Three Series of Books Full of Allusions And Are Great, Fun Reads

I get a kick out of reading a book, watching a movie or television show, or reading an article when I get to use my mind more than expected. Literary or pop culture references that make me stop and smile or think really can increase my enjoyment of something if it is done correctly. Here are some books that use references to myths and literature in ways that made me enjoy the book even more. 

Here, There Be Dragons by James A. Owen is the first book in the Chronicles of the Imaginarium Geographica series. These series is full to the brim of references to authors, literature and myths. The main characters are three men from attached to Oxford University. The murder of an Oxford professor and the interference of a very strange man named Bert bind the three together and set them onto a path of adventure of mythic proportions. I do not want to tell you who the three main characters are, but I will say that they are all well known authors of their day, and it isn't said exactly who they are until near the end of the book, so I don't want to spoil it for you if you haven't already guessed. Through out this series there are allusions to Greek Mythology, Arthurian legends, Narnia, Oz and Pythia.

Michael Buckley has gifted us with The Sisters Grimm series of books, which begins with Fairy Tale Detectives. This book is marketed to children, but I honestly think anyone interested in the evolution of fairy tales will enjoy this series, I know that I do. In this series, we see two young girls who have bounced around in the foster care system since their parents disappeared. A grandmother the girls did not know still lived claims custody of the girls, and then their adventures really begin. Grandmother Grimm just happens to live in Ferryport, a town for fairy tale characters whether they are willing or not. The variety and depth to the fairy tale characters is fantastic, and worth the read. We see Prince Charming, the Big Bad Wolf, Snow White, and Peter Pan all trying to survive in today's world. The series is also honestly funny for children and adults without resorting to childish humor, it is witty and clever.

Another series heavy with literary references is Cornelia Funke's Inkheart and the two books that follow. Even though some of the allusions self referential to this series, much like in William Goldman's The Princess Bride, there are also allusions to actual books and legends. We see a major player come into the story line from Arabian Nights and references to several mythological creatures throughout the series. Even though the amount of references to known literary works is less in this series than in the ones I mentioned previously, it has the same feel to it.

There are of course several other workers that touch on mythology or commonly known literature to deepen their own plot and enrich their own stories. I think these authors did more than that, they expanded on the original works rather than simply borrowing from them.

Early Book Review: Quinny & Hopper by Adriana Brad Schanen, Greg Swearingen

Quinny & Hopper by is a children's chapter book written by Adriana Brad Schanen and illustrated by Greg Swearingen. The book is currently scheduled for release on June 10 2014. This is a book about to very different kids finding a the best kind of friendship. Quinny has just moved from New York City to a big farmhouse in a tiny town. It is there that see meet Hopper, a crazy chicken, and a grumpy older neighbor. Quinny has a lot to say and never seems to stop moving while Hopper gets to the point and proceeds with caution. Quinny has some very big ideas, while
Hopper comes up with smart solutions. The pair could not be more different, but together they can do anything. Can Quinny and Hopper stick together in the face of social pressures at school and the hunt for a crazed chicken?

Quinny & Hopper is a fun and heart warming tale about children finding their best friends, and the best in themselves. In the summer before third grade Quinny, and big hair, smiles, and ideas finds herself in a tiny town with nothing familiar but her family, which includes two little sisters with less than sanitary habits. Hopper spends his days trying to avoid his older brothers and building bone models. They do not seem like a perfect pair, but like most children they will surprise you. Their well fleshed out characters struggle with themselves and expectations others have of them and the world in general, while still making the reader chuckle. I think children and adults can find something to relate to and enjoy in this book.

I recommend Quinny & Hopper to early chapter book readers, families to share, and library collections. There is a lesson in the story about being true to yourself and your friends, but it is not a lesson that comes off as preachy. Rather, young readers just might come away from this book with a new appreciation for the 'different' kids and wonder if they could be just as great of a friend as Quinny or Hopper.

Book Review: The Pigeon Needs a Bath by Mo Willems

The Pigeon Needs a Bath by Mo Willems is the newest addition to the Pigeon collection from Willems, and it meets all the exceptions of this fan. In this adventure the intrepid pigeon really needs a bath. However, you know the pigeon is not going to make this easy. Pigeon is sure the bath he took last month, he thinks, has him covered. But when even  the flies start telling him he needs a bath, pigeon still is not sure. It's going to take some serious convincing to try and get the Pigeon to take the plunge.

