Amazing Gracie

Title: Amazing Gracie
Author: Michael Haibach
Publisher: MJH Publishing
ISBN: 978-1981923083

“You want to forget your past. Then create a new one and move on,” Grace is told in Michael Haibach’s book, Amazing Gracie.

~ What ~
This two-hundred-and-seventy-four-page paperback targets those who like a biography about a woman that held a secret about her past for almost a hundred years. With minor profanity, topics of poverty, physical abuse, prostitution, and death may not be appropriate for immature readers.

In this true story written by her grandson, Grace Dodson Haibach may have appeared as a well-bred, well-mannered, and societal lady who was born in 1893, but she never told a soul about her horrible upbringing until she was in her nineties. After being an orphan in an asylum, placed into five foster homes, and eventually ran away, the child learned at a young age to keep to herself, hide her inner feelings, and never speak or look up. With the help of a wealthy friend, she buried her heartbreaking past and redesigned herself with poise, maturity, and sophistication.

~ Why ~
While most of us grow up having to deal with our mistakes or family tragedies, we may not have the fortitude and wherewithal to survive being put in an orphanage like Grace and some her of siblings were although their parents were still alive. The protagonist’s constant drive to change for the better and not become bitter or pitied is a tribute to her determination. I like that the story of her life did finally come out and was shared by one of her grandchildren.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like tales of the abuse of children and poverty faced physically and emotionally in an orphanage in the early 1900s may avoid this read. Others may not like that the main character consistently lied and used a false identity to alter her past, avoiding any connection to it based on thinking others would think less of her. Some may be disappointed that Grace did not keep in contact with her siblings and relatives throughout the many decades.

~ Wish ~
While I enjoyed the compilation of Grace’s rise from feeling she was a nobody to a well-respected and loved wife, mother, and grandmother, I feel sorry that she never came completely clean about her past, abandoning her siblings and not fully reconciling with them or their children.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a biography of one woman’s secretive life of overcoming a sad and dismal childhood to feeling important, this is a good read, especially if you are related to the woman.

Thanks to Marich Media and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

This book can be purchased at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/amazing-gracie-michael-haibach/1128211524

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* CONTEST * O is for Oregon ~ 1 Free Book Giveaway!

Win Trish Madson’s book,
O IS FOR OREGON!
ENTER TO WIN THE BOOK.

ONE WINNER will be randomly selected to win FREE from the publisher this book.

Book teaser: “Go on an alphabetized field trip around the beaver state and discover its marvelous plants, animals, foods, and places,” the back jacket states in Trish Madson’s children ’s book, O is for Oregon: A Beaver State ABC Primer.

SIMPLE steps to enter this 3-day contest

1.  Follow my blog if you do not do so already.
2. Click on the headline ** CONTEST ** to be sure you are on the Reply page.
3. Post in the “LEAVE A REPLY” section below why you want to read this exciting book (could be funny, clever, serious, or the words “I want” since the winner is randomly chosen).
4. Follow one of these social media links:

Twitter: @familiustalk
Instagram: @familiustalk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/paterfamilius
Websiite – http://www.familius.com

5. If you are the winner, please consider posting a review regarding what you thought of the book on one or two websites.

This is a FAST CONTEST ending TUESDAY, June 19th, 2018, after 6 PM PST, so follow the requirements above and try for a chance to win a book that is mailed from the publisher directly to you! Winner’s shipping address must be in the U.S.A.

I read & reviewed this book & it’s 5 Stars!
https://connywithay.wordpress.com/2018/06/15/o-is-for-oregon/

Pidge Takes the Stage

Title: Pidge Takes the Stage
Author: Michelle Staubach Grimes
Illustrator: Bill Deore
Publisher: Pidge Media
ISBN: 978-0-9908420-1-9

“Pidge stretched her mouth so wide it hurt. Tears welled in her eyes. What have I gotten myself into? She thought,” Michelle Staubach Grimes writes in her children’s book, Pidge Takes the Stage.

