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The US Review of Books connects authors with professional book reviewers and places their book reviews in front of subscribers to our free monthly newsletter of fiction book reviews and nonfiction book reviews. Learn why our publication is different than most others, or read author and publisher testimonials about the USR.

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Recent Book Reviews

 

Focus Review

Network Apprentice: Behind the Scenes in Talk Television by Graydon “Dee” Hubbard Atmosphere Press "When it comes to programming for the public stage, the national hyper-focus on politics has engulfed and infected talk television like a highly contagious and infectious disease." Billed as a satire, this political and social drama explores the relationships between facts and data, politics, and broadcast news. Julie Anders, like her climate scientist father, is an info whiz. At the outset of the story, Julie lives with her father in Boulder while completing her master’s degree in broadcast journalism with a thesis about the 2010 Affordable Care Act at the University of Colorado in the College of Media, Communication, and Information to complement her bachelor’s degree in accounting. Her first stab at a career position comes to fruition in an apprentice position with MRABC, a newbie network and competitor with CBS, CNN, MSNBC, and others. Julie’s job is gathering pre-program background info for nightly broadcasts of the network’s star, Dan Panders, who hopes to surpass Rachel Maddow’s ratings at MSNBC, the political opinion network division of NBC News. The complexities of the job and conflicts with the “network brass” about content and guests soon make her position less palatable than Julie had anticipated. She moves on to PBS while her coworker Dan, who often disagrees with the liberal agenda of his bosses, stays with the network, even as he struggles with the intense pressure and his newly diagnosed bipolar disorder. ... (read more)

• 365 Sonnets by Paul Buchheit - RECOMMENDED
• Afro Blues from Heaven by Paul Manning Jr.
• Alibi Mike and His Gang of Parasites on the State by Kim Francisco
• Amanda the Angel Series by Patricia Goskowski Kubus
• Artist Goes to War, An by Victoria Ann Granacki - RECOMMENDED
• Atma Vidya by Gladiolus Publishing
• Bella Becomes a Poodle by Deborah Egan
• Blind Spots by Gregory Blotnick - RECOMMENDED
• Blue Bubble Gum by Martha Goldner
• Book of Mary, The by Michael P. Closs - RECOMMENDED
• Boy Will Never Make Old Bones, The by Ira Dawson - RECOMMENDED
• Breathing Sorrow by Carole-Ann Baer - RECOMMENDED
• But I Meant Well! by R.J. Nobleman, Ph.D.
• Campaign, The by Hank Silverberg - RECOMMENDED
• Chameleon Chronicles, The: Book One by Barbara G. Kruk - RECOMMENDED
• Changeling of Seasons, The by Gerald-Johan Vanoise
• Chanson by Allison Serff
• Common Vision, A by B. Sham Moteelall
• Crossroads of Space and Time, The by Charles Nickerson & Irene Jean Nickerson - RECOMMENDED
• Curse of the Maestro and Other Stories by G. T. Walker
• Darcy: A Pride and Prejudice Variation by Alice McVeigh - RECOMMENDED
• Diamonti, The Journey of a Diamond in the Rough by L.R. Blackwell
• Do You Believe in Miracles? by Angela Lopez and Eugene Sierras - RECOMMENDED
• Doctor Robert by Bobby Lopez - RECOMMENDED
• Escape: Rune and Flash Book 2 by Joe Canzano
• Extreme Malice by J.T. Tierney - RECOMMENDED
• Eye Statements from God by Sandra Shaw Dawood, PhD
• Faery Academy of QuillSnap by Jacqueline Reinig
• Fisherman and the French Flounder, The by Raven Howell
• Genius Belabored by Theodore G. Obenchain - RECOMMENDED
• God's Person and Eternal Plan by Fred Beck
• Happy Healthy Revolution, The by Theresa Y. Wee M.D.
• Has Medicine Lost Its Mind? by Robert C. Smith
• Hipster's Legacy, The by Lorraine Gibson Cohen - RECOMMENDED
• How High the Larks Fly by Christine Hamer-Hodges - RECOMMENDED
• I, Albert Peabody by Jerry P. Schellhammer
• International Human Rights Law Enforcement by MacDonald I J Mopho
• Joan of Miami by A. Parrish - RECOMMENDED
• Kevin and KatheRINe in the Next Lifetime by Crystal Charlotte (CC) Lane - RECOMMENDED
• Last Free Dog, The by Sarah Bergquist Kosumi
• Last Patient, The by Tudor Alexander - RECOMMENDED
• Layered Leadership by Lawrence Armstrong
• Louie on the Rocks by Meredith O’Brien - RECOMMENDED
• Love & Poems by Sunny Monroe
• March of the Mystics by David Schweitzer
• My Devotions and Poems Just for You by Linda Fortner
• My Life by Norman Rubin - RECOMMENDED
• My Testimonies of His Amazing Grace by Kin Szeto
• On Any Given Day... A Butterfly May Cross Your Path by Carolyn Saunders Banks
• Power Within Her, The by Liene Burbeck - RECOMMENDED
• Putting by the Numbers by Bob Labbe
• Randigal Rhymes by Jerry Garland - RECOMMENDED
• Rapture? by Walt Chaney
• Realabilities by Nava Silton Ph.D
• Red Stock Company, The by Troy Hibbs
• Reminders of You by Calliope Casimiro
• Rescue Run by John Winn Miller
• Rooted Educational Toolbook by SAMO
• Sanctuary, The by Joanne Radke
• Sea Jewel, The by Joyce Carol Margolin and Carol Dinallo Hall
• Seeking Sita by Tejal Toprani Misra - RECOMMENDED
• Settling by Andrea J. King
• South Korea, Second Edition by John Gonzalez and Young Lee - RECOMMENDED
• Staying Human by K.L. Stubblefield
• Stepping Out by S.T. Stone
• Store in a Cool, Dry Place by Gary Bolick
• Tooth Fairy Castles (Book 1) by Carol Bates Hutchinson
• Transitions by Andrea J. King
• Turning New Pages by Alla Kaluzhny
• Wizard, Warrior, Fool by Ian Jack
• Wound Closest to the Sun, The by Karl Berger - RECOMMENDED
• Yen for Murder by Jeanne Burrows-Johnson - RECOMMENDED
• Your Body by Christopher McKeon

