist steps from his doorway and sits down. He begins to play. Sadness but beauty and hope emanate from his piece. This continues day by day.
The story touched my heart and I thought to myself, "Why have I never heard this story before?" The story is both sad and beautiful as the darkness is parted and the brightness that is the human spirit shines forth.
The illustrations are poignant, yet suitable for a children's book. The colors are drab neutrals which denote the bland, unlovely world that was Bosnia in the 1990s. Small touches of bright color peek through in the beauty of the flowers.
Included in this publication is the true back story of Cellist Vedran Smailovic who was a cellist for the Sarajevo Opera, Sarajevo Philharmonic Orchestra, Symphony Orchestra RTV Sarajevo, and the National Theatre of Sarajevo. Also, the history of the embattled region that includes Sarajevo spanning more than a century. And the beautiful reading of the story by the author himself. The beautiful song is sung by John McCutcheon and played by Cellist Vedran Smailovic.
I highly recommend.
About the book: The moving story of a young boy who discovers the power of beauty and kindness during a time of war. Drasko helps his father sell flowers in Sarajevo, but when war threatens and his father is called to the battlefront, Drasko must take over the flower stall. One morning the boys familiar routine is shattered when a mortar shell hits the bakery, killing twenty-two people. The next day, a cellist from the Sarajevo Opera Orchestra goes to the crater and plays the most beautiful music that Drasko can imagine. Inspired, he looks for ways to ease the sorrow of those around him.
Based on real events of the Bosnian War.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimen tary copy from Peachtree Publishing to facilitate a review. I was not compensated and opinions are my own, alone.
Just in time for National Poetry Month and Earth Day in April, National Geographic Kids Books is thrilled to debut Animal Ark: Celebrating Our Wild World in Poetry and Pictures (February 2017, ages 4-8, $15.99) by Newbery Medal-winning author Kwame Alexander with Mary Rand Hess and Deanna Nikaido, featuring photos by National Geographic Fellow and photographer Joel Sartore.
My thoughts: These photographs are absolutely fantastic. The photographer's talent (and patience) involved in capturing the images is superb. True to National Geographic quality, the book presents a child's view of animals that National Geographic is capturing in their photographic animal ark where they are storing images of as many critters as possible. Some may in the future become extinct and these images will have historic and naturalistic value. Children and adults alike will enjoy looking and learning from this delightful picture book. The sparse text invites the reader to "look into their eyes" and "sing our names." And lyric lines such as.....
"wings like a cape, ready for flight into the sweet, dark night."
"how many feathers.... does it take to make a wing to fly, share sky"
About the book: A howling wolf, a stalking tiger, a playful panda, a dancing bird - pairing the stunning photography of National Geographic photographer Joel Sartore with the delicate poetry of Newbery award-winning author Kwame Alexander, this lush picture book celebrates the beauty, diversity, and fragility of the animal world.
Featuring more than 40 unique animal portraits, the pages invite kids to explore each creature's markings, textures, and attributes in stunning detail, while calling on all of us to help protect each and every one. Three picture-packed gatefolds inside showcase even more familiar and exotic species. These images are part of Sartore's lifelong project to photograph every animal in the world, with special attention given to disappearing and endangered species. Animal Ark pairs Alexander’s mix of playful and powerful poetry with more than 100 of Sartore’s most compelling images of the world’s species to create a photographic ark for children that highlights the importance of conservation and celebrates the beauty, diversity and fragility of the animal world. Animal Ark is inspired by the National Geographic Photo Ark, a multiyear effort with Sartore and the National Geographic Society to document every species in captivity—inspiring people not just to care, but also to help protect these animals for future generations.
This picture book is a fantastic and unique selection for National Poetry Month and contains a message that is pitch perfect for Earth Day (April 22nd).
And those adorable photographs don't "just happen." It takes hard work and a fair amount "those won't work" snaps.
GIVEAWAY
Open to USA Addresses Only
Begins April 13
Ends April 30 @ 12:01 a.m EDT Open to USA addresses only.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own alone and are freely given. Prize is provided by and shipped to winner by MM Publicity on behalf of National Geographic.
