Tuesday, November 22, 2011

Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks (The Confessions of April Grace)

Cliques, Hicks, and Ugly Sticks (The Confessions of April Grace) is a book by KD McCrite which I recently had the opportunity to read through the Thomas Nelson Booksneeze Blog Program. Although I am older than the reading demographic for this book, I still found myself enjoying the book set in 1984. I found myself understanding the 80s references0, but I don’t know if teenagers who are reading this book will understand these same references.

The setting is just a minor point of the book, as it did look at the universal problems young teens go through, no matter the generation. School, friends, and family are all the topics looked at in this book. Throughout the story, the main character April Grace Reilly remains true to herself, and I found her to be a great role model for those who read this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Monday, November 7, 2011

The Lucado Inspirational Reader

Recently I read Max Lucado: The Lucado Inspirational Reader, Hope and Encouragement for Your Everyday Life. This book contains everything from short quotes to short stories. The book is broken into various chapters which look at the topics of Creation, Faith, Family, Forgiveness, Peace, Purpose, Worship, Second Chances, Grace, Heaven, and various others. I really liked how the book contained quotes from his other books along with Bible verses. Also, the format made it easy to find out more information on a particular topic. This isn’t the type of book you want to sit down and read in a traditional way since it is over 400 pages long, but it’s a great book to read a few pages at a time or to have as a “coffee table” book. This would also be a great book to give to friends and family as a Christmas gift.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Heaven is for Real for Kids

Heaven is for Real for Kids tells the story of Colton Burpo, who at 4 years old went to Heaven during a surgery. Colton miraculously recovered, and when he talked to his family after the surgery he told them of the things he saw in Heaven, which would have been impossible for him to know unless he did, in fact, go to Heaven. Through his story, Colton shows other young children that there is such a place as Heaven that they too can look forward to going to one day. The book was written in a way that young children can understand, yet it’s not scary as to make them nervous about spending time in hospitals. Rather, it gives children hope about all of the things they will see and the emotions they will experience when they are in heaven, or when they are trying to understand how other young children can be taken to heaven.

The pictures in this book were also cute, and I think young children who cannot yet read will enjoy looking at the photos of what Colton remembers Heaven looking like. Overall, I really enjoyed this book and am sure all young children will be impressed by not only the photos, but also the story of what happened to Colton.

I received a copy of this book from Thomas Nelson through their Booksneeze program. I was not required to write a positive review.

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Just In Case You Ever Wonder

Just In Case You Ever Wonder is a cute children's book written by Max Lucado and Illustrated by Toni Goffe which looks at how much God loves everyone. The book is written for young children, probably in the age range of 2nd-3rd grade. The book talks about how every part of us was created by God in a perfect way. It also shows how God placed children with a loving family to take care of them and teach them more about Jesus' love.

I really thought this book was cute, and I can't wait to pass it on to one of my young nieces. I am sure they will love the pictures as the drawings range from winter pictures with small animals hidden in the background to summertime walks. The focus of the book being on God's love is a great thing for young children to read about, and have shared with them by their parents.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Surprised by Oxford

Surprised by Oxford is a Memoir written by Canadian Carolyn Weber which looks at her life during her graduate degree studies at Oxford University’s Balliol College. As she attends Oxford she begins to question many things in her life, and she begins on her quest to find answer to some of her questions about life.

I found this book a little long, and it took me longer to read than most books. I really liked learning about her studies at Oxford and also the relationship with an American student while at Oxford. I was not the biggest fan of her poetry used throughout the book, but that is definitely just to the fact that I don’t enjoy poetry.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Monday, September 19, 2011

Night Night Blessings

Night Night Blessings is a cute children’s book written by Amy Parker and illustrated by Marijan Ramljak. The book looks at all of the things God has given children for them to be happy about. Pets, toys, family, food, and starts are all mentioned in the book as things to thank God for.

I thought this book was really cute, and I look forward to sharing it with a friend who is soon to be a new mother. The hard cover and hard pages is perfect for a young child, as sometimes I am afraid to give books with paper pages to children since they tend to be harder on books.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the Booksneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Monday, September 12, 2011

Thunder Dog

With the 10th anniversary of 9/11, I was eager to read “Thunder Dog: The True Story of a Blind Man, His Guide Dog, & the Triumph of Trust at Ground Zero” by Michael Hingson and Suzy Flory. The book tells the account of Michael Hingson, who was on the 78th floor when the World Trade Center was attacked. The book looks at the reasons behind Michael’s blindness, along with being raised with a seeing family.

As an animal lover, I found myself particularly interested in this book. I liked seeing how the dog, Roselle, was committed to saving the life of Michael Hingson, and I liked learning about Michael’s story and his determination to navigate over 1,000 stairs to escape the burning building. I read this book in the span of a few days, and I found myself unable to put the book down. I really enjoyed this book and look forward to sharing it with family members to enjoy.

* Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.

