“Trivia for Adults” by The Reverend Joe B. Hewitt

Posted on November 23, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Triva for Adults

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Game Night!

Looking for something to do?

Happy PencilYou’ve found it.  This book contains instructions for playing a game of trivia with a group of adults. Other than this book and the players, the only things needed to play are paper, something to write with, and a small prize for the winners.  The author includes questions that he developed himself, they have not come from some other source.  There are a total of 620 questions.  Since only 20 are needed per game, the book contains enough to play 31 different times.

The author recommends this be played by teams as opposed to individuals.  That way people can work together as a group when answering the questions.  Since some of the questions are challenging, playing with others is a good idea, plus it is more fun.Happy Sun Face

Trivia is defined by the Yahoo dictionary as:   “miscellaneous facts, especially when the subject of questions in games and quizzes.”  Those are definitely the type of questions that will be found here.  Lots of little known and entertaining facts pepper the pages of this book.

For instance, with this volume I was truly thrilled to get the answer to why Yankee Doodle Dandy stuck a feather in his hat and called it something else (you can find out just what that was in this book).  I had always wondered why he did that, now I know.

Get ready for some fun!

Happy People ShadowsThe title has been misunderstood by some to think the book’s contents might be inappropriate.  That is not the case, adult refers to the skill level of the questions.  Get this book and enjoy many hours of pleasure with old friends, or get to know some new ones while playing Trivia for Adults.

As the Biblical Psalmist of old said, “how wonderful it is, how pleasant, for God’s people to live (and may I add play) together in harmony!”*  Anyone who enjoys interacting with others or playing games will enjoy this delightful 5-star book.

I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

The author has lived a diverse life.  He grew up as a Jehovah’s Witnesses.  As a teenager, he left them, and as a young man, he became a Christian.  He worked many years as an investigative reporter while owning a printing business and publishing weekly newspapers.  He felt called by God to become a pastor, so attended seminary, and has started more than one church. 

Additionally, he has served as a missionary in many foreign countries, done various types of work to promote Christianity, and authored numerous magazine articles and books.  He is an artist, a photographer and a court-appointed mediator striving to settle lawsuits.  Reverend Hewitt is a member of Mensa, the high IQ society.

*see Psalms 133:1

Author’s Website:  http://www.joebhewitt.net/index.html

Author’s Blog:  http://hewittjoemarona.blogspot.com/; http://www.joehewitt.blogspot.com/

Author’s Other Links:  http://www.rescuewatchtowerslaves.com/; http://www.joebhewittmediator.com/

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“The Christmas Cats Encounter Bats” by Constance Corcoran Wilson

Posted on November 21, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover The Christmas Cats Encounter Bats

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Was That Noise?  Did You Hear That?

Christmas Lights - Copy (2)

In this book, The Christmas Cats are called in to investigate because there are strange sounds coming from a school bus at the local mall.  The cats come to the rescue and save the day by discovering that bats are the source of the noise.  The book states that bats can be scary and different, but bats are also useful.

A rhyming style, reminiscent of Dr. Seuss, is used to tell this story.  The volume is over-sized and paper bound; it contains twenty-four pages.  Every page has brightly colored illustrations, with a cheery string of Christmas lights bordering all the pages as well.  It is a delight to look at.  In the back of the book, a child will have the pleasant surprise of discovering a coloring page and a puzzle.Bats Flying from Christmas Cats

The author asks that the page be colored, and then sent to her book website to be posted for all to see!  This same site, under “freebies,” contains additional coloring pages from the series that can be downloaded and printed out.  She also states that sometimes there are prizes for scanned pictures and puzzles.

This is the third book in a series, and it can be read without reading the rest of the tales.  However, like Aesop’s Fables of old, each Christmas Cat book has a moral to the story.  So by getting the other books, the character trait in each story can be built on the others.  The lesson in this story is that all God’s creatures have a purpose, and should be respected and loved.

Book Cover The Christmas Cats in Silly Hats

Playing together nicely, and learning to get along, is the point of the story in book one, The Christmas Cats In Silly Hats.  This tale features twins, and was done in honor of the author’s own twin granddaughters.

