Wayward Soul by Glenn Maynard

     Carter and Brenda are once again seeking answers to their past lives. They know only when they have all the pieces will the puzzle make sense. Nothing has gone smoothly so far. It seems as though each time they reach out to someone, something bad happens.  Carter and Brenda are sure of one thing. Their lives will never be the same.

     I enjoyed this sequel to Desert Son.  It keeps your mind flowing and your heart open. You'll like the way Carter and Brenda just seem to happen on more information about their lives. I really liked the idea of showing the setbacks and the pieces that send them flying into new helpful information.  Bold and heartbreaking, you are gonna love this book. Mr. Maynard approached the subject in a very novel way. 

     I did find issues. I felt chapters 28 thru the end were unnecessary. They just seemed to be more filler and make things confusing. Even with those, the book is one you'll enjoy.

     I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because of the issues above. 

The Promo Tour For The Starlight Chronicles by Lisa Orchard

Her Christmas Hero (The Cowboys #6) by Linda Warren

           Britt Davis knew her ex-husband was an evil person, but she never dreamed he'd go this far. He's trying to get full custody of their son. Britt is beside herself. Britt's son was her world. Everything she did was to provide a better life for him. Meanwhile, her ex is doing everything in his power to cause problems for Britt. Unfortunately he has lots of power and money. Just when Britt feels like she needs to leave the country and hide, a stranger walks into her life. He's sweet, compassionate and so handsome.  Will things get better or worse for Britt?

     A perfect book for this time of year. I felt Britt's pain. I could see how hurt she was. Well written and wonderful characters, you can't go wrong with this book. 

     I found no issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it really hits home.

Mercer Street (American Journey #2) by John A. Heldt

     Susan Peterson's life changed drastically in 2016. She found her husband was having an affair and then he died. Susan was furious about the affair but wasn't sure what to do with herself. Susan, her mother and daughter had planned a trip to California long before the world started crashing down around Susan. After talking it over, the three women decide the trip was just what they needed. It would clear the cobwebs out of their minds and allow them time to just  relax.  The trip however, is one they will not soon forget. 

     Beautiful. Incredible. Loving and compassionate are several words to describe this book. I am a fan of Mr. Heldts. His writing style is one you'll enjoy from the first book. I found myself wondering how I'd handle all the stuff Susan has to. Mr. Heldt tells a story in a way that makes you feel as if he's talking only to you. You can easily lose yourself in his work. I can see this series as a weekly television show. It would be something worth watching. This book is well written and has such incredible three dimensional characters you won't be able to put it down.

     I didn't find any issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it took my breath away.

     I will not be posting a review of this book. It doesn't happen often, that I don't review a book, but it does happen. I found this book to be lacking in any real lessons for children. I also thought the topic was something  children don't need any more encouragement about. Others may disagree with me but that's their right. 

     For the reasons above, this book gets 0.

How Baseball Began by Paul M. Kramer

     Clem was looking for something to keep him occupied that day. Carl and Fred, Clem's friends, wanted to play something different. The boys began to play baseball. It wasn't like baseball is played today. Clem and his friends used a small branch as a bat and nuts they found on the ground as the ball. The small branch didn't work out as well as they'd hoped, so they used a bigger branch. From there they teach the reader step by step how to play baseball.

     This book is wonderful. Children get to use their imaginations while reading this. Would they have used something different from a branch. Would the reader still use nuts as baseballs. Well written and spectacular characters make this a book to add to your child's library. They will indeed enjoy every word of it.

     I didn't find any issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because of the way they use their imaginations.

Books Make Amazing Gifts For Everyone! The Starlight Chronicles Boxed Set by Lisa Orchard Is Only 99 Cents!

Lisa Orchard grew up loving books. She was hooked on books by the fifth grade and even wrote a few of her own. She knew she wanted to be a writer even then. Her first published works are the “Super Spies Series.” These stories revolve around a group of friends who form their own detective squad and the cases they solve. “The Starlight Chronicles,” is the next series that Lisa created with musical misfit, Lark Singer as her main character.

   Lisa resides in Michigan with her husband, Steve, and two wonderful boys. Currently, she’s working on the next book in the Starlight Chronicles Series along with a few new ideas that may turn into stand-alone novels. When she’s not writing she enjoys spending time with her family, running, hiking, and reading.

Get this boxed set NOW before the price goes up! It's a YA book but anyone will enjoy it.

