How to Help a Hare and Protect a Polar Bear: 50 simple things YOU can do for our planet!

A lot of young people worry about our endangered natural world, and they probably feel like there is nothing they can do to change things, but that is not so. This wonderful book will not only give young readers a good deal of information about the natural world and what is negatively impacting it but also give common sense things youngsters can do that will actually stem the tide and help turn things around.

First, there is an introduction to what habitats are, then sections on Forests, Deserts, Swamps, Freshwater, Coastlines, Oceans, Savannahs, Jungles, and Mountains. For each of these, there is an explanation of what makes each special, some of the animals that live there with fun facts, and several ideas on how youngsters can help.

The writing by Dr. Jess French, a zoologist and veterinary surgeon, is friendly and conversational while filled with excellent information. The illustrations by Angela Keoghan are lovely. Those of the habitats and people are not terribly realistic, but the illustrations of the animals are.

This book will give young readers solid, realistic actions they can take that will make a difference. This book should be in classrooms and libraries across the nation.


Programmed to Paint

Multitalented imaginator Mauricio Abril has captured the magic of storytelling with his dynamic fluid words and eye-popping energetic colorful characters that teach an important moral for young and old alike. Do not be afraid to be yourself. This is the lesson learned by an endearing perfectly programmed robot named Pintro.

Pintro, the little automaton, can bake, and garden, and do higher math. Unfortunately, this mechanical person has one flaw, while he can produce perfect copies with his drawings, these replicas all lack the creative essence that is so essentially a part of art. By joining a drawing class with other students and with the help of a thoughtful teacher, this frustrated robot discovers that learning is a process that requires tripping over errors.

Read on to learn how this wired creature ultimately loses perfection due to faulty wiring that result in mistakes that finally open his inner creativity. Children will trace the story through the dynamic and colorful illustrations that pace and parallel this heartwarming story. The bright-eyed children featured in this story mirror the friendly cooperation and generous help they offer to this newcomer. It is a book that should be available to every child and many adults.


Minecraft: The Outsider: An Official Minecraft Novel

Minecraft: The Outsider by Monica Davidson is a really interesting read. Jeremy starts out in The City, which is very big. He feels unnoticed, not at school and not even at home. He has five brothers and sisters and always gets overlooked. One of the kids in his class, Brandt, gets a pet zombie. And Jeremy volunteers to pet-sit. But it ends up going all wrong and Jeremy has to help a new friend, Valda, and he has an adventure to try to figure out what is wrong with some weird zombies who are stealing resources in this world.

 I liked this book because I’m a big Minecraft fan. I’ve enjoyed all the Minecraft novels so far, and this one is no exception. It’s action-packed and full of great Minecraft-y adventures. Once Jeremy gains confidence, he’s a very interesting character. Valda starts off rude, but after a while she starts to trust Jeremy and they work together to fix the weird zombie problem.

Minecraft lovers will definitely enjoy this book.


You Broke It!

Every parent eventually says them: those pat phrases we swore we would not say. In You Broke It!, acclaimed cartoonist and regular contributor to The New Yorker magazine Liana Finck turns those phrases on their head in an utterly funny and delightful way.

Here, a bird reprimands her hatchling, saying he broke his eggshell, while a big tornado tells his little progeny that she’s making a mess! A pig warns a piglet playing in mud that he’s going to get dirty, and big turtle commands a little turtle to hurry up! Finally, when an octopus tells its offspring to “keep your hands to yourself,” the young octopus speaks the truth that so many children must feel, “I am just being me.” With that, the older octopus sweetly wraps the young octopus in an eight-tentacle hug.

Typically, children’s picture books have an instructive message for children. Here, however, the children will be thoroughly entertained by the book’s excellent humor, while their adults may receive a gentle and probably needed reminder of what it feels like to be a child.


Solstice: Around the World on the Longest, Shortest Day

Solstice is the longest or shortest day of the year depending on the season. What is so incredibly cool about this book is that this book goes around the world with how different parts of the country view and celebrate the Solstice on June 21st. In the USA, July 21st is the summer solstice and the longest day of the year for us but this is not true for everywhere including the cold and dark south pole that gets NO sunlight on June 21st.

This book has 14 illustrators around the world for each of the different locations. I think that makes this book unique. This book is full of so many fun facts about places all over the world. I can't wait to read and compare again how each place is different when the summer solstice arrives.


Stones and Bones: Fossils and the stories they tell

Earth is a repository for evidence of its long history of life. This record is made up of fossils, more and more being found every day as scientists dig down to find the story of earlier times. This wonderful book will fascinate youngsters ages six to ten or eleven with pages jam-packed with scientific information written in a very accessible, conversational manner explaining things like what fossils are and how they are formed, what paleontology is, and so much more. It is broken into sections covering the Precambrian and Paleozoic Eras, the Mesozoic Era, the Cenozoic Era, and Paleontology today. The information is broken into small chunks of text presented in a graphically pleasing way with fun illustrations by Sophie Williams that support the text. The layout will draw youngsters' eyes through the pages and the chunks of text as presented are inviting and not at all intimidating, as science information often can be. Rob Wilshaw, the author, does not shy away from scientific terms, but there is a good glossary at the end. Readers are invited to become scientists with information about how to hunt for fossils and how to make a fossil hunting kit. Don’t miss this one!


Welcome to the Hyunam-dong Bookshop: A Novel

I was so excited to receive a copy of Welcome to the Hyunam-Dong Bookshop by Hwang Bo-Reum. This book was translated from Korean into English very well and is an effortless read for all ages. The book centers around the owner of the bookshop, Lee Yeongju, a woman who has wanted to own a bookshop since she was a young girl. The book tells her story and that of the people she interacts with daily. Minjun is the barista Yeongju hires who immerses himself in the world of coffee and its beans. There is also a woman named Mincheol's mother whose real name we don't find out until the very end. Then, a woman who comes in and crochets and knits named Jungsuh is added to the mix. These people go on with their everyday routines and Yeongju does her best to grow the events and marketing for the bookshop. One of the events is to have book authors do a book talk. After inviting author Hyun Seungwoo, the story becomes a lot more exciting with talks about philosophy, the characters' pasts, and what happiness means.

Overall, the story was a bit slow in the beginning, but when Seungwoo is introduced, Yeongju's character starts to open up, and this is where the real story begins. This is a good read with a simple storyline that will make readers think about their own lives and what causes them happiness.


Teaching Eddie to Fly (Katarina’s Small Wonders)

In Teaching Eddie to Fly, a bear named Arthur realizes his friend, an ostrich named Eddie, doesn’t know how to fly. Arthur immediately sets out to remedy this problem by offering to teach his friend. At first, Arthur tries books and lectures, but that doesn’t suit Eddie, who buries his head in the sand. Next, Arthur devices several zany attempts, which include a hot air balloon and stilts, to help Eddie, who is adorably adorned in a crash helmet and knee pads. All fail.

After a last attempt, Eddie offers Arthur a ride on their long walk home. As they walk, Eddie’s speed increases until he’s walking as other birds fly! Together they realize that Eddie doesn’t need to fly! Instead, Arthur decides Eddie needs to learn to swim.

Katarina Macurova has written a truly funny picture book. No doubt, children will laugh will laugh out loud at Arthur’s crazy schemes as depicted in Macurova’s delightful illustrations. Just as importantly, little listeners will receive a valuable lesson about finding one’s own strengths, although they may not be expected ones.


The Egg Incident

Open this book and meet the delightful relatives of our sadly celebrated Humpty Dumpty, who took that great shattering fall. Within this charming egg family, we meet a young Humphrey, whose protective parents lovingly caution him to be extra vigilant because of past family tragedy. So Humphrey dismisses all thoughts of running, jumping, climbing, and under no circumstances should he sit on a wall.

