“If You Were Me and Lived in….Russia” by Carole P. Roman

Posted on August 27, 2014 by Becky

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

A Ruble for Your Thoughts

Pack your bags, and put on your traveling clothes!  It is time to embark on more world travels with Carole Roman as she describes what it is like for children growing up in diverse parts of the globe.  This time, Ms. Roman takes us on a trip to Russia, also known today as The Russian Federation.

Although the book talks about how cold it is in certain parts of the nation, the author points out what a huge country Russia is, and the other types of weather that make up the land.  However in the cold areas, it is really frigid.  We learn that if a child lives in that area, for protection from the freezing cold, they would need to wear a thick furry hat, complete with ear flaps, called a shapka ushanka.

Holidays are different here, as well as, the same.  Highly promoted during the communist era as a substitute for Santa and Christmas, Ded Moroz (Grandfather Frost) and Snegurochka (his granddaughter) dressed in blue and white, leave presents at the New Year under a decorated Novogodnaya Yolka (New Year Tree)–complete with a star on top. Included are great descriptions of the food eaten, along with fireworks and dancing that are sometimes part of the celebration.

The foods enjoyed by children here are much different than their American counterparts eat, but it is really interesting to learn what they are.  Some examples are borscht (beet soup) and caviar (fish eggs).  The children’s names sound very different, too, but are common in this country.  Girls are often named Natalya or Tatiana while boys may be named Ivan or Maxim.  In the back, there are two pages of Russian words that have been used in the book, along with pronunciations and meanings.

This children’s book is aimed at three to eight-year-olds.  It is a soft, paper-bound book with twenty-nine pages full of illustrations.  Whether the child reads this book, or has it read to them, they will hear a good story and have a pleasant experience.  But the sneaky thing about this book, and the ones in this series is, learning also takes place.  This 5-star book is fun to read, yet I learned things, so I am sure a child would learn as much as me–if not more!  I recommend this for anyone who wants to gain knowledge about Russia in an easy format, on a child’s level.

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/

 

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A Gluten-Free Recipe

Posted on August 24, 2014 by Becky

Our Easy Ribs with Jason’s Rub

  • 2 1/2 lbs (about) Pork Spare Ribs
  • Jason’s Rub*

Preheat oven to 275⁰ F.

Rinse ribs well.

Grease a large baking pan,  with oil or shortening. Place ribs in a single layer in the pan.  Sprinkle secret rub all over top until everything is completely covered, patting it down to make sure it sticks.

Bake at 275⁰ for 3 hours, uncovered.

These are delicious made this way.  But we also think they are wonderful if made in a smoker.

Ribs with Website

Jason’s Rub*

  • 8 parts sea salt
  • 4 parts ground black pepper
  • 1 part Webber Chicago Steak Seasoning, we use the kind in the grinder

Mix together well and store in a covered container. Keep in pantry to use as needed.

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“Paws in the Piazza” by Jerilyn McIntyre

Posted on August 20, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Paws in the Piazza

Ciao Harley!

This book is geared toward children aged ten to fourteen years old.  It is soft-bound, contains ninety-four pages, and is slightly over-sized.  This story is about cat named Harley who has traveled with his human family for an extended trip to Venice, Italy.

While out exploring the city, Harley meets and befriends some local cats.    He learns the vital role cats play in this metropolis.  His new friends show him around, tell him about customs unique to the town, and inform him of the cat history of Venice–which turns out to be important for the current time period.

Harley has numerous adventures, including seeing a beautiful white cat, who wears a red cape, that he instantly becomes enamored with. He finds out her name is Angela.  But when he tries to uncover more about her, he discovers she is shrouded in mystery.  His friends know about her, but don’t want to tell him all they know.

Harley befriends a talking statue, that claims to be centuries old, and has curious powers.  He also stumbles into a secret meeting his cat friends are a part of.  Harley finds himself in the middle of a huge city-wide cat fight that involves the two rival cat factions in the city.  That altercation changes the course of his life, and shifts how the cats of the city view him.  In addition, Harley has a dangerous, odd encounter with a very strange man.  He experiences some uncomfortable situations with him.  It is suggested this individual might be a ghost.

This 4-star book should appeal to the imagination of the target age group.  I always enjoy tales where the animals can talk, even if it is just with each other, and not humans, too.  So this is a book that would be enjoyed by those who like imaginative yarns with talking animals, especially cats.  Because of the ghostly elements, I recommend this book only to those who would not find that offensive.

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.

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“The Princess Within For Teens” by Serita Ann Jakes

Posted on August 19, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover The Princess Within for Teens

Wait For Your Prince

This book was written for teenage girls to help them cope with different dilemmas they might face in today’s world.  She especially focuses on a girl’s self-esteem, and temptations that could be real pitfalls in a girl’s life.  At the beginning of each chapter, portions of the story of Cinderella are used to set the theme for the point being discussed.  There are also some song recommendations for the reader to listen to that go along with the subject line.  A section called, “My Story,” is included that has a true account from someone who has experienced this issue.  The author combines all of this with the word of God and speaks about each subject with candor, knowledge and good ideas.

