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< Back Michelle Medlock Adams Dachshund Through the Snow Crosby saves Christmas, from author Michelle Medlock Adams Crosby is the world’s teeniest-weeniest Weiner dog. Despite his tiny proportions he has a big ambition – to compete in the Arctic Animal Olympics! He was prepared. He’d done the training. He was ready. But as race day arrived, Crosby started to have second thoughts. The bigger, stronger competitors laughed and taunted Crosby about his size. Poor Crosby, desperate to flee, dug and dug and dug deep into the snow until he stumbled across a cave. Inside the cave, he found Santa and his reindeer in desperate need of help. Rudolph was missing and Santa needed someone to find him. Crosby knew just what to do. Will Crosby find Rudolph? And can the world’s teeniest-weeniest Weiner dog save Christmas? This is a fantastic, festive picture book about a tiny little pup who finds the inner strength to carry on when all hope is lost. You can’t help but to love Crosby, he is the cutest, most adorable pup with miniature proportions and the biggest heart. With strength and determination, he proved to all those who doubted and mocked him, that he can achieve great things. This is a great message to all that your physical size doesn’t matter, it’s the size of your heart that really counts. We look forward to reading more from Michelle Medlock Adams and hope Crosby will feature in his own book series. The illustrations by Ana Sebastian are magical. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A fantastic, festive picture book about a tiny little pup with the biggest heart. A FINALIST and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

Will Fox Canidae save his beloved factory and city from the villainous Doctor Monkeyshine and his criminal gang? < Back Ryan Poirier The Herd Foxy Fruits merges with Bodaceous Herbaceous and develops a new product - a genetically modified juice, crossed between a fruit and a vegetable. But just before the big launch of the new juice sensation, a disgruntled employee Professor Doctor Monkeyshine and his criminal gang (The Pack), alter the genetic code of the juice, and threaten to destroy the company and the city. The CEO of the company, Fox Canidae, must act fast to beat The Pack and to save his family, his company, and the whole of Maple City. The Herd: Volume 1 Omnibus is a unique and creative graphic novel, full of wit and humour. Poirier has created an extraordinary fantasy world like no other. The characters, the plot, the book design, and every minutia of detail has been well thought through and excellently presented. The work and effort gone into the production of this book is remarkable. The digital illustrations are magnificent. The author has a real talent for digital, cartoon illustrations. The book captures every expression, every moment, and every scene beautifully. This book is on the lengthier side for a graphic novel, but I was completely enthralled and found it hard to put down. I can’t wait to read part 2! Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘An imaginative story, with magnificent digital artwork’. A FINALIST and highly recommended. Purchase here

< Back Diane LaDouceur Maggie Alison is excited to go to school. She is looking forward to seeing the school therapy dog, a yellow Labrador retriever named Maggie. Maggie is a retired service dog, and now lives with Alison’s teacher, Miss Thomson. Alison’s friends are sad they won’t get to spend time with Maggie, but Alison persuades Miss Thomson to let them visit her until the bell rings. Miss Thomson tells the girls that Maggie was trained to help a blind person, to guide them from one place to another, and to keep them safe from obstacles and other dangers. Miss Thomson also explains that service dogs are trained to help people with autism, seizures, anxiety, hearing, and many other medical challenges. Soon, Alison will get to spend more time with Maggie, as her family plan to take care of her when Miss Thomson goes on vacation. Maggie is a delightful, illustrated picture book, by author Diane LaDouceur. The book is based on the authors real-life experience of parenting a child with learning challenges, and her work with therapy dogs. Beautifully written by LaDouceur, with charming illustrations by Helle Urban, this book highlights the important role that animals play in supporting children’s health and wellbeing. Teachers and parents can use this story as a gentle introduction to the role of therapy dogs, and as a conversation starter about emotional well-being. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A beautifully written and illustrated book, which shows the special bond between children and dogs, and how dogs can support people and improve health and well-being. Purchase here

