“Found,” by Sam Usher

Posted on July 21, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What They Discovered!

They found it!  A little boy and his grandfather went to the beach and found a tide pool that they explored.  With a lot of hard work, they found they had made a large, beautiful sand castle.

They found a baby seal, that they untangled from a net.  Then they found his home, after a lot of difficulty.

Together they found a wonderful world under the ocean that they explored.

Most of all, they found that an older man, and a little boy have a lot to give each other.

Between the pages of this picture book, is a sweet story that is full of the joy.  Children will adore the big day the grandfather and grandson have, and what they have found together, love.

The illustrations are playful, and will bring lots of giggles.  Children ages two-through-seven will enjoy this five-star, beautiful book, and I highly recommend it.

Thank you, Candlewick Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Found,” by Sam Usher, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

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Red Beans & Rice Quick & Easy, Naturally Gluten-Free

Posted on July 19, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

 

This is a simple version of the classic dish.

2 – 3 hot dogs, sliced (or sliced, cooked links of your choice)

½ teaspoon cumin

¼ teaspoon black pepper

2 teaspoons chopped garlic

1 can red beans, drained

½ teaspoon gf buffalo sauce

3 Tablespoons Swerve, or sweetener of choice

½ teaspoon Old Bay seasoning

1 cup chicken broth

1 pinch oregano

2 cups cooked rice, we like Jasmine*

1 chopped onion, opitional

If using the onion, sauté in a large skillet with a small amount of oil, butter, or broth.  Stir and cook until the onion is soft and translucent. Then add the beans, 1/2 cup chicken broth, and hot dog slices.  Stir well.

Cook on medium low, just until heated throughout, and starting to bubble.

Add black pepper, chopped garlic, buffalo sauce, Swerve, Old Bay seasoning, cumin, and oregano.  Stir, bring it to a low simmer.  Heat for ten minutes, stirring and watching that it doesn’t stick.

Add two cups of cooked rice and remaining ½ cup of chicken broth, stir and heat until warmed throughout.  Serves 3 to 4.

 

*This is how we make the rice:

1 carton, 32 ounces of chicken broth

½ teaspoon sea salt

2 Tablespoons unsalted butter

2 cups uncooked Jasmine rice

Add to a large saucepan, the chicken broth, butter, and sea salt.  Stir and bring to a boil.

Add rice and stir well.  Cover and reduce heat to low.  Let it cook for 10 minutes.  Turn the burner off, and let the pan, still covered, sit for 10 more minutes.

Remove lid and fluff with a fork.

This makes 4 cups of rice.  Cut ingredients in half if you only want 2 cups.

 

 

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“The Sisters of Corinth,” by Angela Hunt

Posted on July 17, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Life and Death in a Dangerous World!

Mariana and her mother, Hester, are believers in Yeshua, Jesus, and their faith causes them to walk a tightrope. That is because her step-father, Narkis, and step-sister, Prima worship the Roman gods. The two are met with hostility or worse when they try to tell Narkis and Prima about their faith. A story of love, sacrifice, and the quest for power set against the backdrop of ancient Corinth.

Prima is spoiled, mean, and self-centered. She has set her sights to marry the Governor’s son. When she does not get her way, Prima dedicates herself to an idol, giving it expensive sacrifices, including her virtue, believing that will change things. She is not above murder or blackmail to get her way.

Prima hates Mariana and wants to get rid of her. She orchestrates a test to reveal the Christians living in the city, knowing Mariana is one. Prima is sure this will force Mariana to flee town rather than face death by admitting she is a follower of Christ."Hunt's vast biblical knowledge shines through on every page"-Tamera Alexander, bestselling author

What happens next is not what she expected.

This story will pull you into the lives of first century, upper class Romans. Food, parties, and dress are over-the-top, while the people themselves are often cruel, especially to the slaves who make their lifestyle possible.“A heart-tugging story that touched me deeply.”—Patricia H., Amazon reviewer

The story is clean despite some of the subject matter. There is a lot of suspense, and the tale is very engaging, but it ends abruptly on a cliffhanger, and for that reason, I recommend it with reservations. To find out the ending, you will have to get the next volume. This four-star book will be enjoyed by fans of first century Christians, and exciting stories.

Thank you, Bethany House, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “The Sisters of Corinth,” by Angela Hunt, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/Angela.e.hunt/

The Author’s Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/62999.Angela_Elwell_Hunt

The Author’s Website:  https://www.angelahuntbooks.com/

 

 

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“Aqua Boy,” by Ken Wilson Max

Posted on July 14, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

Fun in the Ocean!

Little Aaron has a problem, he doesn’t enjoy the ocean like the rest of his family because he is afraid to put his head in the water.  He feels left out, but when he tries, he is unable to do it.

This is a sweet story about a family, and the encouragement they give to Aaron.  Little ones will identify with his fear to do something new, and what happens because of it.  They will also enjoy reading about the fun they have at the ocean, swimming and splashing around—and what they do to keep it clean and safe.