~ What ~
A sequel in a series, this oversized thirty-two-page hardbound targets five- to six-year-old children and readers who appreciate a fun story about participation, hard work, and acceptance. With no scary scenes, it would be best read to beginner readers based on some complicated words. Expressive, detailed illustrations by Deore cover the pages with the story coinciding with the artwork.

In this charming story, young Pidge decides to audition for a school play and include her rather unruly-behaved dog, Maverick. While everyone tells her the dog is not well trained and she has to learn how to sing properly, the girl believes in herself and her canine. After taking lessons and training her dog as best as she can, the day of the audition arrives, but chaos occurs when Maverick misbehaves. Pidge’s friend takes care of the beloved pet so she can audition and be selected for a different role in the play.

~ Why ~
This book is a clever way for a young child to learn about believing in oneself, practicing to get better at something, not giving up on others, being a friend, offering unconditional love, and trying your best in every situation. I love how the author promotes doing hard work and fortitude to achieve a goal.

~ Why Not ~
The book contains many multi-syllable words that may frustrate beginner readers, but it also is a way to learn new words. Those with visual issues may find some of the illustrations too busy and hectic.

~ Wish ~
While the book is for five and six-year-olds, I think it could be read and understood by younger children or read on its own by older kids in the lower elementary grades. I hope more adventures of Pidge are in the works.

~ Want ~
If you read the first in the series of Pidge’s life, this book will delight a young reader. It would be well received by a reader who likes to learn or try new things while accepting things do not always work out as planned.

Thanks to Finnpartners and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

This book can be purchased at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/pidge-takes-the-stage-michelle-grimes/1127921224

* CONTEST * Courageous People ~ 1 Free Book Giveaway!

Win Heidi Poelman’s book,
COURAGEOUS PEOPLE WHO CHANGED THE WORLD!
ENTER TO WIN THE BOOK.

ONE WINNER will be randomly selected to win FREE from the publisher this book.

Book teaser: “These heroes stood up to make a difference. What kind of hero will you be?” the back jacket states in Heidi Poelman’s children’s book, Courageous People Who Changed the World.

SIMPLE steps to enter this 3-day contest

1.  Follow my blog if you do not do so already.
2. Click on the headline ** CONTEST ** to be sure you are on the Reply page.
3. Post in the “LEAVE A REPLY” section below why you want to read this exciting book (could be funny, clever, serious, or the words “I want” since the winner is randomly chosen).
4. Follow one of these social media links:

Twitter: @familiustalk
Instagram: @familiustalk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/paterfamilius
Websiite – http://www.familius.com

5. If you are the winner, please consider posting a review regarding what you thought of the book on one or two websites.

This is a FAST CONTEST ending SUNDAY, June 17th, 2018, after 6 PM PST, so follow the requirements above and try for a chance to win a book that is mailed from the publisher directly to you! Winner’s shipping address must be in the U.S.A.

I read & reviewed this book & it’s 5 Stars! https://connywithay.wordpress.com/2018/06/15/courageous-people-who-changed-the-world/

10 Little Monsters Visit Oregon

Title: 10 Little Monsters Visit Oregon
Author: Rick Walton
Illustrator: Jess Smart Smiley
Publisher: Familius
ISBN: 978-1-939629-29-6

“4 Little Monsters sing in the sea,
‘Come, little sea lions! Play with me!’
The monsters have no fun at all.
The sea lions, though, they have a ball!”
Rick Walton rhymes in his children’s book, 10 Little Monsters Visit Oregon.

~ What ~
Part of a series, this over-sized thirty-two-page hardbound targets three- to eight-year-old children and readers who like learning about American states while counting. With no scary scenes, it would be best read to beginner readers based on some complicated words. Expressive, colorful illustrations cover the pages with the story in rhyme and a paragraph in a smaller font about the highlighted location or object. Counting down from ten, well-known Oregon places and things are covered.

