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Book Reviews: Age 8 to 12 Load more Danielle Simone The Adventures of Syd: Lost in Bone Cave Kristin Nilsen The Scott Fenwick Diaries: A Novel Lori Giesey A Moment in Time Josh Weiss-Roessler Future Me and the VR Prison Karissa Nix I Can Go Anywhere Hans Ness Rolo and the Legend of Jack Bones Mary Myers Pocket Watch Portal Adventure Heidi Solomon-Orlick I Have a Voice: A Book of Listening Vicki Scott Burns Charli's Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure Linda Oatman High First There Was Bird Julie Ellis Williams Bella Joins the Service Wittingly Yours You Are Enough, Just as You Are (Yes! It's True) LOAD MORE

< Back Hans Ness Rolo and the Legend of Jack Bones Rolo and the Legend of Jack Bones is the third installment in Hans Ness’s imaginative and witty middle-grade series. The series follows the adventures of Rolo, a human boy raised by a troupe of animals on a future Earth where cats, dogs, and other creatures have been genetically engineered to be intelligent and larger than life. Like its predecessor, Rolo on the Planet of the Cats, this novel delivers a rollicking, heartfelt, and thought-provoking adventure that stands on its own while expanding the series’ rich world. Rolo’s ordinary school field trip takes a wild turn when he’s swept away on the legendary pirate ship, the Jolly Wagger, commandeered by the infamous houndrel Jack Bones and his canine crew. Trapped at sea with pirates who have never met a human before, Rolo befriends Jojo, a teen dog with her own complicated family history. As they journey through the pun-filled Catibbean, Rolo learns the truth behind the houndrels’ exile by the Felion Empire and witnesses the ongoing struggle between cats and dogs. The story weaves together daring escapes, pirate raids, a cuddly kraken named Scuddly, and a looming naval confrontation, all while exploring themes of loyalty, prejudice, and the search for belonging. Ness’s writing sparkles with humor and clever wordplay. The world-building is inventive, blending futuristic technology with classic pirate lore and animal antics. The cast is diverse and memorable, including the gruff but noble Jack Bones, the conflicted Jojo, and a host of quirky pirate dogs. The novel balances fast-paced action with emotional depth, particularly in Jojo’s journey to understand her family and her place in a divided world. Perfect for ages 8–12 and anyone who loves animal adventures, pirate tales, or stories with both humor and heart. The book can be read as a standalone or as part of the series, and is sure to delight fans of Rolo on the Planet of the Cats with its blend of action, laughs, and meaningful messages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A captivating, clever, and compassionate adventure that will leave readers cheering for its heroes and reflecting on the importance of understanding and unity. Highly recommended. Purchase here

< Back M. J. Kelley II Identity Crisis: Who Am I, Really? Book blurb... In an age defined by the noise of social media, constant comparison, and the exhausting pressure to perform, Identity Crisis: Who Am I, Really? offers a powerful antidote to the modern identity crisis. This book confronts the deceptive allure of the inward search and the cultural myth that worth must be earned. It guides readers to the unwavering foundation of their true self, revealing that identity is a gift received, not a title achieved. You will discover your unshakeable value as a masterpiece created in the Imago Dei and find eternal security as a beloved child adopted by the King, your life forever "hidden with Christ in God". The book equips you to wage the war for your mind by demolishing the enemy's lies with the truth of Scripture, liberating you from the crippling performance trap and empowering you to live an authentic, purpose-filled life, not for the fleeting applause of the crowd, but for an Audience of One. Purchase here

< Back Jim Sarto Is School Really Out For The Summer?: Abbreviated Musings of a High School Principal Book blurb... Think summer's a break for principals? Think again. Dr. Joey Strat, Avenue Ridge High School's veteran principal, trades sunny relaxation for endless school drama in this laugh-out-loud satire. From unruly students and apathetic staff to demanding, clueless parents, Joey's vacation is a non-stop whirlwind of chaos. Amid the madness, Joey wistfully recalls his idyllic fifth-grade summer of 1964 - a time of boundless freedom, family, and adventure. Through vivid flashbacks, he contrasts the golden days of his youth with the ridiculous, real-life challenges of running a school. Is School Really Out for the Summer? serves up hilarity, heartfelt nostalgia, and a behind-the-scenes peek into school life. Perfect for educators, parents, and anyone who' s ever needed a laugh, this book proves that while school might be out, the lessons (and headaches) never end. Purchase here