  Lark comes from a single parent home.  She's never known her father because her mother won't talk about him.  Mostly, Lark shrugs her shoulder at it all and depends on her music to carry her away.  Lark is a good student and fantastic at the guitar.  Her guitar is her life.  Of course she has friends, but very few.  Now that she's a senior in high school, she wants to know about her father.  If only she can get her mother to open up about him.  Lark's life is changing and she's decided her father should be part of it all.   

      I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with.  The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in.  I felt each of Lark's emotions.  It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book.   This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you.  I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.

     I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin* 

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings.


 I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with.  The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in.  I felt each of Lark's emotions.  It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book.   This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you.  I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.

     I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin* 


     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings.

Lark Singer is seventeen years old and already on the way to a brilliant music career. As she and her band, Starlight, gear-up for an upcoming, life-changing band competition, though, life seems to be throwing her a few curve balls. The mysteries of her past seem to be unraveling, and she’s no longer certain she wants to know those answers, or how knowing about her past will affect her difficult relationship with her mother. And when her best friend, Bean, changes things between them, all her plans for a musical future are placed in jeopardy. How can she balance her unraveling personal life to keep her musical goals on track?

  Three dimensional characters and fantastic writing make this book an interesting read.  I loved being able to see where Lark went with the knowledge of who her father was.  It was a shock to read what happens to one of the band members.  Never expected it.  Your heart will go out to these  kids.  The journey is well worth the read.

     I found no issues with this one.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it held my attention throughout.

Everything is on track for Seventeen-year-old Lark Singer and her band Starlight. They have a great shot at winning the competition that can launch their musical career. But when Lark discovers they will be competing against her old nemesis Duane McIntyre things really heat up. How far will Lark go to win, and what will it cost her in the end?

Louie The Lobster Mobster by Paul M. Kramer

     Louie the Lobster and his mob terrorize the world under the sea. They make business owners pay them money. As Louie the Lobster and his mob go from business to business to collect, many under the sea wonder if anyone is strong enough to stand up to Louie and his mob.

     I will say right off, I do know this is a story about good vs evil but I think the subject matter is over many children's heads. They won't understand what a mobster is or a shake down.  The writing is good and the illustrations lovely, but that is where it ends for me.

     I found issues as stated above.

     I gave this book 2 cheers out of 5 because it's not really geared toward children.

Divorce Stinks by Paul M. Kramer

     When divorce strikes, children often believe it's their fault. They see their life changing very quickly. Children aren't sure how to cope with the divorce. We, as parents, should be working hard to help them understand what is happening.

     This book might be the easiest way to start a conversation with your child. You need to stress this is an adult problem and the parents are leaving each other, not their children. Children feel pulled in two directions and need guidance. I love this book because it really will help.

     I found no issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because I like books that are teaching tools for children.

Unsung Victims by Ica Iova

     Johanna's life was perfect. She had been given a new position at work and a raise. Excitement fills her as she explains to her best friend what's happened. If only she could find a good man settle down and in a few years, have children. Her life has been so busy she hasn't had time to date. Johanna's friend Marie sets her up on a blind date. Johanna had been on blind dates before and wasn't looking forward to another one. On that particular night Johanna's life takes on new dimensions. 

     Terrific writing and very defined characters will make you want to dive right in. It's romantic, loving, kind and wonderful. It's also dark, scary and evil.  You'll need the tissues for this book. It really pulls at the heart strings. I enjoyed the fact this book takes on a subject we don't see often enough. The book will make you pause and reflect on friends and family. I became attached to Johanna, rooting for her all the way. Get this book and see how wonderful it really is.

     I did find one issue. The last chapter in the book starts out like it's going to wind things up. I found it left me hanging. I had so many questions when I closed the book the final time.

     I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because of the way it ended.

Looking For That Perfect Gift? The Starlight Chronicles Boxed Set by Lisa Orchard is 99 cents!

      Lark comes from a single parent home.  She's never known her father because her mother won't talk about him.  Mostly, Lark shrugs her shoulder at it all and depends on her music to carry her away.  Lark is a good student and fantastic at the guitar.  Her guitar is her life.  Of course she has friends, but very few.  Now that she's a senior in high school, she wants to know about her father.  If only she can get her mother to open up about him.  Lark's life is changing and she's decided her father should be part of it all.   

      I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with.  The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in.  I felt each of Lark's emotions.  It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book.   This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you.  I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.

     I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin* 

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings.


 I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with.  The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in.  I felt each of Lark's emotions.  It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book.   This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you.  I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.