In this quaint tale, ten little monsters get to visit Oregon, but as they go to each famous site, there is one monster less until only one says goodbye at the end. They visit the Astoria Column, Tillamook Cheese Factory, Portland Rose Festival, Powell’s Books, Sea Lion Caves, Crater Lake, Malheur National Forest, and Pendleton Round-up and see beavers and banana slugs. The informative paragraphs give details, facts, and features.

~ Why ~
This fun monster book is a clever way for a young child to learn about one of the states in America, especially if he or she knows someone living there or is planning a trip to visit. I love how the author goes into detail about the highlighted topic so that adults can learn something too.

One example is Crater Lake, where the monsters take a break and wade in it, and one checks out how deep it is. The paragraph explains the lake was made by a volcano and is almost two-thousand feet deep.

~ Why Not ~
The book contains many multi-syllable words that may frustrate beginner readers, but it also is a way to learn new words. The paragraph font is small so a little hard to read.

~ Wish ~
I am glad to see the author has written several books in this format about the little monsters visiting a few states and cities and hope more are in the works.

~ Want ~
With so many amazing places in our country, this one based on where I live will delight our visiting grandchildren while educating them about Oregon through the little monsters. It would be an excellent collection for anyone who likes geography or traveling while learning how to count backwards.

Thanks to Familius and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

This book can be purchased at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/10-little-monsters-visit-oregon-rick-walton/1118175339

O is for Oregon

Title: O is for Oregon
Author: Trish Madson
Illustrator: David Miles
Publisher: Familius
ISBN: 978-1-944822-72-9

“Go on an alphabetized field trip around the beaver state and discover its marvelous plants, animals, foods, and places,” the back jacket states in Trish Madson’s children ’s book, O is for Oregon: A Beaver State ABC Primer.

~ What ~
Part of a series, this twenty-page board book with rounded edges targets five- to six-year-old children and readers who like learning about states via the alphabet. With no scary scenes, it would be best read to beginner readers based on some complicated words. Broad, colorful illustrations cover the pages with large alphabet letters and smaller font writing. Using all letters in the alphabet, locations and objects in Oregon are covered.

From A for the Astoria Column to Z for the Oregon Zoo, the state’s scenic highlights, famous locations, state animals and plants, beloved foods, and quirky features are displayed. There is Crater Lake, the Grotto, International Rose Garden, Klamath Falls, Lewis and Clark Trail, Mount Hood, Neahkahnie Mountain, Pilot Butte, Sea Lion Caves, and the Tillamook Cheese Factory as well as a beaver, elk, finch, quail, vagrant shrew, and western meadowlark plus the Douglas fir, roses, hazelnut, Oregon grape, xylophone, and yurt.

~ Why ~
Not written as a fictional story, this educational book is a simple way for a young child to learn about one of the states in America, especially if he or she knows someone living there or is planning a trip to visit. I love how the author states the word while the picture shows the object without too much complication or detail.

~ Why Not ~
The book contains many multi-syllable words that may frustrate beginner readers, but it also is a way to learn new words. The age group is for five and six year olds, but younger and older children could learn some facts from this book.

~ Wish ~
I am glad to see the author has written many books about each state and hope she continues to educate young ones by using the alphabet.

~ Want ~
With fifty states in our country, this one based on where I live will delight our visiting grandchildren while educating them about Oregon. It would be a wonderful collection for anyone who likes geography or traveling while learning in alphabet order.

Thanks to Familius and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

This book can be purchased at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/o-is-for-oregon-david-w-miles/1126035947

Courageous People Who Changed the World

Title: Courageous People Who Changed the World
Author: Heidi Poelman
Illustrator: Kyle Kershner
Publisher: Familius LLC
ISBN: 978-1-945547-75-1

“These heroes stood up to make a difference. What kind of hero will you be?” the back jacket states in Heidi Poelman’s children’s book, Courageous People Who Changed the World.

~ What ~
The first in the Little Heroes series, this sixteen-page board book with rounded corners targets children ages three to five years old who are interested in people who made a difference in history. With no scary scenes, the colorful illustrations by Kershner cover all pages. Due to complicated wording, the book would be best read out loud to beginner readers.