All this changes under the influence of a spunky park princess nicknamed PJ who mischievously helps our sensitive insecure celebrity overcome his anxieties when circumstances demand that he run, jump, climb, and even sit atop a wall. And watch what happens when Humphrey falls from the terrifying wall, his world changes and his newly acquired exuberance enhances his personality. This sudden sparkle lights his features and even infects his parents.

In this ebullient graphic story so charmingly illustrated, a lesson is provided for both young and old, do not let fear constrain your behavior. Let personality dictate your actions, and above all, do not allow fear to rule. A wonderful story for both young and old.


The Breakup Artists

Best friends August and Valentine run a business called Summer Love, Inc. They help concerned people whose loved ones are in toxic relationships. Unlike her friend August, Valentine believes in true love. Her goal is to pull people out of their misery in hopes they can find someone right for them, but August disagrees. Ever since his sister died, he doesn’t want to fall in love with anyone. Then August meets their newest client, Ella. She’s everything he ever wanted, except she doesn’t even know the real him. What will August do once he finds out he’s falling for her?

This book didn’t really have as much of a plot as I would like, but it had a good summer theme. I really liked the nicknames used for some of the characters, like Tiny for Valentine, and Des for Desiree. August had the most development out of all of the characters, but I felt like the way he and Ella first connected was a little unrealistic. I also definitely would’ve liked seeing some interior illustrations in the book as the book advertised there would be. I highly recommend The Breakup Artists to anyone who’s into contemporary YA romance novels.


Thick with Trouble (Penguin Poets)

The richness of language and sturdy voice that runs throughout Amber McBride's poetry collection Thick With Trouble/ is so vivid, at times the speaker's leap off the page to confront the reader. At other moments, the poems are so intimate, so deeply honest, you may feel you've stumbled on to a diary in verse. This collection is one of the most exceptional debuts I've read in some time.

Known for her YA novel Me (Moth), McBride moves into the world of poetry with grace and without hesitation. Broken into five sections separated by imagined tarot cards--The Devil's Sister (Reversed), The Empress with a Whip, The Hermit Woman Named Griot, The Devil's Sister (Upright, The Magician-est--the poems are aligned with each subheading to deliver an imagined progression of a woman's life. The poetry is deep and referential; some poems feature conjured definitions and conversations with foundational American artists like Nina Simone and Walt Whitman . The poems are free on the page, unconstrained by any conventional form; single words or even letters are often underlined for emphasis, text is bolded, stanzas transform in length and focus.

At the heart of all of it is Black experience and women's experience. In the poem "11 Years Old (Bleeding)" McBride tackles first menstruation with the same horror and reverence many women will recognize. The speaker, upon complaining that her first period hurts, is told "it should" by a character that could be any or all older women. In terms of Black experience, McBride's excellent poem "I Won't Let Anybody (Black) Die Alone" is both an acknowledgement and a promise that will stay with you long after you read it.

If you're interested in the best of what is contemporary poetry today, Thick With Trouble should be mandatory reading.


The Vacation House: A Novel

Twenty years ago, something happened at The Vacation House. Julia left the night before, so she never knew the details. She only knew it involved some boys that were guests and the caretaker’s daughter. Now, Julia tries to be the perfect wife to James, while feeling trapped. She meets Laurel, a therapist, who helps her find freedom and discovers the truth of what really happened that night twenty years ago and all the lives it changed forever.

This is a dark but compelling read. Sofie’s chapters are the hardest to get through, even though Julia’s life isn’t that great either. Through all the pain and suffering in these pages, it has a very cathartic ending. While you can’t say it’s exactly a happy ending, trauma like that leaves permanent scars, it does leave you with hope of healing. This entire book is a trigger warning for those who’ve suffered from sexual assault, but as I said, there is healing here as well.

I recommend this book to those who like a slow burn and for those who like stories where evil gets its just desserts.


The Jinn Daughter: A Novel (Hoopoe Fiction)

Layala is The Jinn Daughter, born to Illyas, the son of the sheikh, and Nadine, the jinn tasked with telling the stories of the dead. Nadine rises every morning to eat the seeds of the dead and tell their stories so they may pass on. Slowly, the seeds stop falling and Nadine discovers that Death herself is dying and needs another to take her mantle. Death wishes Layala to take her place. Nadine will do whatever it takes to keep that from happening.

Mythology and magic take prominence here, with a focus on Middle Eastern folklore. The stories that Nadine weaves are rich and vibrant, with the tale itself being full of interesting characters. You will meet Death, multiple jinns, Mother Earth and even ghouls in this magical land. The strongest story within this narrative is the one of a mother’s love for her child and how far she is willing to go to save her.

If you enjoy mythology and folklore, especially of a Middle Eastern variety, you will enjoy this story. It is full of strong female characters who know the importance of family and finding your purpose in a difficult world.


Trespass: Portraits of Unhoused Life, Love, and Understanding

The glassy stare of the individual gracing the cover of this publication will mesmerize the viewer and compel further examination of this portrait collection illuminating a societal segment too often spurned and ignored. This  human image of a grizzled face masking a mystery of internalized character only attracts the viewer to wonder how he joined the cultural class that we term the ‘homeless’. The portrayal is reminiscent of the iconic photo by Dorothea Lange of the Migrant Mother that represents the story of the destitution caused by the depression and the subsequent hopeless poverty. Photographer Kim Watson spent three years photographing and conversing with the street people in the Los Angeles area. He depicts an array of individuals challenged by poverty, drug addiction, alcohol dependency, mental issues, inadequate childhood nurturing, and other problems. Their sleeping circumstances are shown whether it be cold ground, tents, cars, or dilapidated RVs. But in every individual he met, in spite of their neediness, he recognized and appreciated their humanity. In the short descriptions of these meetings, it becomes clear that social services are inadequate to deal with the need of this growing social dilemma that the author urges the reader to address.


Claudia and the Bad Joke: A Graphic Novel (The Baby-sitters Club #15) (The Baby-Sitters Club Graphix)

The Baby-Sitters Club is back with a new client! At first, no one in the club seems convinced that Betsy is a big prankster, but soon they find out that they were wrong. After one of Betsy’s pranks gets Claudia’s leg broken, she’s thinking about quitting the club for good. Her friends think they should prank Betsy and teach her a lesson. Who will win the prank war?

Claudia is my favorite character in the Baby-Sitters Club, so I was really excited to read this book. Betsy certainly gave the book a theme with her endless pranks, but it got a little repetitive. I like how this series gives a new change every now and then by switching up the illustrators. Also, the character’s expressions were really funny to look at!

As always, the colors are super bright and are the perfect match for the book. Recommended to graphic novel readers of all ages! I always look forward to reading new Baby-Sitters Club graphic novels.


I Am NOT the Easter Bunny!

This poor bunny just can’t catch a break. He’s being stalked, spied upon, and accused of being the Easter Bunny when it simply isn’t true. He just happens to have a white coat and cotton tail. His bow tie was a gift from his grandmother. How else is he supposed to carry his groceries without a basket? So what if his shopping list consists of lots of eggs, carrots, chocolate, and jelly beans. He happens to like a sweet treat now and then. He hops because he doesn’t have his bus pass. Painting eggs is merely an arts and crafts projects. And, really, how would the Easter Bunny get anything done if people really knew who he was? Or does this bunny protest too loudly?

 T.L. McBeth has written a sweet, funny story that will have little listeners laughing at the Easter Bunny’s hilarious denials, while getting them excited for his visit. Given the simplicity of the text, this book might also serve as a great early reader and just in time for the Easter holiday.


Donut Love: 60 Versatile Recipes for Every Kind of Craving

The perfect recipe book for those with a sweet tooth, with a variety of treats at your disposal. With an assortment of flavors to choose from, Donut Love includes everything from old-fashioned donuts to garlic herb brioche knots. Everyone can find something to enjoy, whether it’s for those who want fillings with mini Boston creams or those who want a snack with a caramel and popcorn treat. Also included are recipes for vanilla glaze, cinnamon sugar, marshmallows, and caramel popcorn.

