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< Back Kristen Wilson Nobody Likes a Picky Eater: And Other Life Lessons From Nonna's Kitchen K. Renée’s memoir, Nobody Likes a Picky Eater: And Other Life Lessons from Nonna’s Kitchen, is a poignant and deeply personal exploration of family, food, love, grief and sacrifice. Through a series of vivid, heartfelt vignettes, Renée weaves together her Italian heritage, childhood memories, and the complex relationships that shaped her life. The narrative is both intimate and universal, inviting readers to reflect on their own familial bonds and the ways in which food serves as a metaphor for connection, care, and identity. Renée’s prose is evocative, painting scenes of her childhood with sensory detail that brings her memories to life. From the olive tree in her front yard to the strawberries she sliced for her father, each anecdote is filled with emotion and meaning. The recurring theme of food—whether it’s Nonna’s insistence on clean plates, the strawberries sold by farm workers, or the meals shared with loved ones—serves as a thread that ties the narrative together, symbolizing nourishment in both the physical and emotional sense. Renée does not shy away from the darker aspects of her family’s history, including abuse, loss, and the weight of unfulfilled dreams. Yet, she balances these moments with humor, warmth, and a deep sense of gratitude for the resilience of the women in her family. The stories of her mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother reveal a legacy of strength and endurance, even in the face of hardship. Ultimately, Nobody Likes a Picky Eater is a celebration of life’s messy, imperfect beauty. It reminds us that the act of feeding—whether it’s a meal, a memory, or a moment of comfort—is an expression of love. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : Renée’s memoir is a heartfelt tribute to the power of food to connect us to our past, our loved ones, and ourselves. Purchase here

Book Reviews: Adult EF Nordmed Market of the Never Setting Sun Bryan Murphy Pandemic Hacker 2 A.D. Matson The Wake of the Hound Dogs Michelle Carbajal Heirs of Ruin J.C. Wade Summer's Reaping Douglas King An Innocent World Margot Keene Maverick Key: Hearts on the Line Ruthie Marlenée And Still Her Voice Clare Bursky Survive, Then Thrive; My Family's Holocaust Story Ragini Shah Constructed Movements: Extraction and Resistance in Mexican Migrant Communities Suzanne Gillis The Landlady of Maple Avenue E.R. Bellamy Chasing My Childs Education - A Staten Island Mothers Struggle LOAD MORE

< Back William Gensburger Verisium: Conversations with AI on the Meaning of Life and Death Verisium: Conversations With AI on the Meaning of Life and Death by William Gensburger is a thought-provoking discussion about the most profound aspects of human existence. Why are we here? What is our purpose? The book blends philosophy, science, spirituality, and personal reflection, with a unique integration of AI into the conversation. Gensburger shares his personal journey, sparked by the loss of his sister as a child, which led him to question the nature of existence and the purpose of life. He draws on insights from various fields, including quantum physics, neuroscience, ancient wisdom, and modern philosophy, and invites readers to embark on their own journey of self-discovery and contemplation. Gensburger uses AI as a tool to explore complex topics, posing questions to the technology and weaving its responses into the narrative. This technique demonstrates the potential of AI to serve as a mirror to human consciousness and a partner in intellectual discussion. The book is structured into chapters that each tackle a specific theme, such as the nature of consciousness, the concept of energy, the possibility of life after death, and the idea of living in a simulation. Gensburger draws on a wide range of sources, from ancient texts like the Bhagavad Gita to modern scientific theories like quantum mechanics and the simulation hypothesis. This interdisciplinary approach allows readers to see connections between disparate fields, creating a unified perspective on the mysteries of existence. Gensburger offers practical advice for readers seeking to awaken their consciousness and live more intentional lives. He emphasizes the importance of physical health, meditation, breathwork, and mindful living as tools for personal transformation. William Gensburger's unique approach, combined with the integration of AI, makes this book a must-read for anyone interested in exploring the nature of consciousness, the mysteries of life and death, and the fabric of reality. It is a profound and transformative journey that will leave readers questioning, reflecting, and inspired to seek out their own answers. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A compelling and innovative work that discusses humanity’s existential questions. Purchase here

