Think & Play the Social Scouts™ Way: Firefighter Leo to the Rescue! by Heather Marenda-Miller & Amy Wilhelm Review

Unplug & Have Fun!

While technology has no doubt enhanced the speed and breadth of our communication, there is growing concern that reliance on screen time can often have a negative effect on young children. In fact, recent studies have shown with the increase in screen time, there is a decrease in children’s reading for fun, outside time and imaginary play, all of which are crucial for speech and language development.

Every single day in their pediatric practice in Los Angeles, speech-language pathologists Heather Marenda-Miller and Amy Wilhelm see first-hand how increased screen time is impacting speech and social development as well as the ability to do what most of us think as automatic in children – the ability to play.

In their therapeutic groups, aptly named Social Scouts™, Heather and Amy actually teach children how to play, helping them use their words to communicate ideas with others, thereby enhancing social skills while inspiring creativity and imagination.

In the first of a ten-book series created to bring their techniques to a wider audience, Heather and Amy, along with illustrator Alen Haljevac, have just published Think & Play the Social Scouts™ Way: Firefighter Leo to the Rescue! Intended to be read interactively with children from ages 3 to 7, this book follows Leo as he discovers how to think and play like a firefighter! Through thematic vocabulary and vibrant illustrations, kids will learn what firefighters do, where they work, what they wear, what special gear they need and all the ways they help the community. With opportunities for child participation throughout, as well as cut-out sequence pictures included for practice after reading the story, children can actively follow along and have their very own firefighting adventure, just like Leo! The authors hope this book will be fun for young children -- as well as parents and grandparents, teachers and nannies, brothers and sisters -- encouraging everyone to unplug, read, pretend and play!

About the Authors:
Heather Marenda-Miller, MS, CCC-SLP and Amy Wilhelm, MS, CCC-SLP are licensed and certified pediatric speech-language pathologists with a successful private practice in Los Angeles. Heather and Amy are co-founders of the Social Scouts™ therapeutic program, which they developed in 2010 to help children struggling with making and sustaining friendships. They share a passion for working with children and providing a fun, friendly and nurturing environment for them to think, learn, play and grow.

After searching high and low to no avail for children’s books that teach imagination and pretend play skills, they decided to create their own series of interactive books to do just that. This new title, Think & Play the Social Scouts™ Way: Firefighter Leo to the Rescue! is the first in that series.

About the Illustrator:
Alen Haljevac came to Los Angeles in 1994 with a passion for illustration, design and fashion. He earned his degree in Advanced Fashion Design from FIDM in Los Angeles. He gained his experience working for various entertainment and design companies and is currently working in the toy industry. Says Alen, “I feel extremely excited to be part of the Social Scouts™ book project, working with an amazing creative duo such as Heather Marenda-Miller and Amy Wilhelm.”

My Review:
This is a great book that has great photos that show every aspect of being a firefighter. There were interactive questions that the readers have to answer, and even spots to fill in their own word bubbles and illustrations. At the end of the book Leo has his own pretend Firefighter game with his toys. I really liked the realism and the way that the book is interacting with the reader. There was also a part at the end with sequence cards to use during pretend play. Including gathering items and cleaning up. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy. All opinions are my own. 

The Blue Moose by Ardian Gill Review

How did a moose from the North Woods end up in New York’s Central Park? And why is he BLUE? Local Color Press Announces the Release of New Children’s Picture Book: The Blue Moose by Ardian Gill Announcing the release of new juvenile fiction that will appeal to children and adults of all ages. The Blue Moose—written by Ardian Gill and published by Local Color Press—tells the hilarious tale of a moose’s journey to accidental heroism. Way up in the North Woods, twin moose babies Alfonse and Abercrombie are born. When they grow antlers, they strike out on their own, but Abercrombie is soon captured by two men who take him to the Central Park Zoo in New York City. Alfonse escapes but falls through the ice of a frozen lake and turns blue. With the aid of a little yellow bird and advice from an owl, Alfonse sets off on a journey to rescue his brother, guided only by the North Star at his back. His quest involves crisis after crisis in which Alfonse proves his valor—as when he rescues a little girl from a burning school with his antlers. For this and other heroic deeds, the blue moose is awarded medals and keys to the city that dangle from his enormous antlers. Alfonse is finally reunited with his brother at the zoo. But now Abercrombie prefers peanuts and popcorn to the acorns of the North Woods—and refuses to go back! Alfonse wants to be near his brother and he wants to find his beloved yellow bird. But does he want to live in a zoo? About the Author: Ardian Gill is a writer and photographer, author of the acclaimed historical novel The River Is Mine, a first-person narrative of the earliest exploration of the Colorado River and the Grand Canyon. He lives in New York, where he maintains a Chelsea studio dedicated to traditional photographic processes. The Blue Moose is his debut children’s book. My Review: This was a sweet story about siblings. I loved that the mom was sad about having an empty nest, and then the blue moose has birds hatched on his head, which soon becomes an empty nest. There is a lot in this story about family and nature, but mostly missing your best friend and trying to find him. The town needed help and the blue moose was there to help them! I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own.

