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< Back Laurie Anne Zaleski Travels with Ariel - What's up in Baker Lake? Can a young scientist rescue injured caribou and repair a twenty-year-old borehole? Eleven-year-old Ariel is passionate about the earth, rocks, and science. After winning first place in an International Science Fair at school, she is selected for a HER ( Headquarters of Environmental Resolution) mentorship program . As part of the program, she has the opportunity to work alongside real scientists and be part of a real-life scientific investigation. She is given an assignment in Baker Lake, Canada, and travels with her mom and beloved dog, Champ, to a site on the very edge of the Arctic Circle. She meets her mentor, a world-renowned geomorphologist Dr Bryce, and learns that several caribou have been injured near a damaged borehole on the Arctic Tundra. Her mission is to work with the scientists to investigate, repair, and recalibrate the old borehole and safeguard the migrating caribou. Ariel and the team trek to the site and find an injured caribou and her young calf. They secure the site and take the injured caribou back to the town for treatment. As the caribou are treated, the scientists attempt to repair the borehole, so it can continue to capture important data about the terrain. Will the caribou recover from their injuries? Can they be released back into the wild to continue their journey? And will the team be able to repair the twenty-year-old borehole to secure the site for future generations? Travels with Ariel - What's up in Baker Lake? by author Laurie Anne Zaleski is a chapter book for newly independent readers about a young girl who goes on a scientific adventure of a lifetime to the Arctic Tundra. Ariel is a charming, likeable, and fun character, with a love for geology and conservation, and a passion for adventure. Her journey is inspiring, as she wins a contest and fulfils her dream to be involved in a real-life scientific investigation. The book is full of interesting facts and figures about the earth, geology, and science in general, and will encourage young readers to explore more about these fascinating subjects. I hope this book will inspire a love of STEM, and the next generation of geologists and scientists. Fascinating, insightful, and inspiring. Who said rocks were boring? Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A wonderful, inspiring story about a young geologist who goes on an amazing adventure to the Arctic Tundra, Purchase here

< Back Donna Wyland 'Twas the Night Before Jesus A rhyming celebration of the true essence of Christmas. ‘Twas the night before Jesus and all through the land, lived people not knowing that God would be man. 'Twas the Night Before Jesus is a skilfully crafted rhyming picture book, based on the famous festive poem by Clement Clarke Moore. Wyland refreshes the classic Christmas verse, to tell the story of the birth, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The book provides a great introduction to the life of Jesus Christ and is accessible for readers of all ages. It begins prior to Christ’s birth and follows his journey from Bethlehem, to Egypt and Nazareth. It ends with a modern-day scene of a family sitting by the fire and sharing a book on Christmas Eve. “Happy Birthday to Jesus!’ and to all a good night.” Written in rhyme, with delightful and funny illustrations by Courtney Smith, this book will captivate both children and adults. I particularly enjoyed the charming, cartoon-like illustrations, and the characterisation of the animals and the baby Jesus. Inspired by the classic Clement Clarke Moore poem, Twas the night before Christmas, the book pays homage to the timeless original while reminding readers of the true meaning of Christmas. The book follows a similar rhythm and meter to the original poem, and readers will enjoy reading / singing this aloud. It has a comforting familiarity, while offering a biblical perspective on the original poem. Overall, the book beautifully captures the magic and wonder of the festive season, while reminding readers of the true meaning of Christmas. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A perfect bedtime story to share with younger readers on Christmas Eve. Purchase here