The book focuses on recipes for homemade donuts which will no doubt make you stand out at any family gathering or event. Easy-to-follow recipes will make it simple for anyone to create their favorite treat. Ingredients are listed and step-by-step instructions so there are no guessing games when it comes to baking. This is ideal for those new to baking or those seeking new recipes to shake things up as nothing feels overly challenging and the recipes are clear with their instructions.

Photos are featured throughout to tempt you to make every treat included and will instantly make you hungry. Donut Love will make you fall in love with baking and will no doubt sweeten up your kitchen while satisfying everyone’s sweet tooth.


Opening Bite-Sized French Pastries for the Beginner Baker is like opening the door to a world of marvelous, mouth-watering desserts. The first thing that caught my attention was the gorgeous color photos that accompany each recipe. As someone who loves to bake and has baked since childhood, French pastries are something I have never dabbled in. I was pleased to see the table of contents organized the pastries into Base Recipes, Tartlets & Choux, Petits Gâteaux, Sablés & Cookies, Madeleines & Financiers, and Individual Desserts. The recipes that I will be trying are the Quatre-Quart Loaves which look like little pound cakes, Double Chocolate Sablés which are cocoa shortbread cookies made with egg that have a dark chocolate glaze, and the Lemon Petits Pots de Creme which are little lemon custards.

The book includes "pro tips" for each recipe and the ingredients and recipe instructions are laid out neatly on each page. This book would be a wonderful addition to any baker's shelf and anything made from this book will be an absolute hit at any party or gathering.


The Science of Energy (The Language of Truth)

With The Science of Energy, a clear-sighted and wide-ranging work of scientific and philosophical exploration geared toward experts and laypeople alike, Payman Sattari aims to examine the evolution of humanity’s metaphysical understanding and the history of truth in an effort to develop a new ontology (or system) that accounts for the entire cosmic order—that is, the subjective, the objective, and everything currently beyond classification.

To accomplish this daunting aim, Sattari starts at the beginning, with the origins of philosophy and science. He presents a whistlestop tour of how these vital fields evolved from the prevalent belief in ancient times that deities were responsible for pretty much everything, through the Greek enlightenment and the works of the early philosophers, to the development of natural philosophy as a discipline.

Sattari then diverges into the realm of religion and how it relates to both science and philosophy. First, however, he draws an important distinction, as the “difference between the fields of philosophy and science, and what we call religion, is that philosophy and science are based on reason, whereas religion receives its truth from the teachings of a prophet or the wisdom of ancestors (tradition).”

Still, while Sattari notes that religious truth is “not typically reasoned truth,” he contends that reason and faith have been integrated since the late Middle Ages and that comprehension of both is necessary to truly understand the nature of reality, which is the inherent goal of The Science of Energy. Thus, the book should appeal to those interested in science, philosophy, religion, and any combination of these disciplines, despite the antipathy that sometimes seems to exist among their proponents.

As the discussion moves on to the scientific revolution of the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries, the Enlightenment era, and beyond, Sattari condenses a plethora of “brilliant minds” and “revolutionary thoughts” into bite-sized and easily digestible nuggets that serve to educate regarding the relevant fields and to elucidate Sattari’s own thoughts on the true nature of reality and how human life is organized.

After setting the scene in detail in this way, Sattari turns the general into the personal and examines how a person’s senses and intellect are influenced by and in turn influence the wider metaphysical world. There are less “facts” in the traditional sense presented here and greater work is required to follow his philosophical points. Doing so, though, reveals some interesting ideas about the composition of the natural world and how it relates to human understanding.

Given its aim and content, The Science of Energy tackles some very weighty and still debated concepts, including quantum mechanics and the relativity of time and space, but Sattari addresses such topics in a clear and concise way, rendering them understandable to the majority. His fusion of the organism and the machine later in the book is equally intelligible, explaining how modern scientific understanding can serve to elucidate deep-seated philosophical and spiritual matters.

This is particularly relevant during the intriguing discussion in which Sattari considers the differences between Eastern and Western viewpoints on both the nature of the individual and the composition of reality as a whole. The West tends to adopt a more quantitative approach, while the East focuses more on spiritual interpretations, so a fusion of the two styles is requires to achieve a comprehensive understanding of the cosmic order. Sattari’s arguments are again insightful and persuasive here, and all this leads to the interpretation of truth, which is necessary for apprehension of the bigger picture.

Yet, while Sattari’s explanations are interesting and insightful, and allowing for the fact that The Science of Energy is intended to present his own musings and formulations, it would have been good if the book had made much greater use of sources, whether in footnotes or a larger bibliography. This would have bolstered the arguments and provided useful avenues for further investigation. The book could also have been expanded somewhat to include more detail on the main subjects at hand.

Overall, however, The Science of Energy offers an astute and perceptive exploration of human consciousness, how it relates to and informs reality, and how disciplines such as science, philosophy, and religion intertwine to influence the nature of existence and how it is understood.


For many years, man has pondered his existence. Some of the questions we ask about the universe include "Who are we and why are we here?" and "What is the meaning of our existence?". Scientists and religious leaders have tried to provide answers to the basis of our existence, but some questions remain unanswered despite all these years. Science and religion have been considered two different topics; however, there are intersections between the two. While there's no evidence to support the existence of God, most people believe there is a higher power that humans can't fathom. We have holy books that serve as guides to the universe and our actions, but there's doubt about the credibility of these books.

The intersection of philosophy and science revolves around understanding the nature of reality. However, can what we perceive as reality be trusted? Our senses play a great role in the interpretation of reality, but they can be deceiving sometimes. Science and philosophers seek to understand the human mind. There are assumptions and limited knowledge, but none have been able to grasp a full understanding of the complex nature of the mind.

Philosophy aims to delve into the core of human existence. While contemporary science focuses on explaining physical phenomena and consciousness through physics, philosophy, especially metaphysics, seeks a holistic comprehension of reality. The author further talks about the exploration of light, revealing it as both a particle and a wave. The duality of light was a topic that fascinated me in school, so it was interesting to read about it again. He further raises the question of whether the mind is purely material and sparks various ideas, with historical shifts like Descartes' Cartesian dualism highlighting the evolving relationship between science and metaphysics. This separation of scientific and ontological pursuits has significant consequences for our understanding of reality and consciousness.

The Science of Energy by Payman Sattari is fit for those with a scientific background, as it would be considered challenging to read by an average reader. Also, the arguments by the author would prove a great topic of discussion among philosophers. Philosophy is a broad subject, and it's always interesting to see someone else portray their views with evidence to back them up and not try to impose them on the readers. The author aims to educate, not convince, you of his beliefs, which makes the book a good read. I would recommend it to anyone with an interest in philosophy.


CATS: True Tails And Life Lessons From A Furry Companion

Cats: True Tails and Life Lessons from a Purring Companion will appeal to cat lovers everywhere. It looks at the cat's history and folklore, and there are even memories of Ms. Wallin's former Siamese cat named Kitty. She starts by addressing the fact that cats are not perfect; in fact, they can be a little demanding and aloof, as anyone who owns one can attest. But maybe that is what makes them so adorable and lovable. They can only be tamed to a certain extent. And unlike a dog, who is constantly looking for attention and affection from its owner, a cat tends to be much more independent.

I loved that the author talked about how we communicate with cats. She is right that we develop a sense of knowing what our cat wants, and they, in turn, seem to tolerate us humans. And as she points out, the Egyptians seem to have appreciated this special bond between cats and humans longer than anyone. They were not only held in high esteem but cat carvings and sculptures were thought to have magical powers. I sometimes think of this when I look at my own cat and wonder what she would think if she knew that. I loved learning about Ms. Wallin's experience with her cat Kitty, and I'm delighted she added photos to the book so that the reader feels more of a connection with both the author and her feline companion.