Mo Willem rocks, I love his books and was thrilled to see this on my cart to catalog! In The Pigeon Needs a Bath readers see the pigeon fight against a bath with as much effort as he has previously fought against bedtime, and for driving a bus, having a hot dog party, and so on. Pigeon's tenacity is something I can recognize in both my kids, and honestly myself at times. Also, I know there are parents out there that have battles about getting the kids in the bath. (I am fortunate in that my biggest problem is getting them out of the tub, and limiting the baths to once a day.) So this book is something so many kids and parents can relate to and find entertainment in that I think everyone should read it. Yup everyone, kids that love the bath, kids that hate the bath, and parents that just hose the kids off in the summer or let them play in the rain to avoid the fight.

The Pigeon Needs a Bath is another home run by Mo Willems. It is a great read aloud book to share, and a book young readers can enjoy alone. I think the book, the ending in particular, is something all caregivers can relate to, and will make kids smile too!

Book Review: The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom (The League of Princes #1) by Christopher Healy, Bronson Pinchot

The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom is the first book in The League of Princes series
by Christopher Healy. I listened to the audiobook, which was read by Bronson Pinchot. The story is that of four Princes Charming. Prince Liam, Prince Frederic, Prince Duncan and Prince Gustav are the princes who saved Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, Snow White, and Rapunzel, respectively. Rejected by their princesses and cast out of their castles, Liam, Frederic, Duncan, and Gustav stumble upon an evil plot that could endanger each of their kingdoms. Now it's up to them to triumph over their various shortcomings, take on trolls, bandits, dragons, witches, and other assorted terrors, and become the heroes no one ever thought they could be.

So there is the plot and the main characters, which are all very well fleshed out and grow considerably as the story progresses. they all are stereotypes that grow far beyond what we expect, and what they are prepared for. The lovely princesses are also very strong characters that defy the roles that they are thrust into. I loved that characters we all thought we knew are cast into new light and given further adventures. BUT, what really made this book for me is the narrator. I do not know if I would have enjoyed The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom to the extent I did if it were not for the voice talents of Bronson Pinchot. Oh my, he gave each of the characters such distinct voices, enhancing the images I had for each and giving them different accents to boot. The phrasing, inflections, and accents of each character just brought them to life for me. I am currently listening to the second book in the series- and he is even more impressive there.

I highly recommend The Hero's Guide to Saving Your Kingdom to readers that love twists of fairy tales, action, adventure, and humor (there is tons of humor here!). I even more highly suggest listening to the book, just be aware that you might catch yourself laughing out loud, which might inspire strange looks from those nearby.

Book Review: Kibble Talk by Cynthia Port

Kibble Talk by Cynthia Port is a children's chapter book about nine-year-old Tawny who just cannot turn down a dare or crazy plan. Because of this weakness she gags down a piece of dog kibble. afterwards she can hear and talk to dogs. This includes her enormous Great Dane named Dinky, who fondest wish is to be a tiny lap dog. Tawny promises to help him become one. Tawny soon finds out what it means to make, and keep, a promise to a friend. while she does her best to help Dinky, her parents begin to question her sanity and her best friend Jenny becomes her worst enemy. Can Tawny keep her own thoughts straight and still manage make things right in her family, get her best friend back, and figure out how to handle such a special gift.

Kibble Talk is the first book in the Kibble Talk series. It is funny, sweet, and fast moving. I loved the character of Tawny, who is adventurous and willing to try anything once. She is also willing to put her own friendships and social standing on the line to keep a promise and her ability a secret. I really liked that while tawny was not a perfect kid, and had all the fears of looking foolish that are pretty much universal, she still stood out as a smart and unique character. I also loved the concept of the book, and its execution. talking to animals is not a new idea, but the way it was done here and the humor involved just made the story great fun to read. I love forward to seeing what kind of trouble Tawny and Dinky find themselves in as the series continues.