< Back Viola B. Mecke, Ph.D., ABPP Aging Wisely: Life from Fifty to Seventy-Five Years Wise words for aging wisely, by author Viola B. Mecke Aging Wisely: Life from Fifty to Seventy-Five Years is a book targeted at older adults, about the authors’ own experience of growing older and as a practicing clinical psychologist. The book is divided into two parts, with thirteen chapters. The first part of the book discusses life and aging, and the passage of time from the ages of fifty to sixty-five and the beginning period of the loss of youthfulness, right through to the ages of eighty-five plus, and the ‘final curtain call’. The second part of the book discusses how to age wisely through physical activity and exercise, a positive mindset, gratitude and resilience, stress management, good self-esteem and positive relationships with others. The author explores issues of love and loss, change and uncertainty. Eighty-five-year-old author, Mecke, draws on her own personal feelings and experiences of ageing, and her professional experience as a clinical psychologist to help people age wisely and deal with the many stressors that aging brings. She discusses many of the myths associated with ageing and demonstrates the strengths of older senior citizens. The book will help readers to understand their own strengths to live a more fulfilled life in later years. Aging Wisely: Life from Fifty to Seventy-Five Years is a valuable resource for those who are in the later years of life, or those approaching older age. It will also be beneficial for others who might be supporting or caring for a parent, friend or family member in older age. This is a deeply personal book by author Mecke, who lays bare her personal experience of ageing. Older adults are often overlooked in society, and it was great to hear first-hand about Mecke’s life and personal journey. As a reader in the intended target age range, I found this book incredibly insightful and impactful. With plenty of practical advice and guidance, the book will help others to maintain a high quality of life in older age. I would highly recommend this book to anyone impacted by aging (all of us at some point!). Beautifully written, and easy to read, this book was a pleasure to read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A valuable resource for those who are in the later years of life, or those approaching older age, and their caregivers. Purchase here

< Back Alison McBain The New Empire A young prince fights for survival when he is sold into slavery and shipped across the Pacific Ocean, by author Alison McBain The New Empire tells the story of Jiangxi, the son of a Chinese emperor who is sold into slavery by his older brother, following his fathers’ death. Jiangxi is shipped across the Pacific Ocean to the west coast of North America, where he is bought by Onas, an elder and spiritual leader of the Haudenosaunee and Mutsun Native American tribes. Jiangxi becomes Onas’s personal, household slave, and unlike other slaves, Jiangxi has some, albeit limited, freedoms. He is able to spend time exploring his environment, where he meets other enslaved Chinese people, working in the corn fields. One day, he meets a young, enslaved girl and helps her escape, by sailing her up the river in a boat he found and repaired. Onas suspects Jiangxi’s involvement in the girl’s disappearance, and expels him from the house. Jiangxi is forced to work in the fields and live in the squalid and cramped longhouses. After twelve months, Jiangxi returns to Onas’s home, where he promises to obey his owner, but secretly hatches a plan to free other Chinese slaves. Over the next few years, Jiangxi slowly rebuilds Onas’s trust, and Onas repays him by giving him his freedom and making him his apprentice. But Jiangxi is conflicted, and torn between his loyalty to the man who liberated him, and the promise he made to his enslaved country people. The New Empire by author Alison McBain is a captivating and mesmerizing alternative history novel, set in the west coast of North America in the eighteenth century. The book provides an interesting perspective on what might have happened, had the Chinese been the first to settle in North America. Told from the perspective of a young boy, born to an Emperor and sold into slavery, as he comes of age and fights for survival in a new world. Despite his own predicament, Jiangxi defies the authorities and risks his freedom, and his own life, to help others. The book shows the horrors and brutality of slavery, so prevalent throughout human history, but also the power of individual acts of resistance and defiance, which can change the world. Thoroughly researched, with a gripping and believable plot, rich characters and excellent world building, this book will appeal to readers who enjoy alternative history novels. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A captivating and mesmerizing alternative history novel, beautifully written by Alison McBain. Highly recommended. Purchase here