Book Cover The Christmas Cats Chase Christmas Rats

Accepting others individually, without pre-judgment or prejudice is the character trait in book two, The Christmas Cats Chase Christmas Rats.

I think the rhyming story along with the bright illustrations, would appeal to all children.  The book suggests the starting age for the story is three years old.  I think a child a bit younger could enjoy this book, but it would depend on each individual.  This 5-star book would be fun to read to the children in your life, as well as, a joy for the child to look at on their own.

Christmas Lights - Copy (2)

I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

Author’s Website for Book:  http://thexmascats.com/

Author’s Website for More Coloring Pages:  http://thexmascats.com/freebies/index.html

Author’s Website:  http://conniecwilson.com/

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Connie-Corcoran-Wilson/275020829241869

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , | 2 Comments

“Becoming Bea” by Leslie Gould

Posted on November 19, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Becoming Bea

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

He Loves Me….He Loves Me Not…..

Bea is a 21 year old, quiet Amish girl living in Lancaster, Pennsylvania.  Her father has passed away, and her mother has recently survived a brain tumor.  Molly, her older sister, has tried to run Bea’s life as far back as she can remember.  Now married, Molly wants to force homebody Bea to accompany her on an extended visit to Montana to visit Molly’s in-laws.  Frantically wanting to avoid the trip, Bea gets a job helping the nearby Miller family with general housework and their recently born, premature triplets.

Although Bea has no experience with babies, she is motivated to learn quickly.  She wants to have a job, so she won’t be pressed to go with Molly on her trip.  Bea soon finds she Apple Tree & Apples on Ground - Copyadores children.  Despite getting little sleep, and working really hard at the Miller’s, her job is a labor of love.  She even squeezes in time to help harvest the apples that are in the Miller’s yard and trees.   She uses much of the fruit in her many apple recipes while cooking for the family.

The one drawback to the job is Ben Rupp.  He is also working at the Miller’s.  Bea and Ben Spelling Beewere strong competitors with each other every single year in school.  They always tried to outdo the other in spelling.  Their fierce rivalry in the 8th grade spelling bee was so over-the-top, the school board forbid future spelling bees–because of their very non-Amish behavior.  Although Ben frustrated Bea in school, she really thrived on their mutual spelling battles.

Ben and Bea have a further history because he courted her a couple of years earlier. Suddenly he just stopped courting without any explanation.  Bea has felt hurt, rejected and angry ever since.  Whenever he is near her, she feels he is verbally attacking her, and she responds in kind.

Apple - CopySince the two of them are working at the Miller’s, Ben acts like he wants to court Bea again.  This confuses Bea and she doesn’t want to open her heart for more hurt.  She fears he might jilt her suddenly like he did before–especially since the first rejection has never been explained.  She doesn’t trust him, and wants to understand what happened.

When Molly returns from her trip, Bea discovers Molly has set in motion plans  that will Heart Brokencompletely change the course of Bea’s life.  Bea is horrified by Molly’s interference, but she is also traumatized by events that have taken place in her family’s absence.  Bea has found herself unjustly accused of something she did not do, and sadly finds very few will believe her.  Ben is one of her worst non-believers, and has broken her heart once again.

Will Bea get a say in the course her life will follow, or will she meekly give in to Molly’s life-plan?  Now that she has discovered the joy of children, is Bea destined never to have any of her own?  And will Bea get justice and have her name cleared of the false accusations?

This was an enjoyable look at Amish life and romance.  The frantic pace that three newborn preemies cause in the Miller household rang very true.  The story also covered some unexpected ground I have never read in other Amish books.  This book is part of a series, but Becoming Bea can stand alone.  Anyone who enjoys well-written Amish books, or Christian fiction, would enjoy this 5-star book.