< Back Anne Angelo Sprig of White Heather and a Scottish Lass A young woman leaves the Scottish Highlands, in search of a new life in France. Sprig of White Heather and a Scottish Lass is a memoir by Anne Angelo about her life growing up in rural Scotland. This is the first volume of a two-part series and follows her journey from early childhood through to her mid-twenties. Angelo was born in 1913 in Invergordon, in the Scottish Highlands. Her father was an Italian mechanical engineer working in Scotland, and her mother was from a wealthy French family. They met at a motor car rally in Bordeaux, and were married a few weeks later after a short, whirlwind, romance. But when her mother’s family learn of her father’s intentions to live off his wife’s wealth, they cut her off from the family’s assets. The couple returned to Scotland and Angelo’s father became increasingly angry and bitter about their predicament. He was verbally and physically abusive towards his wife and children, and even tried to arrange a marriage for Angelo. Angelo takes a job as a governess for a wealthy widower in France to escape her father and to “become a new person”. She moves to Lille and experiences what life is like in the upper echelons of French society. But as another war looms in Europe, Angelo is forced to return back to Scotland. Sprig of White Heather and a Scottish Lass is a captivating memoir by Anne Angelo, about her life growing up in the Scottish Highlands. Written from her own manuscripts, this is an intriguing and heartfelt novel about one young woman’s fight to make a better life for herself. The book provides a fascinating insight into life as a young woman growing up in the early part of the 20th century, and the differences between life in rural Scotland and France. Angelo was physically and emotionally abused throughout her childhood, and experienced significant financial hardships, but she was never bitter about her father or her life. Ultimately, this is a story of empowerment and strength, as Angelo finds the courage to leave her family home and attempts to rebuild a new life for herself. Readers can follow the rest of Anne Angelo’s journey in the second volume. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartfelt glimpse into the life of the author, and the experiences that shaped her formative years. Purchase here

< Back John Randall Harsh Winters: Book 1 Book blurb... Diane Campbell has lived in the shadow of killers for as long as she can remember. The murder of her best friend left wounds that never fully healed, even after the killer was caught. That silence carved deep scars, shaping a life haunted by loss, fear, and more killers on the prowl. Years later, Diane throws herself into a tight-knit group of true crime devotees, using her sharp mind and relentless drive to hunt a predator whose crimes ripple through Denver’s mountains like a frozen ghost. In a city gripped by winter’s oppressive silence, where snow muffles footsteps and secrets cling to the cold air, Diane believes she is closing in on the truth. But her relentless pursuit leads to a devastating mistake. She publicly accuses the wrong man, and everything she has built from her credibility, her relationships, and her fragile sense of safety all begins to unravel. Sometimes, in seeking justice, we become the architects of injustice. Closer to home, someone watches patiently and silently, waiting for the moment when the ice finally cracks. Purchase here

< Back Michael Bickel 250,000 NOs From rejection to riches, a memoir by the President / CEO of TableMation Studios, Michael Bickel. 250,000 No’s is a memoir by Michael Bickel, which chronicles his journey from childhood through to adulthood. Bickel describes how he managed to overcome trauma and rejection to establish two successful, digital, companies. Bickel experienced significant loss as a child, when his father died when he was just ten years old. His mother was absent from much of his youth, as she took over the family business and later re-married. Bickel discusses his personal relationships, the highs and the lows, and how he had to cope with two surprise pregnancies. He discusses with openness and honesty the break-up of his first marriage, which left him heartbroken and nearly bankrupt. He later found companionship and happiness with his second wife, Jeanelle. He documents his education and career, dropping out of college and then reluctantly working for his stepfather in a furniture store for fourteen years. He spent twenty-three years as a sales rep for the Yellow Pages, becoming a top seller and receiving numerous awards. In his fifties, Bickel established TableMation Studios – an ambitious, animated dining experience, and later invested in Proto Hologram, a holographic broadcast and communications company. Bickel describes how he was deceived by his business associates, and nearly lost everything during the Covid19 pandemic. During his life, Bickel estimates he received 250,000 rejections. But, through sheer hard-graft, ‘irrational persistence,’ and the support of a loving family, he found success later in life. Today, TableMation Studios is in cities all over the world and has sold over two million tickets. 250,000 No’s is a poignant and inspirational memoir by an extraordinary businessman who found success later in life despite facing numerous rejections and setbacks. Bickel refused to give up and worked relentlessly to achieve his dreams. The book offers practical insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business leaders. Bickel shares his personal experiences and wisdom, offering readers a roadmap to achieve long term success. Overall, a compelling memoir of resilience, adaptability, and perseverance. A must read for anyone interested in TableMation studios, or those seeking motivation and inspiration in personal or professional pursuits. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A poignant and inspirational memoir by an extraordinary businessman who found success later in life. Purchase here