     I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin* 


     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings.

Lark Singer is seventeen years old and already on the way to a brilliant music career. As she and her band, Starlight, gear-up for an upcoming, life-changing band competition, though, life seems to be throwing her a few curve balls. The mysteries of her past seem to be unraveling, and she’s no longer certain she wants to know those answers, or how knowing about her past will affect her difficult relationship with her mother. And when her best friend, Bean, changes things between them, all her plans for a musical future are placed in jeopardy. How can she balance her unraveling personal life to keep her musical goals on track?

  Three dimensional characters and fantastic writing make this book an interesting read.  I loved being able to see where Lark went with the knowledge of who her father was.  It was a shock to read what happens to one of the band members.  Never expected it.  Your heart will go out to these  kids.  The journey is well worth the read.

     I found no issues with this one.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it held my attention throughout.

Everything is on track for Seventeen-year-old Lark Singer and her band Starlight. They have a great shot at winning the competition that can launch their musical career. But when Lark discovers they will be competing against her old nemesis Duane McIntyre things really heat up. How far will Lark go to win, and what will it cost her in the end?

Lisa Orchard grew up loving books. She was hooked on books by the fifth grade and even wrote a few of her own. She knew she wanted to be a writer even then. Her first published works are the “Super Spies Series.” These stories revolve around a group of friends who form their own detective squad and the cases they solve. “The Starlight Chronicles,” is the next series that Lisa created with musical misfit, Lark Singer as her main character.

   Lisa resides in Michigan with her husband, Steve, and two wonderful boys. Currently, she’s working on the next book in the Starlight Chronicles Series along with a few new ideas that may turn into stand-alone novels. When she’s not writing she enjoys spending time with her family, running, hiking, and reading.

Get this boxed set NOW before the price goes up! It's a YA book but anyone will enjoy it.

When You Give An Imp A Penny by Henry, Josh and Harrison Herz

     Have you ever met an imp? Have you ever given an imp anything? Imps are mischievous creatures. They try to help but end up making things worse. You'll want to be careful of imps in your life!

     A quick and easy read, this book will bring lots of laughter. Well written and the imp is an inspired choice for a character. This one is perfect for the child who just can't sit still while reading to them. The books written by these gentlemen are always fun.  I can't wait to read more of their work.

     I found no issues.

    I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it's so sweet.

Beyond The Gloaming by Brendan Murphy

     1973 and Sebastian's life is a nightmare. He's savagely  abused by his parents.  His brother is dead and Sebastian is bullied at school. Not knowing how to deal with it all, Sebastian begins to steal from his friends. It's gotten to the point Sebastian can't tell reality from fantasy. After one particularly savage beating, Sebastian finds himself entering a new world. It's where ghosts live and was designed by Celtic dreams. Will Sebastian find his place here?

     This book has a fanciful and fairy tale like setting and includes mythical beasts. Well written and the characters well defined, you'll enjoy this one.  It gives you an opportunity to see what the "other side" would look like. This book never gives your imagination a break. You'll be caught up in Sebastian's story just as I was. Parts of it will tug at your heart but for the most part you will be imagining yourself there with Sebastian.

     I did find one issue. To me the book seemed to long. There is so much going on, this could have easily been two books.

     I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because I did enjoy the story.

Oliver and Jumpy Stories 28-30 by Werner Stejskal

     Oliver and Jumpy are at it again. They love to go on adventures and share their stories with us. They seem to be able to do most anything and they make friends while doing it.  As is the format, there are three stories included in each book. The first one is Letter In A Bottle. The second is Oliver Meeting Jumpy and the third is Enchanted Forest.
     Story 28 Foxy had been naughty again.  His mother tells him to write an essay about how to better himself. Bored and looking for fun, Foxy writes a note asking for help. He says in the note he's being treated badly. Foxy puts the note in a bottle and throws it into the stream near his window. What happens next?
    Story 29 is when Oliver meets Jumpy for the first time. Oliver and friends go on safari. They are looking for rare flowers. As they look for them, they hear a call for help. They find Jumpy and rescue her. They take her to the doctor. That's how they became great friends.
     Story 30 there is a castle on top of a hill. It's very old. Oliver and Jumpy decide to explore. They find the doorway to another world. A witch put a spell on all of the soldiers and now they were trees. Oliver uses his magic wand to change them back. Will the witch be upset?