Lil' Lilly's 'Bow'thday Present Review

Starlette Universe Series Has New Release— Lil' Lilly's 'Bow'thday Present Celebrate baby-power and Lil' Lilly's birthday in her third book in the series Terra Alta—Headline Books releases a new addition to their Headline Kids Educational Series, Lil' Lilly's 'Bow'thday Present by award winning author, Kathy Johnson. Known as a 'master punster' Johnson brings vocabulary to early grades in a most unique and entertaining way. Lil' Lilly's 'Bow'thday Present is a 40-page, colorfully illustrated children's book showcasing 150 puns, all while following Lilly on her adventures through babyhood, this time chronicling her story ('stork'y) book birth and the special bonus ('bow'nus) she receives from Cupid on her way to being born. ('bow'rn). "My birth was not by accident. Like all babies, I was heaven-sent . . . Cupid tells Lilly her birth will be very special ('spell'ial). She will be born a 'love vessel'. Cupid then gives Lil' Lilly magical love-bows - which come to characterize Lil' Lilly's in'fancy' – and clothes. Lilly quickly learns life is not easy: "Lilly's life on earth was lovely – you better believe - until one EVE." Evil Eva, obsessed with Lilly and her bows, morphs into a horse and turns into Lilly's worst night'mare'. Eva's sidekicks, Bitey Spidey and Fat Bat, add to the terror by doing both Eva's bidding - and biting. When Lilly finally gets courage to be bold ('bow'ed), she tells Eva, "You're here to make the world badder - but I'm here to make it better!" The story ends in victory for Lilly – but with victory comes chivalry, as Blossom the Cow explains, "Chivalry means no victory smirk and that takes 'heart' work." This new release from Headline Books, Inc. continues the Starlette Universe global themes of good vs. evil, while building character and instilling values. This book teaches that love is the key – to being happy – and defeating evil. In addition, there are at least twenty-five rules to live by, many of which are 'tweeted' by the birds. Headline President Cathy Teets, says of Lil' Lilly's 'Bow'thday Present, "Kathy Johnson brings ethics, excitement and entertainment to children and the young at heart everywhere, and several of her Starlette Universe books are Reader's Favorites and Mom's Choice Award winners. Illustrator Dick Kulpa, makes this book fun and captivating for all ages." About the book: Lil' Lilly's 'Bow'thday Present by Kathy Johnson ISBN: 9781882658510 Publisher: Headline Books Date of publish: December 2015 Pages: 40 S.R.P.: $12.95 About the author: Kathy Johnson is the creator of Starlette Universe, a virtual girl-world that promotes character education. A Phi Beta Kappa graduate and lawyer, she has authored five Starlette Universe books, several of which are Mom's Choice Award and Readers' Favorites winners. She is the mother of Miss Vermont 1999 and Miss Vermont USA 2001, and the Starlettes appeared in a column for seven years in Pageantry Magazine. Known for her puns, in Lil Lilly's 'Bow'thday Present, there are 150 puns within 40 pages. Review: This is a fun book that is full of puns and it teaches little readers how to read words are made up of smaller words and sounds. he best part is that it is done in a fun and colorful way. There are presents and flowers and animals, all the things that young girls love. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own.

MARY MARY QUITE On Raising Children (And Other Mind-Altering Substances) by Mary Huckstep Review

MARY MARY QUITE On Raising Children (And Other Mind-Altering Substances) by Mary Huckstep

Step right in to this beautifully illustrated book with short stories about marriage, household pests, children, holidays, teenage driving, bedtime antics and many other matters of domesticity. Each story has a subtle message and is peppered with wit and plenty of laughter.

Mary and her hubby, old Hunk raised five kids, assorted grandkids, three dogs, two cats, various reptiles, rodents galore, a boatload of fish, and a Mexican tarantula named Mad Max. It was crazy. But their drug of choice has always been laughter. Enjoy the stories taken from their experiences.

Sneak Peek: "Why oh why can't mamas live their kids' lives for them? It would solve so many problems before they even started. And it would save so many kids from making mistakes. Big, hairy, dumb-dumb mistakes. Dear God, life would be so simple if only we had a Mama On Board, magical, instantaneous, high-powered panic App - otherwise known as the MOB App. Think about it . . ."

