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The winner of the new book It Writes Itself is Anita! Congratulations!! **Please send your address by email so I can put your book in the mail

The American Patriot's Almanac

Authors: William J. Bennett

John T.E. Cribb

Publisher: Thomas Nelson Publishers

(September 28, 2010)

My Review:

The American Patriot’s Almanac (Daily readings on America), a national bestseller which has now been revised, updated, and expanded, offers the reader 365 days of historic facts and inspiration. The book is packed with Americana which includes: Twelve Great Reasons to Love a Great Country; Flags of the Revolutionary War; The History of the Stars and Stripes; Fifty All-American Movies; Fifty American Quotes; Flag Etiquette; How the Declaration of Independence Was Written and Signed; The Declaration of Independence; The Gettysburg Address; The American’s Creed; Poems of American Patriotism; Prayers for the American People; and much more.

I found inspiration on every page of this beautiful volume. I also found answers to questions I have had in the past. For instance, why are our national elections held on the first Tuesday after the first Monday in November; who was the oldest person to become president; who was the youngest person to become president; which presidents were impeached; how are ships in the Navy named, etc.

This would be a perfect tool for the home-school library or a gift for anyone who enjoys American history. All the vitality of the this wonderful country comes alive page after page, giving the reader a sense of pride in our country and the freedoms we all enjoy. I definitely give this book 5 stars*****

(Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my review copy!)

He Blew Her A Kiss / Review

Authors: A. P. Printup and K. S. Dollar

Paperback: 188 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press

(July 23, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1432760920

Book Description:

It comes as a brush of the shoulder, a breath, a familiar scent, or perhaps a gentle breeze when everything else is still. These remarkable sensations are all examples of our loved ones communicating to us after they are gone from this life-letting us know they are in a better place, and yet still with us.

He Blew Her a Kiss collects dozens of such stories of after-death communication, in which husbands, wives, children, grandparents, and others, gently let us know that their spirit lives on.

This series of short, delightfully written vignettes-based on real-life stories from all over the country-describes:

-How a simple note tied to a balloon proves the incredible power of love to transcend all, following the death of a beloved wife

-The voicemail message a sister receives after her brother has passed-and its incredible tidings of hope

-The uncanny revelation contained in a TV game show that supplies comfort to a family after the death of their patriarch

-The nightlight that flickers only when a granddaughter speaks of her late grandmother-and how it refuses to go out...and much more.

Filled with touching accounts that will make you smile and cry at the same time, He Blew Her a Kiss is required reading for anyone who has ever experienced the loss of a loved one and needs a little help to carry on.

My Review:

I love personal accounts like these! They are tender, reassuring, compassionate, and sometimes even funny. I've collected dozens of books on life after death over the years and will proudly add this one to my library.

The stories are all short and to the point; well-edited and easy to read, while giving hope for an extension of life hereafter. The reader does not feel like they must read the entire book in one sitting, but can read each personal story as time permits.

I'm definitely looking forward to the next book. 5 stars*****

(Thank you to the authors for my review copy.)

The Family Dinner / Review

Author: Laurie David

w/recipes by Kirstin Uhrenholdt

Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Life & Style

(November 3, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0446565466

Book Description:

Laurie David's new mission is to help America's overwhelmed families sit down to a Family Dinner, and she provides all the reasons, recipes and fun tools to do so.

Laurie David speaks from her own experience confronting the challenges of raising two teenage girls. Today's parents have lots to deal with and technology is making their job harder than ever. Research has proven that everything we worry about as parents--from drugs to alcohol, promiscuity, to obesity, academic achievement and just good old nutrition--can all be improved by the simple act of eating and talking together around the table.

Laurie has written a practical, inspirational, fun (and, of course, green) guide to the most important hour in any parent's day. Chock-full chapters include: Over seventy-five kid approved fantastic recipes; tips on teaching green values; conversation starters; games to play to help even the shyest family member become engaged; ways to express gratitude; the family dinner after divorce (hint: keep eating together) and much more. Filled with moving memories and advice from the country's experts and teachers, this book will get everyone away from electronic screens and back to the dinner table.