< Back Louiza Kallona The Tickling Tale of Smoo Will siblings Lucy and Ben find one of the worlds ticklers, and restore laughter to the world? Lucy and Ben McClafferty live in a farmhouse in Fiddle Wood, in the Scottish Borders. Across the world, people are sad and gloomy. No one has laughed, or giggled, or even smiled for many months. Grandma McClafferty is worried that something bad has happened to Gabel Lylhu (otherwise known as Belly Laugh), an old man who lives in Durness, in the north of Scotland. Gabel is a tickler and has brought laughter to the world, by tickling Smoo with a laughing gull feather for almost 150 years. Smoo is a deep cave hidden out of sight at the very top of Scotland, and one of the ‘armpits of the world’. Grandma McClafferty has an idea. She will take Lucy and Ben to visit Gabel and bring laughter back to the world. Lucy and Ben’s parents would never agree, so she tells them she is taking them on a trip to Loch Ness. So, Lucy, Ben, Grandma McClafferty and Uncle Patrick travel all the way to Durness, to find Gabel Lylhu’s cottage. They find Gabel sound asleep in his cottage, and when they finally wake him, they discover he has been asleep for four months. They need to take Gabel’s laughing gull feather to Smoo, and tickle its armpits during a full moon, to restore laughter to the world. But when the only laughing gull feather is destroyed, Lucy and Ben must go on an epic adventure, to help Gabel find another. Will they find another laughing gull feather? And will they ever restore laughter to the world? The Tickling Tale of Smoo is a fun, fantasy adventure story, by debut author Louiza Kallona. Full of eccentric characters, amazing adventures, and plenty of magic and mystery, this book will appeal to middle grade readers who enjoy comedy and fantasy fiction. Louiza Kallona is a creative and entertaining storyteller, and I look forward to reading more from her in the future. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Brilliantly written, with unique characters, an imaginative plot, and lots of humour, this is a laugh-out-loud fantasy adventure not to be missed! Purchase here

< Back Hazem Nassar Diary of my Dreams Naji is fast asleep when a loud explosion wakes him from his dream. He settles back to sleep and is woken again, and again, and again. Naji just wants to sleep and dream so he doesn’t have to think about the ongoing war in his country. He dreams his school has been destroyed, and there is nothing left but rubble. But, when he wakes, he remembers his school and wishes he could get it back. He dreams of eating left over food for days and days. When he wakes, he wishes he could go out to eat again. He dreams of helping his dad with the groceries. When he is woken again, he remembers he needs to buy and carry the groceries all by himself. As images of war invade Naji’s thoughts and his dreams, he wonders whether he will ever live in peace again. Diary of my Dreams is an illustrated picture book by Hazem Nassar about a young boy growing up in a country torn apart by war. Naji is desperate to sleep to forget about the war in his country, but loud explosions keep him awake. Soon, sleep is no longer a peaceful, restful event, it is a constant reminder of the horrors of war. Written from the perspective of Naji, this book sensitively explores the impact of war from a child’s point of view. The story captures Naji’s fears and grief, making it a powerful and poignant read for young readers. The child-like illustrations and use of handwritten font, complement the story beautifully. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A touching and thought provoking read about war, and its impact on young people. https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DTGN64G2 Purchase here

< Back Joe Caruso In the Image of God - A Story of Identity and Value A fun, accessible and engaging book for younger children about Christian values, by Author Joe Caruso In the Image of God: A Story of Identity and Value by Joe Caruso is a beautiful children’s picture book filled with positive affirmations that will encourage young children to believe in themselves, just the way God does. The book will help children to understand they are unique, good, have spirit, speak the truth, are just, wise, creative, and have power and purpose. The book encourages children to show love for those who may doubt them, mock them, or hurt them, ‘With love you’ll deflate, all life’s hurt, hate and crime. With love change the world, one heart at a time.’ Beautifully written in rhyme, with charming illustrations by Alina Shabelnyk, this book is a fun, accessible and engaging way for younger children to learn about Christian values. It is a great resource for parents, carers and teachers and will help nurture kindness, compassion, confidence, and self-belief in young children. This is a wonderful, read together book and I imagine it will become a bedtime favourite, as young children will love to read aloud to ‘For you were made in the image of God. In the image of God, you were made,’ which is repeated throughout the book. The illustrations by Alina Shabelnyk are wonderful, and complement the positive messages in the book perfectly. We particularly enjoyed the diversity of the characters, and the wide range of activities presented, which will appeal to a wide and diverse audience. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: Beautifully written in rhyme, with charming illustrations, this book will help nurture kindness, compassion, confidence, and self-belief in young children. Purchase here