About the book:
MARY MARY QUITE On Raising Children (And Other Mind-Altering Substances) by Mary Huckstep
ISBN: 978-0990707110
Publisher: Busy Bee Publishing
Date of publish: October 2014
Pages: 124
S.R.P.: $21.60

About the author:
A former AP English teacher and freelance writer, Mary Huckstep earned her MFA in Screenwriting from UCLA in 2004, then worked in development for a small production company with projects at Sony, Disney, Lifetime, and Hallmark Hall of Fame. While waiting to sell one of her own scripts, Mary decided to publish humorous anecdotes about family life – aka “domestic humor.” Thus, the MARY, MARY QUITE series was born. “On Raising Children (And Other Mind-Altering Substances)” is the first, in a series of three books. Visit her website at www.marymaryquite.com

My Review

This is a great book to read when I want to escape from adulting! I always liked Erma Brombeck, and this author has that sort of feel to this book. This is a fun read! I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own. 

I and You by Beverly Garside Review

Odenton, MD - The current partisan crises in Washington over budget battles and dysfunctional government may be unsettling for many Americans, but for one Maryland resident they are more than just current politics. They are the first signs of the fulfillment of a frightening prophecy.

For author Beverly Garside, the vision began in 1998. “I could see the cracks widening in the U.S. along geographical as well as ideological lines,” she recalls. “And I wondered what would happen if we kept following this path to its logical conclusion.” The result of this imagining was a novel called I and You set in the United States of 2098.

I and You envisions a Disunited States consisting of a socialist majority separated by a theocracy of eight states in the South and a free market republic consisting of four states in the West. It is this western republic, founded upon the capitalist ideals of Ayn Rand, where the story unfolds. As a tribute to Rand’s novel “Anthem,” in which the pronoun “I” is banned by law, the citizens of this “Randian Republic of Atlantis” have forsaken the pronoun “we” for the ideologically correct I and you.”

For the America of 1998, this vision proved a bit too far-fetched. “I think it was a little bit ahead of its time,” Garside concludes. But a lot of things happened in the ensuing years. “Now we have red states and blue states, we have petitions for secession springing up like mushrooms, and we have a caucus of Ayn Rand’s disciples disrupting the function of the Congress.” For Garside, the evening news was more than just alarming. “It’s all like a prequel to I and You,’” she says.

In 2013 she partnered with Michigan artist Lucas Duimstra and reissued the novel in its current illustrated form. The heroine of I and You, Sara Storm, is a military officer. According to Garside, Sara is a true believer in the free market ideals of her country, which was created to embody a feature of Ayn Rand’s most famous work, “Atlas Shrugged,” in which capitalists go on strike and found their own community. “Sara tries to defend her country and hold onto her beliefs in the face of the realities of human nature, the tides of history, and the misfortune of falling in love with the wrong person,” she explains.

As for the future of America, Garside is apprehensive. “I hope I’m not a prophet,” she says.

I and You has received rave reviews:
"An impressive storyline that captures the reader's attention and holds it firmly from beginning to end, I and You is a graphic novel that is as
entertaining, original, and thought-provoking, making it highly recommended
reading." - Midwest Book Review

"A brave and massive tale from a solid pairing of talent - I can only hope another book is in conception." - Cate Baum, Self Publishing Review.

I AND YOU is a sharp and vigorous political satire, well-drawn and reasonably deftly if unsubtly handled. As with most political satires, though, it will probably appeal primarily to those who agree with its perspective already." - Catherine Langehr, Indie Reader

Book trailer:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M0wJ7Ns1wsI

About the book:
I and You by Beverly Garside
ISBN: 978-1492187424
Publisher: CreateSpace
Date of publish: September 2013
Pages: 205
S.R.P.: $9.99

About the author:
Beverly Garside is a graduate of James Madison University and an author and screenwriter. Among her credits is the screenplay for the independent film "Sister Sonya's Prayer Group." A veteran of the U.S. Air Force, she served in Berlin during the 1980's. She currently lives in Maryland with her husband, Keith.

About the Artist:
Lucas Duimstra is a self-taught illustrator from Grand Rapids, MI. Being the son of an artist, he was encouraged by his parents to explore creatively at an early age. When he was 4 years old he began teaching himself to draw by copying art from comic books and trading cards. For the past 3 years he has done freelance illustration and coloring work in comic book series and anthology collections. This is his first graphic novel.

My Review:

This is a fun look at the different spectrum of politics and how far your opponents will go to prove your ideals false. The people that agree with the authors point of view will love it, the ones that disagree will think it a comic. It is a graphic novel. As a person that has run for office before, I enjoyed it and thought that it was a fun way to read about politics in today's society. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy. all opinions are my own.  