My Review:

This is NOT only a book of recipes, but a book about the importance of family togetherness that includes recipes. It is about bringing back the family table and the healing benefits of the evening meal.

The Family Dinner is a book to be read from cover to cover; to be used daily--unlike cookbooks that are taken off the shelf on special occasions. The reader will not only enjoy perusing this beautiful volume, but also reading it as a serious, reflective tool in stabilizing family bonds.

The Family dinner offers foods that kids will like to eat; conversation starters; games to play at the table; ways to express gratitude; words of wisdom; cook's tips; color photos; and much more. It is a treasure chest of ideas! I highly recommend it. Definitely 5 stars*****!!

(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my beautiful review copy!)

Book Giveaway / It Writes Itself

I'm giving away a new copy of It Writes Itself by Susannah Raulino. The winner will be announced on November 10th.


Rules are simple:
*Leave a comment telling why you would like to receive this book.
*You must be a follower of my blog.

Book Description:
An innovative How-To book on creative writing that helps writers enter their fictional worlds so vividly that writing becomes the act of listening, watching, and writing down what happens.

Please enter. Wishing everyone good luck!!

(Thank you to the author for this copy.)

2012 Maya End Date--A New Beginning

Author: Edward Curry
Paperback: 370 pages
Publisher: Merln & Associates
(September 15, 2009)
ISBN-10: 098146842X

Book Description:
Fascinating and Mystical history of the future of the amazing Maya, regarding the so-called Maya End Date of December 21, 2012. Many believe this date heralds the end of humanity. Maybe, maybe not. Ideas, suspense and love abound in this exotic Maya setting. Discover how Precession and 2012 may affect you in ways you would never expect and increase your zest for life.

My Review:
The year 2012 isn't that far away, so many people are getting a bit nervous with all the rumors going around about the end of the world. Although, no one can be sure what events will take place on December 21, 2012, this book brings a fascinating perspective to the mix of past theories. For anyone who is interested in this type of book, it will certainly give the reader some information which has not been written in past volumes.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

A Journey Into Tomorrow / Poetry

Author: Veronica Camille Tinto
Hardcover: 132 pages
Publisher: AuthorHouse
(May 26, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1449062814

Author's Book Description:
Writing these poems began as a therapeutic process which turned into words that supported me during a very tumultuous period in my life. The poetry that unfolded manifested itself as an inspirational source that further comforted me during this difficult season. Ironically, the poems were able to transcend my own personal experiences and can be applied to anyone's life as an inspirational thought that can be carried through out your day. Then it becomes my hope for you my reader, that the poems found within these pages bring you the same amount of solace, inspiration, and contentment, that it provided me as I created them just for you.

My Review:
This exceptional book of loving, compassionate poetry brings an element of intensity and beauty to one's reading experience. It covers various areas of life that we all can relate to. Challenges; Hope; If Tomorrow Never Comes; Friendships; Turbulent Times; Change; Who Am I?; and Loss are just a few of the titles found here.

This collection of poems is very well-written by an author who shows great promise to the genre. I enjoyed A Journey Into Tomorrow and congratulate Ms. Tinto!

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

I Lift Up My Soul

Author: Charles F. Stanley
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
(October 19, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1400202892

Book Description:
365 devotions that lead straight to the throne of God.

The sun rises, the day begins, and everything the world needs from you stands waiting at the door. In the midst of it all, the whisper of God invites you to do the most important thing of any day-be with Him.

In this 365-day devotional, I Lift Up My Soul, best-selling author and pastor Dr. Charles Stanley leads you straight to the Father with words of encouragement and insight drawn from the Word of God. Each day, you will be inspired to lift up your soul and gain a Bible-centered perspective.

My Review:
Beloved pastor Charles Stanley has been preaching the Word for over forty years, many of which my family and I have watched on television. He is one of the most well known and respected ministers of our time.

In this new devotional, Dr. Stanley, leads us through 365 days of devotional praise and fellowship with Jesus Christ. His goal is to help the reader come to a closer relationship with the Creator God. The reader will find suggested scripture reading, a key verse for the day, a daily prayer, and inspirational messages like: In Awe of His Grace; Waiting On God; A Candle of Hope; An Act of God’s Will; The Victory Is Near; and Coming Out of Hiding.