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Featured Book Reviews

 

Education Today

Highlight Review Rooted Educational Toolbook: This book serves as a modern "New Organon" an innovative framework to redefine universal education by SAMO Amazonian book review by Joslyn Vann "Study of Five Illuminating Wisdoms… is not merely a methodology but a comprehensive educational philosophy that challenges conventions, embraces inclusivity, and aims for the ultimate goal of human flourishing." The preamble of this book describes a world with stagnant educational systems that have historically ignored enlightenment, wisdom, and virtues in favor of the single-minded acquisition of knowledge. The result is that global educational systems desperately need innovative transformation. Societal and technological advancements have resulted in subsequent educational revolutions and reform movements that have significantly contributed to the progression of human intellect. Despite these advancements, humanity has yet to fully satisfy the two foundational principles of education: promoting goodness and expanding human intelligence, reasoning, and understanding. Against this backdrop, the Study of Five Illuminating Wisdoms “emerges as a revolutionary framework…capable of transcending cultural, geographic, and philosophical boundaries. It bridges ancient wisdom and modern practice, offering a holistic and adaptable model for education.” ... (read more)

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Whimsical & Radiant

“Words are a lot like people,” Davis-Gibbon writes in her delightful children’s picture book. Each one is “awesome,” the author declares, “just as it is.” Words of all kinds—all shapes and sizes—are celebrated and likened in wondrous ways to the special qualities found in the diversity of people all around. Each word has something unique only it can say, shining its “special light” into the world. Words are like children playing, joining hands to create new things. Some words are friends, the author explains, while others may disagree. Words, like boys and girls, can sometimes be shy, angry, or even scary. However, young readers are reassured that words are patient, always understanding, and—like people—love being given second chances. Words that hurt can also heal, and while choosing truthful words takes courage, it is always worth it. ... (read more)

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Revisiting South Korea

Highlight Review South Korea: The Price of Efficiency and Success, Second Edition by John Gonzalez and Young Lee John M. Gonzalez book review by Nicole Yurcaba "Modern Korea is a land of contrasts. It is a blend of traditional cultural norms, cutting-edge technology, democracy, and capitalism." In this book, readers discover South Korea from an intimate point of view. The author opens the text with a personal insight into the country, including its usage of technology. The book then outlines the cultural values that allowed South Korea to transform its economy. The author traces this economic transformation to the Korean War. Along with these types of historical insights, the book also provides an examination of the Confucian and Daoist values that have shaped Korean society. The complexities of modern Korea also receive significant attention, especially where these complexities cause “disharmony and imbalance.” The US influence on South Korea, as well as the distinct differences between the two countries, are also dissected in a manner that is easy for readers of all backgrounds to understand and appreciate. ... (read more)

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Feel Good Mystery

In this book, readers meet Sean Doyle, a man with an interesting background shaped by years of emotional trauma. Sean accepts a job as a library security guard and quickly learns that the library can be anything but a quiet place. He spends his days focusing on people whose behaviors are out of line with library policies. When a slew of strange murders begins, Sean takes an interest in the case. He learns that the library’s walls and aisles may hold more clues and revelations about the case than he realized. Meanwhile, his attraction to the beautiful Alicia—who may or may not be his boss—becomes too evident to hide. Little does Sean know that this will change not only his situation but also the course of his life. ... (read more)

