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Book Reviews: Age 3 to 7 Jane Xu Can Pandas Be Koalas Too? Katie Laprade Magical Things Amber M. Berkowitz Gigglet The Happy Little Piglet Goes to School Asfia bint Abdullah The Crying Tree of Madinah Leandra and Kevin Decoud The What If Book Angela Odusanya Amelia's Loose Part Art: A Night at the Campsite Vicki Scott Burns Charli's Turtle Triumph: A Marine Biology Adventure Jack Rotifer Teamwork! Betty the Iditarod Sled Dog Megan Deliberto Garbage Squirrel Chef Seff Canter Cuisine: Shetland Soup Daniel Cramton Seeking the Lost: Sheep Scott Smallwood Be Like Greg LOAD MORE

< Back Brett Rumfelt Get Through This Book Get Through This Book by author Brett Rumfelt is a delightfully inventive and funny picture book that turns the act of reading into an interactive adventure. At first glance, the book presents itself as a challenge: the narrator openly admits that the book looks boring and expresses a desperate desire to simply "get through it." This self-aware, tongue-in-cheek premise immediately sets the tone for a playful journey that both children and adults can enjoy. The story follows a character who tries a series of increasingly silly and imaginative methods to get through the book. From attempting to walk through the pages, running at full speed, and even diving into a (fake) hole, the protagonist's antics are both absurd and endearing. Each failed attempt is met with humor "(BONK!) Ouch!" and "(SPLAT!) OUCHIE!" that will elicit giggles from young readers. The book cleverly uses visual gags, such as a picture of a hole that turns out not to be real, and interactive moments where the reader is asked to help turn pages or swing a rope. The character is aware of the reader, frequently asking for help and commenting on the book's own structure. This creates a sense of partnership between the reader and the protagonist, making the reading experience highly engaging. The book also pokes fun at itself and the conventions of reading, culminating in the realization that the only way to truly get through the book is to read the words - "Maybe if we read the words, that will get us through the book. Eh? Good idea?" Get Through This Book is a perfect choice for parents, teachers, or anyone looking to make reading a more engaging and enjoyable experience for kids. The book's humor, creativity, and self-referential style ensure that readers will want to "get through" it again and again. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A witty, energetic, and interactive read that transforms the challenge of finishing a book into a fun-filled adventure. Purchase here

Book Reviews: Adult Todd Miller ENRICH: Create Wealth in Time, Money and Meaning Joshua Qually Anxiety Reset 30 Days to Find Calm: A Self-Regulation Workbook for Busy Adults James Richard Hansen Skies and Chasms: Poems Dr. Pietro Emanuele Garbelli The Doctor's Future: A Blueprint for Future-Proofing Your Profession and for Healthcare Decision Makers Leading the Evolution of AI/Robotics-Powered Medicine Dawn Bragg and Devon Jeffers Valdes Reflections: Earth, Heart, Light, Dark Dillon W. Buck The Stonecaster: A Modern Parable About Intention, Response, and the Ripples We Create Richard Kiehr The TellTale Lie Charles Cone ...a burning desire to fly Jim Sarto Is School Really Out For The Summer?: Abbreviated Musings of a High School Principal S.D. Huston A Curse of Wings & Gems: A Cursed Royals Fantasy Romance Pastor John Rumble The Psalms and Proverbs: Let's discover together the Treasures of the Psalms and Proverbs Stephanie D. Shorr Live the Health You Want: A Primer for the Care and Feeding of the Human Body LOAD MORE

< 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 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 John Posner Forever is Too Long In 2435, advancements in artificial intelligence and bioengineering have reshaped humanity. Bioengineering has made people smarter, faster, and stronger. It has improved people’s physical appearance and eliminated disease. The average human lifespan has edged over 135 years, and death is no longer an inevitable outcome of the human experience. Human minds can be copied perfectly and can live forever in the multiverse as digital entities, known as Mindars. Mindars can also inhabit bioforms and interact with humans in the physical world. But these advancements in digital technology have had many unintended consequences. The population has exploded, rogue genetic manipulations have been unleashed, and humanity is forced into battle against the decisions made by AI systems. Jake Sullivan is a second-generation, genetically engineered human, and Vice President of ASHORE (Advocation, Safeguards, Help, Optimization, Renewal, and Eternity of Mindars), a company that supports the transition of human minds into the multiverse. As Vice President, Jake was instrumental in building the international multiverse run by artificial intelligence. As Jake approaches his 110th birthday, the recommended age for optimum crossover, he prepares for transition to become a Mindar, with his wife and childhood sweetheart, Shannon. He reflects back on his life, his relationships with Shannon and his robotic friend of one-hundred years, Stanley. But as Jake enters the multiverse, he is forced to wrestle with his own conscience and the unintended consequences of a society driven by the bio-revolution. Forever is Too Long is a thought-provoking Sci-Fi novel by author John Posner. Set four-hundred years in the future, the novel delves into the human, social and political impact of artificial intelligence and bioengineering. Posner presents a fascinating, and yet somewhat disturbing vision of the future driven by AI technology. It is a vision of society that is totally believable given our current stage of technological development. Posner draws the reader’s attention from the very first page, with well-developed characters, and a captivating plot with timely placed twists and turns. At over 600 pages this is a long novel, but I was invested until the very last page. Readers, be prepared to read all night! Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A fascinating and thought- provoking Sci-Fi novel of epic proportions, that considers the increased use of artificial intelligence and its impact on humanity. Purchase here