This short compilation covers important people who caused positive changes in societal norms in our world. Mentioning heroes such as Wiliam Wilberforce, Harriet Tubman, Abraham Lincoln, Susan B. Anthony, Mahatma Gandhi, Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King Junior, and Malala Yousafzai, each open page has their name in bold, a short quote, and a few sentences about what they accomplished in helping mankind deal with equality.

~ Why ~
I love when a children’s book is engaging yet educational, and this one keeps a child’s attention while explaining how a few individuals’ courage and fortitude changed history for the good. I like that the focus of the book deals with us being created equal regarding the color of our skin, slavery, voting, making a stand, and doing what is right.

~ Why Not ~
Those who do not like books about history and different ethnic groups may not be interested in this book. Others may find the two- and three- syllable words too hard for new readers.

~ Wish ~
I wish more children’s books like this were available for young ones to learn about history and the heroes who have made our world a better place.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a children’s educational series that promotes making a courageous stand while changing the world for the better, this is a wonderful start that encourages readers to want to be heroes too.

Thanks to Familius and the author for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

This book can be purchased at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/little-heroes-heidi-poelman/1126988082

The Aging Brain

Title: The Aging Brain
Author: Timothy R. Jennings, MD
Publisher: Baker Books
ISBN: 978-0-8010-7522-3

“Dementia is a pathological state—an abnormal situation—a disease state that may, with healthy choices, be avoided,” Timothy R. Jennings, MD, states in his book, The Aging Brain: Proven Steps to Prevent Dementia and Sharpen Your Mind.

~ What ~
At two-hundred-and-eighty-eight pages, this paperback targets those interested in ways to protect themselves and others from the possible onset of dementia as they age. Using mainly the New International Version of the Holy Bible, also referenced are the NET and NKJV. After a table of contents, author’s notes, acknowledgments, and introduction, the four sections are completed by an addendum, notes, author’s biography, and advertisements.

The book’s four parts cover seventeen chapters that include the history of aging, oxidative stress, lifestyle, and pathological aging. Each chapter has a title, quote by a famous person, and topic discussion, ending with learning points and an action plan. Some topics covered include developing a healthy brain, epigenetics, genes, obesity, sugar, tobacco, alcohol, exercise, sleep, vacation, spiritual beliefs, mental stress, love and death, vitamins and supplements, risk factors for dementia, and caring for a loved one with the disease.

~Why ~
I appreciate books that contain both scientific and applicable data, and this one does about how our brain wears down as we age. It points out the destructive inflammation and oxidation that damages the brain and sometimes can be avoided. Whether dealing with mental stressors or making poor choices that may lead to mistakes, we all need to rely on God to accept our mortality. I like how the author approached having a relationship with Jesus Christ is the most important decision one can make while leading a healthy lifestyle to maintain a vibrant brain.

~ Why Not ~
Some readers who do not believe or have a personal relationship with Jesus Christ may not consider the spiritual aspect of brain health. Others may not agree with the writer’s physiatric approach to the topic, although dealing with bitterness and promoting forgiveness will improve one’s health.

~ Wish ~
While I know that the discussions in the book apply to all of us to keep a healthy attitude, body, and brain, I did not glean much new information except to eat more walnuts and drink pomegranate juice and coffee but avoid using gingko biloba as a preventative supplement to dementia. I wish the last part of the book was the focal point as it gave more specific suggestions.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for an easy-to-comprehend book about maintaining a healthy lifestyle as you age in hopes to protect your memory, this may offer some valid points to improve your quality of life as you get older.

Thanks to Baker Books for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

This book can be purchased at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-aging-brain-timothy-jennings-timothy-r-md/1127179105

God’s Blessing Day by Day

Title: God’s Blessing Day by Day
Editor: Johnny Hunt
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
ISBN: 978-1-4003-1130-0

“This 52-week devotional will help you enjoy those quiet times with your children as you teach them about the Lord and His blessings,” editor Dr. Johnny M. Hunt writes in the introduction of his compiled book, God’s Blessing Day by Day.