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Terror Town

Highlight Review Extreme Malice by J.T. Tierney Curtiss Street Press book review by Philip Zozzaro "The spirit of cooperation in the public square has withered, replaced by a polarization so fierce it tears families apart." Amy Wilson has found herself at the center of a firestorm that threatens her life, her family, and possibly her town. Amy serves on the local school board, and the board’s policies regarding mask mandates and vaccines in response to the COVID-19 pandemic have sparked outrage within the community. The school board meetings often devolve into chaos as irate parents tear into both the board’s advocation of strict COVID policies and their perceived woke politics. Amy begins to fear for her safety and her teenage son’s when she is accosted by an upset parent outside the school. While Amy relays her concerns to her father, Marty Stauffer believes his campaign of disruption has only just begun. Marty is an independent political operative who believes the town of Mesa Vista is ready for a change at the local level, and he will pull out all the stops to accomplish his objectives. ... (read more)

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God's Gifts

Author Shaw clearly relishes sharing her love of God, family, spiritual synchronicity, wordplay, and poetry in this exuberant autobiography. Filled with poems and family photos, she takes her reader on a lively page-by-page journey of understanding her perception of how the Spirit creates messages in language and in nature for believers to ponder in their life journeys. In tandem with this playful theme, she also shares many poignant, down-to-earth details about her life from birth onward. She writes: “We benefit when we are able to cling to our special memories at the times we experience life’s painful situations that are necessary parts of our lives.” ... (read more)

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Putt Consistency

Highlight Review Putting by the Numbers: A Quantitative Method of Lag Putting by Bob Labbe Bob Labbe Books book review by Mark Heisey "The execution of a good putting stroke is the difference between success and failure in lowering your overall score. Creating an accurate, reliable, and reproducible putting stroke takes practice." Lag putting is basically a long putt utilized by a golfer to get the ball as close to the hole as possible to have an easy follow-up put. It is essentially a strategy formed to avoid three putts. This book walks the reader through a series of steps to determine how to best hit lag putts logically. First, the golfer must determine their individual power factor (IPF). This is the length the putt will travel based on how many inches the putter has been pulled away from the ball before striking. Building consistency on one’s swing is key. Once this is known, the golfer can make adjustments based on the terrain, the speed of the greens, and the distance. The key is to always spend time before a round on the practice green to determine the conditions of play that day. Once a golfer has these tools in hand, they can determine the strike distance from the ball based on a quick calculation of the range and the information gained during practice. It is a mathematical approach based on being consistent in one’s putting force and understanding the changing factors that can affect each putt. ... (read more)

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The Word

Christians of all levels of experience and age probably have a decent grip on the lessons and stories of the Bible, presented either in sermons or service, schools, or Bible study classes. Some may have even decided at some point to read the book cover to cover, looking not for specific inspiration and wisdom but to have its information presented in sequential order. This book takes an abridged view of this very format, examining over thirty stories of the Bible and presenting them with the knowledge and context given at that point in the larger biblical context. Instead of using New Testament ideas and revelations in moments of prophecy, the reader is asked to consider what these messages mean, given the information presented up to that page. ... (read more)

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Understanding

Centered around esotericism, this work employs a comprehensive glossary-based style to unveil the hidden curtain of the cosmos and enrich our understanding of the world from ancient to modern times. Weaving together mysticism and yogic philosophy from Asia with more contemporary esoteric groups like the Freemasons, the book sheds light on learning about one’s highest self and the knowledge of the soul. Perhaps the most intriguing component of this extensive list of glossary terms is the notion that esotericism and atma vidya—the study of the soul—are not tied to one’s race, creed, beliefs, etc. In fact, whether it is the Kali Yuga (the dark ages that lead into “pralay” or end times) in Hinduism, Judgment Day in Christianity, Kabbalism, or referencing the Greeks or Hebrews, the text goes to great lengths to show the thread that binds them together from the beginning of humanity’s existence. ... (read more)

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Fishing for Truth

Capturing the events of 1973, Francisco’s memoir details his transition from his hometown of Des Moines, Iowa, to the University of Alaska for his junior year. The brunt of the memoir is from the lens of twenty-one-year-old Francisco, who does a commendable job of conveying the adventures of youth, from unique work experiences to the embers of romance. On a deeper level, the author’s work is full of serendipitous moments, with twists and turns that change the trajectory of his life and present him with adventurous, memorable experiences. ... (read more)

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Entertaining & Introspective

At the heart of Guiaşu’s work is a free-spirited nature that is meshed with a penchant for humor en route to tackling pertinent topics. An academic through and through, the author has included works that span the spectrum of his educational journey from elementary school to his doctoral experiences and professorship. In each of the short stories, the signature humor is only complemented by the uncanny relatability that pervades the work, beginning with “A Good Day,” which is rooted in an exploration of the immense challenges that career academics have in finding a job after earning their doctoral degree. ... (read more)

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Wildly Imaginative

Having escaped her village being burned to the ground and the brutal slaughter of her people by a savage tribe, Caipora relies on the training she received from her parents and grandparents to survive in the perilous South American jungle. Three months later, she is still reeling from the loss of her family and soul mate as she braves the Amazon rainforest alone. When she is saved from a vicious attack by the creatures of the wild, thirteen-year-old Caipora is commissioned by Queen Caelia of the Nevae wood elves to save the whole of Amazonia from an ancient, horrific evil whose greed is killing the forest and destroying the natural world. Equipped with a bow and arrows, magic potions, and a map, Caipora embarks on a journey to the summit of Pico da Neblina to free Verita, the Goddess of Good. ... (read more)

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The Unexpected

Tiberius and Babs are a couple who are soon getting married and are very fond of each other. Tiberius cares deeply for Babs and is willing to protect her by any means necessary. He has taken over much of the family business since her mother encouraged his father to semi-retire. In the meantime, they are enjoying the festivities leading up to the wedding. Babs loves playing cards at the casino; her uncle taught her how to play when she spent every summer at his place. Now that Tiberius and Babs' family and friends have arrived for the wedding, danger looms for both of them and their loved ones. They need to figure out how to face the obstacles ahead. The more they confront challenges, the more obstacles they seem to encounter. ... (read more)

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Beloved Character Revisited

It is a truth universally acknowledged that creating a sequel of a beloved story is a daunting task. McVeigh’s work is a masterclass in this. Based on the events of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, this novel follows the lives of the Bennet sisters—Jane, Elizabeth, Mary, Kitty, and Lydia—as they navigate polite society amid their mother’s matchmaking machinations. However, while Austen’s original work is told mainly from Elizabeth’s perspective as she matches wits with Fitzwilliam Darcy, this retelling shines a light on Darcy’s perspective. Snippets from his diary reveal a previously unexplored romance with an Italian opera singer, his reflections on his ill-fated first meeting with Elizabeth, and his gradual development from distaste to enduring love. ... (read more)

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Stimulating Conversations

Set on the banks of the Euphrates in 2286 BCE, Sridhar's narrative is driven by compelling worldbuilding and character development. While the novel revolves around Enheduanna, the high priestess of the Temple of Ur, each character has a well-developed backstory that is instrumental to bringing the intricate system of government, politics, and power (and often the abuses of each) to life. Through the narrative, audiences will gain exposure to age-old questions such as the constant clash between church and state. ... (read more)

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Danger Afoot

Long-time friends Thomas Pettigrew and Flinders Petrie run a detective agency together. Lately, their business has not thrived, so they have taken on second jobs to supplement their income. Pettigrew works as a physician, while Flinders is a curator at the British Museum. E.A. Wallis Budge, the head curator of the British Museum, hires Pettigrew and Flinders to find a small statue of Aphrodite that has been stolen from the Elgin Collection. Normally, Budge would have sought out the missing artifact, but he is swamped and wants the duo to take on the task. Pettigrew and Flinders accept the job, but as they delve deeper into the investigation, the case becomes increasingly dangerous. ... (read more)

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Smart Thriller

Raised by an uncle and a beloved nanny after WWII, Harlan never knew his mom, Fanny, and two fathers, Silas and Alfred, before they died. He is a mystery to himself and to the wife he left to answer a telegram summons to Black Mountain to learn his origins. What he finds reveals more than Harlan ever wants to know. Together, in Black Mountain in the 1930s, his parents created Nautilus. It is more than a machine. Instead, it is an encased unconscious working through space and time on the people attached to it. As it develops, it is meant to save the world from the devastating effects of war. But does it serve its intended purpose? ... (read more)

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Aging Gracefully

In this book, readers learn how aging contributes to character development. It also emphasizes the importance of work-life balance so that a person can pursue their interests outside of their regular nine-to-five job. A series of self-reflective poems allow readers to engage with topics like well-being, community service, family, and self-care. Other poems examine the world’s trappings that keep people from progressing personally and socially. As the collection continues, readers discover valuable poetic insights about how each day is a gift and “every moment precious.” Many of the verses emphasize the importance of faith in one’s walk through life. This reminds readers who take their faith seriously that they can see “The master’s hand at work / And only He is certain / Of how the story ends.” ... (read more)

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Immersive

This is the fourth book in the Natalie Seachrist Hawaiian Mystery series. It is a mix of mystery, history, and the supernatural. The story follows Natalie Seachrist, a former journalist with an unusual gift: she has visions of the past and future. When she and her partner, Keoni, attend a Buddhist temple luncheon, they expect a peaceful afternoon. Instead, they stumble into a murder mystery when a wealthy donor is found dead under suspicious circumstances. As Natalie’s visions start piecing together cryptic details of the crime, she and Keoni are pulled into an investigation that stretches beyond Hawaii, touching on Asian history, art, and politics. ... (read more)

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A Magic World

This second installment of the author’s fantasy series opens with Hsing warriors Galen, Swann, and Kowl, along with the elf Wendelynn, escorting a wounded Ewin after the Battle of Mirron. During this battle, the forces of their common enemy, the Necromancer Sulliud, razed the town of Mirron to the ground, and a Werewolf’s bite poisoned Ewin. Wendelynn reveals that the unconscious Ewin is fighting for his soul and spirit in the Twilight World. The companions, despite being taken aback by Ewin’s condition—“like a house with nobody at home”—find comfort in the knowledge that the Hsing warrior has also learned rudimentary wizardry, which will help strengthen him in the Twilight World. He ultimately awakens after he battles against the Wer while in his tiger form, and his companions greet him with the revelation that he is able to throw lightning like a wizard. ... (read more)