< Back Isra Sravenheart Her Dark Love A young witch faces the ultimate betrayal, by author Isra Sravenheart Seventeen-year-old Isra joins Wingdom's Academy of Ancient Magic, to develop her witchcraft skills. She meets another young witch, Everilda, and the two soon become good friends. As they settle into school, the two young women have fun tormenting Magnus Wingdom, the Head Warlock of the school. One evening, whilst enjoying a walk in the forest, Isra encounters a mysterious young man, named Jonathan. Isra learns that Jonathon is the son of the King, but has lost his entitlement to the throne, in favour of his brother, Prince Valien. Isra and Jonathon develop a close connection, and they meet in secret at every opportunity. U nbeknownst to Isra, Jonathan is already in a relationship with her friend Everilda. When Isra discovers the betrayal, she is heartbroken. Then, when she learns that Jonathan is under a fateful curse and forever bound to Everilda, she is enraged. Little does Isra know, she is part of a dark prophecy that has not yet been realised. According to the prophecy, Isra will turn dark and become ‘ Lady Isra of the Dark’. ‘Light bringer’, Astrid is tracking her every move, concerned her heartbreak might unleash her darkness. But, with no hope to salvage her friendship with Everilda, and no chance of a reconciliation with Jonathan, Isra sets out on revenge. Will Isra turn dark and release her darkness on the world? And can the light bringers, keep her on the light path? Her Dark Love, by Isra Sravenheart, is a dark fantasy fiction novel, and part of the Dark Spell Series. I understand Her Dark Love is a prequel to the other books in the series, and tells the back stories of the main characters. This is a gripping novel, which starts slowly but quickly builds momentum, as the characters and their relationships develop over the course of the story. This is an original concept, with a magical fantasy world, interesting characters, and an intriguing plot. I haven’t read any of the other books in this series, but I was captivated and would love to read more about Isra, and how her character develops following this prequel. The book will appeal to adults and young adult readers, who enjoy dark fantasy fiction. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A gripping novel, set within a magical fantasy world, with interesting characters, and an intriguing plot. 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

< Back Ralph L. Bayrer Liberty, Science and Wealth: The Evolution to Modern Society An essential read for historians, sociologists and economists, by author Ralph L. Bayrer Author Ralph L. Bayrer reposes a question asked two centuries ago, about why some countries prosper and others remain poor, despite having access to science and international capital markets. He describes the key features that are prominent in developed countries and stunted in undeveloped ones, and why America has become the wealthiest nation of our time, through free market systems and reduced government spending, regulation and taxation. He explains how societies are in constant competition with one another and fight for survival in an evolutionary dynamic process. He e xplores the American way of life, and the role that human cooperation and freedom has played in the creation of a modern affluent society. The book explores these issues in eight chapters. Chapter 1 explores the economic development gap between developed and less developed countries. Chapter 2 presents the theory of societal evolution. Chapter 3 describes man’s propensity for enterprise and commerce, and in Chapter 4, how commerce and enterprise led to the evolution of political institutions. Chapter 5 describes the emergence of science in the West, and how the west evolved into a culture of individual empowerment, in Chapter 6. In Chapter 7, Bayrer explores how other cultures have responded to the west’s advancements, and Chapter 8 explores why some countries have failed to advance. Liberty, Science and Wealth: The Evolution to Modern Society by author Ralph L. Bayrer is an engaging and thought-provoking non-fiction book, which provides a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of modern society. Well written and extensively researched, this book provides interesting new perspectives on humanity and society. This is a fascinating and insightful work of non-fiction, which will appeal to readers of educational and reference books, and students of the political and social sciences. This is an essential read for historians, sociologists and economists, and anyone who would like to learn more about modern society and its evolution. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: A well written and extensively researched non-fiction book, which provides a fascinating insight into the history and evolution of modern society. 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

< Back Gifford MacShane Rainbow Man A western historical fiction novel set in the 1880s Arizona Territory. 1880s, White’s Station Arizona Territory, Adam Donovan rescues Alec Twelve Trees, a native American silversmith after he was robbed, beaten, and dragged along the ground by a horse, by the US Cavalry patrol. The racially motivated attack leaves Alec with life threatening injuries and Adam seeks the assistance of his family and little sister, Irene Donovan. Irene, an accomplished herbalist, treats his wounds and helps to nurse him back to health. Alec and Irene had been best friends since childhood, and during his convalescence Alec realises just how much he loves her. Alec is reluctant to testify against the assailants, but Irene persuades him to reconsider. The attackers are court martialled and are eventually found guilty of the unprovoked attack on Alec. Alec and the wealthy Navajo Twelve Trees family had always looked after other’s less fortunate and were well respected members of the community. Alec had inherited a fortune from his grandfather but had promised to give most of it away to good causes. As the village reel from the unprovoked racist attack on Alec, the citizens join forces to try and push the army out of White’s Station. As Irene turns nineteen, she is visited by many suitors. Alec is distraught, but unable to declare his love for her, for fear her family will not approve. Rainbow Man (Donovan Family Saga Book 3) is a western historical fiction novel by Gifford MacShane, set in the 1880s Arizona Territory. This is the third book in the series, which follows the younger members of the Donovan and Twelve Trees families. The characters are well drawn, believable and engaging. The slow-burn romance between Alec and Irene is beautifully told. Meticulously researched, and full of historical details, this novel is a fascinating insight into life in the 1800s. I hadn’t read the previous books in the series, but I could follow the story easily. However, I recommend readers start with the first book, to get the full enjoyment of this series. Star rating: 5 Stars Summary: An engrossing and unforgettable western romance. Purchase here