I would recommend Kibble Talk to readers around 7 to 12 years old. I think it is also well suited for reading aloud in a classroom or as a family. Animal lovers, readers that enjoy a good laugh, and those just getting into reading for fun will all enjoy the story. just keep an eye on any pet food in the house, because I can imagine that some enthusiastic readers might be tempted to give it a try in hopes of being able to hear your animals like Tawny. Kibble Talk: Dog Gone Dinky, book 2 in the series, should be available by the end of February, 2014.

Book Blog Tour for The Noise Beneath the Apple Including a Giveaway and Author Interview

**Foreword’s 2013 Book of the Year Award Finalist**

About The Book

Written by Heather Jacks and accompanied by an eleven-track vinyl record featuring the original music of a select number of participants, this 200-page art-style coffee table book measures 12’’ x 12’’ and weighs in at a whopping 8lbs. Putting the spotlight on the age-old profession of busking, Jacks also seeks to stem the tide of regulation intended to suffocate creative expression and take performers off the streets.

A limited-edition coffee table book, The Noise Beneath the Apple®, is a unique and vibrant study of the culture of street performance, its legitimacy in modern times and above all, an intimate look at thirty-five buskers throughout New York City. Released with an eleven-track vinyl record that was mastered by Grammy and Academy Award winning mastering engineer Reuben Cohen, this book is a singular achievement and a one-of-a-kind tribute to the chaotic, beautiful and spirited world of busking.

Bio:  

Heather Jacks was raised on an Indian reservation in southeastern Oregon, until age fifteen. Jacks was the first ‘experimental exchange student’ to Australia with an organization called YFU, Youth for Understanding, where she spent 10.5 months in 1982. Once she returned, she received her B.A. from USF and followed that with two years of study at UC Davis.  She has worked in the music industry in various capacities, since the eighties; radio, production, A&R, booking and most recently as a music journalist.  She was recently named a finalist in the Book of the Year Award in the Performing Art & Music category, for her multi-media project, The Noise Beneath the Apple®, which was inspired by her love for street music, busking and the people who make it.  Heather can be contacted at: heather@heatherjacks.com

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1. Was there a specific moment or idea that inspired writing this book?

I became who I am today in 1976.

Jimmy Carter was president. Vietnam was granted admission to the United Nations. The US of A was celebrating her 200th birthday, and Chief Don Sconchian had finished his time on this planet; (which is our fancy way of saying; he died), and I discovered Jack Kerouac in the Outhouse. These seemingly unrelated things are the exact pieces of my youth that cemented an early love affair with street performance.

Once Chief died—(btw: everyone is called Chief or Cousin on Indian Land), I was promptly shipped off to white school with my Outhouse edition of On The Road. The experiment was deemed unsuccessful by all involved, so I was sent to the Outback in Australia, as an ‘experimental’ exchange student. This was in 1982 and I was 15. It is safe to say, that the nomadic lifestyle was instilled in me at an early age. The tradition of busking also finds its roots in this type of nomadic lifestyle. Time honored Indian dance, Aboriginal ceremonies and Pow-Wow’s were all things I grew up with—and one can find close parallels between these things and busking—(performing on street corners for money.)

I arrived in New York City in December of 2009. At Grand Central Terminal, I met Luke Ryan, a perfect incarnation of jester, prankster and musician, who I eventually dubbed The Queen’s Cowboy. “About 10, it gets weird,” he said, glancing at me sitting on a subway bench. He looked into the garbage bin located next to him. “The first Starbucks cups make their appearance. Then the Starbucks cups get bigger; and when the biggest Starbucks cup makes its appearance, the day is pretty well done. When I see all the Wall Street Journals piled in the garbage pail next to me: We’re screwed. I know that’s it.” He began to pack up his guitar, collect his tips and move on. It would be Luke who would ultimately be the inspiration for a project three years in the future; The Noise Beneath the Apple®.

When The Noise Beneath the Apple®, began to crystallize in my mind, I was a freelance writer, submitting to various culture and online ezines. As I wandered the streets and subways of NYC, I discovered some great street musicians and thought it would make for some good stories and fun reading. For me, that was about it. But, as I got to know some of the musicians and see how the street culture was manifesting, I realized I could do something more; something socially relevant: capture a piece of history and help legitimize the profession of busking. I went back and to find Luke, who is a 40 + year veteran of busking. He was my first.