As a special treat, the author, Leslie Gould, has allowed me to share one of Bea’s yummy apple recipes:


Apple RealBea’s Baked ApplesApple Real

Ingredients

  • 1 teaspoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 teaspoons sugar
  • 3 teaspoons ground cinnamon
  • 6 large apples – peeled, cored, and sliced
  • 3 1/2 tablespoons water
  • Chopped pecans, if desired, about 1/4 cup, or to taste
  • Raisins, if desired, about 1/4 cup, or to taste

Directions

  1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Grease a large baking dish with the butter.
  2. Mix brown sugar, white sugar, and cinnamon in a small bowl. Layer about 1/3 of the apples in prepared baking dish; sprinkle with 1/3 of the sugar mixture.  If using nuts and raisins, sprinkle 1/3 over apples.   Repeat layers.  If desired, put pats of butter on top.
  3. Bake in preheated oven for 30 minutes. Pour water over apples and continue baking until tender, about 15 minutes more.  This turns the sugar/cinnamon mixture into a perfect sauce. 
  4. Check the last 5 to 10 minutes to make sure they are not getting too soft or mushy.

Apple RealApple RealApple RealApple RealApple RealApple RealApple RealApple Real

This would be a great addition for Thanksgiving, & it is gluten-free, too!  Thanks Leslie and Bea.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Bethany House Publishing for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

Author’s Blog:  http://www.lesliegould.com/

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/lesliegouldauthor

Author’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/lesliejeangould

 

Posted in Book Review Recipes, Book Reviews, Gluten Free Recipes, Gluten-Free Desserts | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“Undressed: Taking Everything Off and Putting on What Matters Most” by Mark Cornelison

Posted on November 14, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Undressed

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Changed from the Inside Out

This is the story of Mark Cornelison, a youth minister for 17 years, who was a contestant on the reality television show,  The Biggest Loser.  He was really motivated to try to be a contestant because of his son, Chism.  He didn’t have high expectations of actually being chosen, or if he was, that he would last very long on the show.  It was a pleasant surprise that both he and his son were chosen to be part of the program.Biggest Loser

This book is less about losing weight, the process of it and being on the show, as it is about the changes that took place inside Mark.  He does state that he was a hundred pounds overweight and had health problems because of that.  Workouts were really difficult for him, especially at first, but he does not give all the fine points of exactly what was done.  Specific details are not given about what was or was not eaten.

For the author, an important thing to come out of this adventure was the self discovery and spiritual journey he had while being a contestant.  He shares a lot about that.  Another important aspect for him were the interpersonal relationships and friendships which he formed while he was part of the television program.

White House Lg Pic CopySome experiences, however, from the show were included in the book.  For instance, he recalls a really hilarious account about the time he went with the show as part of a group of special guests invited to The White House.  What happened that day, while in the van, was priceless.

He also relates that a difficult part about the television experience was homesickness, being away from his family and home was a big hardship for him.  Mark also tells in depth what it felt like the first time to go in front of the television cameras and weigh himself for all to see.

The author enjoys his life after the weight loss especially since he now has so much more energy.  He emphasizes that keeping the weight off is an on-going battle.   As a result of the changes he made both inside and outside of himself, he felt led to go a different direction in his career.  He believes his loss of weight lets him better live out the purpose God created him for.

The overriding theme of the book is very uplifting, it is the assurance of God’s love for each of us.  No matter what size we are, God will have the same amount of love for us all the time.   His love doesn’t change with our size.  The author clearly presents how to have a new life really experiencing God’s love by following Jesus Christ.  Anyone who enjoys true accounts of life-changing events will enjoy this 5-star book.

God Loves You Inside Counts Large - Copy

I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/marktcor

Author’s Website:  http://sweatcor.com/

 

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“God Drives a Tow Truck: An Anthology of True Encounters” by Vicky Kaseorg

Posted on November 11, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover God Drives a Tow Truck 3

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What if You Lived in the Midst of Miracles?

Welcome to an amazing adventure.

That is what you will experience as you read this collection of true stories taken from the author’s life.  Ms. Kaeorg guides the reader on a journey through her spiritual odyssey.  At the beginning, she does not believe in God.  She then lives through some incredible situations that clearly have the touch of God on them.  As a result, she develops a strong belief in Him.  Since that time, Ms. Kaeorg has had some remarkable encounters with God.

This volume was hard to put this down, and it is written in a very readable, insightful style.  The stories were so compelling that I found myself reading different ones out loud to family members.  Everyone who has heard me talking about God Drives a Tow Truck wants a copy of it.

Wow, this is a great book! 

I really loved this anthology, and highly recommend it.  To say this work is interesting is an understatement. The author writes so well, you feel like you are right there, living through these events along side of her. She writes with drama, intelligence and a touch of humor.  This 5+star book would be enjoyed by anyone who likes true stories, or wants to hear of the miraculous taking place in someone’s everyday life.  I challenge you not to be affected by these accounts.

Author’s Website:  http://vickykaseorg.weebly.com/

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vicky-Kaseorg-Author/344952178879131

Author’s Blog:  http://vickykaseorg.blogspot.com/2014/11/resolving-to-do-hard-things.html

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

Random Ramblings: Memories

Posted on November 10, 2014 by Becky

Memories, light the corners of my mind…or what do you want to be remembered for?

Memory Book 3

Aunt Dorris was my Dad’s only sibling, and she was ten years older than him.  They grew up on the family farm in Doniphan County, Kansas.  Like most of her peers, my aunt went into “town,” Wathena, for high school and graduated in 1928.  In those days, they had memory books, similar to autograph books.  My aunt had one that she kept during the years 1924 to 1928.

My husband found it the other night in some old papers we inherited from my Dad, and we had a grand time as he read it to me. Obviously there were lots of unknown poets and comedians at her school.  Here are some excerpts:

 

“Do as your mother bids you,

do it with grace.

If a fellow tries to kiss you,

slap him in the face.”

~Harold Singleton 3/1/27

 

“When you get married,

and have twins;

Come over to my house,

and borrow safety pins!”

~Irene Foster 5/11/27

Ink and Feather Pen Purple

 

“Long as the vine,

that has no end;

That is my love,

 for you dear friend”

–Esther L.

 

“Think of me long,

think of me ever;

Think of the fun,

we have had together.”

~Myrtle Whittacker

 

“Remember me even,

forget me never;

‘Til the Kansas mud,

is dry forever.”

~Elsie Phillip

Ink and Feather Pen Blue 2

 

“They sat on the porch at midnight;

their lips were tightly clasped.

The old man gave the signal;

and the bulldog did the rest.”

~May George

 

“When you get married,

and live on a hill;

Send me a kiss,

by the whippoorwill!”

~Henry Meng

 

“If you think of a monkey,

don’t think of me.

But look in a looking glass,

and there he will be!”

~Arthur Jenkins  3/11/27

 

“When sitting in a parlor,

on your fellow’s knee;

Tell him of your youthful days,

and kiss him once for me.”

~Frieda Wieyant

 

“It is easier to make a good impression

than to remake a bad impression.

Try this!”

~Grant Benitz  5/18/26

 

Ink and Feather Pen

“When you get married,

and your old man gets cross;

Come to my house,

and I will feed you applesauce!”

~Vargricea Wakeman  5/18/26

 

“When you get married,

and your husband gets cross;

Pick up the broomstick,

and say, “I’m the boss!”

~Raymond K.  4/27/27

 

“You’ve a little way about you

that is very dear.

It always makes folks glad

to have you near.

It brings a smile to welcome you,

a sigh when you depart.

And that little way about you,

has endeared you to my heart.”

~Bertha Standby 5/18/27

Ink and Feather Pen Green

 

“Ducks on the pond,

geese on the ocean;

Dorris won’t marry,

until mama takes a notion!”

~Anderson Holaday 5/12/27

 

“Sugar is white,

and so is salt.

If you don’t marry,

it won’t be my fault!”

~A. Green

 

When you see me,

think of dear old Wathena High School Days!

~The School Janitor

 

“The taller the tree,

the higher the bark.

The prettier the girl,

the harder to spark!”

~Harold Frank 2/28/27

 

“Tell me quick

before I faint.

Is you mine,

or is you ain’t?”Ink and Feather Pen Brick Red

~Fern Frank

 

“Dorris of Hearts,

beware of those Troy boys.