Spiffy Kids Storybook of Feelings Collection by J.R. Robinson Review

The Spiffy Kids give kids a fun-filled way to understand their feelings! Announcing the Release of New Juvenile Fiction: Spiffy Kids!! Storybook of Feelings Collection by J. R. Robinson Los Angeles, CA – J.R. Robinson’s newest children’s book, Spiffy Kids!! Storybook of Feelings Collection, features the Spiffy Kids—lovable characters like Mad, Shy, Happy and Sad—who help kids identify and cope with their feelings. The book has been published by London Publishing. Spiffy Kids are the emotions people experience every day. This clever little book describes a child’s various emotions in a fun and entertaining way. It also gives children ways of dealing with these feelings and lets them know they are not alone—feelings are a constant companion! Children will be immersed in the book’s vibrant illustrations and playful prose to help them enjoy the amazing moments that feelings bring to their lives. “Yep,” says the author, “those are your feelings, and don’t fret, because everyone has them. Without feelings life could never truly be as crazy or as magical as it is!” Spiffy Kids also helps children understand and cope with various emotions like anger and anxiety. The Spiffy Kids were created by J.R. Robinson, who grew up with an important rule of thumb: Never completely lose what it is like to be a child. By using her imagination, she came up with a way to express herself, giving rise to fun characters that children can relate to. My Review: I really liked this book! From the fun creatures that show all different moods to the fun poems that are catchy and true! This is a great book for kids and adults to read when they are not feeling like themselves! It is also a great tool to get children to talk about their feelings. I am happy to say that there are 9 different feelings covered in this book. From your basic mood of being mad and needing to take a deep breath to the mood of being worried and learning not to sweat the small stuff! This book should be in every library! I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy, all opinions are my own.

The Great Carp Escape by Irish Beth Maddock Review

Written by Irish Beth Maddock 

Illustrated by Lucent Ouano

An Award Winning Inspirational Fish “Tail” Based on a True Story…”

Calgary, Alberta - Irish Beth Maddock’s debut children’s picture book is based on a true story of her growing up on a lake. This story promotes some very positive values to our kids. It teaches young readers how to be a voice to those who cannot speak for themselves; to respect all creatures, no matter how ugly they may seem, and how knowledge and experience can bring about understanding and compassion.

Tadpoles, clams, and minnows–WOW!

For siblings Beth and Paul, growing up on a lake and exploring the wonders of aquatic life is fun, until the children encounter a startling, “fishy” find along the shoreline. When the kids discover the moustached, scaly blue carp they found lives in the marsh near their home, they become afraid. Seasons pass and Beth and Paul avoid the swampy reeds at all costs–until a natural occurrence brings about a life-or-death situation for the creepy looking carp, right in their own backyard!

With guidance from their father, will Beth and Paul be able to overcome their apprehensions about the carp and help save them before it is too late?

“(This) sweet story’s competent prose makes it easy to follow ... appropriate for young children who enjoy the outdoors and whose parents would like to enhance their moral teachings. A simple kids’ book with a message about respecting all life.” ~ Kirkus Reviews

Book trailer:
The Great Carp Escape Book Trailer

About the book:
The Great Carp Escape by Irish Beth Maddock
ISBN : 978-1-4866-0508-8
Publisher: Word Alive Press
Publish date: January 13, 2015
Page count: 24
Price: $12.99

About the author:
Irish Beth Maddock was a columnist for two local newspapers, had stories published in Reader’s Digest, and broadcasted on 100 Huntley Street, CHBC Television and CBC Radio. She is a published poet, and has both performed in and directed plays and musical theater productions.

My Review:

This book has a great message. Not to judge a book (or fish) by it's cover. It is what is on the inside that matters. We are all God's Creations, and we should not bully each other. Especially because of looks. I did think that the images were very dark and not that easy to read. The skies are always dark as well. I actually missed one of the paragraphs. I would imagine that it would be difficult for children to read.   However the message, and the overall feel of this book made me happy. I love when animals are rescued!. I am giving this book a 2/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

Happy Homestyle Chef My First Homestyle Cookbook by Annette Crossley Review

Product description...

With Over 150 Recipes for your Enjoyment This cookbook Will take your Taste buds On a Wonderful Exciting Adventure!

As a young energetic, very out going and friendly girl, I was Always very friendly and had plenty of friends. I Remember my older siblings Juanita, Laverna, SK, and Clarence. I had one younger sister Ida, who I was Responsible for Looking out after coming up. My older siblings who soon Married and moved out of the house, so I suppose that Left me caring for my youngest sister, Ida. My Dad, Charles Taylor Wright worked for the New York Central Railroad and my Mom, Katherine and my Grandmother Ran the Restaurant or should I say, Cafe, is what they called them back then. So my Mom and Grandmother was always working and cooking at the cafe and I was the Middle child Left at home to do the cooking and cleaning for me. My youngest sister Ida and my younger brother Clarence. So every day after school was out, I went home to cook and clean for my Siblings, before I went out to play with my friends. I would always stop over my older sisters house to watch her cook, since they Lived Right Next door. My older sister Juanita was Married to Sammy, a Military guy. Sammy was a Real Nice guy, but he suffered a lot of flash backs from the War and being in the Military. So I would Always take my friends with me, just in case he was having a bad day. Some days I would stop and visit my sister Juanita, and if she wasn’t home from work yet, and Sammy would come to the door yelling Real Loud, “Who is it?” My friends and I would Run and jump off the steps Real fast “Laughing”, because Sammy was having a bad day. However, I always had my Mom, Grandmother, Aunt and older sister to teach me certain things to cook. I Remember burning up so many pots-n-pans, until I was Almost banned completely from the kitchen HA-HA. I soon grew up, graduated from high school, married with a family of my own and me and my husband at the time, had five children, Curtis, Brian, Derrick, Kimberly and Delbert. So I was Always cooking for a Large family. My Mom Katherine, Grandmother Julia, Aunt Lilie, Mother-in-Law Mary Francis. Aunt Peti Pie, Aunt Ruby, Aunt Laurie and Aunt Jack were All great-great cooks. This is how I started cooking at a very young Age.