      2. Do you have a favorite story about busking or the streets of NYC in general? 

Although not necessarily a ‘busking’ story per se, it is a moment that catapulted me from observer to participant in the world of street. I arrived in New York City in the wake of Barack Obama’s election. Needing to earn a living, I chose to sell novelty political condoms on the streets. I got all my licenses, forms and inventory and set up station in Union Square, where I was promptly handcuffed, arrested and taken to jail. Some months later, my case was dismissed with the wave of a hand and the flick of a stamp. I went back to the streets, dismissal document in hand. Twenty minutes later, I was approached by the police, who gave a cursory glance at my paperwork and dismissal and then instructed me to put my hands behind my back. Handcuffed for a second time, I demanded an explanation. I was told—(and I quote) “Just because it was dismissed, doesn’t make it legal.” In the end, it was the Obama Condoms that gave me the much needed‘cred’—and prompted street performers to open up and talk to me. The Obama Condom Lady was legit. ;-)

       3. Do you have a favorite instrument or song that just makes you smile before you can even see the busker responsible?

Life is a voyage of discovery, and throughout this project, I have discovered so many cool instruments and styles of music; the Theremin, the Kora, glass cowbells, and the Nyckelharpa—to name a few. I love Latin music and flamenco guitar; heavy metal and electric violin. It was absolutely wondrous to bring all these sights and sounds together in a unique version—(and vision) of the song New York State of Mind—which I talk about in #7. After listening to our version of the song, no less than 1,000 times, I’m sure; I still LOVE it; the collective sounds of passions merging and artists shaking loose.

4. What was your favorite part of creating this book?

My favorite part of creating this book changes, based on where I am standing in relation to the project as a whole. Now that the project has been produced, I look back at the hardest parts—(which for me, was production; ie: paper type, bleed lines, InDesign, measurements, slipcase, etc…) or actually pressing a vinyl record! Not only putting the music together, but those records start out like hockey pucks. And I think, ‘WOW! I did that! I learned a LOT! There’s real validation in learning and completion, which ultimately leads to further learning and moving forward.

It goes without saying that I LOVED doing the interviews, hearing people’s stories, writing the profiles, capturing and honoring who they are and their contributions to the society and culture, of which they are an integral part. I guess in end, that remains my favorite part of the project; the human connection. I am standing here four years later—and am a better person; because of the musicians I met on the streets; and the newfound friends I made. I hope they took something of value from me as I did from them.

5. I know a few people that have spent significant time busking, have you noticed any common characteristics beyond talent and just being awesome people?

There are many misconceptions about busking; “They can’t get a real venue.” “They have no talent.” “They are homeless.” My experiences have shown these to be exactly that; misconceptions. What I have witnessed, is that buskers choose to perform on the streets, the rawest, most authentic stage there is; to share their craft outside of a financial context for everyone to enjoy and participate in. I think the operative term here is ‘choose’…very simply, buskers/street musicians choose to be there.

To quote Shedrick Williams of The Jason Adamo band, “A lot of people do this for the perks or the money, but a lot more choose to do it for the love of the music.” Then there is the fantastic violinist, Jim Graseck, who is a Julliard graduate and has chosen to make his career as a busker for the past 40+ years, even though he currently plays in the most amazing venues in New York City and appeared on The Johnny Carson Show, back in the day. There is freedom in artistic expressions that survive and manifest with no financial context. It might be called an esoteric level of experience, for both performer and audience.

Know that audience participation is a huge component. If you dig what you hear or see; then dig a little deeper and drop them a buck, for the song, the experience, the story, the photo, the YouTube video. This small exchange of daily experience is a currency, which is not exchangeable for articles of consumption—in other words, ‘You can’t buy it at Walmart.’

6. What do you do when you are not writing?

I live in and LOVE my City by the Bay, San Francisco. That being said, I spend an inordinate amount of time eating and drinking throughout all the funky and fabulous neighborhoods here. I also make (and sell) unique, one of a kind, retro shoulder bags, from reclaimed records. The front cover is on one side and the actual vinyl record—(not a pressed blank) on the other side. It gives me a great excuse to haunt all the vintage shops and record stores in the City. I’m a HUGE Baseball fan. I bleed Orange & Black and watch most of the games—(that takes a lot of time, considering there are about 162 games in a season!) I also read TONS and post little reviews everywhere. Whew! I’m tired just thinking about it!