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A Sinister Mind

Albert’s decision to take a life was made with intended malice. A doctor couldn’t save his daughter’s life, so the pain that Albert experienced needed to be felt by the doctor. He targeted the doctor’s daughter and snuffed out her life with no remorse. Years removed from this premeditated act, Albert Peabody is living out his golden years in a psychiatric hospital where he is confessing his past crimes to his doctor. As Albert reveals his pathological nature to the doctor in painstaking detail, the doctor has questions of his own about what drove Albert to these heinous acts. Albert’s crimes have been concentrated for decades, and his cunning mind has helped him elude capture. However, now Albert is being held accountable for his nefarious deeds. ... (read more)

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Imaginative

In a magical land far above the clouds live the tooth fairies, who have built their towering castles and sprawling villages from baby teeth collected from young boys and girls the entire world over. Here the fairies play and work, go to market, operate a post office, bakery, and toy store, and much more. The inhabitants of Tooth Fairy Town enjoy a carnival, complete with a new Ferris wheel and roller coaster ride fashioned from, of course, baby teeth. When it’s time to build a new school and playground for the “tooth fairy tots,” all the fairies enter a race—appropriately titled Mission Baby Tooth—to see who can gather the most newly lost baby teeth from under the pillows of children sleeping. With wings spread, they take flight down to Earth. ... (read more)

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Intriguing Read

In this book, Miami is a place where culture, politics, business, profit, and social inequities collide. Jean Molk, the novel’s protagonist, is a brave character whose questions about not only herself but also Miami and its inhabitants lead her on a unique quest. Informed by her family history, Jean approaches each and every conflict she encounters with self-awareness and a concern for others. Readers follow Jean as she contemplates power and its role in individuals’ lives and corporations’ existences. They also see how Jean contemplates what it means to influence others and what it means to make choices that alter other people’s lives. Readers also meet Jean’s supportive, philosophical mentor, Milo Chernak, who strives to help Jean understand not only the business world in which they thrive but also the globe where humans are more and more connected. ... (read more)

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Fast-Paced & Complex

As US involvement in Vietnam draws to a close, a SEAL team discovers a Soviet presence and a deadly biological weapon being shuttled along the Ho Chi Minh trail in South Vietnam near Cambodia. Upon further investigation, there’s much more involved than is initially detected. American prisoners of war find themselves transported to a cold, wintery climate that clearly doesn’t exist in humid, tropical Southeast Asia. Enter The Red Stock Company, a highly skilled mercenary unit with the power to deal with the problem at hand but also to reshape world events as profiteers who exploit global conflict. ... (read more)

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???

In a work dedicated to her mother, Fortner presents her readers with inspirational poems and devotions centered on faith, family, and friends. The guiding principle for Fortner’s book is her commitment to God and love for all who truly matter in her life, both living and departed. She ruminates on the passage of time, memories, happiness and loss, our goodness, and life’s purpose as members of the human race. ... (read more)

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Self Worth

Candace Mason navigated adolescence as a full-figured Black teen lacking the light skin and long hair perpetuated as the standard of beauty. Initially shy and insecure, she emerged as a no-nonsense, outspoken young woman focused on her academic pursuits and goals. When her collegiate career was disrupted, Candi had to acclimate to a new normal and adjust her life plan. Despite countless red flags and glaring warning signs, she married Trey—a dissatisfying one-night stand with an affinity for partying. After enduring twenty-eight years in an unhealthy marriage, Candace had to face the harsh reality that she had settled for way less than she deserved. ... (read more)

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Medical Intrigue

The Scientific Revolution was a period of discovery that saw illuminating work from Bacon, Newton, Lavoisier, Lyell, and others in their respective fields. Despite this era of scientific progress, the field of medicine remained stagnant and resistant to revolutionary concepts on disease causation and transmission as late as the end of the nineteenth century. In the 1840s, Ignaz Semmelweis was one of a select few physicians using scientific principles to research deadly diseases. He devoted himself to the study of puerperal fever (a.k.a. childbed fever), a condition that had been devastating the female population throughout the Western world for over a century. Years before Pasteur introduced the germ theory, Semmelweis’ groundbreaking work in disease causation solved the mystery of contagion, established the foundation for wound antisepsis, and provided a solution to a disease that continued to decimate masses of young women. ... (read more)

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Youthful

Reading Cat’s personal journal a year after she leaves and gives it to Sam pains him so much that his friends ban him from reading it without their company. With every intention to stave off romance, Sam and Cat had fallen in love at first sight during a summer theater production. They were right to be hesitant. After all, Cat’s best friend/lover had just died, and Sam had been taken advantage of by a girl who liked him more than he did her. Sam and Cat defied their own rules to stay together until jealousy broke them apart. The journal reveals a side of the story that could change their destiny. ... (read more)