My favorite part of this book had to be the cat diary versus the dog diary. I laughed out loud when I read some of the entries, especially the one where the cat is thinking about vomiting on the floor just to annoy its human. My own cat seems to be a pro at this skill. I appreciated the chapter about folklore and, where we got some of our ideas about cats from. And I really enjoyed hearing about famous cat owners and what they thought about their cats and the names they gave them. But I do wish it had been a little bit longer. Nevertheless, this book was full of fascinating quotes and facts about cats which cat lovers will adore.

Overall, this was a fun and enjoyable read, and it would make an excellent gift for any cat lover. Of course, I picked it up because I love cats, but I can say without a doubt that even dog lovers could learn a thing or two about cats by reading this book.


A Heretic's Claim

"From wry witticisms to brief morality tales to poignant anecdotes and more, the works collected in David Colin’s A Heretic’s Claim are by turns humorous and somber, entertaining and illuminating, and they all prompt serious thought on the nature of being, seeing, and feeling. Through an eclectic application of form, function, and meter, the poems muse on the substance of reality and the myriad ways the outer world intrudes upon inner life, all the while provoking consideration of the potentially disorientating interplay between space and time. For those seeking an in-depth and thought-provoking exploration of the poet’s truth, A Heretic’s Claim is a mind- and eye-opening collection."—Erin Britton, Seattle Book Review


Not On My Watch, Not On My Watch, A Beloved Prison Wardens 30 Year Fight For Justice In The Prison System

The large and imposing building made a lasting impression on Bob Hatrak when his family relocated from Pennsylvania to Trenton in the early 1940s. The fickle forces of fate would bring him to find himself working behind the cold gray walls of Trenton State Prison in the late 1960s. Years before working in the education department of Trenton State, Bob Hatrak was born and raised in rural Pennsylvania. His parents were immigrants from Czechoslovakia who instilled lifelong characteristics of hard work and perseverance into Bob’s life. Bob would also learn the vital importance of communication with authority figures and the need to stand up for oneself.

Bob Hatrak was a better-than-average student and a promising baseball pitcher. He was the recipient of a few scholarship offers to play ball at various colleges, but Bob opted to stay local. His potential to go further in the sport was dashed by a grisly industrial accident that mangled his throwing hand. Despite an initial urge to wallow in his troubles, Bob would overcome this adversity and throw himself further into his studies.

Bob had previously worked in Trenton State Prison in a part-time capacity. However, his chance to make a lasting impression arrived in 1967 when he was brought on as Director of Education. The education of the prisoners was deficient and in need of an overhaul. Bob would supervise a modernizing of available learning materials and would guide many inmates into receiving their high school equivalency diploma.

In 1973, Bob would become the Warden at Rahway State Prison. The prison had an infamous reputation based on its inmate makeup and previous inmate uprisings. Bob sought to institute reforms within the prison to aid in the rehabilitation of the prisoners and improve the reputation of the facility. The Self-Rehabilitation Enterprise Group would lead to the program known as “Scared Straight.”

Not on My Watch, Not on My Watch is a memoir that regales the reader with the story of a man who would run one of the more infamous correctional institutions in New Jersey, if not the United States. However, Bob Hatrak’s story does not dwell on the gratuitous or graphic in order to be a fantastic read. Hatrak sparks the reader’s interest from inception in his vivid remembrance of the 1971 Rahway State Prison riot and how thinking would need to be quick at Trenton State Prison in order to quell any similar disturbances. The appeal of the book comes from Hatrak’s zeal in innovating the institutions he worked at while also reaching out to the men under his charge. The memories of his wife Joan on assorted moments in their relationship add a little extra color to this splendid autobiography.


The Book of Doors: A Novel

Cassie spends her days working at a bookstore where she receives regular visits from Mr. Webber, who comes to enjoy a book and conversation. When the older gentleman dies, he leaves behind a mysterious book called The Book of Doors. Now she begins to see new possibilities but when a mysterious stranger saves her from a dangerous man, she learns that some will do whatever it takes to retrieve it.

The twists and turns are unexpected and are grounded with genuine heart and humanity that layers the characters. Mr. Webber is the catalyst for pulling Cassie into this other world, which creates a domino effect of events that pull her into real danger and an adventure that is action-packed and suspenseful. She has a longing in her to hold onto the past and through the book she’s able to confront other aspects of herself.

Through Cassie, you’re pulled into the mystery of what is happening, while other perspectives provide a way to understand the world and see different sides of it. Each character is understandable and well-rounded, making for an engaging villain or a charming ally. The Book of Doors is a delightful adventure with endearing characters, lots of heart, and magical books.


Handmade Renaissance Faire Fashion: 20+ Patterns for Crafting Faire-Ready Capes, Cloaks and Crowns―the Authentic Way!

Renaissance Faires are popular all over the country. Some people spend all year preparing for their cosplay journeys to the past the fairs are a portal to. This is a book that will be a great help for anyone interested in attending a Renaissance Faire.

It opens with a short introduction to expectations for the fairs, tools needed for crafting the costumes and accessories, and some tricks and techniques for making what you need. There are five costume sections: The Fairy, The Peasant, The Hunter, The Princess, and The Druid. Each covers all parts of the costume and how to construct them as well as masks, hats, crowns, belts, bags, and other accessories. In addition, there are instructions for doing one’s hair and make-up.

Each section includes lists of the materials and tools needed for each project, and well-written instructions with lots of photographs to help explain the steps. There is an envelope in the back of the book with patterns for every project as well as instructions explaining how to make the patterns smaller or larger for a perfect fit.

This is a beautiful book that will inspire many to join this fun pastime. This is a winner.


The Editor: How Publishing Legend Judith Jones Shaped Culture in America

Judith Jones learned to buck conventions from an early age when refusing to conform to her mother’s expectations for education and career. Judith loved to read and cook, and her devotion to both would factor into her adult life. Her independent path took her to Bennington College, where she furthered her knowledge of literature and poetry as an English major—her time at college also introduced her to the publishing industry when she took a temporary job at Doubleday during her Freshman year.

A trip to Europe with family would have a lasting impact on Jones’ life as she would make enduring connections in the publishing industry and meet her future husband while living in Paris. Jones’ editorial flair while working for Doubleday and Knopf led to the publishing of The Diary of Anne Frank, cookbooks by Julia Child, and novels from John Updike, Anne Tyler, and countless others.

The significance of an editor to a book’s journey is just one memorable highlight in a fascinating biography about a true force in the publishing industry. Author Sara B. Franklin delivers a rewarding book about a pioneer in the book world, a woman whose appreciation for the written word shone through in her career.


Crucible of Chaos

Not all is well at Isola Sombra, an ancient abbey where monks have worshiped their gods since long before they died. Estevar Borros, one of the king’s legendary magistrates known as the Greatcoats, receives a desperate plea for help from the abbot; the monks have gone mad over claims and rumors of new gods rising.

The investigation begins before Estevar even arrives at the abbey. Armed with only his rapier and a mule that lives up to the name of Imperious, can the legendary Greatcoat solve the mystery before all is lost?

Full of sharp wit, fantastic characters, and elements of supernatural horror, Crucible of Chaos is a fast-paced mystery that will keep you on the edge of your seat. I enjoyed every moment of this book, even the parts that did drag. Estevar, at his core, is an investigator and much of the story is him talking through his theories. Though it was a little boring at times, I enjoyed this, but it's not for everyone.

The other characters are fun, unique from each other and crazy in their own way. I love the mysterious young woman, who is more than she seems, yet all the clues are laid out if you pay close attention.


