“Operation: Happy,” by Jenni L. Walsh

 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

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.
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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.
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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

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

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

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.

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


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.

 

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Creamy Cheese Enchiladas, Gluten-Free or Regular!

This goes together quickly, and pairs well with salad and fruit.

6 gluten-free tortillas, I use Siete Almond Flour tortillas, or regular if not doing gluten-free

FILLING:

1/3 cup sliced onions

2 tablespoons butter

1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed

1/4 teaspoon dried cumin

1/2 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon pepper

3/4 cup sour cream, I use dairy-free

2 cups shredded yellow cheese

1 cup finely chopped, cooked chicken

FOR FILLING:

In a large skillet, sauté onions in butter until tender; set aside.

In a bowl mix sour cream with rosemary, cumin, salt, pepper.  Add chicken.

Spoon chicken mixture down the center of each tortilla. Sprinkle with grated cheese. Roll up and place seam side down in a greased baking dish.

SAUCE

1⁄4 cup butter

1⁄4 cup gf flour, or regular if not doing gluten-free

2 cups gf chicken broth

1 cup sour cream, I use dairy free

¼ teaspoon black pepper

In medium-sized saucepan over medium heat, melt butter. Add flour, stirring constantly. Whisk in chicken broth to make a thick sauce.

Remove from heat and add sour cream. Stir until smooth.

Pour sauce over tortillas and sprinkle with more cheese if desired.  Bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes.

I serve with salsa (Pace) on the side.

If desired, sprinkle with fresh cilantro

Leave out the chicken, and use vegetable broth if you want to make this meat free.

 

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“Secondary Target” by Angela Carlisle

Time is Running Out!

Everything about Corina has turned upside down. Her dad has disappeared, life-threatening things have begun happening, and she has a murderous stalker tracking her every move.

Additionally, her old boyfriend, Bryce has firmly planted himself back into her life after a five-year absence.Debut author Angela Carlisle will leave you breathless with this pulse-pounding romantic suspense.

As the stalker strikes repeatedly, Bryce’s time is divided between trying to protect Corina, and attempting to figure out the stalker’s identity. Despite getting lots of help from the police, the attacks continue with each one being more dangerous."A chill crept up her spine at the thought of being tracked down after all this time. . ."

Corine knows someone nearby is doing this, she can feel them watching her, but who is it? There is no safe place for her to go, the stalker seems to knows her every step, almost before she does.“Add Angela Carlisle to your must-read list!”—Lynn H. Blackburn

There is lots of tension, and twists in this tale, including vehicle-ramming, shootouts, and attempts to drug Corina. Experiencing all these things causes her to reexamine a faith crisis Corina had years earlier. The bad guy’s identity is a complete surprise. Fans of suspense will enjoy this five-star story.

Thank you, Bethany House, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Secondary Target” by Angela Carlisle, 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/AngelaCarlisle.Writer/

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

The Author’s Website:  https://angelacarlisle.com/books/

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“Maisy Loves Bees,” by Lucy Cousins

Buzz, Buzz, Buzz!

What is that buzzing?  It is the bees, and Maisy is ready to tell us all about them.  Just like children, bees get thirsty so it is important that there is water to drink.   Bees love sunshine, and flowers, too.

Maisy tells us where bees live, and what they do.  In very simple language, with lots of colorful pictures, this is a story about bees, but learning takes place, too!

The last page of this board book will surprise readers when it folds out.

After reading this, little ones will be more aware of the busy bees that are buzzing around. They will know that bees do many good things, not least of which is their honey.

This is a fun, five-star book which will be enjoyed by ages eighteen months to six-years-old.

Thank you, Candlewick Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Maisy Loves Bees,” by Lucy Cousins, 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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“Mary’s Calico Hope,” by Anne Blackburne

Hopeless Love!

When Mary was a small child, a car hit their Amish buggy taking the life of her dad, and left Mary handicapped. Even though she has had many surgeries, she is in constant pain, and is only mobile with crutches.

Despite her limitations, Mary supports herself with multiple sources of income. She tries to do everything, and does not want anyone to help her. Mary has developed a prickly personality to protect herself from hurt.No photo description available.

The new doctor, Reuben is very kind and caring. He was raised Amish, but never joined the church. He wants Mary to try a new surgery that might relieve some of the pain, and help her get around easier.

Mary is irritated with Reuben about this, but reluctantly agrees to think and pray about it. Reuben sees through the walls around Mary, and sees the wonderful woman she keeps hidden. Reuben is unlike any man Mary has ever known.

However, a relationship has no way of working for them. Mary would be shunned if she married a non-Amish man. Reuben would have to give up his medical practice if he became Amish.May be an image of scorpion grass and French lavender

Additionally, gossip is running wild about Mary and Reuben that falsely accuses them of being in compromising situations, and behaving improperly. One woman in particular delights in spreading talk about them.

This is a clean story that seems to have no hope for the star-crossed couple. They are trying to have faith that the Lord will make a way when there seems to be no way(Isaiah 43:18-19), but do not know how that is possible. 

Fans of Amish tales, and sweet stories will enjoy this five-star book.

Thank you, Barbour Books, for providing Tickmenot with a complimentary copy of, “Mary’s Calico Hope,” by Anne Blackburne 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/anneblackburneauthor/  

The Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/AuthorAnneB 

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

 

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