My Review:

This is a great book for pot luck meals, and for on the go cooking. The meals are easy to make, and the recipes are easy to follow and understand. I had no problem finding the ingredients either. I enjoyed the soups. The list of terms at the end is great to have in any kitchen. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

The Trouble With Peer Pressure - A Simple “My ADHD Story” for Young Teens by Darlene R. Wood

About the Book

If you have ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder), you already know that sometimes, everyday life seems like it’s too much to handle. And probably you’ve already experienced the fact that when you’re already overwhelmed, peer pressure seems to compound any situation. The Trouble With Peer Pressure is a friendly, practical guide to help you navigate the challenges of peer pressure.

Author Darlene R. Wood provides information you can use, including ways to think about the consequences of your actions, and strategies to feel less isolated by the label of ADHD. You may feel that figuring out how to deal with peer pressure is hard—but guess what? It doesn’t have to be. Like any other issue, it just requires that everyone step back, evaluate, and design a thoughtful and respectful solution. The Trouble With Peer Pressure is a valuable resource for you and your family that will make life easier for you, both in school and at home.

About the Author

Darlene R. Wood is a full-time mom who loves to create art in a variety of media, from designing wedding cakes to sewing cloth “How-To” books for children, painting, and now writing. The Trouble With Peer Pressure is her first book.

My Review:

This was a really nice book about what a child with ADHD thinks about themselves as they are labeled and face being different. I love that the author talked about how medication can make a child feel as well. every doctor should read this book before they label a child. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

Avoiding the Dodgeballs....at Work by E. Marie Review

Avoiding the Dodgeballs....at Work
A Young Woman’s Guide to Succeeding at a First Job

CHICAGO, Illinois, -- They can come in all colors, shapes and sizes. Dodgeballs are hard-hitting, nerve-racking and sometimes life changing events that can occur on the job. Emerald Betts, a business professional, and under the pen name E. Marie, releases a guide for employees on how to duck, dip or dive to avoid dodgeballs in her new book, Avoiding the Dodgeballs…At Work, A Young Woman’s Guide to Succeeding at a First Job.

After working 25 years in various industries, supervising and mentoring numerous of young professional men and women, E. Marie was inspired to write a book that prepares entry level employees for the world of work.

This career guidance book addresses a variety of subject matters including: project management, team work, managing your boss, performance evaluations, sexual harassment, difficult coworkers and networking.

It is an easy to read guidance book with two main characters. One of the fictional characters is a female, a recent college graduate, who is preparing to enter the workforce. The other character is the narrator, who gives the new employee straight to the point advice –with a touch of humor- on how to handle or avoid potential work related issues. There are funny scenarios and illustrations scattered throughout the book. An index is included to locate specific subject matter.

E. Marie is hopeful that upon reading her book, readers will get a heads-up on what to expect during the first year of employment while obtaining some tips on how to avoid first job “hiccups” and smoothly move up the ladder.

About the book:
Avoiding the Dodgeballs…At Work, A Young Woman’s Guide to Succeeding at a First Job by E. Marie
ISBN: 9781484033951
Publisher: CreateSpace
Date of publish: October 2014
Pages: 206
S.R.P.: $14.95

About the Author:
Emerald Betts is a business professional who has worked in various industries, including large and small corporations and non-profits. She holds a Bachelor Degree in Accounting from the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and a Master of Science Degree in Communications from Northwestern University. As a person who loves to read and listen to talk radio, Emerald enjoys mentoring young people of all ages. When not writing, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling and attending grandson Jalen’s baseball games. Mrs. Betts resides in Chicago, Illinois.

My Review:

This is a great book for women in their work life. It gives great examples in an easy to read format. There are also great questions, answers, charts and other figures to help the reader understand. I really enjoyed the part about the biker going to an interview! I also read the part about co-workers with a lot of attention. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own. 