< Back Jeremy Bazley My China - Living Inside the Dragon A fascinating insight into China and Chinese culture, by author Jeremy Bazley. My China - Living inside the Dragon is a memoir by author Jeremy Bazley about his experiences and observations of living, working and travelling in China between 2002-2017. Bazley went to work in China in 2002, on behalf of a UK based entrepreneur, managing a joint venture with a state-controlled company making high quality cigarette paper for the huge Chinese market. During this fifteen-year period, Bazley visited twenty-four out of thirty-three regions, covering 73 per cent by region in all geographic areas of China. The book provides a unique western perspective on living in China, away from the more ‘isolated chattering classes, intelligencia and professional communities of the larger cities’ . Bazley built a home and life for himself in a country where he initially did not speak the language. He benefited from many privileges that came with his job, but he also made significant personal sacrifices, that impacted his marriage and children. Bazley’s work brought him in contact with all aspects of Chinese life and culture, from Beijing to the modern mega cities and the rural countryside. Bazley describes his early days in the city of Jiaxing, Zhejiang province in eastern China; his experience of China and ways of life, including Chinese drinking culture, food, leisure pursuits, business dealings, politics and education; his personal life, and his travels across the country. Bazley provides a non-judgmental commentary on China’s politics, economic growth and culture during a period of historic growth and evolution. During his time in China, Bazley was presented with various awards of recognition through the all-important ‘Friendship’, from the Jiaxing city and Zhejiang provincial governments in China. This is an enlightening, engaging and entertaining book about an English man’s life, work and travels across China. I particularly enjoyed Bazley’s extracts from detailed personal diary notes , which were heartfelt, funny and fascinating. The book will appeal to readers who are interested in China, and Chinese culture and politics, those who are considering working and living in China, and anyone interested in travel and adventure. China is an amazing country and is now firmly on my bucket list! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An enlightening, engaging and entertaining book about an English man’s life, work and travels across China. Purchase here

< Back Stoni Astley Sanctuary's Lights A powerful and heart-breaking novel about parental neglect and domestic violence, from author Stoni Astley. Eleven-year-old Sydney and her younger siblings, Amanda, and Dylan, move to a new house, a new town, and a new school. Their mother Barbara, alcohol dependent and addicted to prescription drugs, has moved them again, this time to Ontario to escape the prying eyes of the social services and nosey neighbours. The children have spent years in and out of social services care, due to their mother’s substance abuse and violence. As the children try to settle into their new school, the neglect, the abuse, the violence, and the range continues at home. No-one hears their cries. No-one sees their bruises. No-one cares. But when their mother’s violence escalates, Sydney confides in one teacher who shows her kindness and compassion. Just when Sydney gets the support she desperately needs, and starts to believe she will escape with her siblings, her mother loses control and the lives of all three siblings are changed forever. Sanctuary’s Lights is a powerful and heart-breaking novel of three siblings who live in constant fear of their mother. While a work of fiction, the book is inspired by the authors own traumatic childhood experiences. Honestly and sensitively told from the children’s perspective, the novel is a moving tribute to all victims and survivors of childhood neglect and domestic abuse. The book highlights the brutality of a system that repeatedly fails vulnerable children, by failing to act quickly, by separating traumatised siblings, by housing them in unsuitable homes, by repeatedly allowing them to go back to neglectful and abusive parents, and by simply not caring enough. Sadly, the story of Sydney, Amanda, and Dylan, and of the author, Stoni Astley, is not an uncommon one. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘Honestly and sensitively told from the children’s perspective, the novel is a moving tribute to all victims and survivors of childhood neglect and domestic abuse. A BRONZE WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Deb Miller Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness is a memoir by author, mother and business leader, Deb Miller. Deb grew up in a small town in Southern Indiana and attended Purdue University in 1975. Deb knew her path – go to college, get an education, and find a husband during her four year stay. As with many young women in that era, Deb’s happily-ever-after was to become a wife and mom. In her first semester she met her prince charming, Scott Miller, the first love of her life. After college, ‘ScottnDeb’ married and started a family, and later built their dream home in Indianapolis. At a time when gender norms were changing, Deb excelled in the business world, whereas Scott preferred a more domestic life. In the mid-1980’s, Deb hosted a Russian tennis coach named Sergei in her home, and soon developed an interest in Russian enterprise. She began to help Sergei and other Russian entrepreneurs to make business deals in America. When her marriage to Scott ended, she began a relationship with Sergei. Now a successful businesswoman, Deb had to navigate a new career, a turbulent new relationship, and new motherhood. Forget the Fairy Tale and Find Your Happiness by Deb Miller is a modern, feminist memoir, which will inspire and uplift women of all ages to follow their own path. Deb grew up believing that the path to happiness was to find a ‘prince’ and she uses the evolution of the Disney princesses as a metaphor for her own journey: from the passive, helpless, Disney princesses of yesteryear; to the strong, independent, warriors that broke free from traditional roles. Like the modern Disney princesses, Deb discovered that the road to happiness was not paved by men, and carved out her own path. Deb Miller’s writing is crisp and conversational, blending personal anecdotes with insightful commentary on gender roles. It is a powerful and empowering memoir for women of all ages – fans of Disney princesses and readers of feminist literature. It is also a timely reminder that equality for women is still a work in progress, and more needs to be done to challenge gender stereotypes and discrimination. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A modern, feminist memoir, which will inspire and uplift women of all ages to follow their own path. Purchase here