< Back D.F. Kennedy The Last Time I Saw Her Charlotte’s story Wealthy heiress and author, Dahlia Frost Hughes, is missing presumed dead when the aircraft she boarded in Miami failed to arrive at its destination. Dahlia was travelling to Puerto Rico, for a private getaway with her husband, famous actor Roland Hughes. Dahlia’s best friend and business partner, Charlotte Moore, is questioned by detectives about her disappearance. The police have received information that links Dahlia to the earlier disappearance of Charlotte’s ex-husband, Guy Burke. They believe Dahlia hired a hitman to kill Guy, conspiring with Charlotte to stop him getting hold of her inheritance. Charlotte has connections to the Italian Mafia, and their involvement in the disappearance of her ex-husband cannot be ruled out. Charlotte and Dahlia had been friends for many years, and set up a successful publishing company together. The women were inseparable and supported each other through tough times. Dahlia was finally moving on with her life with her husband and daughter, after she was kidnapped by her ex-husband and harassed by an online stalker. Charlotte also had a difficult few years, following the tragic death of her parents, a miscarriage, and a bitter divorce from her abusive, ex-husband. Guy had attacked Charlotte and left her for dead, before his disappearance a year earlier. As Charlotte grieves for the loss of her best-friend, she tries single-handedly to keep the company afloat, whilst also navigating a new relationship. When an old acquaintance makes an appearance at her office, Charlotte is forced to travel to a remote, private island off the coast of Brazil, to find the truth about her best friends disappearance. The Last Time I Saw Her is the next instalment in this gripping, psychological drama series by D.F. Kennedy. The book follows on from where the last book ended, as Dahlia’s aircraft mysteriously disappears on route to Puerto Rico. This book tells the story from Charlotte’s perspective, an equally fascinating and enigmatic character. Full of chilling thrills, nail-biting suspense, and timely-placed twists and turns, the story keeps you invested as you read in eager anticipation of what's going to happen next. Just when you thought you had it all figured out, a new clue takes you in an entirely different direction! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An electrifying, page-turning, psychological thriller, with an intriguing plot, fascinating characters, and a multi-layered storyline. Purchase here

< Back Adalgisa and David Nico Frogs on the Mountain: The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite Adele is visiting Yosemite National Park with her mom and dad. But as she tries to settle down to sleep in her hammock for the night, she is kept awake by a strange ‘kraak, kraak, kraak’ sound. The next morning, Adele asks a ranger about the strange noise, and discovers the sound was from mountain yellow-legged frogs. The ranger explains that the frogs nearly became extinct when trout were introduced into the river and ate the tadpoles and frogs, dragonfly larvae, and other insects that frogs relied on for food. Adele learns about the frogs habitat, defense mechanisms, breeding patterns, and how tadpoles develop into frogs. The ranger explains how the frogs made a comeback in Yosemite, and how they thrived once the trout were removed from some of the lakes. Adele learns that the mountain yellow-legged frogs are connected to other creatures in the ecosystem, and each species is reliant on the others for survival. Frogs on the Mountain: The Mountain Yellow-Legged Frogs in Yosemite is an illustrated children’s picture book by authors, Adalgisa and David Nico. The book provides a fascinating insight into the mountain yellow-legged frogs, an endangered amphibian species that can be found in the lakes in Yosemite National Park. With lots of fascinating facts, and glorious illustrations by Andy Atkins that capture Yosemite’s breath-taking scenery, this book brings the little known frog species to life. Through Adele’s exploration of the park, children will learn about the challenges these tiny amphibians face in their natural habitat and the importance of conservation. Adalgisa and David Nico do an excellent job at balancing a conservation message with an engaging storyline. A wonderful addition to any bookshelf. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring story, which will help children learn about these fascinating amphibians, the role they play in the ecosystem, and the importance of conservation. Purchase here