The descriptions and bright illustrations show children the wonderful things that are under water.

The back of the book contains a bonus section with more information about the ocean.  Children will have a great time discovering more about octopuses, and other things in the sea.

This is a story all children will enjoy, but it will be a good thing to read to anyone that has something they are afraid of, including swimming.

Over-sized, and full of the family’s adventures, this happy, five-star picture book will be liked by four-to-eight-year-olds.

Thank you, Candlewick Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Aqua Boy,” by Ken Wilson Max, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

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“Until Our Time Comes,” by Nicole M. Miller

Posted on July 9, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

A Sweeping Love!

Adia’s dreams have come true when she goes to Poland to work with the famous horses at the Janow stables. It is the late 1930’s, and despite the winds of war closing in, she has refused to leave because she wants to protect these great animals.Library Journal review

When her path crosses that of Bret, he is instantly enamored with her, and asks her out. Secretly, he is a British spy, and he gets hurt on a mission that results with Adia being stood up. She vows she will never be taken in by him again. So, when Bret comes to work at the Janow stables, Adia wants little to do with him–at first.

Faster than anyone can imagine, Russian troops march into Poland. They make life a nightmare for both the horses, and the humans.Sarah Sundin endorsement

They are replaced by German troops, whose leader promises Adia that he plans to take good care of the horses, and she has nothing to fear, if she does her job. Because Bret has a history with the officer, it is no longer safe for him at Janow.

Danger is on every side for Adia. She often faces death while she takes chances to help the allies, hide children, and keep the horses safe. This is a thrilling story, never knowing who can be trusted.Melanie Dobson endorsement

Many of the things in this tale are based on real events. This exciting and clean five-star book will appeal to fans of World War II accounts, and well-written stories.

Thank you, Library Thing, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Until Our Time Comes,” by Nicole M. Miller, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/nicolemillerwriter

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/nicolemillerwriter

The Author’s Website:  https://nicolemillerwriter.com/about/

 

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“Operation: Happy,” by Jenni L. Walsh

Posted on July 7, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

 A World War II Story of Courage, Resilience, and an Unbreakable Bond

When Everything Changed!

Jody lived with her mom, dad, sister Peggy, and her dog Happy, on The Pearl Harbor Military Base in Hawaii. It is 1941. All the battleships are docked directly across from her house.

It is an idyllic time for Jody, Peggy, and Happy. Island living is fun, and so is their school, and the kids. Everybody likes it but her mom, who did not want to move there.

Then one Sunday morning, as they are getting ready for church, the base is attacked. As they run for their lives, planes with unknown emblems dip low out of the sky, and shoot at them.

After the attack, they find their house is covered with holes, not from bullets, but from the explosions which caused all the nails to pop out. Their lives are never the same.Operation: Happy: A World War II Story of Courage, Resilience, and an Unbreakable Bond

First, Jody and Peggy are sent to another part of Hawaii to live. Then the girls and their mother go to live in San Francisco, but without their dad.

They had to adjust to a new school, and an apartment in a dangerous part of town. Worst of all, their mother started acting strange–she is forgetful, and sleeps constantly. Having Happy with them helps, and somehow the girls manage, until Peggy is attacked.Operation: Happy: A World War II Story of Courage, Resilience, and an Unbreakable Bond

Based on a true story, this is a fascinating account that even includes the dog’s point of view! Surprisingly, there was some war preparation before the attack, but it was very little. This is a real page-turner. Children will enjoy reading about what other youngsters did when their world changed. It will give them hope that life can go on.

“Operation Happy,” is recommended for ages nine through fourteen. It will depend on each child to know when they are ready to read a story about war. Descriptions are not graphic, but do contain information about what happens.Operation: Happy: A World War II Story of Courage, Resilience, and an Unbreakable Bond

This is a 5+ star story that I highly recommend. You will be glad you got it!

Thank you, Zonderkidz, for providing Tickmenot with a book to review. Opinions are my own.

 

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“Her Part to Play,” by Jenny Erlingsson

Posted on July 3, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

Star-Crossed!

Adanne is stretched in many different directions. She is a make-up artist for the stars, she is attempting to keep solvent the community center that her parents started, and she is providing both emotional and monetary support for her brother while his son is hospitalized.Library Journal review

The one thing she doesn’t want to be stretched toward is John Pope, a famous actor who in the past, caused her to lose her job, and tank her make-up artist career. But it seems like every time she turns around, she is being pushed toward John.Publishers Weekly review

Of course, John doesn’t remember her, let alone that he ruined her career. But now he is paying a lot of attention to her despite her attempts to discourage him. He recently found the Lord, and sees Adanne and her faith as just who he needs in his new life.
Rachel Hauck endorsement
There are all kinds of things going on. From glamorous Hollywood events and parties, to the stress Adanne is under trying to single-handedly keep the community center open, along with all the other things she is juggling.
Toni Shiloh endorsement
The life and death struggle Adanne’s nephew is in, along with her family history and parental loss, are heart-touching. Every time Adanne weakens and lets John in her life, something bad happens, and she raises up walls again.
Misunderstandings, past disappointments, and break up attempts by a scheming friend, work together to keep these two apart, despite any love they feel for each other. The characters’ faith is realistic, and a beautiful part of this tale. Prepare to be hungry when reading the descriptions of the amazing food they get to eat! Fans of stories set in today’s world, and well-written tales, will enjoy this five-star book, I recommend it!