This book is truly a gift of love by the author. Each entry is filled with hope, inspiration, and encouragement. I have found a sense of peace in each of the entries that I have read so far. I also like the colorful artwork on the cover and feel it would make an excellent gift for a loved one.

I believe this is one of the most well-written devotionals to come along in a while-- right up there with those of Joyce Meyers.

(Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my review copy.)

Body Parts (A Collection of Poems About Aging

Author: Janet Cameron Hoult
Paperback: 60 pages
Publisher: Outskirts Press (April 23, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1432755986

Book Description:

....find a comfortable chair and laugh along with the author and her poetry about our changing body parts - loss of hair, sight and hearing as well as knees, legs and some internal organs! These poems will tickle your funny bone and help you to remember that although we may be growing old there's life in us yet!

My Review:
This book really hit a note with me! It left me laughing about all the changes that are happening to my body as I age. The author helps us realize that we are all in the same boat and that boat can be a fun ride!

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

The King And Dr. Nick / Review

Author: George Nichopoulos, M.D.
w/Rose Clayton Phillips
Hardcover: 256 pages
Publisher: Thomas Nelson (January 5, 2010)
ISBN-10: 1595551719

Book Description:
The truth about Elvis's death from the doctor who spent eleven years as "the King's" personal physician, father-figure, and confidant - "Dr. Nick."

Dr. Nichopoulos spent a decade with Elvis on the road and at Graceland, trying to maintain the precarious health of one of the world's greatest entertainers. But on August 16, 1977, he found himself in the ambulance with Elvis on that fateful last trip to the ER. He signed the death certificate.
From that day forward, Dr. Nick became the focus of a media witch hunt that threatened his life and all but destroyed his professional reputation.

Now, for the first time, Dr. Nick reveals the true story behind Elvis's drug use and final days; not the version formed by years of tabloid journalism and gross speculation. Put aside what you've learned about Elvis's final days and get ready to understand for the first time the inner workings of "the king of rock n' roll."

My Review:

I’m not going to write a long, in-depth overview of this book, since this has been done by other readers and there is also a book description at the top of the page. I will say that this account of Dr. Nick and Elvis seems to be very believable. It starts with recounting the death of Elvis and takes us through a life and friendship that is interesting and at the same time revealing in a way that only a close friend can retell.

We find here the true personality and personal trials of The King, who was also a man. We get an up-close look at his health issues, his grueling concert schedules, the demons he faced, and the kind person that he was and will remembered for.

We have all been told through the news media that the death of Elvis was blamed on heart disease, but was it something more than that? This book reveals details that may lead to other causes. The story is well-written and of interest to those who are die-hard Elvis fans. It is an eye-opener, told by a friend who evidently loved and respected him. I think Elvis would approve of this account.

(Thank you to Thomas Nelson Publishing for my review copy.)

ROOM / Review

Author: Emma Donoghue

Hardcover: 336 pages
Publisher: Little, Brown and Company;

First Edition edition (September 13, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0316098337

Book Description:

To five-year-old Jack, Room is the entire world. It is where he was born and grew up; it's where he lives with his Ma as they learn and read and eat and sleep and play. At night, his Ma shuts him safely in the wardrobe, where he is meant to be asleep when Old Nick visits.

Room is home to Jack, but to Ma, it is the prison where Old Nick has held her captive for seven years. Through determination, ingenuity, and fierce motherly love, Ma has created a life for Jack. But she knows it's not enough...not for her or for him. She devises a bold escape plan, one that relies on her young son's bravery and a lot of luck. What she does not realize is just how unprepared she is for the plan to actually work.

Told entirely in the language of the energetic, pragmatic five-year-old Jack, ROOM is a celebration of resilience and the limitless bond between parent and child, a brilliantly executed novel about what it means to journey from one world to another.

My Review:

Jack, a five year old boy, loves the only home he has ever known, a backyard shed which has been turned into a prison. He calls it Room. He was born there, plays and sleeps there, but NEVER leaves. He has only heard about the outside world from his mother and seen it on TV.