Link to Photos/Descriptions of Bags

7. Do you have any plans for what you would like to do next?

Last year, I ran a successful crowdfunding campaign, via Rockethub. We had so many wonderful and amazing supporters. From their generous contributions, we took 30 participants from the book—(NYC buskers/street musicians), to Grand Street Recording in Brooklyn, New York and recorded the hit song by Billy Joel, New York State of Mind. The uber talented recording and touring artist, Keaton Simons, flew in from Los Angeles to arrange, produce and mix the tune. The music is incredible! We have a Beat Rhymer, musical saw, violins, Cello, tons of vocalists…it is amazing. So far, only our Rockethub funders have heard the song, but we will be doing a media-launch in about May. From that day, we also created a 12 minute short documentary film. It was such an inspiring time and we are all very proud with the way everything turned out.

My hope is to replicate this project in other cities such as Boston, New Orleans, Chicago, Nashville, etc… Link to Trailer #1 for Short Documentary

       8. Is there anything that you would like to say to your readers and fans?

Thank you for giving me the gift of time, to pursue, create and manifest my passion.

Thank you.

Book Review: Pig and Small by Alex Latimer

Pig and Small by Alex Latimer is a picturebook about how two very different people can look past differences and become great friends. Pig thinks he is sick, he keeps hearing a squeak from his snout and cannot figure out just what is going out. Soon he discovers that he is not sick, the squeak is coming from a little bug that wants to be his friend. The pair try out a series of their favorite activities and find that their sizes make some games hard to play together. However, with a little persistence the pair discover that they have quite a bit in common and become the best of friends.

Pig and Small is a fun picturebook that offers laughs as well as a couple good lessons. Some of the activities, like hide and seek or chess, that Pig and Small attempt to play together are obviously not going to work and are giggle worth via the text and illustrations used to describe the level of failure there. However, there are two lessons here that I think are important for us to teach our kids, and to be reminded of ourselves. The first is the most obvious lesson, that the physical aspects of others is not what makes them friend worthy, rather it is personality and interests that connect people. Secondly, I think the story offers up the idea that not all friendships are instant fits, like all great relationships it might take a little bit of effort to come together, but it will be worth it when you find that connection. I love it!

I highly recommend Pig and Small, not just because of the lessons. The word choices and illustrations are charming and well-paired. I simply enjoyed the read and only considered the depth of the lessons now that I look back and try to put my enjoyment of the book into words.

Book Review: The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains by James Solheim, Jeffrey Ebbeler

The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains is a picturebook written by James Solheim, and illustrated by Jeffrey Ebbeler. In this story young Alex Addleston has just moved to a new town, and on her first day of school discovers that a boy shares her name. The two Alex Addlestons begin to do everything together. They chase Flatt Mountain fireflies, code secret messages, and collect crawdads. When Alex's parents move her family to Kenya, the two friends lose contact with each other. Half a world apart, each Alex still keeps the other close while climbing trees, counting stars, playing games, and growing up. One day, just maybe, they will rediscover what it means to be best friends, no matter what.

The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains is a fun and heart warming story about true friendship. The two Alex's vow that they will be best friends forever, and do everything together. When they are separated, the two keep their vow despite not being in contact and the vast distance between them. I loved the feel and the bright, playful illustrations that were splendid in their own right. I think that the ending was especially wonderful, with a conclusion in images alone that will particularly speak to the adults that might be sharing the book.

I really enjoyed The Only Alex Addleston in All These Mountains, and think that readers of all ages will as well. Parents, teachers, and caregivers of all kinds trying to handle the difficulties of children sharing a name (and not being happy about it) could use this book as a way to show nicer ways the conflict could be resolved, and those struggling with a pending or resent move could us this book to help handle transitions.

Blog Tour Review for I'll Never Let You Go by Marianne Richmond

I'll Never Let You Go by Marianne Richmond is a charming picturebook about the love a child has for their favorite blanket or stuffed animal. Edward has had Blankie since the day he was born. They do everything together and would do anything for each other. However, it is time for Edward to go to school, and he needs to leave Blankie at home. The story handles his questions and fears about the separation, and parallels that with a parent's need to handle separation as well.