Don't Let the Devil Ride: A Novel

Addison McKellar hasn’t heard from her husband Dean in a week. He went overseas on business but his lack of contact worries her. This isn’t the first time Dean has disappeared. When Addison visits her husband’s company to ask around, she is thrown for a loop when no one has heard of her husband’s company. Addison’s mental state is frazzled and she is soon relying on the services of a private investigator named Porter Hayes. Hayes is a persistent and thorough detective who knows people and can track down leads. As Hayes and Addison begin to investigate Dean’s disappearance, the troubling questions multiply about not only Dean’s disappearance but Dean’s identity as well. Addison’s anxiety becomes frustration and soon dread as she is visited by menacing men who are looking for Dean and/or information Dean possesses. Addison’s world will never be the same.

Don’t Let the Devil Ride is the latest ripping mystery yarn from author Ace Atkins. The high drama of the missing persons case evolves into an action-packed thriller as the actions of Dean McKellar have summoned hitmen, quasi-intelligence agents, and other men of mystery into Memphis. Atkins has crafted a superb detective novel.


Bonfire Night

The backdrop of London in 1936 sets a tumultuous stage for Anna Bliss's debut novel, Bonfire Night. As twenty-one year old Irish Catholic Kate Grifferty sets out on the streets to photograph ant-fascists protests, she knows her keen eye is her only hope of someday seeing her own name next to a photo in the newspaper. She's been working in a press office but fears her boss only views her as an attractive office ornament. She hopes to capture images that solidify her as a talent rather than a conquest. On her mission, she meets Jewish medical student David Rabatkin, who is as serious about his future as Kate is about hers. Their fiery initial meeting and eventual relationship changes both their lives in numerous and stunning ways.

The research Bliss must have done to capture the realities of the time period make this one of the most exceptional historical novels I've read in a while. From the details about characters’ clothing to popular music to the interior decor of apartments and office buildings, all of her choices are immaculate. Reading this novel was a truly immersive experience. And, for readers who are interested in conversations about interfaith relationships, the book is also a must read.

While some of the choices David makes to support his family and to further his future seem callous at first, there is a heartbreaking resignation to his decisions as well. What he wants is not always what Kate wants, but their desire for each other is as hot as the bonfires that burn on Guy Fawkes night. The question at the heart of Bonfire Night is, will that desire be enough?


Molten Death (An Orchid Isle Mystery)

Valerie and wife Kristen are in Hawaii for a vacation. They are staying with one of Kristen's surfer friends Isaac hoping to catch some waves and learn more about Hawaii's culture and cuisine. But when they visit a nearby volcano, Valerie is convinced she sees a body or part of a body being covered by flowing lava. The only problem is that no one else saw it. Nevertheless, Valerie can't get the image of the dead body out of her mind, making her determined to investigate. But even she has to admit that it will be no easy task without a body or an identity. Plus she knows next to nothing about the area or its residents, but that isn't about to stop her trying. Will she be able to solve a mystery, and enjoy her vacation?

Molten Death is a delightful read, full of Hawaiian charm. I love how the author brings so much cultural information to light throughout the story. And since Valeria is a retired caterer, many local dishes are showcased, with recipes included at the end of the book. I am hoping this turns into a new series so I can revisit these characters and settings soon.


The Selkie's Daughter

The Selkie’s Daughter, written by Linda Crotta Brennan, is not just a book. It is a journey. The main character, Brigit, discovers that she is the daughter of a selkie. Once her mother tells stories (each chapter even opens with a mystical poem), Brigit learns more about her family’s extraordinary history. Her mother warns about a “selkie bane” in Sule Skerrie, where humans are killing baby seals and probably selkies too, enraging the Great Selkie. As Brigit tells us, “Killing selkies is murder.”

She then journeys off to Sule Skerrie, to save her dying father and her people. One of the most fascinating things about this book (aside from the poems, which I especially enjoyed) is that sometimes when Brigit is under the sea talking to her mother, she uses “mind-speak”—talking to someone with your mind. Brennan uses mind-speak in italics which helps the reader to understand when this unique form of communication is being used in the story.

The imagery is so fascinating you can almost touch it. This book is an adventure of genocide prevention and self-discovery, of family and mystique. The Selkie’s Daughter kept me engaged in the incredible story from start to finish. I recommend this book with enthusiasm to young adult readers!


Broken Vow (Brutal Birthright, 5)

Enthralling with impressive chemistry, Broken Vow is not to be missed. It’s the best of two worlds, providing a slow burn romance with an entertaining thriller mystery storyline.

Career-driven Riona is relentlessly focused on making partner at the Griffin family firm. She can’t be bothered with social entanglements, and openly rebels from any behavior society would consider a wifely domestic duty. As the much anticipated partnership announcement nears, Riona doubles down on her workload, which lends to self-isolation and predictable patterns, making her an exceptionally easy target for a notorious hitman. When the attempt goes awry, the family calls in the best to keep Riona safe while they sort out who hired the hit.

Raylan comes on the scene with all the swagger and charm of a southern gentleman paired with the discipline of a soldier. Determined to rewrite Riona’s first impression, Raylan tenaciously pursues the prickly redhead’s favor. Forced to spend every minute of the day together, the two are constantly stepping on toes and testing boundaries. The tension builds as the two continue to circle one another all the while the hitman is closing in.


While Drowning in the Desert (Neal Carey Mysteries, Book 5)

Neal Carey was relaxing in a state of near euphoria when he received an all too familiar call. His mentor/surrogate father Joe Graham has a piece of work needing to be performed at the behest of his bosses. The job appears simple on the surface, namely going to Las Vegas and escorting an elderly man from Vegas to Palm Desert, CA. However, simplicity doesn’t appear to be in the cards for Neal. His charge is an old-time stand-up comedian named Nathan Silverstein (aka Natty Silver). Within the first hours of meeting Nathan, Neal loses sight of him. Despite catching up with Nathan, the trip promises not to be an easy one as Nathan proves reluctant to return home and other parties searching for Nathan would prefer he be a hole in the desert.

While Drowning in the Desert is the first-rate finale in the Neal Carey series from author Don Winslow (City on Fire). Neal is self-admittedly flawed but his evolution as a nuanced character continues through the guided strokes of Winslow’s pen. Winslow’s gift for timely humor and exemplary plot twists are highlighted in this swan song for the young amateur detective.


Becoming Homeschoolers: Give Your Kids a Great Education, a Strong Family, and a Life They'll Thank You for Later

Becoming Homeschoolers: Give Your Kids a Great Education, a Strong Family, and a Life They’ll Thank You for Later by Monica Swanson is a helpful guide to the homeschooling process. It offers many tips and strategies for getting started with homeschooling and how to navigate the often-uncertain waters at various ages and stages. It is comprised of short, easy-to-read sections, with easily applicable take-aways at the end of each chapter and actionable steps to further any family in their homeschooling. This book is part how-to guide and part cheerleader.

Potential downsides of this book are as follows. The author references her faith liberally, both in her parenting and educational theory, as well as with Bible verses, so this may put off some readers. Also, I found the author’s treatment of homeschooling for single parent families or families where both parents work to be flippant and condescending.

That being said, I found this book to be incredibly thorough in its explanations of homeschooling, presenting an array of options and ideas for almost any family. This is the book to recommend to any family starting on their homeschooling journey, or a shot in the arm for a family that is struggling in theirs.


Lola and the Troll

Lola is a young girl who loves school but hates walking to school because she must pass a young boy who dresses like a troll and hurls hurtful insults at everyone who passes. Lola tries to be brave but eventually starts changing herself in response to the insults: she wears her curly hair differently, stops smiling because of her missing front teeth, and worst of all, begins whispering because the troll said she was too loud.