Ma was kidnapped when she was a nineteen year old college student; raped, and eventually gave birth to the only joy in her life, Jack.

This tender, but somewhat disturbing story, reveals the experience and varied emotions of victims of kidnapping, torture, imprisonment, and the eventual entrance to the outside world. But best of all, we read the story of a mother's love. 4 stars****

(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.)

Hearing From God Each Morning

Author: Joyce Meyer
Hardcover: 384 pages
Publisher: FaithWords;
1 edition (January 8, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0446557854

Book Description:
In the hustle and bustle of today's busy world, sometimes it's hard enough to hear yourself think, much less take a minute to stop and listen for the voice of God. But learning to recognize God's voice and the many ways in which He speaks is vital for following His plan. This devotional; drawing from How to Hear From God, Knowing God Intimately, and The Power Of Simple Prayer shows the reader through a daily reminder, how God speaks through their own thoughts and feelings, their dreams, and the words of other people. Joyce Meyer reveals the ways in which God delivers His word and the benefits of asking God for the sensitivity to hear His voice. Joyce asks the question, "Are you listening?" and shares how to do just that...on a daily basis.

My Review:

In this book as in many others, Joyce Meyer guides her readers to a more fulfilling relationship with God. Her 365 daily devotions are written with peace, patience, and love in mind...elements that empower us to lead more productive and joyful lives.

Each devotional reading is short and includes a scripture and a thought for the day. This book is pocketbook size, easy to carry with you all day, and housed in a beautiful teal blue cover. Inside we find reminders such as: Attitude Determines Destiny; God Speaks Suddenly; Lean On Him; Somebody's Praying For You; Get Excited; Open The Door; The Spirit of Love; Don’t Quench The Spirit; The Gift of Prophecy; The Gift of Faith; and The Baptism of Fire.

I have read this book for a couple of months and found it to be full of wisdom and comfort in a world that seems to be more and more uncertain. I have read many Joyce Meyer books over the years and have found her always insightful and inspiring. So it is no surprise that this books is of that high quality. I recommend it to anyone looking for a sense of discipline and peace in their everyday lives

(Thank you to Hachette Book Group for my review copy.)

A Dog's Purpose

Author: W. Bruce Cameron

Hardcover: 320 pages
Publisher: Forge Books

First Edition edition (July 6, 2010)
ISBN-10: 0765326264

My Review:

A Dog's Purpose is a simple, but well-written story conveying the feelings and observations of a dog, from one lifetime to another. We see life from a dog's perception and point-of-view. We experience its feelings: love, happiness, disappointment, fear, confusion, and ultimately death. The reader begins to understand the dog's strong desire to please its master, and the emotions that abuse evoke. The main character (dog) meets many people and other animals in its several lives--some it loves and others it doesn't.

The reader will gain an enhanced appreciation for the dog/dogs who share their homes and lives, and the dogs they have loved in the past. As a dog searches for his true purpose in life, prepare yourself to have your heart touched and melted forever.

I loved the ending! 5 stars*****

Book Description:

This is the remarkable story of one endearing dog’s search for his purpose over the course of several lives. More than just another charming dog story, A Dog’s Purpose touches on the universal quest for an answer to life's most basic question: Why are we here?

Surprised to find himself reborn as a rambunctious golden-haired puppy after a tragically short life as a stray mutt, Bailey’s search for his new life’s meaning leads him into the loving arms of 8-year-old Ethan.

During their countless adventures Bailey joyously discovers how to be a good dog.

But this life as a beloved family pet is not the end of Bailey’s journey. Reborn as a puppy yet again, Bailey wonders—will he ever find his purpose?

Heartwarming, insightful, and often laugh-out-loud funny, A Dog's Purpose is not only the emotional and hilarious story of a dog's many lives, but also a dog's-eye commentary on human relationships and the unbreakable bonds between man and man's best friend.

This moving and beautifully crafted story teaches us that love never dies, that our true friends are always with us, and that every creature on earth is born with a purpose.

(Thank you to the author for my review copy.)

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Emily Dickinson Quote

Find ecstasy in life; the mere sense of living is joy enough - Emily Dickinson