Never Believe a Lie Twice < Back Kathleen Troy Never Believe a Lie Twice Thirteen-year old aspiring journalist Sage Christopher wakes up in a Las Vegas jail, after his dead beat father died in car accident. With no one else to take care of him, he spent the night in a cell before being handed over to the Children’s Home Society. The Society locate his estranged, elderly, grandparents in Evansville, Connecticut, and Sage is sent by train to live with them. Sage is given his father’s belongings and discovers old newspaper clippings about the mysterious disappearance of a wealthy newspaper tycoon, Jonathan Evans. A cryptic note with the clippings suggests Evans’ was murdered by someone named “C”. Sage discovers that his father was caught up in an elaborate blackmail attempt to keep the circumstances surrounding Evans’ disappearance secret. Evans’ body was never recovered, and the newspaper offered a $1 million reward to solve the mystery. As Sage settles into a new home and a new school, he secretly plots his escape from his grandparents’ house. But first, he must find “C”, solve Evans’ murder and cash in on the reward. As Sage delves deeper into the case, he uncovers a connection to his own aunt and uncle, who bought the newspaper following Evans’ death. But, as Sage comes close to solving the case and claiming the reward, he grapples with his own moral dilemmas, his loyalty to his new family, and his desire for independence. Never Believe a Lie Twice is a gripping novel for young adults, by author Kathleen Troy. The novel follows the journey of a young boy as he begins a new life in a new town, where family ties and dark secrets collide. The novel is filled with action, suspense, humor, and heartfelt moments as Sage struggles to overcome his traumatic past and accept his new family. A must-read for fans of mystery and adventure, the book sets the stage for an exciting series. Star rating : 5 Stars Summary : A thrilling, fast-paced, whodunit and heartfelt coming-of-age story. Purchase here

Will Harley James solve the clues to find the missing statue, and save the world from ultimate destruction? < Back Leah Cupps Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings Harley Rebecca James, a budding cryptologist, and the daughter of a world-renowned archaeologist, is on an expedition to Tikal Guatemala. Out walking with her dog one day, Harley discovers a Mayan carving and a missing stone from six nooks carved into the wall. When Harley finds the sixth stone, and places it in the wall, part of the wall collapses and she discovers a hidden, glowing, statue. But before Harley can tell her dad about the mysterious artefact, it is stolen from under her bed. Harley soon learns about the legend of the three Mayan Kings, and if her statue meets two other missing statues, it could result in world destruction. Harley must follow the clues to find the statue before it gets into the wrong hands. Little does she know that a criminal gang is also in search of the missing statue, and Harley and her friends must stop them before it’s too late. Harley James and the Mystery of the Mayan Kings is a superb story for young, independent readers. Harley is a strong, confident, female lead, with a quest for knowledge and adventure. The book will appeal to those who like action, adventures, and mystery stories. With lots of interesting facts about Mayan history, readers might be inspired to learn more about this fascinating, ancient civilisation. There are cryptic clues throughout the book, that will also encourage readers to learn more about code breaking and cryptology. The book is complemented by wonderful illustrations, and other resources to access on the authors website. As the first in the series, this book sets the scene for future adventures of Harley James, and we look forward to reading the next instalment. Star Rating: 5 Stars Summary ‘A superb mystery story, with a strong female lead. A BRONZE WINNER and highly recommended.’ Purchase here

< Back Donna Wyland Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts A collection of twelve well-known psalms, written in rhyme for younger readers. Psalms in Rhyme for Little Hearts is an illustrated picture book for younger readers with a beautiful collection of twelve psalms, all written in rhyme, by author Donna Wyland. The book contains a selection of well-known psalms (Psalms 1, 4, 8, 15, 19, 20, 23, 24, 27, 29, 32, and 33), each presented in rhyming verse which beautifully captures the essence of the original text, while being accessible and enjoyable for younger audiences. After each psalm, there is a prayer that younger readers can reflect on and apply to their own life. Expertly crafted by Wyland, the rhymes translate complex topics into simple, joyful, and lyrical rhymes. The rhymes will help younger children understand and remember each psalm. Courtney Smith’s vibrant illustrations bring the psalms to life beautifully, and allow young readers to connect with each message. Wyland’s creative use of rhyme, and Smith’s vivid illustrations, make this book accessible and engaging for young readers. This is a great introduction to the Book of Psalms, and a wonderful resource for any teacher, caregiver, or young student. The book will help engage children in spiritual conversations, and will encourage readers to study the original psalms, which are also included for reference at the end of the book. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: This joyful collection of psalms would make a great addition to any home, school, or church library. Purchase here