Monday, July 4, 2011

The Quotable Rogue

The Quotable Rogue: The Ideals of Sarah Palin In Her Own Words was edited by Matt Lewis, and the book is just what the title states: quotes and topics discussed by Sarah Palin. The book looks at quotes by Sarah Palin from interviews, newspaper, and other places. The topics were varied and included Abortion, Living in Alaska, Barak Obama, Civil Rights, Gun Control, Health Care, John McCain, the Media, the GOP, Running for Office, the Tea Party, Tina Fey, and Washington.

I liked reading this book and getting the opportunity to review some of the topics which are of interest in America today. I enjoyed this book because I liked the format that I could look at a particular issue and see what her thoughts were on the topic. Although this might not be a book someone would want to read in one sitting, it is an interesting read.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Sunday, June 12, 2011

Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me

Since most things related to topics like the CIA interest me, I was extremely excited to have the chance to read Jesus, My Father, the CIA, and Me written by Ian Cron. Ian talks about his childhood, and how growing up with an alcoholic, often absent, father affected his life. Throughout the book, Ian told different stories which focused on his childhood, teenage years, and finding his wife.

I liked the honesty Ian wrote with. He didn’t seem to sugarcoat some of the things he did in his life, such as the troubles he had with alcohol, drug use, and overall rebellion in his life. I also liked how he was able to break free from his past mistakes, and he ended up being a caring father. The book had humor throughout the book, and I was able to read this book in the span of a few days. I would recommend this book to others.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Saturday, May 7, 2011

Nick of Time

I was excited to read Nick of Time: A Bug Man Novel, by Tim Downs, and I liked the overall idea of the book, but I have some complaints about the main character, Nick Polchak. Throughout the book, Nick is attempting to solve a mysterious murder before his wedding, which is only a few days away. What follows is a mystery that Nick becomes so wrapped up in, he nearly forgets about him wedding. There were some twists and turns that led to the final conclusion, and I can honestly say I did not forsee what would be the conclusion to the book.

Although I liked the idea behind the book, I did not like the character of Nick AT ALL! He seemed to be very condescending and rude to others. It’s one thing to become completely absorbed with solving a mystery, but it’s an entirely different matter to be rude to those in positions of authority. In addition to Nick’s attitude, his fiancĂ©e seemed to have the same problems with authority. Neither of these characters had social skills, and I didn’t find myself rooting for them as I read the book. I recognize that this difficulty with authority might be what others find interesting in the book, but it didn’t make me more interested in the book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Monday, April 18, 2011

The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World

As soon as I heard the title, The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World: Over 600 Secrets of the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and American Kingdom, I knew I would love the book written by Susan Veness and I was not disappointed.

The book is broken up into four sections which focus on the separate parks in Walt Disney World. Within each section, it is broken into smaller sections within the park. Rather than tips for a good trip, the book focuses on small, unknown facts and hidden sights that guests may never have noticed. As I read through the book, I learned things I had never noticed before during my 10 + trips to Walt Disney World in Florida.

This book was interesting to me, since I have enjoyed trips to Disney World in the past. Some of the things I found most interesting were that the water in the Lagoon at Epcot is made of water from other countries and the fact that buildings were all made to be under 200 feet high so no beacons would be required for planes. I think this book would make a great gift for a first-time visitor to Disney World or someone who doesn’t think they will enjoy their trip because they have “seen it all before.” I know I really enjoyed reading it, and I will be looking at Walt Disney World more closely the next time I visit.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Tuesday, April 5, 2011

Unsinkable

I remember hearing of Abby Sunderland, a 16 year-old who was attempting to become the youngest individual to sail a solo trip around the world in 2010, as I am sure did many individuals who watched the news during that time. At the time of hearing about her solo-trip and her boat being de-masted in the Indian Ocean, I, like many others, looked at this as a media stunt orchestrated by her father as a way for their family to gain notoriety. I think the book changed my mind a little on the matter, but, as other reviewers have stated, I don't know if her family allowing her to make this trip at such a young age was the wisest thing to do.

The book was an extremely easy read, and I enjoyed the overall theme of perseverance in the book. I think it will show younger people that hard work is still rewarding, and it will give them motivation to go after their dreams and pursue their goals in life. Also, it gives young people a real role model to look up to...someone who is famous for more than just being famous.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher, Thomas Nelson, through the BookSneeze review bloggers program for the purpose of completing this review. BookSneeze does not require positive reviews; all opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Monday, March 14, 2011

How to be God's Little Princess

How to Be God’s Little Princess by Sheila Walsh gives Royal Tips for Manners, Etiquette, and True Beauty for young girls. The first thing I noticed upon receiving the book was the cute pink and purple cover with a tiara on the front. This book was clearly made with a young girl in mind, and I can’t wait to give this book to one of my younger relatives to enjoy!