     This is a favorite series of mine. Each one is just the right size for nap time or bedtime. The illustrations are colorful and engaging. The main reason I love this series is because it teaches a lesson. We all know kids learn better if it's fun. Well written with even the youngest child in mind, you can't go wrong by adding these to your child's library.  I know your child will ask you to read them again and again.

     I found no issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it's perfect for little ones.

Zeep Needs More Sleep by Paul M Kramer

    Zeep loved to stay up late. He enjoyed playing games and watching television. His teacher told him by staying up late he was making it harder to learn at school.  Zeep didn't listen. His cousin, Philippe made sure he got ten hours of sleep a night. He was always refreshed and ready to take on the day.  Then something changes. 

     A wonderful book that hammers home the need to get sleep. I thought it was terrific. It tells children without hitting them over the head why sleep is important. Well written and characters children will love makes this an excellent choice for your child's library. I am all for books that have a lesson in them.

     I found no issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it's simply adorable.

Defragmentation by R. Douglas Jacobs

     He was shy and quiet. As an abused child, he never knew what love was or how to show it.  He then meets a woman who touches him deeply. They seem perfect for each other. The relationship was good. They were deeply involved and he proposes to her. She accepts. The relationship then begins to shake. She is needy and controlling. No matter how kind, giving and loving he was, she wasn't happy. He needed to figure out what was going on.

     This book is written in free verse and is amazing! It takes you from pain and hurt to euphoria and then to the deepest sorrow you can imagine.  The book is well written and opens all the wounds for you to see.  I found myself thinking of several people I know who went through this same thing. Mr. Jacobs is eloquent and direct. I know this is a book I'll read again and again. It touches deeply in the heart and makes you want to reach out to the man involved in this.

     I found no issues here.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because we should all be so open about our relationships.

Chaos In The Kitchen: A My Sexy Chef Story by Susan Jean Ricci

      Mark and Malibu are celebrating their three week anniversary. They are very happy and in constant contact. As it gets closer to Thanksgiving, Mark asks Malibu if he might be able to cook dinner for her and her family. There was also a couple other guests to be there. Malibu asks her family and they agree. It's gonna be a fantastic holiday.. they hope.

     A lighthearted read with so very much love. Things heat up and it doesn't stop throughout the book. This one will put a smile on your face. The writing is solid and the characters delightfully described. I can't wait to read more about these sexy chefs. It's an easy read and you'll really be glad you purchased it.

    I found no issues.

    I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it touched my heart.

Just In Time For Gift Giving! A Boxed Set of the Starlight Chronicles for only 99 cents!

     Lark comes from a single parent home.  She's never known her father because her mother won't talk about him.  Mostly, Lark shrugs her shoulder at it all and depends on her music to carry her away.  Lark is a good student and fantastic at the guitar.  Her guitar is her life.  Of course she has friends, but very few.  Now that she's a senior in high school, she wants to know about her father.  If only she can get her mother to open up about him.  Lark's life is changing and she's decided her father should be part of it all. 

     I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with.  The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in.  I felt each of Lark's emotions.  It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book.   This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you.  I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.

     I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin* 

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings.


 I felt I knew Lark when I began reading this book. She reminded me of a couple of kids I went to school with.  The writing is outstanding and all the characters fit right in.  I felt each of Lark's emotions.  It was so easy to get wrapped up in this book.   This one is an easy read and those who enjoy the YA genre, this is perfect for you.  I highly recommend Ms Orchard's book.

     I only found on thing that bothered me just a tad. I didn't like the cliffhanger ending. *grin* 


     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this one tugs the heart strings.

Lark Singer is seventeen years old and already on the way to a brilliant music career. As she and her band, Starlight, gear-up for an upcoming, life-changing band competition, though, life seems to be throwing her a few curve balls. The mysteries of her past seem to be unraveling, and she’s no longer certain she wants to know those answers, or how knowing about her past will affect her difficult relationship with her mother. And when her best friend, Bean, changes things between them, all her plans for a musical future are placed in jeopardy. How can she balance her unraveling personal life to keep her musical goals on track?

  Three dimensional characters and fantastic writing make this book an interesting read.  I loved being able to see where Lark went with the knowledge of who her father was.  It was a shock to read what happens to one of the band members.  Never expected it.  Your heart will go out to these  kids.  The journey is well worth the read.

     I found no issues with this one.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it held my attention throughout.