< Back Marlayne Jan Giron A Place of Refuge Following a near death experience, Rachel Winston is recuperating at home with her partner Samuel Miller and her teenage daughter, Karen. The couple found each other unexpectedly, after Rachel bought a farm from Samuel and converted it into a traditional Amish style bed and breakfast, the ‘Second Chance Inn’. Samuel, an Amish man, was shunned by his family due to his relationship with Englisch (non-Amish) Rachel. As the couple prepare for the arrival of their first guests, they struggle to keep up with the work required, due to Rachel’s injuries. Meanwhile, Emma Lapp has been disowned by her Amish family, after she left home and spent time in the Englisch community. Destitute and desperate, she finds the ‘Second Chance Inn’ and asks to work at the inn, in return for a place to stay. Rachel and Samuel are in desperate need of help, and agree to let her stay and provide a much needed refuge. News soon spreads of Rachel and Samuel’s kindness and hospitality. Others who have been excommunicated from their Amish families, arrive at the inn, in search of work and a safe place to stay. With the help of their friends, Rachel and Samuel raise funds to develop a refuge. They build a new barn, to provide accommodation, wedding services and religious offerings, to others excommunicated from the Amish community. As the build commences, Samuel proposes to Rachel and the couple prepare for their own wedding in their new barn. But, as the date of the wedding approaches, Samuel is reunited with his Amish family, and questions whether he has made the right decision to marry Rachel. As the couple contemplate their future, Rachel receives devastating news that will change their lives forever. A Place of Refuge is a touching and thought-provoking novel by Marlayne Jan Giron, and the sequel to the first book in the series, Second Chance Inn. The book follows on from where the first book ended, and further develops the relationship between Rachel and Samuel as they build a new home together. Both have experienced tragic loss and face difficult choices in their new relationship, while embarking on a huge building project. This is a beautifully written novel that explores love across different cultures, identity and faith. A perfect read for those who enjoy family sagas, romantic fiction, and who might be interested in Amish culture. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A beautiful and touching exploration of love across different cultures. Purchase here

< Back Ben Askew This Monkey Lost A Banana A little monkey loses her beloved banana and embarks on a mission to find it, searching high and low in the jungle and savannah. Along the way, she encounters various animals and mistakes the horn of a rhino and the tusk of an elephant for her banana. These interactions are not only funny, but they also introduce children to different animals. The illustrations are magnificent and a standout feature of this book. They are colorful, dynamic, and filled with charming details that bring the story to life. The expressions on the characters’ faces, especially the monkey’s, are wonderfully exaggerated, perfectly capturing her frustration and determination. The rhyming text is simple and rhythmic, making it easy for young readers to follow along. The repetition of phrases and the playful tone make the story engaging and fun to read aloud. The book also carries a subtle message about resilience and the importance of not giving up, as the monkey continues her search despite various setbacks. This Monkey Lost a Banana written and illustrated by Ben Askew is a delightful, charming, and funny children’s book that takes readers on a colorful journey through the jungle and savannah. With its vibrant illustrations and playful rhymes, the book captures the imagination of young readers while delivering a simple yet engaging message about perseverance, friendship, and kindness. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A delightful, charming, and funny children’s book about a little monkey and a lost banana. Purchase here

< Back Paula Welch Cloud Piercer A fight for survival on a treacherous mountain, by author Paula Welch When a small explosive device is found on a private jet from Sydney to Christchurch, the passengers, Henry and Gertrude, are diverted to a commercial airline, carrying 500 passengers. Joining them onboard the Airbus is a police officer named Victoria, dispatched by the Australian Federal Police to travel to Christchurch to interview one of the suspects believed to be responsible for planting the bomb. Also on the flight is Wolf, a hit man sent to finish the job he started on the private jet and kill Henry and Gertrude before they reach their destination. Just before the flight is due to land in Christchurch, news arrives of an earthquake nearby and the crew are advised to divert the flight to Auckland. Captain Benjamin turns the plane around but inadvertently flies straight through invisible gas vapours, choking the engines and causing them to shut down. The plane descends through the peaks of Mt Walter, Mt Green, and Mt Darwin and crash lands on a snowy mountain top. Many passengers are dead and seriously injured, but rescue attempts are impeded by ongoing seismic activity, and precarious conditions. As the survivors await the arrival of the mountain rescue teams, Captain Benjamin tries to maintain calm and order on the plane. The crew and passengers work together to move the dead and treat the wounded, but one passenger has other ideas. Wolf sees an opportunity to finish his job, and sets out to eliminate his targets. Cloud Piercer is a fast paced, drama and disaster fiction novel by author Paula Welch. The book brings together an aeroplane disaster, a mountain rescue, and earthquakes, avalanches, and volcanic activity; with several subplots, including a murder mystery; and a romance. Yet, this is a gripping disaster novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. There is a fair bit of death and tragedy, but there are also wonderful uplifting and comedy moments. The characters - each with a unique backstory – are plentiful, diverse, and well developed. The character Pauline, an eccentric, fictional character (and a parody of the author), is a really nice addition. Overall a thoroughly entertaining and enjoyable read. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fast-paced, gripping, drama and disaster novel that doesn’t take itself too seriously. Purchase here