Visions of the Last Adam by Rafael Garcia Review

Biblical End Times Are Set in Modern Day in New Christian Fiction Novel, Visions of the Last Adam

Set against a modern-day backdrop, Visions of the Last Adam offers a new, modern take on end-times prophecy.

Valley Springs, CA – Visions of the Last Adam reveals that there are two Gods: the Father of Jesus and the Gentile God of Michael and his angels during the Second Roman Empire of the Technology Age. Set in surreal, modern times, the new book views the end times in a uniquely contemporary light. Visions of the Last Adam is published by Outskirts Press.

Mount Shasta is the epicenter for droughts throughout the ages, waging war with droughts, sending out the white rider and the Holy Ghost to rectify wrongs. One such drought was reported by Joseph, one of the 12 sons of Jacob, allowing Egypt to conquer the behavior of land-grabbing liars, thieves and murders in the world, giving them food.

Egypt shows them as liars with legal title to the land. After the drought of Egypt, nations carved out land for themselves, worshiping gods that created their territory. These are false gods. Mount Shasta tells about the worship of the true gods. No one has the right to claim title to land on Earth except them. As a result, many wars have been started. Satan has given power to kings to develop a psychology throughout ages by giving them territory they did not help create.

In Visions of the Last Adam, Michael and his angels have kicked Satan and his angels out of heaven, becoming the servants of God called the Elect, Predestine or the Lost to battle the whoring hearts and eyes of humans on Earth. Satan, a control freak who wants all the best things in life, uses quantum mechanics to claim ownership of foreign lands. Jesus Christ captures the gentile god as God the Son confronting oppression, bringing in the Word of God to rescue servants of God when they take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, bringing a new type of resurrection of Jesus. Their goal? To create a new Jerusalem and provide a portal between the new Heaven and the new Earth.

About the book:
Visions of the Last Adam by Rafael Garcia
ISBN: 978-1-4327-8305-1
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Date of publish: September 2014
Pages: 325
S.R.P.: $15.95

About the author:
Visions of the Last Adam is Rafael Garcia’s debut novel, offering a unique and fascinating take on end-times prophecy.

My Review:

This book was a nice read for me because it centered on a few of the people in the Bible rather than everyone. It was easier for me to understand. The author talks about creating a new Jerusalem and making the world a different place. The end-times are seen through a whole new light. I really enjoyed chapter six and the information on the different seals. The author includes graphs, scripture and prayer to get his point across. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

Christmas Lilly by Kathy Johnson Review

West Palm Beach, FL - Christmas Lilly, the second book in the Starlette Universe Lil’ Lilly series, arrives just in time for Christmas, as Lilly celebrates the holidays, while fighting Evil Eva, who is intent on destroying Christmas.

Award-winning author and prolific punster Kathy Johnson starts Lilly’s holiday story with Lilly eagerly awaiting Santa’s arrival:

“I heard roof-tapping And knew Santa was here - Especially when Skylar said: ‘Lilly, it’s ‘RAIN’, dear.’”

Pre-schoolers, middle-graders and the young at heart will delight in Lil’Lilly’s Christmas adventures. For Lilly, Christmas is all about “Believe! Believe! Believe!”, and her message is spread through puns (100 puns in a 32 page book), rhyme (which suggests a reading experience akin to Dr. Suess) and word play (‘Starlette-isms’ permeate the text).

‘Piction’, a genre of fiction created by Starlette Universe, makes for an engaging storyline as Kathy Johnson uses text to interface with pictures in telling her tale. A Readers’ Favorite reviewer, commenting on this new genre in reference to another Starlette Universe book, gave that book a five-star rating and stated: “The author and illustrator present this as Piction – a novel, a comic book and fiction. It is truly a new-age version of a comic book, but better.”

Readers familiar with Starlette Universe will enjoy Lilly’s journey to make Christmas a meaningful experience. Lil’ Lilly takes on current Christmas controversies such as: The ‘gender’bread ‘person’, ‘cross’ing Christ out of Christmas, the ‘No’tivity ‘Seen’, and Frosty the Snowman/Jesus symbolism. Lilly and her nemesis, Eva, fit nicely into the global plot of the Starlette Universe middle-grade book series and continue the good vs. evil theme so characteristic of Starlette Universe.

This book combines fantastic illustrations by Dick Kulpa a/k/a Captain Cartoon, who successfully turned the six Starlettes into America’s Sweet ‘arts’ with his distinctive artwork. Kulpa is former publisher of Cracked Magazine, creator of Bat Boy (centerpiece of “Bat Boy the Musical’) and a thrice-syndicated newspaper comic strip cartoonist for Tribune Media Services and the Los Angeles Times Syndicate.