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Tangled Webs

Michael Pearson is an accomplished con artist working on his next mark. He has assumed the identity of an Army major working on a covert assignment at a Long Island base. Abigail Baxter is a widow who is still grieving the loss of her husband from a tragic helicopter accident. Michael introduces himself to Abigail as a prospective home buyer needing a realtor. Michael senses Abigail’s vulnerability and knows he can exploit that to his advantage in swindling her. Abigail is attracted to Michael, and soon, the pair begins an intense romance. Abigail’s passion is reawakened, and Michael worries that he’s in over his head. Michael decides to conclude his con and flee, but not before telling Abigail one additional lie. Unbeknownst to Michael, this will set off a chain of events that threaten the grift and his freedom. ... (read more)

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Through Tragedy

Becky’s best friend—her German shepherd Max—is the victim of a fatal accident. The angel Amanda’s comforting visit inspires Becky to commit her life to sharing her love for Max with other animals. When Sarah experiences sadness and anxiety over returning to school and being separated from her mom, Amanda helps Sarah see the importance of a good education. A fun day of shopping turns into a nightmare for Kristy when she gets separated from her mother and stuck in an elevator. Amanda comforts Kristy until help arrives. Chronic illness prevents Daryl from playing outdoors with friends. Amanda visits during Daryl’s surgery to allay his fears. Together, they have an amazing dream day of play. Amanda’s friendship gives Peter a listening ear to express his feelings, share memories of his dad, and finally heal from the pain of losing his father. Danny is being bullied and suffering in silence for fear of making things worse. Amanda intervenes and gets Danny the help he desperately needs. ... (read more)

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Inner Beauty

Diamonti (or Monti, for short) lives among a community of diamonds deep in a South African cave. He begins as a roughie—a gem covered in dirt who still needs to discover his innermost shine. During an initiation ritual to the world outside, he upholds the lessons taught to him by his mother about having courage, compassion, character, and curiosity. As a result, he is the first among his peers to shed his dirt and become a shining diamond. Then he stumbles across and chooses to let a poor man named Jabu find him. Jabu sells Diamonti to help finance a better future for his family, and after passing through several hands, Diamonti comes to America and gets placed on a diamond necklace. In a twist of fate, his mother winds up on the same necklace, and they are put on display for onlookers to enjoy. ... (read more)

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A Writer's Journey

Rubin met his wife, Judy, when they were teenagers. As adults, they got married and had three children. Over the years, the couple has traveled to various places, including Costa Rica, Mexico, and Alaska. The author also recounts an event that challenged their views on the supernatural. Although they considered themselves pragmatic realists, one night, Judy saw a faint white shadow of her father at the foot of their bed. Later, she discovered that her father had indeed passed away. Throughout this journey, Rubin shares interesting stories encompassing his personal and professional life. ... (read more)

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Carefuly Curated

Part poetry collection, part personal memoir, this unique book guides readers through one man’s lifetime of adventurous experiences. Readers meet an array of interesting side characters. Their appearances in the collection remind one that a well-lived life includes interacting with and observing others because their story is part of one’s own. Other poems are philosophical, contemplating spirituality, nature’s forces, and human nature. Some poems suggest one look beyond one's own comforts and remember those less fortunate. The mini-essays between poems disclose the author’s writing process and experiences and the inspirational moments for many of the collection’s pieces. Most of all, this work embodies the idea that life is to be enjoyed and that poetry can serve as a grounding force in one’s existence. ... (read more)

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Life's Journey

Monroe’s compilation, centered on the faith of love, describes the gamut of emotions as ocean waves that crest and trough within the self. With each passing poem, the poet’s tenacity and anticipation of union intensify, and there is a palpable energy and yearning for coming together. Specifically, “Miss You” and “Never Loved Like This” capture the spirit and passion with which the speaker imbues the pages. ... (read more)

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Jazzy

This collection of sixty-five poems has been inspired by the jazz-like characteristics found in the works of Langston Hughes as well as the author’s experiences from eight decades of life, love, loss, and spiritual affirmation. Many of the works display faith and hope in light of the world’s troubles and offer inspiration in lines like, “For I’m gon’ wake up early in the morning and catch a ride on the rising / sun. I want the good Lord to show me what good things he’s done.” Other poems move like a quick blues beat, as in “I Need Love Now.” This poem has a great opening stanza using a bird metaphor to convince his love interest to come and nest while he sings. ... (read more)

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Wonder Story

Tansy is a fairy—a small humanoid girl living in a world of spells, levitating toads, and vanishing powders—who is offered the chance to attend the Faery Academy of QuillSnap. This is the school’s first term at its new location, the previous building having burned down the year before (for reasons left mysterious until late in the book). There, she meets instructors like Twigg SugarFluff, Serena WhisperPetal, and Madame Kittondore, takes classes in spinning, and learns to ride a butterfly. But sinister things are afoot. Three fourth-years went missing last term. Also, the wicked Merkel and her minion Celice, who have been transformed into bugs, seek to recover their true forms in the hopes of seizing control of the academy, overthrowing the Galactic Goddesses, and ruling the seven realms. ... (read more)