I'll Never Let You Go is a sweet book about love and growing up. Edward and his Blankie are best friends, doing everything together. As school looms he must deal with being separated from Blankie, as well as his mother. I think all children with a favorite blanket, animal, or whatever, can relate to Edward. Parents can also relate to the need to let their children grow up and face their similar challenges and the explanations that come with them. The lovely illustrations and delightful text come together to make this a charming story to share.

I think that I'll Never Let You Go is a sweet book that can strike a cord with many children, parents, and teachers. I think that it could be especially useful in households that are facing similar crisis- such as the loss or necessary separation between parents and children or children and their favorite object.

About the Author:

Beloved author and illustrator MARIANNE RICHMOND has touched the lives of millions for nearly two decades through her award-winning books, greeting cards, and other gift products that offer people the most heartfelt way to connect with each other. She lives in the Minneapolis area. Visit www.mariannerichmond.com.

Book Review: Northwood by Brian Falkner and Donovan Bixley

Northwood is a middle grade novel written by Brian Falkner and illustrated Donovan Bixley. Cecilia Undergarment discovers that the dog next door is being mistreated. She is determined to help him, but her daring rescue sends her and the dog, Rocky, on an amazing adventure into the dark forest called Northwood. This forest is rumored to be home to black lions, and no one that goes in seems to come back out again. Cecilia and Rocky discover even bigger mysteries about the forest, like a castle and people that live seemingly trapped there by the maze and lions. Can Cecelia figure out the mysterious of the forest and find her way home, or will she having the leading role in the next mysterious disappearance story?

Northwood begins in Cecelia's neighborhood, and her strange home made of balloons. Then comes the fact that she can talk to animals, and needs to rescue the poor dog next door. Somehow these facts come together and lead to Cecelia and Rocky floating away into the depths of the Northwood, and beginning an even more dangerous trek through the dark wood.  I loved that all the strangeness found in Cecelia's life and the Northwood are eventually explained, but that process does not take away the wonder that their existence brings. Black lions, the mysterious fog, impossibly hard trees, and more are all introduced and explained wonderfully. The characters and language are used extremely well and left me feeling like I am missing the magic that might be hiding the the world around me.

I think Cecelia is a great character, she is smart and strong minded. I think that her tenaciousness and flexibility to do what needs to be done in order to do the right thing makes her a great role model. Evan's love of and misuse of big words,  Avery's personality, and the variety of other characters come together nicely to make the story exciting and fun to read. There is plenty of 'kid' humor- with names like Tony Baloney and Cecilia Undergarment how can you doubt it. However, there is also a message about doing the right thing (particularly when it is not easy) and some sensitive topics handled beautifully. The setting descriptions are very well done, and the illustrations are equally delightful. The book is an all around win, with my only disappointment being that there were still some lose ends that I would like to have seen tied up at the end.

I greatly enjoyed Northwood and would highly recommend it to middle grade readers, and just about everyone that enjoys fantasy like fiction that feels like it could happen because of the writing style. Fans of Lemony Snickett style asides and getting a few good snickers out of silly names and such will particularly enjoy the story.

Early Book Review: Shapes in Math, Science and Nature: Squares, Triangles and Circles by Catherine Sheldrick Ross, Bill Slavin

Shapes in Math, Science and Nature: Squares, Triangles, and Circles is a children's concept book written by Catherine Sheldrick Ross and illustrated by Bill Slavin which is scheduled for release on April 1st 2014. This book discusses the tree basic shapes (squares, triangles, and circles) and their importance in the world. These shapes are everywhere and are extremely important in the disciplines of math and science. The book is full of interesting facts about these shapes, and their three dimensional counterparts. Explanations of these shapes and the applications in geometry, engineering, school, and much more can inspire young readers.

Shapes in Math, Science, and Nature is a book that introduces the history and current practical applications of geometry and much more. I really enjoyed the variety of puzzles and activities that are included throughout the book to bring home the points already made, and to encourage readers to take their new knowledge to the next level. I think this book would be a wonderful resources for classrooms, parents, and particularly home schooling families working with geometry or engineering. Young readers that are particularly interested in math, nature, science, or engineering will enjoy exploring the book to further their understanding.
 