Eventually, Lola’s teacher notices the changes and tells Lola the bully must be very afraid of Lola if the only way he can feel good about himself is by making Lola feel bad about her wonderful traits. With her confidence back, Lola confronts the Troll, who ends up being a new boy happy to make a friend.

Lola and the Troll sends an incredibly important message in this beautifully told and illustrated story. No child should ever feel they need to change themselves or lose their voice in response to a bully. And maybe, just maybe, the bully needs some understanding as well.


The Five Impossible Tasks of Eden Smith

Eden Smith has had a pretty tragic life. By the time she was seven, she had lost both her parents to a meteor. Spending pretty much her whole life in foster care, Eden finally gains a bit of hope when she discovers that her paternal grandfather is still alive, and even better, he’s right in her hometown of Tacoma. Filled with hope, Eden is brought to the gorgeous and strange mansion in which her grandfather and the Guildhall of Smiths reside.

There, Eden discovers a strange and secret society of elderly blacksmiths and metalworkers whose mastery is almost magical, and her grandfather, Vulcan Smith, is the best of them all. But just as Eden is settling into her new life and discovering her talent for metalworking, her grandfather disobeys the Guildhall rules and gets stripped of his smithing rights.

The only way he can regain his title is if he, or a stand in, complete the five Impossible Tasks, a series of deadly feats that require absurd amounts of bravery and courage. Eden, not wanting to lose her last existing family member, must brave the tasks if she ever wants to see her grandfather again.

The Five Impossible Tasks of Eden Smith would be great for kids ages six to twelve but it is a little bit too childish for my liking. Overall, this is an interesting book and it does a wonderful job of incorporating Eden with a detailed backstory that further grows her character in the book. This is a great book and I believe that it will truly make it far.


Secret FACTopia!: Follow the trail of 400 hidden facts (FACTopia!, 7)

This book has something for everyone. It has four hundred interesting facts that are ever so tangentially connected with a through-line to pull readers from the beginning to the end of the book. It discusses the tiniest of things — there are at least a thousand different species of fungi known as microfungi that are invisible to the human eye — to huge things — the Easter Island Head statues also have enormous bodies sunk into the ground.

It also discusses great secrets — enslaved Africans sent to Brazil created a martial art they disguised as a dance so they could practice it. Readers will love learning experts can tell what colors dinosaurs were by studying melanosomes, tiny cells found in fossils of their feathers and scales. And so much more.

Author Paige Towler has filled pages with chunks of text written in a breezy, conversational style that is welcoming and fun. These text chunks are scattered around the pages along with cute, brightly colored cartoon illustrations and graphics that support the text. This is a great book to take on a long car trip or to keep on the bedside table to pick up for quick reading.


American Flygirl

Hazel Ying Lee is an unsung hero who volunteered to participate in a war and fought for her place as a female pilot. Though she faced discrimination her whole life, she held onto her dream of one day being able to fly. She never let anyone define who she was or who she could be, using her determination and ambition to push forward in the face of any adversary. Hazel left behind a legacy to inspire all the women who came after her.

What makes the biography unique is that it is structured as a story that takes you into her life with a format that is character-driven. This allows you to get to know Hazel rather than just read about what she did. Hazel was an incredible woman who never let anyone keep her from living her dreams. The book depicts many of her challenges but it also highlights the amazing feats she achieved, along with references to other amazing female pilots. The historical backdrop is crafted well by Ankeny to take you into this period through Hazel’s eyes.

American Fly Girl tells the story of legacy, ambition, empowerment, and dreams through the life of Hazel Lee, who dared to challenge what was expected of her.


Zodiac: A Graphic Memoir

Weiwei Ai, Elettra Stamboulis, Gianluca Costantini

World-renowned artist Ai Wei Wei tells his story about his childhood and what it was like growing up in China. His personal stories about his childhood, his family, his career, and his philosophies are told along with the legends of the twelve Chinese zodiac symbols. Read this book to get a glimpse of his childhood, struggles, and his fight for freedom.

Although I don’t know much about the artist, I found his life and stories very fascinating. I liked how he connected his stories with the Chinese zodiac. I was a little confused by some of his stories and felt some of the panels and stories were disjointed. Sometimes, I didn’t know who the people were in the stories or panels. It was rather confusing.

I was hoping the art in this graphic novel would be illustrated by Ai Wei Wei himself, so I was a little disappointed that he didn’t illustrate this book. I recommend this graphic novel for readers or artists who are interested in learning about Ai Wei Wei’s philosophies and personal life.


Love Grows

In Love Grows, a very thoughtful aunt sends a series of houseplants to her niece, each with a sweet note and some helpful information about the plant. Very quickly, the young girl has a very large collection of well-tended plants: a monstera, pothos, fern, cactus, spider plant, snake plant, and a fiddle-leaf fig, to name but a few. Each letter and plant also carries the subtext of the aunt’s love for her niece until the aunt finally arrives for a visit and the whole family can see that, just like the plants, love grows.

Respected children’s science-book writer Ruth Spiro has written an endearing yet informative children’s book with a heartwarming theme. Here, listeners learn about a whole host of common houseplants while also hearing that, like thriving plants, a family’s love grows as well. Lucy Ruth Cummins’ cozy illustrations complement the text nicely. This book should not be missed by young green thumbs or by aunts and uncles with special nieces or nephews, although they may want to plan for a trip to the nursery.


The Doctor Was a Woman: Stories of the First Female Physicians on the Frontier

Smallpox, tuberculosis, childbirth, diphtheria, gunshots, “Spanish flu,” broken bones, and more. These are just some of the maladies that settlers and others living in the western US faced during the late 1800s and early 1900s. This slim history provides well-researched vignettes of ten women who became doctors and served their communities in that period. Often, their own families didn’t support their ambitions and they had to work teaching or sewing or laundering to afford medical school. Facing prejudice, blizzards, prairie fires, and personal hardship, they persevered to attain education and recognition. But in the West, towns with no other doctors were willing to take a risk on these tough resilient women, many of whom lived in their nineties. Several of the women also advocated for the right to vote and for temperance, although one notably argued for the sterilization of the “criminally insane,” convinced that such tendencies were hereditary. This reader was particularly impressed with the physician who reconstructed a man’s face through thirty cosmetic surgeries over six months, in 1887! And the patient lived another two decades. Illustrated with period photographs, this well-researched book also includes medical advice of the era: treatments for flu, the care of infants, and eye health. Thi is a fascinating read for anyone interested in history, health care, and women’s history.


When Elephants Listen With Their Feet: Discover Extraordinary Animal Senses

Emmanuelle Grundmann, Clémence Dupont, Erin Woods

Children do love books about animals, and it is always great to find a fresh look at making an informational text about animals. Writing one that will hold the interest of children is a challenge. Author Emmanuelle Grundmann, who has a doctorate in ethology, the science of animal behavior, is the perfect person for this task.

She has filled every spread with bite-sized chunks of fun, conversational text that will introduce young readers to the astonishing and amazing ways a wide variety of animals use their senses. She covers all kinds of animals from little spiders and beetles to huge whales and elephants and everything in between.

Did you know that a polar bear can smell a seal nineteen miles away or that a blue-tongued skink can bounce a flash of blue light with its tongue to scare predators away or that Gambian pouched rats can detect underground mines because their sense of smell is three hundred times greater than humans?

This book is chock full of fascinating facts like this. Illustrations in soft colors by Clémence Dupont support the text by filling every page with beautifully rendered pictures of all these animals. Kids will love this book.


Life on the Thames (Child's Play Library)

When there is mention of the Thames River, most people think about London, but the river runs from near the West Coast of England to the Eastern shore and into the North Sea, nearly two hundred and fifty miles. As with every river, the Thames not only has a rich history but a diverse range of flora and fauna as well. This lovely book takes a journey from the origin of the Thames in the Gloucestershire village of Kembrle to its exit into the sea.

