|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
my rating |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1771647396
| 9781771647397
| 1771647396
| 3.60
| 101
| unknown
| Sep 07, 2022
|
it was amazing
|
This is a beautifully illustrated story about 2 boys who have the adventure of coming to the ocean. They get to see and listen to all the various life
This is a beautifully illustrated story about 2 boys who have the adventure of coming to the ocean. They get to see and listen to all the various life and sounds that it provides. Readers will be engaged in learning about sea life and sounds that will give them an appreciation of the beauty of ocean life. Reading level – Grade level: Preschool – 2nd grade ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Sep 03, 2024
|
Sep 05, 2024
|
Sep 03, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0812994388
| 9780812994384
| 0812994388
| 4.09
| 675,616
| 1959
| Feb 19, 2013
|
it was amazing
|
“Like the waters of the river, like the motorists on the highway, and like the yellow trains streaking down the Santa Fe tracks, drama, in the shape o
“Like the waters of the river, like the motorists on the highway, and like the yellow trains streaking down the Santa Fe tracks, drama, in the shape of exceptional happenings, had never stopped there.” Catching up… I know. This is a book that has been around for a while. But when it became a donation to my Little Free Library Shed recently, I knew it was time to re-visit it and share my thoughts. This book actually began as a New York Times murder story that transformed itself into spine-tingling suspense. Can you imagine picking up your newspaper and devouring this headline story with your breakfast coffee? Capote felt he could tell the story of this Midwest killing that featured sinister murderers in a way that would capture readers’ interest. A 4-member family of a prosperous farming family are viciously murdered at close-range with a shotgun. No apparent motive. Limited clues. A local FBI investigator, Alvin Dewey is shocked at how meaningless and cruel the crime appears. Who would do this and why? And, how could Capote get the details he needed to write his story beyond headline grabbers? “Imagination, of course, can open any door – turn the key and let terror walk right in.” He turned to friend and fellow author, Harper Lee, obviously known for “To Kill a Mockingbird.” She had a way of penetrating the silence that seemed to be protecting the remote Kansas community entrenched in the murders. Once he was in, Capote conducted his own investigation which would encompass the manhunt, arrest and trial of the culprits. Capote shared… “…the greatest intensity in art in all its shapes and sizes is achieved with a deliberate, hard and cool head.” It truly is a real-crime drama that captivates as readers turn pages. And, even if we think we know the story already, probably through endless documentaries we have watched, it still is a privilege to read Capote. ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
not set
|
not set
|
Sep 01, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0008408017
| 9780008408015
| 0008408017
| 4.11
| 18,179
| Mar 05, 2024
| Jan 01, 2024
|
it was amazing
|
When I first saw this book cover, I thought it was a true story. The way the lone girl was standing on the highway, I wondered, is this a missing pers
When I first saw this book cover, I thought it was a true story. The way the lone girl was standing on the highway, I wondered, is this a missing persons story that someone felt compelled to write? “This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places, and incidents are products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously and are not to be construed as real. Any resemblance to actual events, locales, organizations, or persons, living or dead, is entirely coincidental.” Even though the book cover felt a bit misleading, please don’t pass the book by. It is not a true story. It is something more. Just open it. What comes up from page one through the end will keep readers engaged. And, as readers, we get to hear Nina’s voice first. What follows is a story told in multiple points of view that is engrossing and intriguing. Is this story giving us a sense of a parent’s worst nightmare? As readers we experience, what happened between Nina and Simon. And, how the parents of both Nina and Simon navigate the landscape of what happened when it becomes clear that Nina is missing. Readers already are given a sense of what could have been with Nina’s opening voice. But what more lies between the pages to get the answers we as readers are so desperate to find? Lots. That is how page-turning, gut-wrenching, soulful interesting this story plays out. But what kind of story is this truly? Is this a mystery or a thriller or a character study of personalities, and what anyone would do in these circumstances? Of course, we can label it a mystery because we are uncertain what really happened to Nina. We can label it a thriller because as readers we are racing to the end to find out what happened. As readers we may want closure and justice, because we believe something terrible could have happened. But mostly we are left with an interesting look at, what would I do in these circumstances if something happened to my daughter or son? How would I behave? In this way, it becomes a stirring tale, as we as readers, consider and observe where the moral fiber lies. Especially as parents. ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
not set
|
Aug 30, 2024
|
Aug 30, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1324094877
| 9781324094876
| 1324094877
| 4.38
| 115
| unknown
| Jun 11, 2024
|
it was amazing
|