< Back Lem Moye Catching Cold Vol 2 - Redemption Can a small scientific company survive a hostile take-over from a giant pharma company? A small scientific company, CiliCold, has developed the ‘ immunology breakthrough of the century ’ , a partial antibody that can defeat many of the viruses that cause the common cold. A big-pharma company, Tripel S Pharmaceuticals, is desperate for their intellectual property and will stop at nothing to take over the company. But Tripel S has a sinister motive for acquiring CiliCold. They want to prevent the product reaching the open market, to protect their own work. A cure for the common cold would affect multi-million-dollar sales of their over-the-counter cold remedies and treatments. The CEO of CiliCold decides to relocate the team over 3,000 miles away to a secret research laboratory, to escape the clutches of Triple S. Meanwhile, the V ice P resident L egal of Triple S is forced to resign following an incident where she witnessed a colleague take her own life. She has no option but to defect to CiliCold. Triple S develop a new medicine that is successful in preventing autism, but they soon discover the medicine has catastrophic side effects. Board members disagree on how to manage the situation. Several board members want to continue with its development, arguing they would be withholding a new critical therapy from children who are going to be very sick. The CiliCold team, on the other hand, is on the verge of a breakthrough, and are in desperate need of financial assistance. Just when CiliCold receive the investment they require, they soon discover they have been duped by their biggest rival. Catching Cold Vol 2 – Redemption, by author Lem Moyé, is a tense and gritty pharmaceutical drama, about a disreputable big-pharma company that tries to take over a small scientific company, by any means possible. This is a well written, thoroughly researched and believable story about money and power, versus ethics and morality. The author clearly has excellent knowledge about science and medical research. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and I look forward to reading more from Lem Moyé. This is the second instalment in a three-part series. I had not read the first book in the series, and while there were a few moments where I struggled to understand the back-story, the story was easy to follow. I would recommend readers begin with the first book in the series, to get the full enjoyment of this trilogy. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary: A tense and gritty pharmaceutical drama about money and power, versus ethics and morality. 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 Kyle Palmer The Last Rival: A Time of Our Choosing Late 1946, shortly after the end of World War II, and the Soviets continue to threaten peace in Europe. The Soviets have successfully developed a fusion bomb, and a group of men are summoned to Washington DC for a secret meeting with President Truman. Truman sets out his ‘Marshall Plan’, a grand scheme to resurrect Europe and position the United States of America as the leading world power. The plan brings together the great and the good of warfare, science, technology and business to construct and manage a new independent, intelligence agency, and build a fusion bomb. The new agency will be a rival of the Central Intelligence Agency, but entirely devoid of governmental influence or awareness. But when the men learn that Adolf Hitler did not die at the end of the War, their mission becomes even more critical. They discover that Hitler and other Nazi leaders fled to Argentina under the cover and protection of President Juan Peron. The men face an arduous journey by land and sea, to track down and eliminate the world’s most dangerous predator. The Last Rival: A Time of Our Choosing is an alternate history novel, set shortly after the end of World War II, by author Kyle Palmer. This is a chilling story, which imagines a world with a different outcome at the end of the War. The book poses a number of thought-provoking, but terrifying questions. What might have happened if Hitler survived World War II? What would you say if you came face to face with the Fuhrer? Palmer masterfully blends history, politics and detective fiction into a disturbing, but believable story. At over 500 pages this is a long novel, but very easy to read. A must read for fans of alternate history, political thrillers and detective fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A well-researched and believable alternate history, with a compelling mix of mystery, suspense and espionage. Purchase here