The author is very up-to-date with current trends and topics that face today’s teenage girls–including some really dangerous circumstances that exist.  The book is interesting, and would not be difficult for a teenager to read.  She really makes the reader think by including surveys, often asking the audience questions and querying “what’s your story” in different situations.  Mrs. Jakes gives really good advice about what not to do, but also, what to do if a teenager messes up.  The author assures the girls that it is never too late to turn their lives around, and that if they include God in their lives, so much the better.  God will never turn His back on them, no matter what they have done or experienced.

This book was uplifting, and really wants to get teenage girls to make the right choices, have good self-esteem and include Jesus in their lives.  Mrs. Jakes doesn’t shy away from hard topics.  I recommend this 5-star book to teenagers or their parents.  The author has five adult children, as well as grandchildren. She is also the wife of Bishop T.D. Jakes of The Potter’s House in Dallas, Texas.

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 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/firstladyjakes

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

Author Information:  http://bakerpublishinggroup.com/authors/serita-jakes/3851

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Book Giveaway “Wherever the River Runs” by Kelly Minter*

Posted on August 15, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Wherever the River Runs

Rollin’ Down the River

This book contains fascinating true accounts of Kelly Minter’s experiences on trips she made to South America. Little did this Nashville author know that when she signed with a Christian record label, she set in motion events that would ultimately lead her to the Brazilian Rain Forest. The head of the record label had a heart for the native people, sometimes called the forgotten people, who lived by the Amazon River. He encouraged the artists to go with him to see for themselves, and to lend a helping hand.

Kelly found the rain forest was hot, humid, and uncomfortable. The people were poor, living in desperate conditions. However, the Amazon River itself was so spectacularly beautiful that it was awe-inspiring. It was also filled with deadly creatures such as piranhas, caimans and anacondas. Kelly, along with the group she came with, would travel down that river on a boat called the Discovery. It would take her to places that would change her life.

She met many of the local people, and saw first-hand the challenges they faced, and their struggles. Often the pastors in the jungle were some of the poorest people. Many had just one set of clothing. Some had no place to live so took refuge in the church if they were lucky enough to have a building. If not, they made do with a hammock strung between the jungle trees. Yet these ministers were happy to do God’s work, and joyfully talked about their lives.

After her experience in the Amazon, Ms. Minter’s return to Nashville made her view everything with new eyes. Not just the obvious excesses that many Americans are blessed with, but the simplicity of faith the jungle people have. Her trip changed how the author lived, and worked among those around her in this country. She stepped out of her comfort zone to do things she might not have done before. She also wanted to return to the jungle again, which she did.

Ms. Minter’s writing makes you feel like you are in the canoe with her as it makes its way down the Amazon, or inside one of the hot, humid dwellings along the river. Her words clearly give the reader the sights, smells and tastes of her travels. Not everyone will get the chance to go to the Brazilian rain forest or have the adventure of floating down the Amazon, but with this book, you will get the next best thing. I highly recommend this 5-star book to anyone who likes true stories, is interested in foreign lands, or just enjoys good writing.

“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, it has not influenced my judgment. Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. Limit to USA & Canadian addresses only.

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

Author’s Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Kelly-Minter/85800745014

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

You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AGb4r7lrEno&list=UU4vF_MunQDVGg-P497Bj6nA

 

I am happy to say I have a copy of Wherever the River Runs to give away.*

Enter your email address, which I will only use to contact you if you win. I will never pass it on. The best of luck to you. You must live in the US or Canada, and enter only once, please. No purchase necessary!*
Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway.

 This giveaway is now over.

Congratulations Brenda M., who won the copy of Wherever the River Runs by Kelly Minter

Thanks to everyone who entered!

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

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“All for a Sister” by Allison Pittman

Posted on August 12, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover All For A Sister

…”You Meant Evil Against Me, but God Meant it for Good…”

This is a fascinating story of the possible murder of an infant, the misuse of wealth, and a miscarriage of justice.  Dana Lundgren, the daughter of a desperately poor housekeeper and cook, was put into prison as a child–despite never having a trial.  Dana was kept there until she was in her early 30’s.  When she is released, it is the middle of the Roaring Twenties.  The whole world has changed while she was locked away.  She finds that she is mysteriously the co-heir of the wealthy DuFrane estate in Hollywood, California.  Dana shares the inheritance with beautiful, vivacious Celeste DuFrane, who is hoping to become a famous actress.  Celeste happily and immediately pulls Dana into her whirlwind life.