< Back Kurt Bravata Live Free or Diet: A Holistic Guide to Finding Faith, Freedom, and Abundant Life Book blurb... Are you stuck in a cycle of fatigue, stress, or self-doubt? It’s time for a change. Live Free or Diet offers a powerful blend of practical tools and spiritual guidance to help you break free from negative habits and embrace your true potential. This isn’t just another diet book—it’s a holistic guide that empowers you to take control of your mind, body, and spirit. Discover life-changing strategies for overcoming addictions, cultivating a positive mindset, and finding your true purpose. With inspiring verses from Scripture, Dr. Kurt Bravata shows how God equips us to triumph over adversity. This flexible blueprint will help you reclaim your vitality and step into the abundant life you were meant to live. Start your journey today and experience the freedom, faith, and fulfillment you've been longing for! Purchase here

The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed < Back Brianna and Matthew Penfold The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed Three teens discover their hidden powers, and join forces to save their world. Three very different planes, Euporia, Aurelia and Immerxia, co-exist independently in a place that originated from a world called Pax. Euporia is a futuristic world, full of looming skyscrapers, big corporations and advanced technologies. Life for the citizens of Euporia is hard. Those who are lucky, are forced to work long hours in oppressive conditions in big technology companies. Those who are not so lucky, are exiled in the land of the forgotten. On the surface, Aurelia is a much brighter, picturesque place, full of sunlight, green spaces, and mansions on every street. Yet, all the wealth and power of Aurelia is controlled by an elite group of families. These oligarchs pass on their power and privilege from generation to generation. Immerxia on the other hand, is largely governed by social media, where citizens earn a living and their social status by buying, posting, and sharing their lives online. The citizens of Immerxia live so much of their lives in cyber-space, they struggle to understand what is real and what is fake. The citizens of each territory are unaware of their neighbours, and they live in their own isolated world in relative peace. Until one day, life for all is threatened by the return of an old enemy. Three teenagers, fifteen-year-old Dez from Euporia, fourteen-year-old Arabella from Aurelia, and seventeen-year-old Walter from Immerxia are brought together by a powerful force. They meet in Animus, a land where all three planes converge, and discover they have been carefully selected for their unique abilities to restore peace. Dez, has the power to heal people; Walter, has the power to alter and manipulate objects; and Arabella, has the power to see into the future. The teens must learn how to work together and hone their abilities, to defeat the enemy and restore peace to their world. The Intrepid Three: Animus Revealed, is a captivating, fantasy adventure from husband-and-wife duo, and debut authors Brianna and Matthew Penfold. This is a fast-paced, action-packed novel for young adult readers, set within three unique and different dystopian worlds. Each world is fascinating, and the book explores some of the key threats to our own humanity: the influence of big technological corporations, and the exploitation of human labour; the pervasive and invasive power of social media; and the growing wealth inequality which threatens our democracy. The characters are interesting, each from a different background with different life experiences. I look forward to reading how the characters develop and how their powers grow in the next book. The book will appeal to young adult readers who enjoy adventure, fantasy fiction and dystopian novels. As the first in a planned series, this book introduces the reader to the three worlds, the three main characters, and the back-story of Pax. The book ends on a gripping cliff hanger, and I look forward to reading the next instalment. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fast-paced, captivating, fantasy adventure, set within three unique and different dystopian worlds. Purchase here