My thoughts: Sheer delight! This lovely picture book captures the essence of a charming little girl who dearly loves her Daddy. She is all girly with frilly clothes, beads, hats and behavior. She excitedly goes about preparing for a tea party with her Daddy so it will be ready when he arrives home.
Having raised three girls, I know their charm and their ability to throw themselves into the business of being a little girl and lovingly looking forward to their Daddy's arrival at the end of the day.
Illustrated in soft, yet distinct pastels the cuteness and charm of this little girl is captured. The sweet love between daughter and father is evident. She is not just going to have a tea party, she is going to party with her Daddy (and Teddy Bear).
Not included in the story, but quite evident from the little girl having all the tools to be so girly (beads, dress, tea set, bling, boa, etc.) that she has a mother that has shown by example the joy of being a girl.
The rhyming story simply leaps from the page with joy and the last line resonates...... 'Daddy, tea is best with you."
About the book: What’s more fabulous than a tea party? Tea with Daddy, of course! This exuberant story begins before the honored guest arrives, with much ado—preparing, decorating, and accessorizing. And when Daddy makes his entrance, it’s clear that the little hostess couldn’t be more thrilled. Perfect for daddy-daughter reading time, this new picture book and its warm conclusion are sure to serve up smiles and tug at heartstrings.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Worthy Kids Publishing to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own and freely given. Prize copy is provided directly to the winner by publisher.
Andi Saddles Up (Circle C Stepping Stones #1) by Susan K. Marlow
Andi Carter has just turned nine--which means she and her palomino, Taffy, are old enough to be a real horse-and-rider pair at last! With a beautiful new saddle as a birthday present, Andi's sure she's ready to learn to trick ride like her friend Riley, even if her older brother Chad doesn't agree.
Riding to a secret spot her brother doesn't know about to practice, Andi finds a new friend to play with. But her fun friendship with Sadie is put to the test when they discover that their families are caught in a boundary dispute. Both Sadie's pa and Chad are stubborn as mules and each is convinced he's right. Can Andi and Sadie hang on to their friendship in the midst of this adult fight? My thoughts: This series is "spot on" for readability for ages 7 to 10. It has lively action, good conversation, characters with which children can identify, excitement, frustration, joy, and adventure.
Young Andi is celebrating her ninth birthday and feels as though she has reached a stepping stone age where she can be allowed privileges to ride her own horse and have her own saddle. Her birthday excitement is interrupted by a blustering and rude neighbor who charges into their home disputing their property boundaries.
A well written story for young chapter book readers and charming pen drawings make this a delightful book to place in the hands of young girls. From the Christian publisher, Kregel, you can rely on it to be a good story, clean, spiritually uplifting.
Andi Under the Big Top (Circle C Stepping Stones #2) by Susan K. Marlow
The summer after Andi Carter turns nine the circus comes to town. She can't wait to get in line to see the elephants, acrobats, and--most of all--the champion bareback rider. What could be more thrilling than riding your very own horse under the big top?
When the Carters see the show, Andi meets Henry Jackson, a small boy selling concessions. Andi thinks his job must be perfect, hanging out with happy clowns, exotic animals, and excited visitors. But it's not all fun and games. Henry shares a secret with Andi: he ran away from home to join the circus--and now he's trapped. Andi wants to help him get free. But helping him may mean losing something very special to her.
My thoughts: The author, Susan K. Marlow, has in book #2 of the series provided a good early chapter book for boys and girls who love wholesome stories and a touch of adventure. The excitement of "the circus coming to town" that small towns experienced years ago is well presented with the young characters filled with the anticipation and joy of seeing the unusual animals, tents going up, and daring acts of circus performers.
This is truly a good series for young readers and one I can highly recommend. DISCLOSURE: I received complimentary copies of both books from Kregel Publishing to facilitate reviews of my personal opinions which are freely given.
Connealy Combines Western Action and Charming Historical Romance
My thoughts: I read book one in the Cimarron Legacy series by Mary Connealy and enjoyed her light hearted writing style, sense of humor, touches of historical setting, and sweet romance. In book two, the Cimarron ranch folks continue to fend off evil desperadoes and wind their way into the reader's heart with their inherent goodness.