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Classic Quest

Gala Goda is an adventurer who hunts old ruins for treasure. Armed with his revolver, a whip, and his wit, he counts on his luck to carry him. He’s also not above boasting to impress a girl or to try to get free drinks. While traveling to an old temple, he is met by three mystics who fall from the sky after reincarnating. They have lost their memories, but each is motivated by a particular desire ... (read more)

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Epiphanies

It is often not the destination alone but also the road traveled to get there that makes a trip truly meaningful. This seems to be the case in Stone’s account of his journey to understanding the Bible according to his personal and spiritual discoveries. His interpretations include his admissions of misinterpretations, confusion, and various misadventures in his spiritual education. However, Stone believes that the Bible should be difficult to interpret since God's perceptions exceed those of humans exponentially. Seeking communication with the Almighty demands commitment from us and how we may develop a process to increase our ability to connect more effectively to our spiritual selves. ... (read more)

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Fated

The first time Katherine saw Kevin, she thought he was the most beautiful man she had ever encountered. This surprised her, as she typically wasn't attracted to white men. She usually preferred dark-skinned men. Kevin was her colleague at work, and he was also attracted to her. They began an affair despite Katherine being engaged to her fiancé, Robert. For ten years, Katherine and Kevin maintained an on-and-off relationship, even after they got married to other people. Ultimately, Katherine decided to end the affair because she didn't want to hurt their spouses, who were unaware of the situation. Fifteen years later, Katherine and Kevin reunited in Lanai, Hawaii, for a twelve-day vacation after not having seen each other for over a decade. ... (read more)

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Productive Life

Moteelall shares his vision of what corporate culture should be to create productivity within the business place. His conclusions are based on common sense behaviors that reward diligent and conscientious workers while correcting those who are not working productively. Emphasis is placed on fair and humane practices within management so that workers feel valued and thus will strive to be the best employees they can be. The author explores subjects such as communication, goals, efficiency, process, structure, and systems. Chapter one, entitled “Start,” gives readers a model for beginning an endeavor. Subsequent chapters begin with a short introduction followed by an alphabetized list of topics that address the chapter’s theme. The book ends with chapters entitled “Bonus Items” and “Conclusion,” in which the author further emphasizes what he deems important in building an ethical and productive business atmosphere. ... (read more)

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Gentle & Moving

Miracles occur every day, in even the smallest moments, and this certainty is evident throughout this beautiful collection of stories. The author begins with her own story, a dream in which God appears and asks her to dedicate thirty minutes to daily prayer. She describes her initiation into the belief of saintly intercessions, beginning with Saint Anthony and Saint Joseph, and how these initial experiences fed a lifelong fascination with the saints and symbols of Catholicism. Two years after these events, God again appears to her in a dream, telling her to open a Catholic store, which she christens “Casa de Inspiracion.” From there, she wholeheartedly embraces the stories of her customers and suppliers. ... (read more)

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You're Not Alone

Siblings Sophie and Ben are going on holiday with their parents, Katie and Sam, to the Cayman Islands. Tensions begin to surface during the flight from Miami when Sam drinks too much and behaves aggressively towards a flight attendant, shouting and calling him names. Katie cries in the seat beside him, suggesting that this is not an uncommon occurrence. We soon learn that Sam is a lawyer who relieves the pressures of work by abusing his wife and children, who are afraid to be near him. When they arrive at their destination, Sophie and Ben venture out onto the sea alone in a boat, the Sea Jewel. The boat capsizes, and the two children are thrown into the water. To their surprise, they meet a talking seahorse in the depths of the sea who leads them on a treasure hunt and teaches them about forgiving their parents, learning to love themselves, and how nothing is impossible for those who believe. ... (read more)

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Lyrical

It’s the spring of 1933, and Chanson has just turned seven. He enjoys an idyllic life of acting in films, visiting Parisian parks, and making excursions to the mountains with his mother, Lys. Chanson lives also with his father, Louis-Etienne, and his older brother, Curtis, but it’s clear that Lys is the guiding star of his existence. Their relationship evokes that of the protagonist and his mother in The Goldfinch, and their happiness is fated to be equally short-lived. As Chanson and Lys are out driving one day, a lamb leaps into their path. Lys swerves to avoid it, and the car careens downhill towards an oncoming train. The train strikes the back end of the car with devastating force, and Lys is killed. ... (read more)

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Defeating Evil

In this colorful book, readers discover the story of Sita. Sita lives in Vanvas with her husband, Ram, but she misses Ayodhya, from which she was banished. One day, Sita sees a beautiful golden deer in the forest, and she begs Ram to capture it for her. Readers watch as Sita encounters the demon king, Ravan, who kidnaps her. From there, readers engage in a slew of adventures. They meet characters like Jatayu, a demigod vulture sent on behalf of Ram to rescue Sita. Sita’s bravery shines throughout the story, reminding readers about the power of resilience during trying times. Readers also take a thrilling ride as Ram makes every attempt to rescue Sita from Ravan, who keeps pressuring Sita to become his wife. Sita’s story of hope, resilience, and ultimately triumph over evil results in Diwali, the Hindu holiday celebrating good over evil. ... (read more)