Now this is my advice,

although please don’t take it–ha!”

~Lucille Libel

(Troy is the county seat of Doniphan Co.)

 

All these rhymes written by “kids” who would now be over a hundred years old, gave us lots of good laughs that night.  As the Bible says, “a merry heart doeth good like a medicine…” Aunt Dorris, my only aunt on Dad’s side of the family, was almost 50 years old when I was born.  It was really insightful and fun to read things written to her when she was a teenager.

Dad said his sister was very beautiful when she was young, and had a gaggle of gentlemen admirers–but Aunt Dorris wanted a career. She was a real product of the Roaring 20’s, who bobbed her hair and went to work.  She graduated from business college right before the Stock Market Crash of 1929, and The Great Depression.

Mt. Rushmore & Hall of Records

She knew people far and wide including Gutzon Borglum the sculptor who did Mt. Rushmore.  Gutzon took my aunt up to the presidential heads’ construction site, giving her a close-up look at his work, but also a tour of the “Hall of Records” he was working on as well.  It was a grand museum he was building in the granite located behind Lincoln’s head. Due to dwindling funding during The Depression, and Gutzon’s death this was never finished.Rosie the Riviter 2


My aunt visited New York in the 1930’s seeing the sites including going to the Empire
State Building and the Statue of Liberty. During the war, like Rosie the Riveter, Aunt Dorris took a job in an airplane factory making planes for The Allies. She dated an RAF Pilot, who took her for airplane rides, but was killed in the war.

Aunt Dorris had an exciting life.  In today’s vernacular, she had most of the local politician’s numbers on speed dial.  She lived to be 94 and was smart, confident and out-spoken throughout her life.  To the end, she was a committed Christian.

I was her only niece, and although she never had children of her own, she was a great influence in my life.  Aunt Dorris faithfully attended every event in my life, both big and small.  She even played a very important part the turbulent night of my birth.  But that, as Paul Harvey used to say, is another story.

Heart in Oval

Posted in Random Ramblings | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“True Tails from the Dog Park” by Max and Luther

Posted on November 5, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover True Tails from the Dog Park

 

 

 

 

 

 

How Much Is That Doggie In The Window?

This book recalls different experiences that have taken place at a local dog park. Dogs Max and Luther aka Kari Sherman and Carey Laubenberg, the dog’s owners or “moms,” author this tale. The adventures in the park are told through the dog’s voices.

Max and Luther chronicle positive things that have happened while at the park. For instance, that is the place that brought the authors together, both the two humans and two dogs, to form a great friendship. It is also a wonderful place for them to be able to run and play without being on a leash.

Most of the negative incidents have usually involved people who don’t like normal canine behavior, even in a dog park. Since Max and Luther are usually off-leash in the park, they often want to play with other dogs that come in. This can cause the animals to get dirty, which has upset some of the owners.

Other owners have wanted to eat, or attempt to picnic, on the grounds of the park. With dogs running loose in the same environment, it is easy to see how that could be a recipe for disaster as curious dogs invite themselves to sample the human food as well.

There was also the time an individual came to the park who was allergic to dogs, and demanded that all the owners keep their dogs away from him. Max and Luther are often puzzled why people come to dog parks, and do not want dogs to be themselves.

This small volume, 47 pages, attempts to point out why some behavior won’t work in a dog park, and gives some tips on things that will. Throughout the text are illustrations and “dog park rules” which address different topics. There are also sections of the Dog Park Journal that alternate with Max or Luther individually addressing topics ranging from what to feed your four legged friends to what to expect if dog toys are brought to the park.

This book would be good for anyone who might visit a dog park, it would let the reader know what to expect both for people and their furry friends. I recommend this volume for teen and adult readers that own, or have an interest in, dogs.