Featured this time is basically the story of Justin and Angie. We met Angie in book one as the new comer to the town who went to live and work with her Aunt Margaret who runs the Catholic orphanage and school. Justin is the oldest of the ranching clan although Cole is the actual oldest brother. Cole prefers mining to ranching and he was college educated back east. But because their father (previously seriously injured in book one) changes his will to involve all the kids living on the ranch, Cole is available with the others to fight off those intending to take the ranch away and wipe out the Boden family.
Long Time Gone has the earmarks of a tried and true western but will appeal to ladies because it has those lovable heroes and heroines and that touch of sweet romance.
Looking forward to Mary Connealy's next book to see just what happens to Cimarron Ranch and the folks living there and in the nearby areas. I recommend this as it is a good, clean book you can easily place in the hands of teens or adults.
About the book: The Boden clan thought their problems had ended with the death of a dangerous enemy, but have they truly uncovered the real plot to take their New Mexico ranch? Rancher Justin Boden is now in charge. He is normally an unshakable and rugged man, but with his brother, Cole, shot and in mortal danger, even a tough man faces doubts. And it doesn't help that Angie DuPree, the assistant to the doctor trying to save Cole, is as distracting a woman as Justin ever laid eyes on.
With her and the doc's timely skills, Cole looks to be on the mend, and Justin and the rest of the Bodens can turn their attention back to the dangers facing them. It's clear now that everything that's occurred is part of a much bigger plot that could date back to a decades-old secret. Can they uncover all the pieces before danger closes in on them, or is the threat to the ranch even bigger than any of the Bodens could imagine?
Author, Mary Connealy writes "romantic comedies with cowboys" and is celebrated for her fun, zany, action-packed style. She has more than half a million books in print. She is the author of the popular series Wild at Heart, Kincaid Brides, Trouble in Texas, Lassoed in Texas, Sophie's Daughters, and many other books. Mary lives on a ranch in eastern Nebraska with her very own romantic cowboy hero. Learn more at www.maryconnealy.com.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group to facilitate a review of my personal opinion which is freely given.
My thoughts: Reading Life After is like taking a peek into the souls, hearts, minds, and lives of people. People who have been through a massive life changing event that shatters them to their very core. It is being enveloped in the emotions and heart wrenching hurt that they experience minute by minute and day by day. Being the sole survivor of a horrific bomb blast in the city's train, Autumn feels and experiences the "why me" feelings of survivor guilt. And then there are those she is now learning to know, people who are now in her circle of acquantaince experiencing daily life who lost their loved ones in the same train explosion. As the story unfolds new friendly relationships bloom and coping mechanisms begin to fall in place. However, the story is not just about people coming to terms and accepting what has happened to those lost in the bombing, it is about the difficulties they face in living their lives with their own personal shortcomings and interacting with family and friends. Katie Ganshert's writing style is fresh and compelling. This is not a book to skim through. Even though it is a work of fiction, there is a wealth of wisdom and insight to be gleaned from the reading of this story. About the book: Snow whirls around an elevated train platform in Chicago. A distracted woman boards the train, takes her seat, and moments later a fiery explosion rips through the frigid air, tearing the car apart in a horrific attack on the city’s transit system. One life is spared. Twenty-two are lost. A year later, Autumn Manning can’t remember the day of the bombing and she is tormented by grief—by guilt. Twelve months of the question constantly echoing. Why? Why? Why? Searching for answers, she haunts the lives of the victims, unable to rest. Paul Elliott lost his wife in the train bombing and wants to let the dead rest in peace, undisturbed and unable to cause more pain for his loved ones. He wants normalcy for his twelve year-old daughter and young son, to see them move beyond the heartbreak. But when the Elliotts and Autumn are unexpectedly forced together, he fears she’ll bring more wreckage in her wake. In Life After, Katie Ganshert’s most complex and unforgettable novel yet, the stirring prose and authentic characters pose questions of truth, goodness, and ultimate purpose in this emotionally resonant tale.