“We made the world we’re living in, and we have to make it over.” – James Baldwin Senator Bernie Sanders described the author as a “leader in our coun “We made the world we’re living in, and we have to make it over.” – James Baldwin Senator Bernie Sanders described the author as a “leader in our country working to take on poverty and economic injustice. He knows that we can bring about great change by building a multi-racial, multi-generational coalition of working-class people. Building a mass movement of ordinary people is how we end today’s unprecedented levels of greed and economic inequality.” So, how do we make people want to do that, especially if there is a faction out there that may only be concerned about their own interests to get rich? I’m not sure there is an easy answer, other than to open our minds to books like this one. Where authors that care, and do the hard work also take time to study the problem. The author opens with… “This is a book by a Black man about white poverty in America. I’ve written this because I believe the racist images of Black mothers on welfare that have dominated the imaginations of Americans are not merely demeaning to Black people; they are also based on a myth that obscures the poverty of tens of millions of white people. Until we face the reality of white poverty in America, we cannot comprehend what is truly exceptional about the inequality that persists in the richest nation in the history of the world.” The author has quite the extensive resume. He preached at President Biden’s 2020 inaugural prayer service. He has held a lot of prominent positions that gave him the opportunity whether on the pulpit or at the podium, to denounce injustice and economic disparity with righteous indignation. People have described his penetrating stare as someone looking into America’s soul. And, this book is him in action doing just that, looking into America’s soul. The author provides through this book a well-documented and informative discussion on poverty in the United States. He takes on the racial myths and he puts greed front and center. “We are pitted against one another by politicians and billionaires who depend on the poorest among us not being seen…by cable news and social media memes and politicians who depend on tired narratives to rally their base against imagined enemies of their ‘values.’” Even as he shares that white supremacy is a myth “as poisonous to white people as it is to people of color,” he is also letting us know that “it dehumanizes the people it claims to elevate; it uses the very people it claims to champion.” But he doesn’t leave us hanging with this, he wants us to move on through understanding so that we can mitigate it. This comes through in his well-researched chapters. His thoughts are compelling and insightful. He showcases personal stories that are heart-felt and inspiring. But mostly, he just doesn’t put it out there and leave it, he presents an action plan to help guide us, through uplifting chapters like, “why we must lift from the bottom,” and “rediscovering the ties that bind us.” He gives us hope that we can have meaningful change. Finding humanity. The potential to unite a movement for genuine change. ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
not set
|
Aug 25, 2024
|
Aug 25, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 150986492X
| 9781509864928
| 150986492X
| 4.39
| 5,478
| Jul 26, 2018
| Jun 13, 2019
|
it was amazing
|
What happens when you and your husband decide to be responsible for a sanctuary for elephants and rhinos, and then you find yourself suddenly alone? D
What happens when you and your husband decide to be responsible for a sanctuary for elephants and rhinos, and then you find yourself suddenly alone? Do you give up on the dream or continue it? This was something the author had to face when her beloved husband passed away suddenly, and she was left to manage their Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre in South Africa. Her story provides something for wildlife lovers to truly appreciate as she shares the ongoing conservation saga. Filled with personal stories, it is refreshing to read about the amazing creatures that inhabit our world, and the watchful care she and her staff provide to them, especially when under threat to poachers. The author also includes photographs to add to the storytelling and connection readers will experience through her story. Readers will no doubt feel touched, moved and amazed by the perseverance and responsibility and challenges of this life that are showcased throughout the book. Her husband wrote, “The Elephant Whisperer,” that gave insights into their mission, but this book can be read as a stand-alone. Review here:https://www.goodreads.com/review/show... ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Aug 19, 2024
|
Sep 03, 2024
|
Aug 19, 2024
|
Paperback
| ||||||||||||||
| 1536204528
| 9781536204520
| 1536204528
| 4.34
| 586
| Mar 14, 2023
| Mar 14, 2023
|
it was amazing
|
Yesterday, I picked this one up on my weekly visit to my local library. And, I was pleasantly surprised by the simplicity of it. This is a story…that t Yesterday, I picked this one up on my weekly visit to my local library. And, I was pleasantly surprised by the simplicity of it. This is a story…that takes few words. But those few words and charming illustrations show the importance of reading, libraries and books. It is so beautifully written, I felt myself mesmerized as I turned pages slowly. And, as I looked at the pictures, I imagined what each child must be feeling as they studied and experienced the pages, and read the words, or had them read for them, before turning to the next page. Honestly, this one is a keeper, parents! Teachers, please include this one in your classroom, because this truly…is a story worth reading! Please take time to read the last page of the book which is the copyrights page which names all the book covers that were illustrated throughout this story. Reading level: Ages 4 – 8 years – Pre-school – 3rd grade+ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