About the author:
Kathy Johnson is an attorney and mother of Miss Vermont 1999 and Miss Vermont USA 2001. Starlette Universe appeared in Pageantry Magazine for eight years. STARLETTE UNIVERSE – Book 2: Eva from Eville recently received a five-star review from Readers’ Favorite and also garnered a perfect 5-star Mini-Critique. That book, together with Lil’ Lilly’s first book, What a Babe, are both Mom’s Choice Award winners.

My Review:

This is like an Advent Calendar and a Comic book in one. My favorite was The Christmas Season ans See Son. Jesus is the son that we should all see on Christmas. There were others that were really funny, and a few that I did not understand at first. This is definitely a fun book to read and get rid of some stress. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own. 

A Flag for the Flying Dragon: A Captain No Beard Story by Carole P. Roman Review

Bethpage, NY - It's business as usual on the Flying Dragon. Their mission is to find a flag for the ship. Captain No Beard sighs, "Being a captain is hard work," as he watches the busy crew preparing the vessel for their next adventure.

Polly is giving out pretzels; Linus is polishing a lamp. Matie is cracking coconuts, Cayla is stuffing holes, and Hallie is swabbing the deck. High overhead, trouble is brewing, and it is not the weather.

Mongo does not want any help from the newest crew member, and it is creating a hurricane of a mess on board.

The team must come together and find a task that will fit Zachary without interfering with their own fun. On the way, they acquire a flag that will unite them as both friends and crew.

Join the problem-solving crew of the Flying Dragon as they find a flag for their ship and a job for Zach.

About the book:
A Flag for the Flying Dragon: A Captain No Beard Story by Carole P. Roman
ISBN: 978-1507826928
Publisher: CreateSpace
Date of publish: March 2015
Pages: 46
S.R.P.: $10.99

About the author:
Award winning author Carole P. Roman is a former teacher who became a businesswoman. Having grandchildren and sharing stories created a whole new career as an author. Her "Captain No Beard" series has become a hit with young readers as well as their parents. Her debut book, "Captain No Beard-An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life" was named to Kirkus Reviews' Best of 2012. "Pepper Parrot's Problem with Patience" received Five Stars from the ForeWord Reviews - Clarion Review. She lives on Long Island with her family.

My Review: 

This is a great book for kids that love pirates. I really liked how everyone had a job to do. Teamwork is a valuable lesson to learn about. I also LOVED Captain No Beard! He was too young to grow a beard! This story is about being a good friend and working together to reach a goal.. I am giving this book a 5/5. I was given a copy to review via bostick, however all opinions are my own. 

The Hangman by Dee Rose Review

Denver, CO – Author Dee Rose has released her new paranormal fantasy novel, The Hangman.

When he is murdered, he is given demonic powers and escapes purgatory to go back to earth and avenge his death as The Hangman. However, unbeknown to him, a war has broken out between good and evil. He must choose a side.

To either join the demon who gave him his powers and the legions of vampires and demons that follow the underworld leader, or join an angel, a vampire slayer, and a demon hunter in their quest to win the war. Which side will he choose?

About the book:
The Hangman by Dee Rose
ISBN: 9781478739692
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Date of publish: September 29, 2014
Pages: 327
S.R.P.: $21.95

About the Author:
Dee Rose was born on July 5th and resides in Denver, CO. He is the father of two daughters. “They are my life.” He says. He attended Metro State University of Denver, where he majored in Political Science. The Hangman is his third published novel and he plans to make it into a series. “Novels like the Hangman are the reason I started writing in the eleventh grade. I love taking readers on an incredible journey.”

My Review:

"The Hangman" by author Dee Rose asks an age old question. If you had a chance to go back to avenge your death what would you do? Just as The Hangman is murdered a war has started. Good and evil are not going to stop until one of them is defeated. But, who should he help? A vampire slayer, an angel and a demon hunter, or the vampires and demons who have brought him back with powers? It is a decision that might change everything as we know it. I give this book a 4/5. I was given this book for a review and these are all my opinions.

Twisting My Kaleidoscope by Shannon Love Review

About the Book
Our author carefully places you in an enchanted bubble, transiting you from one scene to the next. As you position yourself to view what best suits you, she unbars the door to her therapy sessions, uncovers the blanket of her thoughts, unlocks the key to her journal, and extends temporary access to her physical being.

Imagine this impervious bubble, imprisoning you from the moment you choose to indulge—your desperate cries for release denied until an end is reached. Absolved from such a captivity, you can close the book when exhaustion hammers at your head and anxiety stabs your chest. This luxury evades the psychotic. Instead, she is forced to trek the turbulent terrain in its entirety.

About the Author
Shannon Love began life in rural Alabama as a seemingly stable and content youngster. After marrying her childhood sweetheart she continued on this path of fulfillment, expanding her household to five members and thoroughly enjoying a nomadic and international lifestyle. Three countries and five states later our author suffered a psychotic break, forcing her into yet another world—that of mental illness. Repatriated to the U.S., she now resides in Houston, Texas with her husband, two sons, and daughter.