Everything is on track for Seventeen-year-old Lark Singer and her band Starlight. They have a great shot at winning the competition that can launch their musical career. But when Lark discovers they will be competing against her old nemesis Duane McIntyre things really heat up. How far will Lark go to win, and what will it cost her in the end?

Lisa Orchard grew up loving books. She was hooked on books by the fifth grade and even wrote a few of her own. She knew she wanted to be a writer even then. Her first published works are the “Super Spies Series.” These stories revolve around a group of friends who form their own detective squad and the cases they solve. “The Starlight Chronicles,” is the next series that Lisa created with musical misfit, Lark Singer as her main character.

   Lisa resides in Michigan with her husband, Steve, and two wonderful boys. Currently, she’s working on the next book in the Starlight Chronicles Series along with a few new ideas that may turn into stand-alone novels. When she’s not writing she enjoys spending time with her family, running, hiking, and reading.

Get this boxed set NOW before the price goes up! It's a YA book but anyone will enjoy it.

Magic Bat Day by Kevin Christofora

     It's the second day of practice and the players were allowed to wear their uniforms to school. They were all so proud of their uniforms. This time at practice, they exercise and they learn how to hit the ball. They also get to see some baseball cards the coach has. These children are thrilled with baseball and their coach. 

     I love this series already. It get kids involved and moving. This book shows children how much fun it can be to be part of a team. It really is a fantastic book. Mr. Christofora took a very basic approach to teaching baseball and I applaud him for it. I can't wait to see what comes next from this series. Your child should have them in their library.

     I didn't find any issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it really gets children up and moving.

Nick's Very First Day of Baseball by Kevin Christofora

       Nick's mom signs him up for baseball. Nick is very excited to be part of the team. He practices throwing and catching with his dog. Nick's friends also sign up and the excitement doubles. Once they start baseball, they learn more than how to play the game. They learn very basic skills to make it easier to understand.

     This book has beautiful illustrations to go along with a wonderful story. I so enjoy the way the coach approaches the game and practices. He really  gets the kids interested and they want to be outside and enjoying what they learn. I know your children will love this story and want to read or have it read to them over and over. The surprise of this book is it helps parents understand the basic rules of baseball. This is a keeper.

     The only thing I saw I would change is the pages with a light blue box. It makes it a little difficult to read it.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this author is donating books to children in a NYC hospital. He also gives teachers, librarians and schools a break on the price. 

Meet Author Kevin Christofora

  Christofora found his calling when he began to coach little league. He has coached the Mountain Valley Little League (formerly the Woodstock Little League) since 2008. More than a pastime, Kevin loves working with the children. He prides himself on teaching them that it's about more than a game: it's about honor, respect, and community. As president of the league, he enjoys working with the parents and community members that all have one main interest: the kids. As he puts it, "Mountain Valley Little League is real fun, real life, and real baseball, with no substitutions".

Written for children ages three to five, Kevin wrote The Hometown All Stars as a "bedtime story" to get kids interested in the national pastime again. His goal in writing this book was to get kids out of the house and onto the field - " less screen, more green." He believes in the valuable lessons that children learn from playing the game: teamwork, discipline, strategy, and thinking before they act. In addition, he wants to bring back the joy of being outdoors and playing, that kids in recent years have lost.

An engineer by education, Kevin gave up the corporate life to move back to his hometown, Woodstock-NY, to carry on the family business and become the local butcher and a dad. He has found more happiness becoming a baseball coach, than he ever had before. He hopes to pass the excitement of the game to other children with The Hometown All Stars. Nick's Very First Day of Baseball is his first book of the series. 

Mr. Christofora really wants to help children read more. He offers books at half price for all schools, teachers and libraries. You can buy direct from the author.  He is also matching donations and doubling them to make sure children in NYC hospitals get a happy holiday.  Check this man and his books out.

http://thehometownallstars.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-christofora-8b31556

https://www.facebook.com/kevin.christofora

RAZOR SHARP (EMBRYO: A Raney & Levine Thriller Book 6) by J.A. Schneider

     AHHH.. vacation. At least that's what Jill and David thought. Only three days into their vacation with more fun planned when they get a call. Both are doctors.  This call doesn't have anything to do with the hospital. It's their friends Brand and Kerri. They want to know if Jill and David could stop by and see them. Jill and David agree and remind them they need to get home to their son Jesse. Things are never short and sweet when the police are involved. 