not set
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1542039126
| 9781542039123
| 1542039126
| 4.28
| 317
| unknown
| Sep 26, 2023
|
it was amazing
|
When I saw this book in the children’s section at my local library, I was immediately attracted to it for 3 reasons. First, it was the book title. I h When I saw this book in the children’s section at my local library, I was immediately attracted to it for 3 reasons. First, it was the book title. I have always believed that we all have this innate power within us – this light that emanates outwardly to others. And, for a book to be able to showcase this through a title, especially in a children’s book, this seemed particularly powerful to me. Second, the book cover illustration showed smiling faces with the illusion of light surrounding them. I found such positivity in those illustrations by Kamala Nair. And, third because I was going on my own personal journey with cancer, and even though this was “just” a children’s book, who wouldn’t enjoy having positivity and light within surrounding them on “such” a journey? Which made this a book, that felt strangely powerful. Because here I was feeling all these feelings connecting me to this book, and, I am just looking at the book cover. And, I didn’t even open the pages yet! What would this lovely book share inside? This is a story of travel and traditions, family, connection through community and finding one’s inner light. Believing in one self. Yes! ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
Aug 16, 2024
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0316734942
| 9780316734943
| 0316734942
| 4.18
| 57,964
| May 01, 2005
| May 16, 2005
|
it was amazing
|
You know you have read a lot of books when you pick up a book as if you are looking at it for the first time and begin reading it and realize it sound
You know you have read a lot of books when you pick up a book as if you are looking at it for the first time and begin reading it and realize it sounds familiar. I can’t begin to count on my fingers how many times I have done this to myself. Of course, it has to happen with classic Connelly. And, Bosch. I love Bosch. So, when this book was deposited as a donation to my Little Free Library Shed recently, I couldn’t help but think, is this one of his stories I missed? Of course not. It is one, that I forgot I had read. And, now I am reviewing it. This is where Detective Hieronymus “Harry” Bosch is now working for the Open-Unsolved Unit, hoping to find a way to find closure for those “chorus of forgotten voices” and certainly justice for the unresolved cases. This is also an opportunity for Bosch to learn about the advances in forensic science that have been made since he retired 3 years earlier. What I love about Connelly is his beautiful attention to detail. Basics in investigative police work – police procedurals at its best. As Bosch takes on his first case, the reader gets an inside tour of the streamlined LAPD and all the advanced techniques used in comparative analysis of DNA, ballistics and fingerprints. As a reader, I am soaking up the methods of modern forensics, and it is obvious that it is revitalizing Bosch, too. But we also get a taste of his old-fashioned police detective work in action, as well. As well as his gut instinct at following the clues. What we appreciate the most is his way of speaking for the dead. In true Connelly fashion, this will be a page-turning, well-done read for fans. And those new to Bosch, will want to get to know him. But as in all series, it is always best to start at the beginning. The first Harry Bosch book was “The Black Echo.” ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Aug 09, 2024
|
Aug 13, 2024
|
Aug 09, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1665904372
| 9781665904377
| 1665904372
| 4.22
| 290
| unknown
| May 16, 2023
|
it was amazing
|
When Pete Buttigieg was introduced to the world, he became someone to pay attention to, not just because he was a young man running for President, at
When Pete Buttigieg was introduced to the world, he became someone to pay attention to, not just because he was a young man running for President, at the time, but because he was a gay man who could talk openly about himself. This was a powerful moment to consider. Would America be ready for their first gay President? Well, we know how everything played out in that election, and gratefully Pete has stayed front and center as Secretary of Transportation in the Biden administration. But what he brought with him was Chasten. His husband. And, Chasten has a story to tell, as well. In this beautiful memoir. I wanted to read the young adult version, because I understand how hard it can sometimes be for young adults trying to find themselves. Especially if they are labeled as “different.” And, even as Chasten points out to readers that we may not be fully in a place where all LGBTQIA+ people can feel safe and accepted, he believes we are heading there. He shows this in his own story about growing up. Change may be slow, according to Chasten, but for him, he believes, it is happening. Growing up gay wasn’t easy for him, and he was taunted by classmates. Bullying was the medicine most often received. But it did not darken his spirit. He felt loved and accepted by family, and he knew he could overcome these personal hurdles by not feeling ashamed about who he was…but instead proud. And, finding the courage to be himself. What I loved most about this story was his ability to relate to a younger audience. He shows himself as a positive role model for any reader who is struggling to fit in, even in his honesty about the difficulties of being an outsider. His strongest message…that readers are not alone. He empowers them to believe they can write their own story and not be defined by how others see them or the circumstances of their life. There is so much about this reading experience through the pages that feels so hopeful and comforting and quite inspiring. What is particularly helpful is at the end of the story where he provides “Reflection Questions” which help encourage thought-provoking discussion. This book would be wonderful in any local library or classroom. Reading level: Age 13+ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Aug 08, 2024