My Review:

I liked that the author was honest and is spreading awareness. There are so many people waking up every day and dealing with the same issues that the author did. Now they know that they are not alone. I liked the drawings in the books as well, and the format that the book was written in. Journal entries and letters are shared throughout the book. Unconditional love is an amazing thing to have. I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.

The Stolen Dragon of Quanx by Becca Mann Review

Conniving Dragons and a Shocking Discovery Thrill in the New Fantasy, The Stolen Dragon of Quanx

A stuck up, adventurous girl takes a path forbidden to her when she is forced to join up with three uncooperative companions to save her world from the brink of war.

Homer Glen, IL – The Eyes Trilogy, a new book series by young author Becca Mann, kicks off in thrilling fashion with The Stolen Dragon of Quanx.The newly release fantasy novel is published by Outskirts Press.

In Quanx, there is no hiding who you are. In a land of tribes, where people are defined by the color of their eyes, disaster is ready to strike at any moment.

With peace barely hanging by a thread, the King of Vitchreonyo makes a risky decision. What he doesn’t know is that his plan may not end as he expects. Then Kale, a fisherman’s daughter, is trapped in a tunnel where she makes a shocking discovery – one that may very well lead to the destruction of her entire world.

Kale takes up a challenge of following a path forbidden to her in a race to save Quanx from a tribe of conniving dragons: With the help of three uncooperative companions, Kale must steal a dragon egg or die trying. The Stolen Dragon of Quanx is the first novel in The Eyes Trilogy, a compelling new series that will pull young readers into a fascinating world…and leave them breathlessly waiting for the sequel.

Becca Mann is a 16-year-old fantasy writer who has traveled and written in six of the seven continents. She now lives in Baltimore and is a member of the United States’ national swim team.

About the book:
The Stolen Dragon of Quanx by Becca Mann
ISBN: 9780578143620
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Date of publish: October 2014
Pages: 320
S.R.P.: $19.95

About the author:
Becca Mann is a 16-year-old fantasy writer who likes chocolate milk, Broadway musicals, and reciting digits of pi. Becca has traveled and written in six of the seven continents. She now lives in Baltimore and is a member of the USA Swimming National Team.

My Review:

I just finished reading "The Stolen Dragon of Quanx" by author Becca Mann. This was a really interesting book. It is the first novel in The Eyes Trilogy and I am sure that any young person that reads this will be excited to read the next book. Kale has got to steal  a dragon egg or there will be big problems. She has to rely on herself to get the job done . Will she be able to do it? Or will it be an impossible task? A great story by a young author. I was given this book for a review and all opinions are mine. I am giving this book a 4/5.  

The Latin Version by Steve Daley Review

In the Two-Fisted Tradition of Literary Sleuths Comes New Modern Day P.I. Novel, The Latin Version

Private investigator Jake Turner may be a rat fink, but he didn’t make the rules. He just tails people who think they’re clever enough to break them.

Chandler, AZ – A criminal judge’s illicit affair spins out of control in the new mystery novel from Steve Daley, The Latin Version. The book is published by Outskirts Press.

Jake Turner knows what he does often puts him, in the eyes of others, in the ranks of rat fink. But the private investigator doesn’t make the rules. He just shadows the people who think they’re smart enough to break them.

When a criminal court judge’s illicit affair lands him in the crosshairs of a blackmailer, it’s Jake who gets his desperate call for help. The assignment is routine for this Phoenix investigator – until the blackmailer is found murdered. When an alluring and mysterious woman links the motive for blackmail to a Latino kingpin and a ruthless drug lord from Central America, Turner finds himself unwittingly drawn into a complex and dangerous plot. And the more the P.I. digs, the more obscure it becomes. Someone has orchestrated a scheme both lethal and cunning. All is not as it appears as Jake Turner takes to the streets in a bid to get to the bottom of it all without sinking into oblivion.

About the book:
The Latin Version by Steve Daley
ISBN: 978-0-578-14861-8
Publisher: Outskirts Press
Date of publish: October 2014
Pages: 212
S.R.P.: $10.95

About the author:
Steve Daley is the author of the apocalyptic thriller Sabbath Rest and the modern revolutionary drama The Lincoln Grant Exigent. He lives in Chandler, Arizona.

My Review:

The author refers to his writing as movel.  A mixture between movie and novel. I must say as I read through this book, I could definitely see this as a movie. At times I felt like a narrator was telling me about the scenes. There is also a mystery. Who is the mystery woman? Does the judge get caught? Or does he pay hush money for the rest of his life? Will P.I Jake Turner solve the case and escape the Latino Kingpin? I enjoyed this book and would love to read more Jake Turner novels! I am giving this book a 4/5. I was given a copy to review, however all opinions are my own.