The book is divided into chapters focusing on How to dress like a princess, How to wear a tiara (and other princess necessities), How a princess perfects her poise, How to be friends princess style, How to dine with royal success, How to sparkle like a princess, How to have a rockin’ royal party, How to be media wise, How to be a perfectly polite princess, How to be a princess at home, How a princess sports a good attitude, How a princess knows she needs an inner beauty makeover. Throughout the chapters there are various quizzes, projects, and sections for royal notes. Each chapter begins with a short paragraph that indicates how the chapter relates to God’s desires. There is also a Bible verse that relates to the chapter.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Sunday, March 6, 2011

Seek Me With All Your Heart

Seek Me with All Your Heart, the first book in the Land of Canaan Novel, written by Beth Wiseman looks at Emily Detweiler and her family as they move from Ohio to Canaan, Colorado. In addition to the Detweiler family, the family of David Stoltzfus moves to Colorado from their home in Pennsylvania. Throughout this move, David faces health difficulties and Emily must face her past. Although they would both rather ignore their pasts, they begin to heal by leaning on one another. Through facing these difficulties, David and Emily find themselves drawn to one another and beginning to form a relationship.

I really enjoyed this book and liked the fact that it wasn’t a typical Amish story, in that it wasn’t based in Pennsylvania and it delved into the sensitive topic of rape and the way different people and families deal with difficulties in their lives. I liked learning about all of the different characters and cannot wait to read the future books in the Land of Canaan Series.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Saturday, February 12, 2011

Izzy's Pop Star Plan

I recently read Izzy’s Pop Star Plan by Alex Marestaing with the plan of giving it to my cousin to read since she loves to sing and play instruments.
The book is written from Izzy Baxter’s point of view in the form of an Internet Blog which can be read as a daily devotional. Each day is about two pages long, and it covers 90 days, so it’s ideal for a child to read a chapter each day. I also liked how each chapter had comments that were Bible Verses.

The main concept of the book is that Izzy enters a singing competition, called the International Pop Star Challenge, after years of dreaming of becoming a famous singer. She begins to travel around the world to pursue her dreams. At the end of the book, there is a note that you have to check a website to see who won the competition. I especially liked this since I tend to read the last page before I finish the book to find out what happens, and this makes sure no young reader does the same thing 

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising

Sunday, January 30, 2011

The Shelter of God's Promises

I have always wanted to read a book by Sheila Walsh, as I have heard rave reviews of both her speaking and her books, and I was excited to read The Shelter of God’s Promises by Sheila Walsh. The book details God’s promises, and each promise is a chapter within the book. In addition to explaining God’s promise, there is a Bible Verse which relates to the promise God has for people. Some of my favorite promises in the book include Confidence: When we can’t see God’s Plan in this pain, God Promises that in All things God works for the good of those who love him, as in Romans 8:28, Hope: When we’re broken God promises to love us and never leave us as in Hebrews 13:5-6, and Home: We have a future and the Bible says There are many rooms in God’s house for us, as in John 14:2.

I also liked the personal aspect as Shelia Walsh intertwined personal stories that made the promises detailed in each chapter more personal. I think this book would be a great Bible study or devotional, as it’s format is conducive for discussion. There is also a Bible Study at the end of the book that contains important verses to read and questions to ask oneself.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Friday, January 14, 2011

Save the Date

I recently read and completely enjoyed the book Save the Date by Jenny B. Jones. This is the first book I read by Jenny B. Jones, and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future. She makes very believable and likeable characters. I was really convinced of their relationship as I read the book, and I was rooting for them.

Lucy is dedicated to the running of a non-profit girls program which is in desperate need of funding. Alex, a wealthy man, is looking for a seat in Congress, but he wants a financee to help him win the votes. They both decide to use what the other has in order to get what they want.

As other reviewers indicated, it was easy to predict what would happen in the book. Even though that was the case, I still really enjoyed the book. It was not only appropriate for reading by a younger audience (teenagers), but I think they would actually enjoy the book. So many times, I find Christian Romance books are geared more toward adults with their length and historical content, but I think teenagers and adults alike can enjoy this book.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."

Wednesday, January 5, 2011

Love on Assignment

Love on Assignment, a book by Cara Lynn James, was a great read over the Christmas Holiday Break! It focuses on Charlotte Hale, who is a secretary for the Rhode Island Reporter with dreams of becoming a real reporter. Her employer places her within a family under the guise of being a governess in order to have her act as a spy; she thinks this is the perfect opportunity to show her reporting skills and move up within the business. Little does Charlotte Hale know, the family she is living with is not what she was told by her employer. Throughout the book, she struggles with her deceit and tries to justify her lies as necessary since she is doing what she must to keep her family going during difficult times.

I really enjoyed this book and the focus of forgiveness it shows. I also liked how, although it was the second book in a series, you did not need to read the first book to follow the story. I will definitely be reading more books in the series, and I cannot wait to learn more about the families who spend their time at Summerhill.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255 [...] : "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."