|
Aug 29, 2024
|
Aug 08, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0593598873
| 9780593598870
| 0593598873
| 3.92
| 12,771
| Jul 16, 2024
| Jul 16, 2024
|
it was amazing
|
“Where you are is where I belong.” I love when an author has a purposeful name for their book, and we as readers get to spend some time with it trying “Where you are is where I belong.” I love when an author has a purposeful name for their book, and we as readers get to spend some time with it trying to figure out what and why it was named the way it was, like this one. With this book, could it be because Rafe and Jeremy as friends 15 years ago, got lost in the forest, and thus, as the lost boys, something changed because they were gone? Or, could it have been when they were found, Rafe came back with no memory of what had happened to him, and thus he lost his story? And, how will those two points even make sense to readers without continuing to turn pages? Or, when Emilie came to Jeremy to find her sister, since now that is what Jeremy does, find lost girls, that perhaps they might have lost their stories, too? Or, will Emilie’s entrance into the story be a catalyst to unraveling the mystery to Rafe and Jeremy, and possibly more? Or, is there something about the forest of Red Crow that makes one wonder that maybe that is where stories end up? Lost? Or, is there another mystery within this story that is bigger than we ever thought possible? Well, I’d like to believe that with this little enriching, fairy tale of magic and mystery and love and (possibly) lost stories, it will capture readers in a way that makes those reading want to turn pages until answers are found. And, because this is a story of unusually talented boys, now grown up, readers will undoubtedly want to know more about the main characters, Rafe and Jeremy’s back stories. And, will most likely be curious about the sisters, who are (possibly) lost and maybe…? (To say more would be a spoiler, and that is not my thing.) I believe this is a story that is beautifully, and artfully told. With prose that guides readers through a unique magical realm that makes it hard to put this book down. And, that is what makes Shaffer such an exquisite storyteller. The question remains, can we hope for a HEA ending? (Again, if you are looking for spoilers, you have come to the wrong place! ☺️) Just, take your chance on a little adult fairy tale. Lastly...There may be some triggers within this story that are not always seen but may be alluded to (while some are obvious): domestic and family violence, adoption, depression, mental illness, death of parents, implied gay character. ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Aug 07, 2024
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
Aug 07, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1538740761
| 9781538740767
| 1538740761
| 4.46
| 4,190
| unknown
| May 14, 2024
|
it was amazing
|
“The National Daily Situation Room would be a permanent organization…It would serve as a management tool by providing intelligence, communications, br
“The National Daily Situation Room would be a permanent organization…It would serve as a management tool by providing intelligence, communications, briefing, display and monitor facilities.” The author is more than a television host of a popular morning show or his own show, “This Week with George Stephanopoulos.” He is a political commentator and former Democratic advisor. He was also the Communications Director for the 1992 presidential campaign of Bill Clinton before becoming his White House Communications Director. His resume is extensive, and so when this book came out, I thought it would be worth reading. I am glad I did. I now offer you, my review. He tells us that the “Sit Room” isn’t much to look at, it actually is located in the White House basement. And, to him, it really is quite the modest cramped conference room. It wasn’t until August 2023 that it got a pretty facelift renovation. But (facelift or not) it is what takes place in this room that makes the difference. The Situation Room began with President John F. Kennedy, and it had some captivating historical moments through the variety of presidents since. A key statement that caught my eye was shared early on when the author wrote… “In the six decades since the creation of the Situation Room, it has been the crisis center during America’s catastrophes. The men and women of the Sit Room have dealt with nuclear scares, the assassination of a president and attempts on two others. They stayed at their posts on 9/11, when the White House itself was the target of terrorists. And they tracked and analyzed American wars that cost hundreds of thousands of lives and billions upon billions of dollars. But never before had they dealt with an insurrection against our own government, inspired by the president of the United States.” How does one feel, reading this paragraph, let alone this last sentence? “Your allegiance to your country supersedes your allegiance to your role.” Digest that statement above for