~ What ~
At three-hundred-and-thirty-six-pages, this small hardbound targets children ages eight years old and older who want a daily devotional about God and His blessings. Using mainly the International Children’s Bible, also referenced are the CEV, NCV, and NIV. A contributors’ list and Scripture index, as well as a white ribbon marker, complete the book. With some complicated wording, the book should be read out loud to beginner readers.

Written by fifty-three pastors, children’s ministers, and other church leaders, the My Daily Devotional for Kids covers one page per every weekday plus one weekend day of the year. Divided into the fifty-two weeks, each devotion by different authors begins with a title, followed by one to three Bible verses written out. Several paragraphs cover the topic, ending with a short prayer. A purple tab highlights a feature of the topic; the bottom of the page lists the author.

Some topic titles include Jesus Loves Us All, Happy Parents, How Powerful is God?, Don’t Forget to Remember, Our Amazing God, We Have Good News, God’s Comfort, Just Like a Magnet, Jesus Can Use You Too, We Need One Another, Joy, and Words That Taste Like Candy.

~Why ~
I like that each author’s devotion is written differently and focuses on topics most third and fourth graders can comprehend about the Almighty. The day’s page is short and to the point.

One example I enjoyed is Night Guard, Week 23 Weekend, that has Psalm 121:3 as its key Bible verse. After mentioning how a guard watches over someone to make sure they are safe, the devotion reminds young readers that God takes care of them, even when they are asleep, and He protects them every minute they are awake. The prayer is of thanks to God for His protection, and the purple tab states “I can trust God to keep me safe.”

~ Why Not ~
This is not an in-depth devotional and may be best for children who already have Christ as their personal Lord and Savior. Some readers may not like that there are only six devotions per week included.

~ Wish ~
Since the book seems to state it should be read out loud to children at the end of the day, it may not engage those who are mature at the age of eight years old or older due to some of the rudimentary topics. I think the book may be more geared to read to those in kindergarten and the lower grade levels.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for a kid’s six-day-a-week devotional about God and the wonderful blessings He bestows on us, this may be a good option, but it may be targeted for those younger who enjoy having someone read to them.

Thanks to Book Look Bloggers for this complimentary book that I am under no obligation to review.

This book can be purchased at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/gods-blessing-day-by-day-thomas-nelson/1127480862

Marina Vida Women’s 1-Piece Bathing Suit

ADJUSTABLE DOUBLE STRAP 1-PIECE BATHING SUIT

~ What ~
Made of 82% Polyester and 18% Spandex, this women’s one-piece bathing suit has four 1/2-inch adjustable shoulder straps that cross at the back with removable padded bra inserts and a low back waistline. Available in 4 choices, it comes in solid red or black or 2 floral patterns in 5 sizes from small, medium to XX-large. Cleaning instructions online and on its attached tag state it is best to wash in cold water and not put in the dryer.

~ Why ~
Seeing that I take a spa daily, I go through bathing suits often. I like that this one is easy to put on and take off, yet it is loose enough that it does not constrict the body. The fabric is soft yet stretchable, and the padded bra inserts are not too thick. I like how I can adjust the shoulder straps according to my needs.

~ Why Not ~
Some may not like that there are no underwires in this bathing suit, but I prefer those without them. Others may wish its breast pads were a little thicker, but they are not bulky and do not show off the nipples.

~ Wish ~
I wish more patterned options of flowers, designs, and other colors were available in this bathing suit.

~ Want ~
If you are looking for an attractive one-piece bathing suit that has adjustable shoulder straps, this is a great choice for the price.

Thanks for MarinaVida for this discounted product that I am under no obligation to evaluate.

#RankBoosterReview #Sponsored by Yan Yu #MarinaVida

This product can be purchased at https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B076Q9NFH7