Dana is puzzled by it all.  She has no idea why she is part heir to this fortune, especially since the DuFranes were responsible for her incarceration.  Dana feels off-balance by how the world has changed, and how she should behave as a free person.  But most of, Dana wants to know where her mother is.  The last time Dana saw her mother, she promised to bring Dana back home.  But that was right after Dana was put in jail.  One day her mother just didn’t show up, and Dana has never heard from her since.

This book covers lots of ground.  It includes the dazzling life of 1920’s Hollywood, contrasted with the gloom and despair of prison for a child, and later a young woman.  Then there is a rich woman, who is desperately unhappy despite her wealth.  The story shows how her misplaced vindictive behavior ruins more than one life.  Also there is the questionable death of a baby, along with the mysterious birth of another.  Interwoven in the tale, is the truth of the love of Christ, and the opportunity to turn a life around with forgiveness–if it is chosen.

This is the third in a series, but it really stands alone.  In fact, I didn’t realize it was part of a set until I had finished reading All For a Sister.  The characters in this book are well developed, and the tale is interesting.  The mystery of the baby’s death, along with wondering how the story is going to unfold, is very intriguing.  The only negative is, it was a bit difficult to follow the first few chapters.  There was so much skipping around to different characters, and different time periods, that it was a little confusing.  But hang in there, because it all makes sense, and comes together extremely well. I really like that this is written from a Christian viewpoint, and the story was not predictable.  Anyone who wants to read an entertaining book, that has lots of twists, will surely enjoy this 5-star book.  I recommend it.

The publisher has provided me with a complimentary copy of this book through Tyndale House Publishers 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 Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/pages/Allison-Pittman-Author-Page/121203897897741

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

Author’s Website: http://www.allisonpittman.com 

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Movie Review: The Identical

Posted on August 9, 2014 by Becky

The Identical The Movie 4

Rated PG

I recently had the opportunity to see an advanced viewing of the upcoming movie, The Identical.

This is the story of identical twin boys, that are separated at birth, and neither one knows they have a twin.  The movie follows the different paths each of them go down.  Also shown are the similarities that take place in both of their lives. The film begins in the 1930’s, and goes through the 1970’s.

The story focuses on Ryan Wade, who struggles between following the career path his Pastor father insists he go down, or pursuing his dream of music, and doing what he feels he is born to do.  He often has people confuse him with rock star Drexel Hemsley, whom he looks exactly like, and who Ryan can imitate perfectly when he sings.  When he discovers his true identity, he begins questioning everything about his life.

The Identical The Movie 2

The film also traces the life of Drexel Hemsley, an Elvis type character, who first becomes a huge sensation in the 1950’s music world.  His legions of fans adore him, and his fame endures through the decades.   Drexel purchases a mansion, which he names Dreamland, that constantly has fans milling around the gates hoping for a glimpse of him.  He even attends a “Drexel Hemsley” imitator contest where he sees Ryan imitate him faultlessly in both song and appearance.

The Identical The Movie Born to Rock

This is a good tight story, with well developed characters, and the viewer quickly becomes emotionally invested in the tale.  The acting is well done.  The Identical is an enjoyable and entertaining movie.  There is some humor, a little romance, lots of upbeat music, and tension.  A Christian worldview is used to tell this story, and Christian principals are followed throughout the movie.  Some drinking was shown, but the main character was always shown turning alcohol down.

This interesting, fast paced, and compelling story will appeal to adults and teenagers alike.  The Identical is a fun movie, it will lift your spirits, and you will be happy you attended.  I highly recommend it.

The Identical The Movie Ashley Judd

This movie, from the City of Peace studio, will be released on September 5, 2014. Starring in the movie are:  Ray Liotta, Ashley Judd, Joe Pantoliano, Seth Green, Erin Cottrell, Brian Geraghty and Blake Ryane.

The Movie’s Website:  http://theidenticalmovie.com/

The Movie’s Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/IdenticalMovie

The Movie’s Twitter:  https://twitter.com/theidentical

View The Movie Trailer:  http://theidenticalmovie.com/videos/

You Tube Videos:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LaN3q8BZpuQ

https://www.google.com/search?client=opera&q=The+Identical+-+Faith%3A+Behind+the+Scenes&sourceid=opera&ie=UTF-8&oe=UTF-8

 

 

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Book Giveaway “Enough: Ten Things We Should be Telling Teenage Girls” by Kate Conner*

Posted on August 1, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Enough

Do You Have Enough?

This book contains practical, common sense advice for teenage girls, mixed in with wisdom from the Bible.  It is based on a list the author made called, “Ten Things I Want to Tell Teenage Girls.”  She posted it on her blog during the wee hours one Sunday morning.  Later, when she came home from church, she found she had really struck a nerve because her blog had received hundreds of thousands of views.