Readers are introduced to ducks, moorhens, coots, otters, snakes, water voles, wagtails, kingfishers, fish, insects, bats, and more, as well as some of the plant life along the river. Besides this, the author looks at things like the narrow boats that travel the river, the locks that help them move through, the mudlarks who search for treasure along the river in London when the tides are low, and the salt marshes and mudflats farther along.

There is a lot of text for a picture book. The writing is conversational and inviting. The real star of the book is the gorgeous watercolor illustrations on every page. This will be enjoyed by children, but adults will enjoy it as well.


Facing the Enemy: How a Nazi Youth Camp in America Tested a Friendship

Benjy Puterman, who is Jewish, and Tommy Anspach, a German American, have been friends forever and do everything together. Until, that is, Tommy’s father joins a local bund and decides Tommy should go to Camp Nordland, a summer camp for Nazi youth. At first, Tommy is excited about the camp. He feels like he belongs, and he accepts the warped idea that Jews are a lower class, and they are the true enemy.

His father is drinking too much and buying into the Nazi ways completely. Benjy is heartbroken and misses his friend. After some time, people start to turn against the Nazi movement. Tommy begins to understand how wrong things are, and he misses his friend, but is it too late for him to get safely out?

Barbara Krasner has written a well-researched historical fiction in verse that shines a light on a dark period in our country, a time we must never forget, now more than ever. Her poetry is extraordinary, mostly free verse but with several structured poems included, voicing both Benjy’s and Tommy’s thoughts and experiences. Each poem tells a little of Benjy’s or Tommy’s story, with a few voicing both boys. Don’t miss this!


Pearls of Gold

"Enlivening and perceptive, the works by Verna Hall Linzey collected in Pearls of Gold both gladden the heart and prompt reflection on what is truly important in life. From an evocative account of a young boy finding refuge on a wintry night to musings on the nature of aging, a treatise on the importance of perseverance to a meditation on the quality of meekness, the included poems run the gamut of emotion and experience. They stir the mind, inspiring contemplation of the past and present as well as driving change in the future, all the while offering entertainment and amusement for the reader."—Erin Britton, Seattle Book Review


Pearls of Gold

“Filled with poems short and long, Pearls of Gold is full of stories and anecdotes that readers will enjoy. The poems float off the page in four-line rhyming prose giving them a wonderful sing-songy feel. A collection of poems for all ages and genders.” Kyle Eaton, San Francisco Book Review


Pearls of Gold

"Each poem tells a compelling story, encouraging deep reflection and offering practical lessons for a prosperous society. Verna Linzey's words flow effortlessly, carrying a rhythm and depth that are both enlightening and inspiring. Her strong relationship with God shines through her carefully crafted words, making Pearls of Gold a must-read for those seeking enlightenment and a fresh perspective on life." —Maria Yinks, Portland Book Review


Pearls of Gold

"Exploring themes of love, courage, integrity, faith, humility, patience, prayer, patriotism, and so much more, Verna Hall Linzey uses rhyming poetry and prose poetry to share her ideas. A guileless approach and clarity of language mark her work, which is supported throughout with beautiful classic black-and-white drawings." —Rosi Hollinbeck, Los Angeles Book Review


Pearls of Gold

"Uplifting, optimistic, and occasionally humorous, Verna Hall Linzey's Pearls of Gold is sure to put a smile on your face. Her poetry, thoughtful yet accessible, often feels like letters written to loved ones. Subject matter ranges from faith to courage, to aging, holidays in the United States, and even the late Queen Elizabeth II. An insightful foreword from Alveda King provides a window into the fascinating life of the author. Whether taken in sips or one massive gulp, Linzey's personality shines in this sweet and endearing collection."—Ben Haskett, Chicago Book Review


Pearls of Gold

"Faith and love of humanity are at the center of Pearls of Gold a collection of poems and prayers by the late Verna Hall Linzey. As a well-traveled woman, Linzey’s writings embodied her view of the world: imbued with openness and gentleness and filled with a sense of wonder. The artwork represents the poet’s quiet contemplative spirit, an invitation for thoughtful reflection." —Maileen Hamto, Tulsa Book Review


Lost in Saigon

"Fast-paced with short chapters, Lost in Saigon tells the story of Navy journalist Wally Jeter who is sent to Vietnam during the war and how decades later it still affects him. Through his eyes, readers will see how not all the horror of war is on the front lines, but also with the people it leaves behind. Lost in Saigon describes how the people there to help may not truly wish to be there." —Grace Derickson, San Francisco Book Review


Pearls of Gold

“Powerful and uplifting, readers will find the poetry of Verna Hall Linzey to be inspiring and full of life. With positive messages from cover to cover, she teaches her readers life lessons that anyone can benefit from. Flooded with beautiful imagery to accompany the poems, readers will greatly enjoy this special book.” Kristi Elizabeth, Manhattan Book Review


Pearls of Gold

In Pearls of Gold, Verna Hall Linzey, a movie actress, evangelist, poet, writer, Bible translator, television and radio host, speaker, and singer, takes readers on a silken journey through her gentle perceptions. Through poetry and prayers, readers come to learn of Linzey’s devout faith and wise spirit.

Each poem is concise, with many sweet tones or astute observations. She writes of Christmas and Easter, faith and hope, aging, virtues, and her love for Christ. She also has a few poems about humor and patriotism, as well as several prayers for the United States Armed Forces and England’s former monarch, displaying the importance of caring for the nation's well-being.

Reading these poems is like taking a look into a clear pond. The late author wore her heart on her sleeve. It’s very easy to understand each poem; there is nothing cryptic. Some of them are quite simple and concise, but nevertheless elegant and well-composed. For example, take the first poem in the collection, titled “Angels:” “Angels are sweet / With comfort divine, / And very discreet; / I know one is mine.” Linzey’s careful words have a thoughtful and calming effect.

They are nearly all positive or have a happy ending. She writes with much wisdom and experience. It is easy to tell that she was a very observant person, who was very aware of her role in the world. She writes of her fleeting life and unwavering dedication to the Lord in “I Will Pass One Time:” “Through this life / I will pass one time; / I will sacrifice / Each day. To Him I will yield / To have new life, For life is death, / But death is gain!”

All of the poems and prayers are accompanied by grayscale pre-modern paintings and, as an exception, a photo, enhancing the visual and sensory experience for the reader. Even without the pictures, each poem evokes undeniable thought or emotion.

Overall, Pearls of Gold is a work that has been crafted with great poise and careful thought, from the poems’ coordination with their according pictures to the arrangement of each line. Linzey was full of profound and subtle insight, which pillows her words. This is a work of keen perceptions, creativity, and depth that can only come from a woman of great faith. It is a tapestry woven with threads of profound insight, offering readers a glimpse into the contemplative world of a soulful and gifted writer.


Pearls of Gold

Forwarded by Alveda C. King, Pearls of Gold by Verna Hall Linzey is a poetic expression of her life and her perception of the world around her. In this remarkable collection of poems, Verna guides us to an artistic and magical depiction of qualities like integrity, love, joy, patience, and humility. She also shares her views on various subjects. In Pax Americana, she writes on how the US armed forces continually forge liberty. Other poems tell intriguing stories. In The Lighthouse, we follow a ship and its crew's turbulent journey in a thunderous rain. Some poems are humorous, like The Storm, which brings attention to a storm screaming while discovering a rat and a cat under a bed. Join Verna as she tells her stories and captures important ponderings through her carefully selected words.

The poems are short and sweet, yet profound and deeply enriching. I took my time and made sure to enjoy the experience of personalizing the poems and extracting words of wisdom from them. I've not seen a truer definition of courage than in the poem Courage. I don't think anything requires more courage than "facing the fear of death" and "facing the loss of friends". I appreciated how this poem helped me see courage in a new, clearer light. Another poem, The Beautiful Soul, reminds me of a conversation I had with a friend recently about the corruption that knowledge and age bring, as well as the purity of an innocent child. In this poem, the meekness of the child is used to represent a beautiful soul.