Shapes in Math, Science and Nature is an introduction and expansion of information about the basics of geometry. It covers the applications at home, in school and just about everywhere in between. Puzzles and activities add to the fun factor and make the book a great classroom and study resource.

Book Review: Once in a Lifetime by Jill Shalvis

Once in a Lifetime is the ninth book in the Lucky Harbor series by Jill Shalvis. You do not need to read this series in order, as each book does stand on its own. Ben McDaniel has suffered a horrible loss and has tried to escape his grief by working in dangerous, war-torn places like Africa and the Middle East. Now he's back in his hometown and keeps being thrown together with Aubrey Wellington. Family and friends insist she's not the one to ease his pain, and in theory he agrees, but Aubrey sparks something in him that he has not felt in a long time. Aubrey is trying to be a good person and is working hard to make amends and mitigate the effects of her past mistakes. But by far, the toughest challenge to her plan is making amends with Ben, even though he has absolutely no idea what she did. Can this unlikely pair defy the all odds?

The small town of Lucky Harbor has seen a lot of wonderful romance and unexpected pairings with a feeling of fun and the warmth of good friends.Once in a Lifetime is no exception. Fans of Shalvis will get just what they want, well developed characters with an inexplicable attraction to each other and problems that need to be faced. Ben needs to decide if he is going to stay in Lucky Harbor, and if he can deal with the memories of his late wife. Aubrey has to deal with her less than stellar reputation and the impression those that have never gotten to know her carry in their minds about her. She wants to make amends for the mistakes of her past, mend family relations, and make her late aunt's bookstore a success. She has high expectations for herself, and plans to rise above her past and keep a brave face regardless of what others think of her. The pair make a highly charged and heart warming pair as they work through their issues and find their places in the town.

Once in a Lifetime holds the charm of a well done small town romance, and meets the expectations of Shalvis fans. The characters are well defined, are relatable and likeable, with some hot moments tossed in to keep readers on their toes. I love a good romance about characters that are much more than they seem, and this book fits the bill.

Book Review: Is A Worry Worrying You? by Ferida Wolff, Harriet May Savitz, Marie LeTourneau

Is A Worry Worrying You? is a picturebook by Ferida Wolff and Harriet May Savitz, with illustrations by Marie LeTourneau. The book address the worries of children with imaginative and sometimes very silly situations while offering solutions. The book speaks for itself quite well with: “A worry is a thought that stops your from having fun, from feeling good, from being happy. Don’t bother looking for a worry because you’ll never find it. It is invisible. But it seems very real.” Followed by the introduction of worries, but realistic and wacky, solutions to facing and overcome worries are offered.

Is A Worry Worrying You? is a fun and useful book. Some children are natural worriers, and other are bothered by just a few very specific fears. Regardless of the type of worry, everyone has some that they have to deal with. This book deals with how worries come to be, how they make you feel, and how to overcome them. Despite some of the more ridiculous worries, like having elephants over for tea and being out of some essentials, at no point is the book condescending or talking down to readers of any age. Worries are dealt with in a respectful and meaningful way that offers understanding and coping methods.

While neither of my kids are serious worriers, I full intend to bring out Is A Worry Worrying You? the next time the possibility of shots at the doctor, the idea of monsters in the dark, or other worry makes itself known. Acknowledging the presence of worries and the very real emotions they inspire make the coping methods and solutions offered much more useable and accepted by everyone.

Book Review: Faeries & Elementals for Beginners: Learn about & Communicate with Nature Spirits by Alexandra Chauran

Faeries & Elementals for Beginners: Learn about & Communicate with Nature Spirits is a nonfiction book by Alexandra Chauran. For those interested in the earth based religions or those just interested in faery lore, this guide will explain the natures of a wide assortment of Fae. If you are a practitioner looking to understand and work with  faeries and elementals and attract them to your home and garden, or just fascinated with the mere idea of them, this book is a wonderful starting point in your research.