a moment. It was uttered on January 6, 2021 by Mike Steigler, an intelligence analyst that worked at the White House. The author clearly felt concerned as well when he stated, “those dueling loyalties had never been tested like this.” In the chapter, “Postcards from the Edge” there is more detail on that president’s attitude towards the Situation Room and the problems overall with what occurred during his time in office. And thus, throughout this book the author shares a lot of dynamic and engrossing Situation Room stories. And these same stories, were not typically or outwardly known to the public. Because these are the stories of what really happened “behind the scenes” regarding the issues we thought we laymen always knew – like when both Presidents Kennedy and Reagan were shot. But as laymen, we clearly did not. Readers will get an insider view into each president’s attitude toward the Situation Room experience. And, how they viewed their role. But it wasn’t even about just the various incidents that occurred under their watch. As an example, what will readers learn about President Nixon’s lack of interest in participating in those important Situation Room discussions? And, what circumvented President Carter’s negotiations in getting the hostages out of Iran? Or what really happened in those hours during the 9/11 attacks? Can we even imagine what it took to finally finding Osama bin Laden under President Obama’s leadership? The author covers the Situation Room through President Biden. The author went through over 100 interviews and intensive research for this book. He also included black and white and color photographs throughout the chapters. This is a fascinating, easy-to-read, inspiring, page-turning book that almost reads like fiction. For those interested in real history, this will be a worthwhile read. ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Aug 07, 2024
|
Aug 14, 2024
|
Aug 07, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0060278684
| 9780060278687
| 0060278684
| 4.18
| 20,953
| Oct 03, 2000
| Oct 03, 2000
|
it was amazing
|
I love this “If you take a mouse” series. It is wonderfully illustrated and always has a sing-song-y type of lyrical story that will keep young reader
I love this “If you take a mouse” series. It is wonderfully illustrated and always has a sing-song-y type of lyrical story that will keep young readers engaged. In this particular story, it is Christmas themed and has a mouse enjoying coming along to the movies. And, oh my goodness, there are so many wonderful Christmas-y ideas that come up in this story too, for families to do with kids! What a clever mouse! Reading level: Ages 2 – 5 years – Pre-school – 3rd grade ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jul 27, 2024
|
Jul 31, 2024
|
Jul 27, 2024
|
Library Binding
| ||||||||||||||
| 1538765020
| 9781538765029
| 1538765020
| 4.53
| 29,892
| Apr 16, 2024
| Apr 16, 2024
|
it was amazing
|
When I ordered this book from my local library, I didn’t know what kind of book I was going to be reading. I just knew it was a Baldacci book, and tha
When I ordered this book from my local library, I didn’t know what kind of book I was going to be reading. I just knew it was a Baldacci book, and that is all that mattered to me. And, I can’t believe I didn’t put this in my ‘currently reading’ pile. Oh well. Believe it or not, I have been reading it. It is a book to be reckoned with, in all its 477 pages. But before I get in to discussion of it, back to Baldacci. I love all his characters. And, who knew if it was going to be someone from the past, or someone new. I just knew I had already developed my relationships with, Atlee Pine, Aloysius Archer, Amos Decker, Alex Jamison, Travis Devine, Will Robie, John Puller, Sean King, Michelle Maxwell and Oliver Stone. I never expected to be taken into a historical fiction courtroom drama with two new characters to add to my personal “love” list. But here I was. Ready and willing. And, to be honest, my heart was on fire from page one. And, that even included the ‘Author’s Note.’ “I wish we lived in a world that was just and equal for all, and that lawyers could concentrate on being simply lawyers and not spokespersons for a cause.…and we can all rise high or fall low, but we should all be judged by the same standard. That is the only way we can move forward as a country, as a people.” This is a stand-alone featuring two new characters in 1968 Freeman County, Virginia, a hotbed county, and area of the state, filled with hate and prejudice. We meet Jack Lee a white lawyer who is given a case to defend a black couple, Jerome and Pearl Washington that have been accused of killing a rich white couple. And, when we are talking the south, it doesn’t look like they are going to get a very fair chance at trial with a Judge that has Ku Klux Klan leanings, George Wallace poised to run for President and an all-white jury. To help Jack on the case is Desiree DuBose a Black lawyer from Chicago who is fierce about justice and equality. What will this team discover? Will they be able to overcome these odds? As I turned pages and read, I couldn’t help but feel the 60’s past and today’s present merging too closely together. I wanted to cry out in frustration and sadness that something was wrong – that there was a time machine that had made a mistake – that thought that 2024 was 1968 all over again and to please let me blink myself awake to a better more thoughtful, just present. That I must be dreaming. And then, I got out of my head and reminded myself I was within the pages of a really excellent story with solid character development. It was describing the 1960’s south realistically. The courtroom drama was spectacular and dramatic and real-feeling. There will be much to digest within these pages. Be patient. It will be worth the journey. This story is fresh and intense, and thrilling, and showcases the human corruptness. I can only hope that this is just the beginning of Dubose and Lee as future characters and fighters of justice in an upcoming Baldacci series. Also, I recommend that everyone read the ‘Author’s Note’ at the beginning. It is heart-felt and timely. What he shares at the end of it, which makes even more sense once it is read and digested, I think is worth including… “I wanted each to learn from the other, and…to eventually find mutual respect and empathy for one another. In the end, what can we strive for that is more vital, for all of us?” ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