< Back Russell Camp Seeking The Healer Book blurb... How far will a father go to see his son healed? This thing that would come and attack his son. Without warning. Without remorse. Without a cure. Yosef’s heart broke more with each one, his hope fading as he watched this thing slowly destroy his son, along with everything he loved. But just as the darkness seemed to envelop him, Yosef heard a whisper on the fluttering wings of a dove. There was one who might be able to help. A healer existed somewhere, out there. Yosef had only to find him. SEEKING THE HEALER is the gripping story of a father’s love, a son’s courage, and a family on the brink. Pursued by an enemy who is as relentless as he is corrupt, Yosef and his son, Gabriel, must flee their home and follow an unsure path, hoping it will lead them to a mysterious healer, of whom they have only heard rumors. Along the way, they meet others who will point them towards the end of their journey, but will they find this healer before their enemy finds them? 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 Katherine Lockwood Why Me Mama A Childrens Book About The Disability Experience A little owl has a big worry. It’s Rose’s birthday and she is planning a party, but she is not looking forward to the celebrations. She is afraid her friends will not want to come to the party because she is different. Her mom explains that she felt different from her friends too, but people couldn’t see her difference. Some differences can be seen, but others cannot. So, Rose decides she wants to invite everyone, and as she hands out her invitations, she learns that many of her friends have differences too. Some of the differences are visible, but some of them are not visible. As Rose prepares for her birthday party, she learns that sometimes her friends have to find new ways of doing things, but it does not stop them from joining in and taking part. Rose also learns that some of her friends cannot attend her party because it is just too difficult for them, but she makes sure they still feel involved by sharing her birthday cake with them. The day of the party arrives, and Rose is looking forward to the celebrations. Rose understands that many of her friends have differences, and their differences make them who they are. She soon realises they are all wonderful and unique, and so is she. Why Me, Mama? A Childrens Book About The Disability Experience by author Katherine Lockwood is a beautifully written and illustrated picture book, about Rose who is worried about being different but learns to accept and love her differences. This is a powerful and inspiring story about a little girl, told through the eyes of an adorable owl. Featuring a variety of charming woodland creatures with human characteristics, young children will be able to connect with their emotions and experiences. The book will help young children learn the importance of equality, diversity, and inclusion, of accepting people the way they are, and of celebrating their individual differences. An excellent choice for parents and educators to explore themes of self-acceptance and friendship with young readers. The enchanting illustrations by Evgeniya Erokhina, complement the story perfectly, capturing the owl’s changing emotions and the delightful woodland setting. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautifully written and illustrated picture book, which explores themes of self-acceptance and friendship. Purchase here

< Back Andy Lipman The CF Warrior Project, Volume 2: Celebrating Our Cystic Fibrosis Community A deeply moving collection of stories about cystic fibrosis (CF), from author Andy Lipman Author Andy Lipman writes the second volume of The CF Warrior Project: Celebrating Our Cystic Fibrosis Community. The first chapter presents the profiles of many trailblazers who saved lives through a lifetime of dedication to CF, including Doris Tulcin who created the CF Foundation. Chapter two shares the stories of those living with CF, such as six year old Liam Wilson, already an advocate for CF awareness and fundraiser. In the third chapter, we hear from several people who were diagnosed later in life, including Terry Wright an African American man who was not diagnosed until aged fifty-four, after years of pain and suffering, due to biases and stereotypes in diagnosis. Chapter four tells the stories of moms who have raised children with CF, including Margarete Cassalina and Laura Bonnell, both mothers of two CF warriors. Chapter five explores the impact of CF on the entire family, and presents stories from the parents, children, siblings and spouses of those living with CF. In Chapter six, we hear from those who have survived double-lung transplants, and in chapter seven, we hear from those who run to stay healthy and active, inspire others, and raise money for CF. Chapters eight and nine present the stories of famous people who are advocates for CF, and TV celebrities living with CF. Chapter ten discusses the benefits of exercise for CF, through various sports such as softball, tandem-surfing, bodybuilding, yoga, swimming, climbing, adventure sports, and martial arts. The eleventh chapter explores the unique ways people have made a difference, through fundraising, advocacy, research, science and politics. The final chapter is a beautiful and loving tribute to the author’s mother, and CF advocate, Eva Lipman. The CF Warrior Project, Volume 2: Celebrating Our Cystic Fibrosis Community , is a collection of thoughtful and inspiring stories by author Andy Lipman. This book is the second installment in the CF Warrior Project, and explores the impact of CF on those living with disease, their loved ones and their physicians, and many others who have dedicated their lives to raising awareness of CF. Told through a series of personal stories, this is a deeply moving and insightful collection, from a wide and diverse range of people impacted by CF. Each story is unique. Each story is powerful. Each story is inspirational. Each story will give hope to anyone living with, or impacted, by CF. This is a beautifully curated and written collection, and the author has done an excellent job at bringing the stories to life. Thank you to Andy Lipman for collating these stories, and to all the individual contributors who shared their personal stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A collection of thoughtful and inspiring personal stories about cystic fibrosis, and the impact on those living with the disease, their loved ones and their physicians. Purchase here