Max & Luther Dog Book
I’d like to thank the authors for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

Authors’ Website: www.kariandcarey.com

Authors’ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/maxandlutherpublication

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

ENTER THE GIVEAWAY “A ROBERTSON FAMILY CHRISTMAS” BY MISS KAY ROBERTSON with Travis Thrasher*

Posted on October 26, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover A Robertson Family Christmas

And To All A Good Night

This book combines two of my favorite things, a Christmas story and the Duck Dynasty family, the Robertsons.  Chicago teenager, Hunter Clarke, is shocked to discover he is  the contest winner who will spend Christmas with the Robertson Family.  Unknown to Hunter, his mother had entered him in the contest.

Christmas Duck Round

The teen has led a lonely, solitary life, especially since the divorce of his parents.  His mother is not home much because she must work to support them.  When his dad moved out, he took his older brother with him.  Hunter rarely hears from either of them which makes him feel rejected and unlikeable.

Korie Robertson, Willie’s wife, whose “voice” this story is told through, has big plans for the Chicago teen.   She wants their visitor to go on an actual duck hunt, attend their church Christmas service, and be part of the family celebration.  However, Hunter arrives angry, sullen and with a bad attitude.  Will Hunter end up ruining Christmas for both the Robertsons and himself?  Or will Hunter finally let his guard down, and enjoy the festivities?

Robertson Family Christmas

This is a cute, light Christmas story, written from a Christian viewpoint, and is one  I really liked.  Learn how crazy, fun and worshipful the Robertsons are at Christmas.  Even though this is a work of fiction, I have a suspicion this is how the family celebrates Christmas in real life.

Despite the humorous aspects of the story, there are some very serious sections that detail the many sad parts of Hunter’s life.  This tale, along with the characters in it, are believable and easy to relate to.  One does not need to have ever watched the television show, Duck Dynasty, to enjoy this story.  I highly recommend this 5-star book to anyone who likes stories set at Christmastime that have a good ending.Christmas Words on Green Lights

Tyndale House Publishers provided me with a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I have not been compensated in any other manner. Despite my receiving the book free, it has not influenced my judgment, and I have given an honest opinion.

I am happy to say I have a copy of  A Robertson Family Christmas to give away.*

Please enter your email address in the Rafflecopter below.  I will only use your email address to contact you if you win. I will never pass it on. The best of luck to you. You must live in the USA, and enter only once, please. No purchase necessary!*

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

This giveaway is only valid in the USA

Many thanks to Tyndale House Publishing House for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

*See Disclaimer Section in above drop down heading under picture.

 

 

Posted in Book Reviews, Giveaways | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment

“If You Were Me and Lived In….France” by Carole P. Roman

Posted on October 22, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover If You Were Me and Lived in....France

Parlez-vous français?

Author Carole Roman takes readers on a trip to France, and the City of Light–we even learn why Paris has that title. Ms. Roman has devoted herself to writing books for children, and teaching them about the way the boys and girls of the world live, eat and play.

In this book, the reader learns that French children call their mommy Maman, and their daddy Papa. Common French names for boys are Hugo, Mathis and Theo. While many girls in France are named Collette, Jacqueline and Clara.

Ms. Roman does a good job showing the common ground that children around the globe share, as well as, showing some differences. For instance, French children like the game of soccer, but call it by another name, Le Football.

Sprinkled throughout the book are several French words. In the very back of the volume, there is a page that contains a list of those words, along with their pronunciation.

This soft, slightly over-sized, paper-bound-book, is aimed toward three to eight-year-old children, and is written on that level. The younger age range would need the book read to them, while the older age range might mange reading it on their own. Bright colors are featured on all of the twenty-two pages, and more than half of those contain brilliant illustrations.

Reading this is a fun way for this age group to learn a little bit of what it is like to be a child in France. Whether a child is reading this book themselves, or someone is reading it to them, this enjoyable 5-star book is a great way to learn about French culture!

I’d like to thank the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for the purpose of review. All opinions expressed are my own, and I was not required, or influenced, to give anything but an honest appraisal.

Author’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/CarolePRomanAwardWinningAuthorAndBooks

Author’s Website: http://caroleproman.com/

Author’s Blog: http://caroleproman.blogspot.com/

Posted in Book Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , | 1 Comment

SOUNDTRACK GIVEAWAY “I’LL BE ME” THE GLEN CAMPBELL MOVIE

Posted on October 19, 2014 by Becky

Glen Campbell Movie I'll Be Me

Enter to win!