not set
|
Jul 22, 2024
|
Jul 22, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1406308668
| 9781406308662
| 1406308668
| 3.99
| 1,263
| Sep 23, 2008
| 2010
|
it was amazing
|
This is the story of a very sad gorilla. And, for anyone turning pages, the first thing you will be mesmerized by is the stunning visual artistic illu
This is the story of a very sad gorilla. And, for anyone turning pages, the first thing you will be mesmerized by is the stunning visual artistic illustrations. This particular gorilla could also communicate via sign language. Which made his ability to “talk” with humans fascinating for kids to see. And what he needed most was…a friend. So, the humans at the zoo, gave him a friend, a kitty named “Beauty” that they asked him not to eat. And, this is their story – the gorilla and the kitty. Children will learn the importance of friendship and communication in this heart-loving story. Reading level: 3 – 6 years – Grades – Preschool – 2nd grade ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jul 19, 2024
|
Jul 20, 2024
|
Jul 19, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0763669911
| 9780763669911
| 0763669911
| 4.17
| 694
| Sep 04, 2014
| Oct 28, 2014
|
it was amazing
|
So, let’s say there are 3 cats that are seemingly “afraid” of a dog. Does that mean that maybe, just maybe there might be a dog in this book? Shall the So, let’s say there are 3 cats that are seemingly “afraid” of a dog. Does that mean that maybe, just maybe there might be a dog in this book? Shall the reader take a look in the hiding places? And, let’s say that these 3 cats will do anything to hide from this sweet, cuddly, soft dog. And, while they are doing this, the reader will have the opportunity to check all the different hiding places of the cats. But then readers and the cats learn that there is absolutely no reason to be afraid of this sweetheart of a dog. What then? How can the cats make things comfortable for the sweet, cuddly, soft dog? This will become the fun learning experience for the young reader, in this cleverly illustrated, 3-D modeled book. Reading level: Ages 3 – 7 years – Pre-school+ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
Jul 12, 2024
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1665917938
| 9781665917933
| 1665917938
| 4.23
| 64
| May 28, 2024
| May 28, 2024
|
it was amazing
|
This is the story of mystery writer, Agatha Christie. It showcases her beginning as a child, her motivations for wanting to be a writer, her going awa
This is the story of mystery writer, Agatha Christie. It showcases her beginning as a child, her motivations for wanting to be a writer, her going away to boarding school after her father’s death, her working as a nurse during the war, and her beginnings as a writer. She didn’t become famous overnight, but when she finally had her manuscript accepted, her first book, “The Mysterious Affair at Styles” brought a smile to her face. This is her story about her observations, about her successes, and how despite not having support to follow her passion to write, this is what she wanted to do, and those of us who love her writing, are grateful she did. Now, kids can appreciate learning about her in this beautifully illustrated version of her life. Reading level: Age - 8+ - Grade 2nd+ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
Jul 12, 2024
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 073522935X
| 9780735229358
| 073522935X
| 4.60
| 7,826
| Feb 20, 2018
| Feb 20, 2018
|
it was amazing
|
What happens when we build something and someone knocks it down? What happens when we build something and someone knocks it down and everyone else has
What happens when we build something and someone knocks it down? What happens when we build something and someone knocks it down and everyone else has an opinion about it that we don’t want to hear? What happens when we build something and someone knocks it down and we are left alone and feel all sorts of emotions about it and someone comes along and just listens to everything that we feel about it? Can we feel listened too, finally? Well, maybe this is that story. And, this is what makes this the perfect story for parents and/or teachers to talk with kids about. A beautifully illustrated book that has been donated by Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library for kids everywhere. Reading Level: Age 3 – 5+ - Pre-school – K+ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jul 08, 2024
|
Jul 12, 2024
|
Jul 08, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1624149812
| 9781624149818
| 1624149812
| 4.23
| 316
| Oct 06, 2020
| Oct 06, 2020
|
it was amazing
|