Thank you, Revell Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Her Part to Play,” by Jenny Erlingsson, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/jennyerlingsson.author

The Author’s Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/jennyerlingsson/

The Author’s Website:  https://jennyerlingsson.com/

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“The Women of Wynton’s,” by Donna Mumma

Posted on July 1, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

Murder for Sale!

People are dying, things are going wrong, and Audrey is getting all the blame. But she is totally devoted to the Wynton’s Department Store, the only one who cares more about it is Mr. Wynton himself. It is the 1950’s in a small southern town. Audrey grew up there, but then lived in Paris. She is back now at Mr. Wynton’s request. Audrey is confident, single, and drives a sports car–she is viewed with suspicion and distrust.mystery 1950 50s vintage historical clean shopping book fiction murder cluesWhen Mr. Wynton has a medical episode, son, Junior, and his wife Cissy, appear ready to take over the store, especially the finances. It is clear they want to push both Audrey and Mr. Wynton out. Suddenly, Junior dies, followed by a number of other people involved with the store. Cissy loudly claims Audrey is behind it.Audrey realizes she needs help from store employees to save Mr. Wynton, and the store. She will need them to get past the vicious rumors about Audrey, and believe what she is telling them. Two of the three employees she turns to can’t make up their minds if they will support her or not. As more attacks are made, only the head of the bridal salon, Vivian, remains firmly by Audrey’s side.mystery 1950 50s vintage historical clean shopping book fiction murder cluesThis is a great mystery that will pull you right in, there are lots of twists and turns. It looks like the culprit will get away with it, and Audrey will lose everything. Besides the suspense, there are lots of interesting situations from the time period. This five-star book will be enjoyed by fans of the era, thrillers, and exciting stories. I recommend it.mystery 1950 50s vintage historical clean shopping book fiction murder cluesThank you, Barbour Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “The Women of Wynton’s,” by Donna Mumma, for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/donnamummawriter

The Author’s Twitter:  https://x.com/DonnaMumma1

The Author’s Website:  https://donnamumma.me/

 

 

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“I’m So Glad You Were Born: Celebrating Who You Are,” by Ainsley Earhardt

Posted on June 29, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

You…You’re the One!

Illustrated by Kim Barnes

An Instant New York Times Bestseller

This is a happy, positive book that lets a child know how special they are, and celebrates their existence. Whether they are in a wheelchair, have a chronic illness, or no issues at all, everybody makes this world a better place.children surrounding mother holding baby on lap in chair

Each page of this book underscores how wonderful a child is, the great things they have brought into life, and the amazing things they can do in the future. It is all done in a rhyming verse that is both fun to speak, and listen to.

This is a sturdy, over-sized board book, with a cushioned cover that feels really good in your hands. The illustrations are sweet, and add even more to an already cute story.

I love this book, and you will, too. It is a good choice anytime of the year, it would also make a lovely birthday gift. Start a tradition of reading it out loud on your child’s birthday.

Mother and Daughter dancing in kitchen, doing ballet moves

You can never tell someone often enough, especially a child, what a blessing they are. I highly recommend this 5+ star story. You and your child will be grinning ear to ear after reading this. Make it a part of your home library. A child is never too young or too old to hear this book!

Thank you, Zonderkidz, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “I’m So Glad You Were Born: Celebrating Who You Are,” by Ainsley Earhardt for the purpose of review. I have not been compensated in any other manner. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/AinsleyEarhardt/

The Author’s Twitter:  https://x.com/ainsleyearhardt

The Author’s Website:  https://ainsleye.com/

 

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What to Watch Tonight? The Movie: On a Wing and a Prayer

Posted on June 23, 2024 by WordPress.com Support

What would you do if you were flying on a private plane with your family, and the pilot fell over dead?

That is what happened to White family when they suddenly found themselves in this predicament, and tried to find a way to land.

Based on a true story, it is Easter Sunday, and there is just a skeleton crew working in the control towers.  To make it worse, the plane they are in is a complicated model that very few have experience flying.

If everything is not done just right, it will be certain death for all of them. Is there anyone available with knowledge of this plane that can attempt to talk them down?

Starring Dennis Quaid and an amazing cast, this story will keep you on the edge of your seat.

This is a clean story, but judgement needs to be used if a life and death tale would be suitable for children.

I highly recommend this 5-popcorn (5-star) movie.

Posted in Movies, TV, Movie & Audio Reviews, What to Watch Tonight? | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment