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< Back Melanie Joy Mezzancello Love Snaggs - A Little Dog’s Courageous Journey An epic story of one little pups’ adventure on earth and in the afterlife, by author Melanie Joy Mezzancello A little Yorkie pup doesn’t have the best start in life. Born in a puppy mill, he spends his early days locked in a small cage with other frightened pups, before being sold to a pet store in Winter Park, Florida. But his future turns brighter when he is adopted by a young couple and taken to a new comfortable, and loving home. The couple name the pup Snaggs, and he is soon joined by his brother, Linus, a Silver Phantom Cockapoo, and sister, Sasha, a tiny caramel-white Maltese Poodle mix. Snaggs lives a full and happy life with his mommy, daddy, brother and sister, but as he grows older, he suffers from a number of health conditions and becomes very sick. Snaggs’ brief time on earth comes to an end, but his journey is not yet over. When he wakes, he has passed over the Rainbow Bridge into Summerland, a heavenly place where animals go when their time on earth is over. But Snaggs misses home and worries about the family he left behind, so he sets off on an epic journey up the Spire Mountain to find a ram named Shaman, who he believes will help him find his way back to earth. Will Snaggs find his way home? And will he ever see his beloved family again? Love Snaggs - A Little Dog’s Courageous Journey is a sweet and imaginative canine adventure story for younger independent readers, with a unique and unexpected twist. This is not a typical abandoned/neglected/lost pup story, it is an epic story of one little pups’ adventure on earth and in the afterlife. The little pup shows strength, courage, and determination to follow his dream and reunite with his family. He meets lots of wonderful and fascinating characters throughout this journey, and faces many dangers along the way. Snaggs is an adorable character, and this book will appeal to dog lovers of all ages, and readers interested in fantasy and adventure stories. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A sweet and imaginative canine adventure story with an adorable main character with a unique and unexpected twist. Purchase here

< Back Jeremiah Gilbert On to Plan C A Return to Travel Jeremiah Gilbert’s experience of international travel, following the Covid19 pandemic. On to Plan C: A Return to Travel by author Jeremiah Gilbert is a travel memoir / travel guidebook about the authors return to international travel after more than two years of cancellations, following the Covid19 pandemic. Gilbert, a Californian travel writer and photographer, describes his experience of travelling to Fiji, Europe, and the West Indies. In May 2022, Gilbert travelled to Fiji and describes a visit to the oldest settlement in Fiji , a nd the largest Hindu temple in the Southern Hemisphere . He discusses a near death experience whilst climbing sand dunes in Sigatoka. During a trip to London in July 2022, he has afternoon tea on a Jubilee themed bus and visits Greenwich and Tower Bridge. From London, he travels to Bergen, the street art capital of Norway; Copenhagen, the capital and cultural centre of Denmark; and Berlin, where he visits the Holocaust Memorial, Brandenburg Gate and Checkpoint Charlie. In November 2022, Gilbert takes a Christmas river cruise, travelling on the Rhine from Amsterdam to Basel, visiting Dordrecht, Düsseldorf, Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Mannheim, Strasbourg, Freiburg, and the Ravenna Gorge enroute. In December 2023, Gilbert takes a three-week Caribbean cruise, visiting St. Barts, Antigua, Martinique, St. Vincent, Trinidad, Guadeloupe, St. Kitts, Grenada, Bonaire, Aruba, Jamaica, and the Bahamas. On to Plan C: A Return to Travel is an insightful and captivating blend of travel memoir and travel guide, with a stunning collection of photographs. While Gilbert shares his experience of each destination, the main sights, activities, and cultural experiences, he also discusses his travel experience, and how he navigated the airlines and train services in a post-Covid world. Through vivid storytelling and lots of humor, Gilbert takes the reader on a journey across continents, weaving his own personal experiences with practical travel tips. The memoir aspect provides an intimate touch, allowing readers to connect with Gilbert’s experience and adventures, while the guide provides valuable insights for anyone looking to embark on a similar journey. Whether you are a virtual traveller, or are planning your own adventure, this book offers a delightful mix of inspiration and advice. What sets this book apart is Gilbert’s breathtaking photography. Each image transports the reader to the heart of the destination, capturing the landscapes, culture, and people, beautifully. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An insightful and captivating blend of travel memoir and travel guide, with a stunning collection of photographs. Purchase here

< Back L.A.D. Publishing Space Monkey: Mars Mission Report A mischievous monkey is on a mission to Mars, by LAD publishing! Space Monkey: Mars Mission Report is a cute picture book for young readers, about the planetary system and space exploration. A little monkey is on a big, intergalactic mission to share his stories of his travels through space. His first stop is one of Earth’s closest neighbours, the magnificent red planet, Mars. But, do you know why it is called the red planet? Do you know Mars has a mountain three times bigger than Mount Everest? And do you know Mars has two moons? The book provides an incredible insight into the wonders of Mars, which will spark young people’s curiosity, and encourage them to learn more about science, engineering and technology. This is a wonderful picture book, which is insightful and inspiring, entertaining and educational, funny and factual. With an adorable monkey character, amazing illustrations and interesting factoids, this book will appeal to budding astronomers, and young readers interested in the solar system and space exploration. The digital illustrations by Lana Vivchar are bright, colourful, and funny. I particularly liked the cute little additions, (Paddington Bear, the baby bottle, and flying cookies) which will keep readers entertained for hours. I look forward to learning about Jupiter next, and more space adventures from the mischievous monkey. Written by three inspirational young men, this book will inspire readers of all ages. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspiring book about space travel, by three inspiring young men. Purchase here

< Back Cynthia Hughes Can I Be President of the United States at 8? Author Cynthia Hughes encourages young people to follow their dreams. Can I Be President of the United States at 8? By author Cynthia Hughes is a small book with a very big message. The children ask their teacher a big question – Can I be President, or even Vice-President, at the age of eight? The teacher explains that it is a very long journey to become the President or Vice President of the United States, but if one imagines it, works hard at school and college, demonstrates good values, and follows their dreams, one might very well become the President by the age of forty-eight. With positive, diverse images of young people, the book will inspire young people to follow their dreams. It will provide hope and encouragement that anyone can be successful in life, if they believe in themselves and work hard: ‘If you can see it, you can be it!” With positive affirmations throughout the book, the book will help young people develop confidence and self-belief, and could inspire young people to get involved in politics. Maybe in a few years, we might hear of a politician who was inspired to enter politics or the presidential race after reading this book! The digital illustrations by Debra Gordon, are bright and engaging for younger readers, and include a diverse representation of young people, which readers will relate to. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An inspirational book for young people, which will help them develop confidence and self-belief, and encourage them to follow their dreams. Purchase here

< Back Daniel Collins The Little Candle Book blurb... This children's picture book follows a short candlestick's journey to self-acceptance. The story begins in a candle shop, where the short candle is bought by a man as a holiday gift for his youngest daughter Tonya. Tonya treasures it as her own holiday candle, carrying it with her as a valued possession during the Christmas Holiday. The short candle eventually realizes that his size doesn't matter when it comes to making someone happy. He soon learned that he was a century candle, and that he was made to burn for a hundred years or more. So joyful was he to learn this that he would have jumped for joy had he been gifted with any legs. Through the example of a candle, The Little Candle shows readers why comparing oneself to others isn't worthwhile. Everyone has their own special gifts and talents and it is recognized by others, although it may not be apparent at the moment. Purchase here

< Back David Zelman PhD What's Next? Get Clear & Get Going The opportunity to create your life awaits you. What's Next? Get Clear and Get Going, is a self-help book from author and CEO of Transitions Institute Inc, David Zelman, PhD. Based on forty years of experience teaching , training, coaching, and mentoring thousands of people, Zelman presents the Transitions Program, a unique approach to help people resolve their own problems and achieve their goals. Zelman argues that his program is different from traditional self-help programs because it encourages people to take ownership of their past and the present, to develop an enlightened relationship with their future. He argues that the key to success lies within us, we just have to learn how to unlock it. The program focuses attention on achieving both tangible (ie the things you want to achieve, such as getting a new job, or moving home) and intangible positive outcomes (ie your experiences and emotional responses to the things you are and are not accomplishing). Central to the program is the theory that people cannot focus on two distinctly different thoughts at the same time (ie positive and negative thoughts). As such, by focusing on positive thoughts, the process helps to free people from the distracting and negative thoughts that might hinder their progress. What's Next? Get Clear and Get Going by David Zelman, PhD is a powerful and inspirational self-help book that takes readers on a journey towards self-awareness, self-improvement, and self-discovery. The book explores the power of the mind, encouraging readers to cultivate a positive, future focused outlook. Zelman draws on his own personal journey towards self-improvement, including learnings from Transcendental Meditation and Erhard Training. He presents real life stories from a number of clients he has helped throughout his career, and the tools and techniques he used to help them discover their full potential. T hrough following Zelman’s guidance, readers will discover their innate ability to create the life they want to live. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A powerful and inspirational self-help book that empowers readers to take control of their lives and shape their own futures. Purchase here

< Back Jennifer Welborn Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals Dr. Rosie finds alternative treatments for her animal friends. Rosie loves to help animals, just like her mom. She asks lots of questions as her mom treats and cares for the animals in her veterinary practice. She watches her mom treat a puppy with a cut on his ear, and then Rosie decides to go out and help real live animals. She uses her new skills to treat a rabbit with a poorly ear, a pig with a swollen tummy, a giraffe with a sore throat, an elephant with a stuffy nose, an ostrich with an injured knee, a crocodile with a painful tooth, an octopus with a bump on his head, a beluga whale with a nasty rash, a polar bear with a fever, and an owl with an allergy. Rosie uses natural remedies, including gel from the aloe plant, honey, salt water, a cold compress, and rest and water. But most importantly, she offers lots of kisses and cuddles! Dr. Rosie Helps the Animals by author Jennifer Welborn is a children’s picture book about a little girl who loves animals and wants to help care for them and make them better. This is a cute, engaging and funny picture book that will appeal to younger readers who love animals and nature. The book explores a range of animal symptoms, diagnoses, and natural treatments, informed by real-life veterinarians and scientists. The book will help children learn about different animals, their symptoms and natural remedy treatments. It will encourage children to show empathy towards animals and could inspire them to get involved in animal health and welfare, for example as a veterinary surgeon, nurse, or volunteer. I particularly like that the book focuses on natural remedies and could help to support further discussions about alternative treatments, for both humans and animals. I enjoyed the colourful illustrations by Rozillia MH and the diversity of the characters represented. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A cute, engaging and funny picture book for younger readers who love animals and nature. Purchase here

< Back Ken Waldecker Princess Ella and the Missing Kittens Princess Ella enjoys playing with her cat in her big castle. One day, she goes into town to visit the kittens in the pet store. But, when she arrives at the pet store, she learns that the kittens are missing. Someone, or something, has crashed into the pet store and stolen the kittens. Princess Ella joins the search and starts to look for clues. She follows some large footprints through the forest, up into the mountains, to a scary cave. Inside the cave, she finds a huge, scary and very smelly troll. Ella is scared, but is determined to find the kittens. With strength and courage, Princess Ella approaches the troll. Did the troll take the kittens? Will Princess Ella ever see the kittens again? Princess Ella and the Missing Kittens is an illustrated picture book, by author Ken Waldecker. Part of the ‘Princess Ella’ series, the book follows the adventures of a young princess. In this book Princess Ella turns detective, as she goes in search of missing kittens. With lots of humor, and an unexpected twist, this book will delight and entertain young readers. Many young readers enjoy scary characters, and they will love this green troll. The book will help children learn that appearances can be deceiving, and will encourage them to show kindness towards others and look for the good qualities in people (and trolls!). Star rating: 5 Stars Summary : A fun and delightful story about a sweet princess, and a not so sweet troll. Purchase here

< Back M. E. Torrey Fox Creek Book blurb... The beloved, biracial daughter of a Louisiana planter is sold into slavery and must somehow survive while caught between the world of the white elite and the brutality of slavery. Purchase here