“My hair is free…my hair is me.” And that is truly the definition of me, too. It really doesn’t matter what age we are, hair definitely does have a way “My hair is free…my hair is me.” And that is truly the definition of me, too. It really doesn’t matter what age we are, hair definitely does have a way of giving us our own personality. And a way of accepting ourselves, just as we are. My hair is frizzy and curly. Once it has been washed, styled and air-dried it cannot be brushed again. It is that stubborn. All I can do is toss it over my head, put my fingers through it, and hope it can look semi-decent when I come back up for air. Oh, and it is long. That is the hippie girl still in me. I love my hair still being long. Who says that because I am old that I have to have short hair? I love it just as it is! So, when I was recently searching for library books online, I couldn’t help but notice this one. Look at this cover? Look at this title? This girl’s hair is bigger than she is! I love it! In this story, this girl has big hair. And, people want to know why. And, when they ask, her reply is simply… “Why isn’t yours?” How can you not love her boldness and love for how she feels about how she looks! In this beautifully illustrated book, she goes on to describe her hair and how she loves it. Or even what her hair needs. “My hair needs room to grow with grace.” The beauty of this book is that it shows the diversity and acceptance of loving oneself just as they are. And, how others can, too. Reading Level: Age 4 – 8 – K – 1st grade+ ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jul 05, 2024
|
Jul 06, 2024
|
Jul 05, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 0399252517
| 9780399252518
| 0399252517
| 4.15
| 89,088
| Aug 28, 2014
| Aug 28, 2014
|
it was amazing
|
“Write down what I think I know. The knowing will come. Just keep listening…” Some books flow beautifully with prose that just captures readers. This is “Write down what I think I know. The knowing will come. Just keep listening…” Some books flow beautifully with prose that just captures readers. This is one of those books. While reading this, I felt as if the pages just floated by. At the same time, I also felt badly, that the title of this book seemed limiting. Because in some ways, will girls or even boys who aren’t brown know, without understanding that anybody, at any age, or any color could pick up this book and truly enjoy it, too? Perhaps, even find something to appreciate from her words? The other joy about this book, is once you pick it up, it is easy to read in one sitting. Of course, that isn’t necessary to do, either. You could actually sit and savor each poem like a good meal, if you choose. Because each poem provides an opportunity to explore and experience and recognize that even if it is a little bit of the author’s memoir, it is still something we may all enjoy considering or understanding, too about someone’s life. These poems are short and sweet and full of stories and beliefs. Things we can probably relate to, as well. “…I believe in Black people and White people coming together. I believe in nonviolence and “Power to the People.” …I believe in one day and someday and this perfect moment called Now.” These are beautiful, heart-felt, soul-full poems that will enrich anybody’s library. We can even choose to learn from her and hope for better. For ourselves and each other. ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jul 03, 2024
|
Jul 07, 2024
|
Jul 03, 2024
|
Hardcover
| ||||||||||||||
| 1662511604
| 9781662511608
| 1662511604
| 4.28
| 90,411
| Mar 28, 2023
| Mar 28, 2023
|
it was amazing
|
“I have always imagined that closing a book is like pausing a film midframe, the characters frozen in their halted worlds, breath held, waiting for th
“I have always imagined that closing a book is like pausing a film midframe, the characters frozen in their halted worlds, breath held, waiting for the reader to return and bring it all back to life – like a prince’s kiss in a fairy tale.” – Ashlyn Greer I wanted to start my review with this quote from one of the main protagonist characters in this book, Ashlyn, because I have just finished this book, and this is how I feel. I honestly believe I have just read my absolute favorite book of 2024! And, I don’t say that lightly. I have read lots of books, and this one has captivated me from the first page to the last. And, as I have come to the very last page, I am filled with many emotions. Enchanted. Engaged. Centered. Present. Moved. Inspired. Fulfilled. Grateful. Touched. This book started with a private message from Goodreads friend Lynda, who thought she read my review and felt she needed to thank me. You now must read her review here:https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...She said she was so grateful for my review of this book. I said, I hadn’t read it yet, I was still on the waiting list for the book. But grateful that she enjoyed it so much. And, then it finally arrived from my local library. It was now my turn to have a reaction to this book. There is something to be said about a character like Ashlyn, that is so attached to books, that she has a special gift in which she can “read the echoes that attached themselves” to pages within books. In other words, she could feel the people who were apart of the books they touched. The emotions they experienced. And, when two books come in to her possession, they will not only change her life, they will change the lives of the individuals who wrote them. What mystery lies within those pages she reads? How will this mystery help heal Ashlyn and her life? This is a book within a book. When Ashlyn receives a couple of books, she is curious to discover that these books have no author names or publisher. Who do they belong to, and how can she find the writers? The mystery only deepens. “Books are feelings,” he replied simply. “They exist to make us feel. To connect us to what’s inside, sometimes to things we don’t even know are there. It only makes sense that some of what we feel when we’re reading would... rub off.” And, so these two books that Ashlyn discovers leads her to Ethan who is the one that was cleaning out