In the book, the overriding theme is:  you are enough.  God loves you, and you don’t have to be anything more than what He created you to be, that is enough.  Girls can make themselves crazy trying to conform to the world’s idea of beauty.  They may change the color of their hair, change their skin tone with tanning beds, or starve themselves in an effort to be “beautiful.”  The author says “enough” about all of this effort to change the way God made you.  Accept how you are created, you are God’s masterpiece–and that is enough.

This book contains ten sections.  The author writes about emotions, social media, and following your heart.   And she does so in a very creative way.

For example, most teenage girls are very interested in boys.  But, a lot of them are disappointed in the type of boys that are usually interested in them.  Kate advises girls that if they aren’t getting attention from the right kind of guy, they need to change the “bait” they use.

In other words, the girl is the bait.  If she wants a guy to like her for her personality, she will need to focus on making her personality be what is most noticeable.  By the same token, if a girl dresses to draw attention to her body, then she will “catch” a guy whose interest in her is all about her physical attributes.

The author is a mother in her late 20’s, she is married to a pastor, and the two of them have been working with teens since college.  This fun read covers lots of serious topics with some great suggestions.  She states everything in life begins and ends with a solid faith in Christ.  I enjoyed it, and learned some things.  If you are a teen or have a teen in your house, this book is for you.  If you don’t fall into those categories, but want to understand teen girls a bit more, this 5-star book is also for you.  This book just might change a girl’s life.

“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, it has not influenced my judgment.  Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway.  Limit to USA & Canadian addresses only.

Author’s Blog:  http://kateelizabethconner.com/

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

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

I am happy to say I have a copy of  Enough:  Ten Things We Should be Telling Teenage Girls to give away.*

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

Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway is now over.

Congratulations Jasmine R., who won the copy of Enough: Ten Things We Should be Telling Teenage Girls.

Thanks to everyone who entered!

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

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“Work for the Wicked” by Wilson Lanue

Posted on July 30, 2014 by Becky

Book Cover Work for the Wicked

Make Him An Offer He Can’t Refuse

This is a collection of short stories about a quirky hit man, Buck Yates, who works for the mob.  Although he has no hesitation about killing someone–and he is quite good at his job–he has his own code of ethics he lives by.  Because of his principles, Buck finds himself doing the opposite of what the crime boss he works for wants.  This collection of short stories follows the hit man as he attempts to avoid his former boss’s wrath, and the adventures he has as he bounces around doing  what could only be called “odd jobs for hit men.”

Despite Buck’s violent work, there are also humorous and ironic moments that take place in his stories.  Buck even shows a lot of heart, which can make him a bit endearing, as long as, not much thought is given to his career choice.  Readers might even surprise themselves by starting to root for Buck, hoping he will come out on top.

Mr. Lanue’s writings immediately pulled me into his stories.  These narratives are well written; they also contain lots of depth, skill and creativeness.  The tales he weaves about Buck are enjoyable and one-of-a-kind.  All of the accounts have unexpected twists, and the endings are not predictable.  The author does a great job getting the reader to like a hit man.

As a warning, there are some mature themes and language in this collection, so I recommend this book only to those who would not find that offensive.  Make sure you do not miss reading the want ads on the front cover, they are very entertaining.  I do not know how much experience the author has had with crime, but all the illegal activities described in these 5-star narratives rang true.

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

Author’s Blog:  http://wilsonlnu.com/about/

 

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

Posted on July 30, 2014 by Becky

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

JAMBO! (Hello)

This is a children’s book telling about life, and the way people live, in the country of Kenya. Each of the twenty-six pages is colored, and half the pages contain brightly illustrated pictures. This soft, paper-bound-book, is aimed toward three to eight-year-old children.

This book contains information about Kenya including the type of money used, the people that live in the country and the geographic location on the globe. All of it is presented in a fun and simple way that children can understand. The back of the book contains a list of words associated with Kenya, and the way to pronounce them.

The author does a great job of pointing out the things that are the same, and things that are different, for people in other parts of the world. For instance, she shares common names for children in Kenya. They are Kiano, Jaramogi, or Gacoki for boys, and Akeyo, Kioni, or Dalia for girls. Children can relate to this because everyone has a name, but the Kenyan names are also different from the familiar ones in their country.

Ms. Roman also makes this point again when telling about playtime, an activity all children like, and are familiar with. But in Kenya, the children like to play a game called Cricket, which American children most likely are unfamiliar with. Again, this is a great example of something being both alike, and different, at the same time.

As children either read this book, or listen while it is read to them, things they are not familiar with are presented, but children also see that some differences contain common ground. The eye-catching colors and pictures in the book should also be attractive to children. Reading this book is a fun way for learning to take place while it is in the disguise of a story. I recommend this 5-star book to anyone wanting a painless and entertaining way for youngsters to learn about the geography, culture, and people in Kenya.

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/

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