I am happy to say I have a 5 song EP soundtrack from the film to give away.  One lucky winner will receive the soundtrack that features Glen Campbell, Ashley Campbell, and The Band Perry. Place your name in the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win.*  This giveaway is only valid in the USA & Canada. 

Recently I had the opportunity to watch an advance viewing of the movie, I’ll Be Me, a work that chronicles music legend Glen Campbell and his fight with Alzheimer’s Disease.  This film recounts the time shortly after Glen publicly announced he had the illness, and then follows him on his last tour, his farewell to his fans.  This movie is many things, among them:  amazing, intense and moving.

It is amazing someone with his condition, even with the help of his family, could accomplish what he does.  Despite so many of his faculties failing, he was still able to perform, not just one last time, but to go on to do one hundred fifty-one shows.

Granted, there was a teleprompter when he performed, and he wasn’t always perfect.  But he was singing and playing from a place within himself that was still able to make music.  At the same time he was doing this, he was having trouble identifying the names of his children.  Yet there was so much music in him, he could still play the guitar and sing.  In fact, continuing to sing seemed to help him function longer.

It was intensely moving to see how open his family was to allow cameras into personal areas of their lives.  Some good, and some bad is shown.  Viewers get a small glimpse of how very difficult it is for a family to function when one of the members has Alzheimer’s.  The Campbell family will earn your respect by showing how hard they work to make sure what Glen does is honoring for him, and not something that tears him down.

I would have liked I’ll Be Me to have been more about Glen Campbell the man, and not just Glen Campbell, an artist with Alzheimer’s.  It would have been a deeper experience to have more information about his background and his success, with more footage of him performing during the early days.  There was a tiny amount of classic clippings at the movie’s beginning, but it was gone through very quickly.

This film is obviously going to be used as a vehicle to support Alzheimer’s awareness, and that is a noble cause.  Many families, including my own, have been personally touched by that horrific disease.  However, it would have made the movie richer had more of Glen’s classic material been included, and woven throughout the film.  His fan’s would have enjoyed that, and for those who don’t know Glen, it would have been a great opportunity to enlighten them.

That being said, this is a worthwhile movie to see.  It was courageous on the part of Glen and his family to open themselves up so completely in a film, to be so transparent and vulnerable. Viewers will emphasize with Glen, his wife, and his family as they live through their journey, and trust in God.  You will laugh, cry, and cheer them on throughout it.

On a personal note:  My husband and I attended a live performance Glen Campbell gave near the end of September 2001.  In the turmoil filled days following the 911 attack, we like so many, were feeling numb from the shock.  We debated attending the show, and nearly didn’t go.  Doing something normal almost felt wrong during those first few weeks.  But attend we did, and Glen gave a wonderful performance.  For a few hours, we were transported to a cheerful place far away from the madness that had descended on our world.  We were so glad we made the decision to go.

Like all his other fans, I was saddened to learn Glen Campbell had Alzheimer’s, and cherish the memory I have of his outstanding performance.

This movie will be released in phases, beginning October 24, 2014.  Please see this website to know when it will come to a theater near you:  http://glencampbellmovie.com/events/category/theatrical-release/

Enter to win the 5 song EP soundtrack from the film. 

The soundtrack features Glen Campbell, Ashley Campbell, and The Band Perry. Enter your name in the Rafflecopter below for a chance to win.*  The giveaway is only valid in the USA & Canada.

Enter your email address, which will only be used to contact you if you win.  The best of luck to you.  You must live in the US or Canada, and enter only once, please. No purchase necessary!*

This giveaway is now over.

Congratulations Teri R., who won the 5 song EP soundtrack from the film.

Thanks to everyone who entered!


“Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC  for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”

This giveaway is only valid in the USA & Canada.

*See Disclaimer Section in above drop down heading under picture.

Website: http://glencampbellmovie.com/faith/

Faith trailer link:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nafCCofiwtU

Posted in Giveaways, TV, Movie & Audio Reviews | Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , | Leave a comment