Quotes to ponder from Life After:
"We worship a God who might not give us the miracle, but He will always give us the comfort."
“I guess that’s what life is...a whole bunch of little moments that don’t seem significant or life-altering at the time, but when you look back...they become the most profoundly beautiful things.”
"I'm not the most religious man. But I do believe in God. And the last I checked, He's the one in charge."
“Maybe comfort wasn't to be found in the why. Maybe comfort was to be found in the who. A God who wept."
"You know what I've learned about God?" ... "Circumstances don't dictate who He is."
“I guess that’s what life if, though, isn’t it? A whole bunch of little moments that don’t seem significant or life-altering at the time but when you look back...” She shook her head. “I don’t know. They become the most profoundly beautiful things.”
“This man had shown her a piece of his soul. A jagged, ugly, honest piece that was raw and bleeding and unlovely. A piece of his soul that matched a piece of hers.”
“She was a broken woman falling for a broken man who had a broken past and two beautiful, broken children.”
DISCLOSURE: As a member of Katie Ganshert's launch team, I received an Advance Reader's Copy to facilitate a review of the book. Opinions are simply my own and are freely given without compensation. Published by: WaterbrookMultnomah Publishing.
I continue to be amazed at the publications from Arbordale Publishing and the fun, educational material presented so well. Young readers can enjoy a bit of a story right along with a good dose of important information designed to stretch their intellectual abilities and develop their critical thinking skills. Written and illustrated by skilled professionals who write and draw in the fields about which they themselves are proficient and qualified, the stories are engaging and sometimes just downright funny. Sometimes the author and illustrator (either a photographer or an artist that draws and paints) presents basic facts and tells them in an interesting manner. Sometimes, they weave a tale that is fanciful and fun but still packed with facts about the particular subject the book is designed to impart to the young reader. Other great opportunities presented by Arbordale in relation to their books is the online material for each of the titles expanding further the information already in the print versions. There is a For Creative Minds on the Arbordale website section that provides another great option in the cross curricular teaching activity guide. Also, read aloud versions in the samples of enhanced book (check this preview - turn on your sound) links with highlighted words and speed controlled read aloud, Quiz Math Problems, Reading Comprehension Quiz, and teaching activities. Many of their publications are in English and Spanish.
Today, I am reviewing three titles from Arbordale and the publisher is graciously providing a copy of each book to one of Chat With Vera's readers to enjoy as well. Enter the contest by using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Saving Kate's Flowers by Cindy Sommer & illustrated by Laurie Allen Klein
My thoughts: This book is beautifully illustrated with cute, lovable bunnies who are gardening. Kate (little girl bunny) and her mommy are getting the garden ready for winter as summer's flowers are fading. Kate wants to save some of the flowers so mommy shows her how to save various types. This book is absolutely adorable. Presented just as though a "knowing" mommy talks to her little one at home. After all, home is most often the first learning/teaching stage and opportunity for a little one to discover the world about them and to satisfy their curiosity. Horticultural lessons are gently taught as well as coping with sensitivities some have to having flowers inside the home.
About the book: Fall is here and Kate is determined to save her flowers from the winter cold. Mom shows her how to scoop the flowers out of the ground, transplant them into pots, and give them water. Kate pots a couple flowers . . . and then some more…and a few more. With Mom distracted on the phone, Kate has filled the house with flowers, but Dad’s sneezes mean the flowers have to go! Kate realizes she needs to find a new place for her flowers to spend the winter, but where?
Tuktuk Tundra Tale by Robin Currie & illustrated by Phyllis Saroff
About the book: As the sun begins to set, arctic animals scurry to prepare for the dark, cold winter. Tuktuk the collared lemming is almost ready for the long winter night—all he needs is warm fur to line his nest. When one furry kamik (boot) slips off an Inuit driver’s sled, Tuktuk is in luck! But as he drags it home, Putak the polar bear, Aput the arctic fox, and Masak the caribou eye this little lemming’s prize and want it for their own. Tuktuk thinks fast, but can he outwit the other animals and convince them that one furry kamik is no good for anyone bigger than a lemming?
My thoughts: This is a lovely book about some Arctic animals and how they survive. It is about how their winter coat changes to white which camouflages them from predators. It is also about how they build their homes and line them for warmth.
Beautifully illustrated in icy blues that entice the mind to feel the cold of snow and ice that the Arctic is made of and cute, charming critters both tiny and large the reader is enticed to learn multiple lessons about the Arctic. The seasons, life cycle in the cold, and vocabulary. Tuktuk's story is warm hearted and will appeal to all readers as the author has given him a personality and instinct for survival against the odds.
Magnetic Magic by Tetry Catasus Jennings & illustrated by Andrea Gabriel
About the book: Dena loves using magnets to perform magic tricks for the kids at the pool. When Enrique arrives in town, he doesn’t like that Dena is fooling the others. He gives her a century-old treasure map and Dena uses her compass and tools to plot the location of the treasure. To her surprise, the treasure is not where it should be! What could cause her compass to lead her off course? When she discovers the answer, will Dena keep fooling the other kids with magic tricks or will she help them learn about magnetism and the earth’s shifting magnetic poles?
My thoughts: A little venture into the physical sciences as this little girl wows her friends with antics purported to be magical but which are simply magnetic properties. She enjoys showing them her tricks but in actuality she is fooling them. An older boy comes along and challenges her for fooling the little kids. She doesn't see how fooling them is harmful, so he teaches her a lesson. But his lesson is two-fold.
The illustrator shows a population of multicultural children enjoying a day at the pool, learning about magnetism, and then eating ice cream together.
The book provides a lot of information about magnets and magnetic force including the Earth's magnetic field. This could really provide great opportunities for further exploration and experimentation with magnets.
GIVEAWAY ~ 3 books, 1 winner (1) Saving Kate's Flowers (2) Tuktuk Tundra Tale (3) Magnetic Magic
My thoughts: Delectably sweet and genteel and a highly recommended read for teens and adults of any age. The author takes the reader back to a gentler, nobler time and shows the differences between the haves and have nots and how one sweet pastor's daughter seeks to help the have nots.
The story is infused with a budding romance between the Earl and the pastor's daughter although their society's mores coupled with Miss Ellison's strong minded will and contempt for the arrogance she perceives in the Earl (Nicholas) seems to doom it from ever blossoming.
A serious illness coupled with Miss Ellison falling ill and collapsing along the path home during a raging winter storm brings the two together although it still looks as though a relationship is doomed.
I am looking forward to reading more from the author, Carolyn Miller as she carries us further into the lives of those who lived during this period of history. About the book: "Handsome appearance counts for naught unless matched by good character and actions." That's the firm opinion of not-so-meek minister's daughter Lavinia Ellison. So even though all the other villagers of St. Hampton Heath are swooning over the newly returned seventh Earl of Hawkesbury, she is not impressed. If a man won't take his responsibilities seriously and help those who are supposed to be able to depend on him, he deserves no respect from her. In Lavinia's pretty, gray eyes, Nicholas Stamford is just as arrogant and reckless as his brother--who stole the most important person in Livvie's world. Nicholas is weighed down by his own guilt and responsibility, by the pain his careless brother caused, and by the legacy of war he's just left. This quick visit home to St. Hampton Heath will be just long enough to ease a small part of that burden. Asking him to bother with the lives of the villagers when there's already a bailiff on the job is simply too much to expect. That is, until the hoydenish, intelligent, and very opinionated Miss Ellison challenges him to see past his pain and pride. With her angelic voice in his head, he may even be beginning to care. But his isn't the only heart that needs to change. These two lonely hearts may each have something the other needs. But with society's opposition, ancestral obligations, and a shocking family secret, there may be too many obstacles in their way. Fans of Georgette Heyer, Lori Wick, and Julie Klassen will enjoy the spirited exchanges between the bluestocking minister's daughter and the bruised war hero as they move past pride and presumption to a humbled appreciation of God's grace and the true strength of love.
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing on behalf of the author to facilitate a review. Opinions are solely my own and I was not compensated.
Talk about the new movie Beauty and the Beast just releasing is seemingly on all fronts. Adults, teens, and kiddies alike are talking. So here we go on Chat With Vera - a bit of fairy tale wonder for the small ones. Board books designed with push, pull, and slide features to engage the young hands and mind and traipse a bit into the different world that is "the fairy tale."
ISBN: 9781626868977
First Stories: Beauty and the Beast by Dan Taylor (Illustrations)
"Do you love me, Beauty? Will you marry me?" First Stories: Beauty and the Beast is a perfect introduction to this classic fairytale. Push, pull, and turn mechanisms bring the story to life and introduce all the main characters: Beauty, her father, and of course the Beast! This well-loved fairytale is beautifully imagined for a new generation by children's illustrator Dan Taylor.
My thoughts: Now I don't know, but I think I would be a bit fearful if I was taken by my father to a huge house (think castle) and left with a beast. A big, furry, scary beast! But not young Beauty. She relished the fancy feast and saw his kindness. Beast fell in love with Beauty because of her happiness and laughter. Then the magical kiss that changed him from Beast to Handsome Prince.
A real fairy tale ending of happy-ever-after. An unrealistic story - but then most fairy tales are. I absolutely love the push, pull, slide, turn features. The books is bright and very sturdy. Silver Dolphin Books and artist Dan Taylor have done a grand job with this little book.
ISBN: 9781626868984
First Stories: Cinderella by Dan Taylor (Illustrations)
"Cinderella, you shall go to the ball!" First Stories: Cinderella is a perfect introduction to this classic fairytale. Push, pull, and turn mechanisms bring the story to life and introduce all the main characters: Cinderella, her stepsisters, the handsome prince, and of course the fairy godmother. This well-loved fairytale is beautifully imagined for a new generation by children's illustrator Dan Taylor.
My thoughts: Ah, we all know the sweet story of Cinderella and how she was rescued from her laborious life of drudgery by the magical abilities of the Fairy Godmother and the Prince who fell in love with her. All little girls want to be beautifully dressed for the magical ball and so they can relate to Cinderella.
Beautifully done in bright, energetic colors and illustrations, this little board book will entice once again young readers into the world that was Cinderella's.
Another fairy tale well done by Silver Dolphin Books and Dan Taylor and just right for little hands.
ISBN: 9781626869004
First Stories: Rapunzel by Dan Taylor (Illustrations)
"Rapunzel, Rapunzel, let down your golden hair!" First Stories: Rapunzel is the perfect introduction for young children to this classic fairytale. Push, pull, and turn mechanisms bring the story to life and introduce all the main characters: Rapunzel, the handsome prince, and of course the wicked witch! This well-loved fairytale is beautifully imagined for a new generation by children's illustrator Dan Taylor.
My thoughts: This board book is beautifully executed with engaging push, pull, slide tabs that reveal additional action and images. The size is a seven inch square just right for young hands. Colors are bright. Illustrations detailed and lively. The story is told in a sort of rhyme and is a retelling of an old fairy tale.
Being an old fairy tale, it begins with a harshness that I find unsuitable for the youth for which this board book is intended. Hence, particular care should be exercised in reading it to young children. My reasoning?
A baby named Rapunzel, with hair so fair and bright, Was taken by a wicked witch, one dark and stormy night. (pictured are the parents looking on as the witch snatches the baby from the crib).
Now I realize that fairy tales involve witches, bad things happening, and happy-ever-after. But I am troubled (hmmmm... a troubled tale troubles me) that a young child be worried about their own safety and the ability of their parents to protect and care for him or her.
Otherwise, an adorable book and I truly love the push, pull, slide features.
For nearly 20 years, Silver Dolphin Books has published award-winning activity, novelty, and educational nonfiction books for preschoolers to 12-year-olds. Our focus is to create books that engage and inspire children to learn more about the world around them while fostering a love of reading, exploration, and creative expression. From adorably-illustrated board books for toddlers, to interactive play and building sets, to sound books made for story time, we develop innovative books that both enlighten and entertain.
DISCLAIMER: I received a complimentary copy of each of these books from the publicist on behalf of author and publisher, Silver Dolphin Books, to facilitate a review. Opinions are my own. I was not compensated.