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Strays

When Mum births a litter of free dogs, one pup has the multicolored, shaggy appearance of his ancestors—the great Illyrian Sheepdogs. Mum and Pa name the pup Lyri and teach him the Illyrian legacy of protecting sheep from wolves, bears, and the occasional linx. Uncle Wuf captivates Lyri with stories of their ancestors as fierce guard dogs and instills in Lyri a sense of pride in being a free dog. Indeed of sheep, Lyri is tasked with protecting his pack. Mum teaches her pups to find food in garbage heaps and residential areas, on farms, and around grocery stores. While foraging, Lyri gets distracted and forgets about protecting his pack. People load his siblings into a van and drive away, leaving Mum and Pa distraught. One by one, Lyri loses his remaining family until he is the last free dog suffering through brutal winters where food becomes more and more scarce. ... (read more)

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Fun

First, there’s regular chewing gum. Then, there’s bubble gum—perfect for blowing bubbles. And finally, best of all, is blue bubble gum. This adorable picture book celebrates just that—in all its messy, marvelous, sticky, gooey glory. The treat sometimes sticks to cars’ tires, while all kinds of weather can fall upon wadded-up discarded pieces. Birds and animals may try to eat it, and children sometimes accidentally swallow it whole. It can easily stick to shoes, clothing, and even in somebody’s hair. That’s never any fun. Gum, of course, is for chewing. Blue bubble gum is perfect for blowing a big blue bubble until the sticky creation pops, leaving pieces all over one’s face. As author Goldner's book suggests, it’s always best to spit the gum out, enclosing it safely in a wrapper and then properly throwing it away when finished. ... (read more)

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Winsome

This is a charming story about a young poodle named Bella and her pet grooming visits. It slowly progresses from Bella starting as an adorable little fluff ball to a Standard Poodle. The moral of the story is that beauty lies deep, and sometimes it takes someone special to find it in us. It seems that once the family moved from Pennsylvania to North Carolina (and found the “jubilant, good ole Southerner” Angela) was when Bella grew into what the author describes as the “fully developed, beautiful Standard Poodle.” Beforehand, Bella’s family had thought that she was already her full self in Philly with groomer Lynn, but once they moved to North Carolina, they found out they were wrong. Bella was still growing and had a lot to teach her dog parents. ... (read more)

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Standout War Journal

This book highlights the life and career of Leon Granacki, a talented artist who served in the South Pacific during World War II. The artist’s story is told by his daughter, the author of this book. Readers learn that, like most World War II veterans, Granacki rarely spoke about his military service. However, his experiences manifested in his art. His paintings of the South Pacific were vastly different from his paintings depicting Wisconsin farm scenes. Readers gain an intimate look at the artist’s early life and family life. This book is filled with colorful photos and reproductions of Granacki’s journals, paintings, and other mementos. These photos and illustrations provide a visual experience entirely their own, making the history this book preserves even more accessible. ... (read more)

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Making Better

In his memoir, Dawson recounts how he and his wife, Myra, took a life-changing nine-month trip around the world in 1969. During their travels, they visited several impoverished countries, which inspired them to help others improve their lives. When they returned to Australia, they received an opportunity to volunteer in Madagascar. Myra taught English, while Ira served as the business manager for two mission hospitals for eight years. The couple returned to Australia at the end of 1979. A few years later, they received a surprise call offering them positions as business managers for a ninety-bed hospital on the island of Malaita, specifically in Atoifi. They worked there for over five years. Throughout their journey, they remained dedicated to helping those in need. ... (read more)

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Grief Trails

When Baer’s husband receives a fateful diagnosis, the news of his medical condition disrupts the couple's lives amid “chaos and shattered dreams.” While they hope to beat the odds, her husband’s wish for normalcy conflicts with Baer’s fears for the present and the future. Miraculously, Baer’s husband lives four more years beyond the initial short-term life expectancy. Yet, while Baer is grateful for this extra time, she also dreads the inevitable. These few years she has left with her husband are riddled with uncertainty as she laments the ways “stretching and shaping of sorrow can take such an emotional toll on the body.” And even in the end, she never fully escapes her anguish as she searches for the will to go on. ... (read more)

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Unique & Beautiful

A simple, poignant collection of short accounts, this delightful work follows the author’s journey as he discovers the power of prayer and belief in Jesus. A former Buddhist, the author became disillusioned after failing to see improvements in his own life or in the lives of his friends who were also Buddhist. Before becoming Christian, he writes that he had a “long list of headaches” that he endured, from family and work issues to car troubles, financial worries, and depression. However, this all changed after a Christian friend encouraged him to pray Psalm 91, which speaks about God’s assurance that faith will keep him from evil “for he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.” ... (read more)

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