his father’s books. Little did each of them know that these stories would unravel a family history of Ethan’s he had little memory of that would possibly open doors for both of them. What happened to Ethan and Ashlyn that closed doors for them? How will the mystery of the books that they are reading now together open doors for them? “She still couldn’t say how far she was willing to leap, but she had forced herself to look down and at least judge the distance of the fall. It was a start.” “We develop a particular fondness for our favorite books, the way they feel and smell and sound, the memories they invoke, until they begin to exist for us as living, breathing things.” Ashlyn graces each chapter with a quote that leads readers to wonder what we will learn through the “current” year 1984, as she and Ethan read through the books about the mysterious Belle and Hemi of the past. One book was written by Belle. And one book was written by Hemi. But who are they? What happened to them? And, are they still alive? “Without a reader, a book was a blank slate, an object with no breath or pulse of its own. But once a book became part of someone’s world, it came to life, with a past and a present—and, if properly cared for, a future.” Could the power of forgiveness be the gift that helped find a happily ever after ending here? “But if something tragic happened in a book, you could just close it and choose a new one, unlike real life, where events often played out without the protagonist’s consent.” My emotions were all over the place as I kept turning pages. But then I would find myself asleep holding the book still. Oh gosh, I needed sleep. Okay, sleep it was. I would have to wait for the ending. And then I woke up. It was pitch black out. I knew I had a few pages to go. I couldn’t help myself. I needed to know. I was so invested in these characters. I loved Ashlyn and Ethan, and Belle and Hemi. I wanted to know what would happen. “Like humans, books experienced their share of heartache—and like humans, they remembered.” How does one describe that feeling when you close a book that you have loved everything about it? There are so many quotes in this book that have been so worthy, that I feel like my review is simply a series of the author’s quotes. At the same time, I have found myself in a book about books. About a life lived, or missed, or regrets, or needing forgiveness, or finding second chances, or being strong under the worst of circumstances. And, thus reading this book felt like something more. Not just a love story about people. But my own love story about how I fell in love with a book, if that makes sense. So, the author’s quote… “There is nothing quite so alive as a book that has been well loved” feels perfect here. Because, that is exactly how I feel about this reading experience. I have come to appreciate that life is something we can’t take for granted. And, when Ashlyn shares that “people’s lives were defined not by the scars they acquired but by what lay on the other side of those scars, by what’s done with the life they have left,” I knew she was speaking a truth we could understand. And, sometimes books do that to us. And, this one did that to me. Yes, this one to date is most undoubtedly, my favorite book for 2024! Maybe, even yours? ...more |
Notes are private!
|
1
|
Jun 28, 2024
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
Jun 28, 2024
|
Hardcover
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
my rating |
|
|
||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
| 3.60
|
it was amazing
|
Sep 05, 2024
|
Sep 03, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.09
|
it was amazing
|
not set
|
Sep 01, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.11
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 30, 2024
|
Aug 30, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.38
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 25, 2024
|
Aug 25, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.39
|
it was amazing
|
Sep 03, 2024
|
Aug 19, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.34
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.28
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 16, 2024
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.18
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 13, 2024
|
Aug 09, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.22
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 29, 2024
|
Aug 08, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 3.92
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 15, 2024
|
Aug 07, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.46
|
it was amazing
|
Aug 14, 2024
|
Aug 07, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.18
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 31, 2024
|
Jul 27, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.53
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 22, 2024
|
Jul 22, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 3.99
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 20, 2024
|
Jul 19, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.17
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 12, 2024
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.23
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 12, 2024
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.60
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 12, 2024
|
Jul 08, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.23
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 06, 2024
|
Jul 05, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.15
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 07, 2024
|
Jul 03, 2024
|
|||||
|
| 4.28
|
it was amazing
|
Jul 10, 2024
|
Jun 28, 2024
|
Loading...