< Back Tanya A. Taibl The Words She Left Behind-How Alzheimer's Changed Our Story The Words She Left Behind is a deeply personal memoir by Tanya A. Taibl, chronicling her family's journey as caretakers for her estranged aunt, Toni, who is diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease. The memoir is structured in a series of thematic chapters, each beginning with a poignant quote or journal entry from Toni. This approach gives readers intimate access to Toni's inner world, her struggles with paranoia, loneliness, and her gradual cognitive decline. The narrative alternates between Tanya's present-day experiences as a caretaker and her discoveries about her aunt's past through journals, letters, and family stories. Taibl's writing is candid and unflinching. She does not shy away from describing her own resentment and hatred toward her aunt, which makes her eventual journey toward forgiveness even more powerful. The prose is accessible, often conversational, and punctuated by moments of raw emotion and dark humor. The memoir vividly illustrates how Alzheimer's affects not just the patient but the entire family. Taibl describes the "slow funeral" of watching a loved one fade away, the emotional toll on caregivers, and the isolation that often accompanies the role. She provides practical insights into the challenges of navigating the healthcare system, memory care placement, and the daily unpredictability of dementia. A significant portion of the memoir is devoted to uncovering Toni's past through her journals and personal effects. These discoveries reveal a woman plagued by undiagnosed depression, failed relationships, and a lifelong struggle for acceptance and love. The author’s process of piecing together her aunt’s life story is both detective work and an act of compassion, leading to a deeper understanding of Toni’s behavior and mental health. One of the memoir’s most compelling arcs is Taibl’s transformation from resentment to empathy. Through caregiving, she learns to see her aunt not just as a source of family pain but as a vulnerable human being shaped by trauma and illness. The memoir’s honesty about the emotional complexities of caregiving is refreshing and relatable. Taibl includes practical advice, "Do's and Don'ts" for interacting with dementia patients, and resources for families, making the book useful as well as moving. This book is especially recommended for caregivers, family members of dementia patients, and anyone interested in memoirs that tackle difficult family dynamics with honesty and grace. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A heartfelt, honest, and ultimately hopeful memoir about the ravages of Alzheimer’s and the redemptive power of understanding and forgiveness. Purchase here

< Back Dan Shapiro Decoding Genius: The Unexpected Lessons of After-School Chess Club Book blurb... What if genius has been hiding in plain sight? Driven by a desire to help his young son and an insatiable curiosity for how things work, Dan Shapiro took a deep dive into the chess world. He learned of magical players able to compete in dozens of games at once, blindfolded. He uncovered stunning tales of prodigies and the strategies that allowed one nation to dominate the game for half a century. In Decoding Genius, Dan unravels these mysteries and much more. Whether you are the parent or grandparent of a chess player, a new player yourself, or simply chasing the secrets of high performers across disciplines, this book demonstrates the power of the chess mind. Dan illustrates why, for centuries, practically every culture in the world has recognized chess for its unique ability to develop intellect, promote creativity, and bring people together. Purchase here