< Back Julie Stephens Mountain Mutts - Joy's Tale A wonderful tale of friendship, by author Julie Stephens This is a story about two dogs, named Winter and Spring. The two best friends were inseparable, wherever Winter went, Spring would follow. Winter and Spring loved to play and explore together, until the day Winter sadly passed away, leaving Spring sad, alone and confused. Then one day, a new puppy named Joy arrived in the household. Joy wants lots of attention, but Spring is not interested in the energetic newcomer. She misses her dear friend, Winter. Joy plays and sleeps alone, and waits patiently until Spring is ready to be her friend. Eventually Spring takes notice, and the pair become good friends. Spring teaches the young pup how to climb down the steps, how to cross the river, and how to fetch a stick. Now, Spring and Joy are inseparable, but Winter will never be forgotten. Mountain Mutts - Joy's Tale by author Julie Stephens is a wonderful picture book for young children, about the friendship and love that exists between dogs. Spring is despondent when her play mate and best friend Winter passes away. She is no longer interested in having fun or making new friends, but all that changes when she meets a lively little pup, named Joy. Joy helps Spring overcome her grief and shows her that there is still lots to live for. This is a poignant story about love and loss, beautifully told through the eyes of adorable dogs. The story deals with complex issues, such as depression and grief, in a way that younger children will understand and can relate to. The book will appeal to readers who love dogs, and may help those who have experienced the loss of a loved one. The book features beautiful photographs of three wonderful dogs, Winter, Spring and Joy . Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A poignant picture book for younger readers about love and loss, beautifully told through the eyes of adorable dogs. Purchase here

< Back Alison Jean Lester The Sound of It Two families come together to build their dream home. Just four months into a relationship, serial entrepreneur Jeremy Markwick-Low and sound engineer, Su Watkins, decide to sell their houses and move in together. Su, a divorcee has one teenage daughter, Caoimhe. Caoimhe uses Autonomous Sensory Meridian Response (ASMR) videos to help her relax. Jeremy is a widow and has two sons, Ned and Tom. The two families move into a large rental property, while their dream house on farmland outside the city of Worcester is being built. The new house is a beautiful, modern, energy-efficient home, large enough for their blended family. It’s a fresh start for both families, as Su seeks stability and security following her divorce, and Jeremy sees an opportunity to impress his father. The family move into their lavish new home, and as the children adapt to their new family life, Jeremy proposes to Su. Meanwhile, Jeremy’s father buys Tom a gun for hunting. But as costs of the house build spiral out of control, Jeremy gets further and further into debt, and considers alternative ways to make some quick cash. With just under a week to their wedding, Su checks Jeremy’s laptop to get an update on the family finances and makes a surprising discovery. Su makes the difficult decision to leave the house and takes Caoimhe with her. But as she has no legal responsibility for Ned and Tom, she makes the heart-breaking decision to leave them behind. Will Su ever see the boys she loves so dearly again? Can Su ever forgive her fiancé? And what will happen to the beautiful dream home they built together? The Sound of It by author Alison Jean Lester is a compelling, modern-day family saga, which examines the unique challenges and complexities faced by blended families. This is a heartrending, and at times disturbing novel, told by Alison Jean Lester with authenticity and compassion. Many readers will relate to the families experiences and will empathise with Su as she discovers the truth about her fiancé. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A compelling and heartrending family saga, about the complexities of modern families, told with authenticity and compassion. Purchase here

< Back Mary Myers Pocket Watch Portal Adventure Book blurb... Introducing Pocket Watch Portal Adventures - a thrilling, heart-warming tale that will captivate your imagination and inspire your heart. The Story of siblings Justice, Teddy, Ellie, baby Artie, and their fearless Uncle Jeff, an ancient pocket watch becomes their ticket to the extraordinary. From prehistoric jungles teeming with dinosaurs to futuristic cities of flying cars and holographic zoos, every twist in time is brimming with wonder and danger. But when a shocking mishap strands them in the year 2525, they find themselves in a world without trees, familiar food, or faith. As they fight to survive, they discover that courage, love, and belief are the greatest tools they have. Meanwhile, their heroic father, Christopher, embarks on a daring mission across time itself to bring his family home - proving that love knows no bounds. Purchase here