Faeries & Elementals for Beginners is very matter of fact about the ideas of Fae, including elementals. While I am a practicing Lutheran and not one to dabble, I love reading about other beliefs and the foundations of various lore. There are far more things on earth and in the world in general than I can even pretend to understand, so I would rather research everything just in case. Also, as I read quite a bit of fiction that is paranormal, faery tale based, and urban fantasy I often will see mention and brief explanations of certain creatures in the pages, and find that more background and understanding of the lore adds an extra layer of enjoyment to my reading. So, if you do not believe that the Fae are real, do not immediately turn your nose up at the book, it is still an interesting read if approached with an open and curious mind.

For those that are interested in a practical application of the information found in Faeries & Elementals for Beginners, I have to say that it offers detailed information and would work as a wonderful cornerstone for your research. There is detailed information about the rituals, including the whys and wherefores. The wide variety of beings are well organized and described, offering more information on just about all of those listed then I have seen in any other book. There are step-by-step instructions for invoking faeries and elementals, you'll find rituals, meditations, and everything you need to begin safely interacting with these magical entities. I cannot attest to the accuracy of the methods offered, as I have not tried any of them.

I would recommend Faeries & Elementals for Beginners to anyone looking for more information of these creatures, and those looking to work with them. I think that it can also work as a great resource to readers and writers that are looking for more information on the subject, as well as to those looking for practical instruction.

Book Review: The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig, Patrice Barton

The Invisible Boy is a picturebook written by Trudy Ludwig and illustrated by Patrice Barton. Brian is the invisible boy. He seems to be invisible in line, while teams are being chosen to play games, at lunch, and just about all the time. So, Brian often loses himself in his art to distract himself from going unnoticed. When a new boy joins his class Brian is left to wonder if it is better to be invisible or picked on. He reaches out to the new boy and in turn is given a moment of his own to shine.

The Invisible Boy is a story that I can heavily relate to. There were many times in my life (elementary school through college as well as among family and friends) where I have felt invisible. Like Brian, it is rarely because anyone doesn't particularly like you, but because teachers know they do not have to worry about you, that you are doing what you need to do rather than needing the extra effort. However, many do not realize how it feels to be the average kid that just kid of fades into the background, the reliable or steady one that needs no reminders of reprimands but also doesn't hit the home run for run faster than the rest. This book highlights that feeling, and can both make others (kids and adults alike) more aware of what others might be feeling while letting those that feel invisible that they are far from alone. Like Brian we might wonder if getting picked on or yelled at is worse or better than feeling invisible, and I like that Brian goes the extra mile to make sure the new kid knows that he is welcome and that not everyone will pick on him. Like most small acts of kindness, Brian's action brings the new boy to do one as well and is rewarded for his efforts. My favorite part of this exchange is that it does not feel like a direct tit for tat exchange, but rather one good deed inspiring another to be good as well. Perhaps the story shared in a family or classroom setting can inspire a spread of good feelings and kind gestures.

I would highly recommend The Invisible Boy for library, home, and classroom collections. I feel like the illustrations do a wonderful job of expressing the feeling of the characters, and expanding on the story. I think it could spark great discussions about how we treat each other, being mindful of others, empathy, and the power of kind actions.

Book Review: The Birthday Queen by Audrey and Don Wood

The Birthday Queen is a picturebook written by Audrey Wood and illustrated by Don Wood. Happy Birthday to you! Today is the most exciting day of the year, and the Birthday Queen knows exactly how to fill it with fun surprises! From decorating your home to baking your favorite cake, the Birthday Queen doesn't forget a thing as she creates a party beyond your wildest dreams!  In a sweet, satisfying ending, the amazing woman who made your special birthday party is revealed to be the person who loves you most--your mother!

The Birthday Queen is a wonderful and brightly illustrated picturebook about a wonderful birthday celebration. What does every birthday boy or girl need for a flawless celebration? Well, they need a Birthday Queen working wonders behind the scenes and leading the show. Every parent will see themselves in the role, doing everything they can to ensure a wonderful day for their little ones. Hopefully the book will also remind children just how much those parents do to make their perfect birthday, or any holiday, celebration everything that they want it to be.

The Birthday Queen is a fun and charming picturebook that celebrates not just the joy that comes with celebrating a birthday, but also all the work and love that a parent puts into creating the celebration. A wonderful book to share around any birthday or other celebration to remind parents why we go through so much work to make our little ones happy and remind children that these things do not just happen with out some effort.