< Back Brenda Do It's Okay Not to Know Author Brenda Do encourages the development of positive learning mindsets in young children It's Okay Not to Know, by author Brenda Do, is a picture book that shows that it is okay not to know something, to have an uh-oh moment, or to make a mistake. It explains that it might be easy to feel down when something doesn’t quite go according to plan. But any challenge, no matter how big or small, is a great opportunity to learn something new, and try new things. It shows that learning new things makes you feel good, and encourages further exploration and discovery. It is like opening a surprise present and finding a special gift. It shows that it is also great to be able to help someone when they do not know something, and help them find the answers they do not know. This is a sweet and charming picture book by author Brenda Do. In essence, this story is about acknowledging and learning from failure, and using every experience as an opportunity to learn, grow and develop. Told in simple language, with two sweet characters, this book introduces younger children to the concept of positive learning mindsets in a fun and engaging way. It will provide reassurance to younger readers that it is okay not to know something or to make a mistake. It will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience, and will support the development of positive mindsets and learning habits for life. The illustrations by C.S Fritz are cute and colourful, and full of fun. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and charming picture book that will help children develop confidence, self-belief and resilience. Purchase here

< Back Regan Walker The Irish Yankee Book blurb... In June 1775, amid the Revolutionary War’s early stirrings, Irish Yankee Jeremiah O’Brien, seizes a British armed schooner off the Maine coast to thwart the cargo of lumber she was escorting from reaching British forces in Boston. Inspired by this daring victory, Jeremiah abandons his lumber business to command privateer vessels, relentlessly pursuing British merchant ships across dangerous waters. Defying the British navy’s tightening grip on the Massachusetts coast, he risks his life and his ships to capture many prizes. Yet his greatest battle may lay onshore: winning the heart of Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, a fiercely independent woman who loves the freedom he fights for. Only a man worthy of the title “the hero of the Lexington of the Sea” could earn her love and prove himself worthy of her strength. Purchase here

< Back Marta Almansa Esteva Nurse Bear Does First Aid Nurse Bear Does First Aid is a super sweet picture book, with a great introduction to healthcare and first aid for younger children, from debut author Marta Almansa Esteva. Nurse Bear Does First Aid is a sweet story of a cute little bear who cares for, and helps others when they are unwell. Nurse Bear and colleagues, such as Duck the Doctor, Tiger the Radiographer, Monkey the Dietician and Bunny the Physiotherapist care for and treat patients in different situations and healthcare settings. The book describes a range of ailments and medical treatments, tests, and tools, supporting the development of basic first aid language, knowledge, and skills. Children will learn how to recognise some of the signs and symptoms of illness, and how to respond calmly and with empathy (and of course with the help of a grown-up!). There is also space for parents to add the ambulance service number and home contact details, which will help children learn how to contact the emergency services should they ever need to. This book is a great resource for parents, carers, and teachers to start conversations with younger children about healthcare and first aid, whether in preparation for a hospital visit, or when caring for minor ailments at home. The cute, gender-neutral, animal characters are beautifully handmade by Esteva using modelling clay. The characters will appeal to younger aged children and could inspire them to get involved in nursing and healthcare. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A sweet picture book, with a set of adorable clay animal characters, helping children learn important and potentially lifesaving first aid skills. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Jacqueline Crann Being Different Is The New Cool Maddie learns to accept and celebrate her differences. A little girl named Maddie was born with a birthmark on her face and a white streak in her hair. Maddie’s unique features make her stand out, and sometimes people stare at her. Maddie loves to dance, but when she goes to dance class, she wears a hat to cover her head and hair, to avoid people asking questions or saying mean things. One day, when practising her dance routine, her hat falls off her head and onto the floor. Some of the children start laughing. The dance teacher, Miss Cherry, explains that everyone is different and the importance of treating people with kindness and respect. Miss Cherry reassures Maddie that her birthmark and hair streak make her cool and unique, and she should be proud of herself. When Maddie’s baby sister is born, Maddie discovers she has the same birthmark as herself. Maddie promises to teach her baby sister that being different is the new cool. Being Different Is the New Cool is an inspiring picture book for young readers by author Jacqueline Crann. The book follows a little girl named Maddie who has a condition called Poliosis, which causes a streak of her hair to turn white. At first, Maddie worries about what others will say and wears a hat to hide her hair, but with support and reassurance from her dance teacher, she soon learns to accept and embrace her difference. The arrival of her new baby sister also makes Maddie more determined to celebrate peoples’ unique qualities and attributes. The book is an excellent resource for parents and educators to open up discussion about diversity and self-acceptance with young readers. Young readers will learn the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion, and of accepting people just the way they are. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring picture book for young readers, and a wonderful celebration of diversity. Purchase here