< Back Dr Haseena Chokkiyil The Kintsugi Moms: Transformative Insights from a Healers Diary A collection of stories of single mothers and their path to holistic healing. The Kintsugi Moms: Transformative Insights from a Healers Diary is a memoir / self-help book by Dr Haseena Chokkiyil about the many challenges single mothers face as they raise their children alone. Chokkiyil uses the term ‘Kintsugi’ as a metaphor to describe women’s experiences of trauma and healing. ‘Kintsugi’ is an ancient Japanese art that involves mending and fixing broken pieces of pottery with gold and lacquer, thus accentuating its cracks rather than hiding them. She explains how all single mothers have gone through a broken phase, but all can be remoulded and can go on to live a happy and fulfilled life. Chokkiyil describes how she was able to mend the broken cracks in her own life, and how she was fortunate to have the opportunity to mend the broken cracks in other women’s life, as a holistic healer. In each chapter Chokkiyil shares the story of one woman, her life and the circumstances which led her to seek healing from Chokkiyil. Chokkiyil discusses the homeopathic remedies and strategies that she used to support each woman. She draws on her own personal challenges, and her twenty-seven years of experience as a holistic healer. She offers hints, tips, and tools to help other women who may be going through a similar experience. Examples include gratitude journalling, visualisation techniques, exercise and nutrition, breathwork and meditation. The Kintsugi Moms: Transformative Insights is a collection of stories of single mothers, by Dr Haseena Chokkiyil. This is a powerful and heartfelt book about the experience of being a single mom in a patriarchal society, and the impact of marriage, divorce, separation on women and children. It describes the challenges faced by single mothers and the shame and stigma that still exists in society today. The book deals sensitively with issues of physical violence, control, manipulation, sexual assault, and mental health. This book will provide inspiration, courage and hope to women who have been through divorce, separation, and who are raising their children alone. The book demonstrates the benefits of holistic healing methods, and will help readers to overcome their own challenges, including seeking expert help when needed. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An honest and authentic collection of stories and a source of inspiration for single mothers everywhere. Purchase here

< Back Kim C. Lee and Dr. Troy E. Boddy A Proud History for Alex Alex celebrates Black history and culture on a special field trip. Ms. Robinson is planning a field trip to the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery. The students are excited, but one student named Alex is apprehensive. He has learnt about slavery, and doesn’t want the trip to make him sad or angry. Alex’s mom reassures him, and his dad agrees to accompany him on the trip. During the trip, Alex and the other students learn that Black history did not start with slavery, but that slavery interrupted Black history. They learn about the continent of Africa and how enslaved Black people built the foundations of the United States of America. They learn about Black culture; influential Black people such as Martin Luther King Jnr; how Africans created science, mathematics, religion, medicine, and education; the Civil Rights Movement; and notable achievements of Black people. While Alex and some other students are distressed when they hear about racism and discrimination against Black people, Alex is proud when he learns that his own family are part of the history of Sandy Spring. A Proud History for Alex is an inspiring and thought-provoking picture book for newly independent readers by authors Kim C. Lee and Dr. Troy E. Boddy. The book follows the journey of Alex and a group of young students as they visit the Sandy Spring Slave Museum and African Art Gallery on a school field trip, and learn more about Black history. The book captures Alex’s emotions; his initial apprehension about the trip, and feelings of pride when he learns how enslaved African people built America, and how Black culture has shaped society. The book provides an engaging summary of Black history, accessible for young readers. The authors emphasise the contributions and achievements of African Americans, highlighting their significant role in shaping the nation. The book also addresses the struggles faced by American Americans, in an age-appropriate way. I particularly enjoyed the mixed method artwork, which creates a powerful visual narrative and complements the text beautifully. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : An inspiring and thought-provoking picture book for younger readers, celebrating Black history and Black culture in the United States. Purchase here