     J.A. Schneider once again gives us a thriller with twists, turns and surprises. These characters are very well defined. The writing, superb! I enjoy this series because each one reads great as a stand alone, but together, they will blow your mind. I know if you read this one, you'll want to read the others. I can clearly see this series as a television show. It would be tops in the numbers I'm sure.  Ms. Schneider creates such vivid scenes you'll feel as though you are right there with Jill and David. I can't wait to see what happens next. This one should be on the top of your TBR pile.

     I found no issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because Jill and David are amazing!

     

Bullies Beware by Paul M. Kramer

    Mikey's going to a new school. He can't wait to meet new people. His first day, however, two boys jump out and demand his lunch or money. They pushed Mikey to the ground and punched him. Trying to be brave, Mikey hides his tears and goes on with his day. Although Mikey tries to find other ways to avoid the bullies, it doesn't work. Then one day Mikey had an idea.

     Terrific writing and characters we've all known in our own lives. This book shows children the right way to handle bullies. I like that Mikey decides to take other actions rather than try to fight these bullies. It's positive look at handling bullies.

     I didn't find issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because all children need to read this one.

Chickadees, Bumbelbeez, Pussy-Willow Trees and Two-And-A-Half by Jeffrey Politsky

     Monkey is curious about the world beyond where he lives. He questions his parents and they encourage him to save his money and go explore. Monkey does just that. Gray Cat is also curious and she decides to go exploring too. Blue Pelican asks his parents about the world and then decides to explore. These three meet and become friends. Their adventure is informative and fun.

     This book is very well written and has some of the cutest characters you'll ever see. The illustrations are beautiful and will get your child's imagination flowing. I love that it shows more than one "child" curious about the world they live in. It will give your children ideas of their own. This is one for the library. You'll read it or your child will read it over and over.

     I didn't find issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it's a wonderful book.

Man Up Playboy by Danielle Sibarium

     Cooper is a very easy going man. He lives life fast and loose. Most women would die just to have a date from Cooper, so he's puzzled when Selene isn't giving him the time of day. Cooper decides Selene is the one, at least for now, and begins trying to win her over. He doesn't seem to be making any progress with her. Never one to give up, he continues his full court press to get a date. Selene isn't sure about Cooper. She's known men like him before. Why put herself through all the hassles just to have him walk away. At least to Selene, Cooper seems like the type who doesn't stick around. Could she be wrong?

     Volatile, passionate, explosive and erotic, this book has it all! I love this series. It is extremely well written and the characters leap off the page. I feel this book is perfect for anyone who likes lots of heat. I enjoyed the story. You'll find this book is a quick, easy read. Did I mention the heat? *smile* Ms. Sibarium knows how to capture your attention and hold it throughout the book. Her work is bestseller quality. If you haven't started this series, get to it. You won't be disappointed. Each book does stand alone, but together, they will warm up your day or night.

     I didn't find issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because you can't put it down once you start.  

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Think Possible by Amy Newmark and Deborah Norville

     One hundred and one stories about changing your attitude. Learning how a positive attitude can make a huge difference in the way you live your life. These stories will amaze you and touch you deeply. It gives us a chance to see real results.

     I have to say at the outset this book isn't one I usually would read. After I began this book I was thrilled by the stories. People from all walks of life using one simple tool, thinking possible. I began imagining how powerful thinking possible can be. You will enjoy reading the stories and learning from them. The writing is solid. This easy read is a particular thrill for me as I've been a long time fan of Deborah Norville. 

     I found no issues.

     I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because this book is a huge lesson for us all.

Monsterland by Michael Phillip Cash

     A new park is opening. It's called Monsterland. This one is unique. There aren't games or many rides, but there is still some fun. The man behind the park simply wants to put vampires, werewolves and zombies in a place where they can study them. You'll be able to interact with them as well. The opening night is a star studded event and Vincent and his friends were lucky enough to get VIP tickets. A couple of his friends couldn't wait to get there. Vincent wasn't so sure about this place. Something didn't seem right. How bad could it be, his friends asked. Vincent didn't want to find out.

     I was all set for this one. The cover alone made me a little unsure of what I'd find. It is phenomenal! The ultimate scary place for people to go. Would you be brave enough to visit the park? The writing is amazing and the pacing is good. Characters we all know in our own lives, make this an even better read.  Perfect for this time of year too. I think this one is a fascinating read and a completely new turn on the subject of monsters. This one could easily be a blockbuster movie. 

     I did feel this one wasn't quite as scary as it could have been. If it had gone a little deeper and darker, I know more would buy it.

     I gave this one 4 cheers out of 5 because of the above reason.