Besides its profound messages, another great aspect of the book is its splendid presentation. Whether it's a storm that screams or a character's wise words that are compared to pearls of gold, the poems are skillfully adorned with similes, metaphors, personification, and other figures of speech. Additionally, many poems contain rhymes that are fun to recite and read aloud. The solemn black-and-white pictures that portray people and nature also add to the book's allure.

For anyone searching below the surface and spending time shaping their thoughts and perceptions as they journey through life, Pearls of Gold proves that every thought can become a beautiful experience that's worth sharing and preserving. Since the poems are lyrical and the author's accessible words can be easily understood by anyone who understands basic English, the average reader will have a great time exploring the book's pages. You will not only bond with the author but also connect with your inner voice and a reassuring, higher power.


Pearls of Gold

In Pearls of Gold, Verna Hall Linzey has composed various poems depicting the Christian life, her thoughts and feelings, and how she experienced life. Here, you will find poems of Christmas and Easter, general poems touching mostly on God and Christ, as well as some humorous and patriotic poems. Linzy has also included her prayers for those being deployed, veterans, those currently serving in the Armed Forces and Queen Elizabeth II.

Pearls of Gold includes a forward by Dr. Alveda C. King and Linzey thanks her friends Pat and Debbie Boone, Jimmie Rodgers and Kathy Lee Gifford, which goes to show you how well-known and well-loved she was. Linzey was an American evangelist and an ordained minister in the General Council of the Assemblies of God. This can be clearly seen as most of her poems are Christ-oriented. Linzey states that her purpose in putting these poems into a book is “with a hope of inspiring my reading audience with a zest for life and the expectation that their story can be what they want it to be.”

These poems are so sweet and simple; they are really accessible to anyone. There are only a few that use words people outside the Christian faith might not understand, like the ones in “God” or the Latin of “Sanctae Trinitatis”, although you could probably figure out from the context. Most of the poems are only four lines long, with a picture or artwork accompanying each one. The one that stood out the most to me was, “Don’t Ever Give Up.” I agree with the line “cling to the gospel” as the only way to finish the race and to face trouble of every kind. While I am from a different denomination as Verna and we would probably disagree on many things, this is one area where we would not have any differences.

There are some people out there who think excellent poetry only occurs if there is no rhyming or cadence, as if that’s childish. If you are one of those, then you will not enjoy this collection. Linzey’s poems are full of rhyming and rhythm, which I personally find much more enjoyable. As I mentioned, they are, for the most part, short; however, that doesn’t mean that they aren’t touching on some deep subjects such as the transfiguration, crucifixion, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ.

Even if you have no idea of the topics I just mentioned, I still recommend you read these poems. The love and joy of the author permeates each one and can add a ray of sunshine to a dreary day.


Pearls of Gold

Verna Hall Linzey's Pearls of Gold: The Poetry of Verna Hall Linzey are pieces of wisdom overflowing from her heart and soul, a blessing to her readers. The verse-novel of poems, categorized for the reader's ease, is a necessity to read, but the order is subjective; themes of comfort (for body and soul), hope, and praise ring strong in the author's humble tones, with some reading as thought-provoking, contemplative, and timeless. The works of art cover memorable and monumental times throughout history in a simplistic manner while offering an explanation or reasoning for the events and how they relate to the past and present.

Linzey's work is lyrical in verse, with universal categories for an inclusive audience. Tranquil and calming illustrations accompany each piece to allow the reader a moment, or peek, into the window of her thoughts, beliefs, and self. Linzey presents the fruits of the spirit, morally appropriate teachings, and her specialty for seeing things clearly and concisely in a world easily fogged and confused. Her conclusion includes support and well-being for worldly principal figures.

The late Mrs. Verna Hall Linzey's beliefs and priorities are evident through her works of art (Pearls of Gold as well as other titles) and selfless acts toward and for others. Living from 1919–2016, she lived a fulfilling, productive, and model-worthy life, being at some point a wife, mother, author, gospel singer, songwriter, minister alongside her husband, television evangelist, film actress, and listed in "Who's Who Among American Women, "Who's Who in America," and "Who's Who in the World." Her enjoyment of writing and the topics chosen is evident, passionate, and personal through her word choices and phrasing.

The intended audience for Linzey's work is anyone and everyone based on the subject matter. The text includes wording most appropriately understood by readers capable of thinking in layers—that is, more comprehensively. Subject-wise, nothing exists as anything other than meaningful, personal, loving, and honest in every word specifically chosen. The book's length is appropriate to be devoured in a single sitting or read individually with ample contemplation and reflection.

Linzey incorporates her beliefs, nature, and places near and dear to her heart from childhood to the present at the time of writing. Her patriotism for country, others, and higher powers is evident in the writings and by those with whom she interacted, as the reader will find the forward delivered by the late Martin Luther King Jr.'s niece, a fellow activist and Christian evangelist.


Pearls of Gold

Pearls of Gold is a collection of Christian poetry and prayers, few of which I think will appeal to non-Christians. The poems tend to be short (the longest was sixteen lines) and most are split into rhyming quatrains. I feel this is important to state right off to help people determine whether they are the ideal audience for the book. People who are not interested in poems about God or who want a wide variety of poetic styles will likely find the book rather dull. Those who do enjoy the book will do so for two reasons: the tender, earnest faith of the author and the sweet simplicity of the verses.

Verna Hall Linzey’s faith is the deeply felt, inoffensive sort that will be palatable to many American Christians. Her poetry doesn’t examine Christianity, but that is not always necessary. At its best, it does something just as good: it celebrates. “The Wildwood Church” is the best example of her sort of celebration. It is not a loud, bombastic poem but a tender one about a rural church, where the members are able to find God.

The simplicity is what will make or break most readers’ opinions on these poems. The first several set the tone for the book as I read it. They were split into four-line stanzas and had either an ABAB or ABCB rhyme scheme, often featuring simple rhyming words at the end of the lines (e.g., “divine” / ”mine”, “child” / ”mild”, “far” / ”star”). At times, the poems seemed shaped to make the rhymes work, leading to some awkwardly phrased lines. This awkward phrasing detracted from the power of the poetry, and it also detracted from my enjoyment of the book as a whole.

Pearls of Gold is charming, but only because it does not go far enough in any way to be called anything more. The poems are simple and will provide enjoyment to some, but for those who want depth and complex thought from either their poetry or their faith, they will prove rather hollow. I gave it three stars because I did find the author’s effort sweet, and I could tell she had put her heart into the words. For works based in faith, heart counts for a great deal. However, I walked away from the book with nothing more than I had when I came to it. Quite possibly it will speak to others more than it spoke to me, but I was left unimpressed.


Pearls of Gold

Pearls of Gold is a collection of poems with different sections such as Christmas, General, Humor, Prayers, and more. The poems celebrate the significance of Christmas, bringing back memories of time spent with family during the holidays. The poems, which are told in a story-like manner, are a reminder to embrace the beauty and chaos in the world. One of the poems that sparked my interest was the one titled Humility. The line goes,

 "In the fear of the Lord

One finds humility;

Then simple, small doors

Open eternally!".

It is something important to me and guides my actions. This poem is not just for reading; you have to meditate on it and try to practice some of the things she mentions, as they will improve your life. The book is filled with moral lessons and values that should guide every member of the society. The author preaches patience, humility, integrity, and faith. These are important things that make a person a well-rounded individual.

Another thing I liked about the poems is that they could suit any occasion. She touches on diverse topics, and you can easily pick one that resonates with you. Reading these poems aloud in a gathering is bound to gain attention. The humor section was one of my favorites, as the lighthearted jokes brought smiles to my face. I think the images added to the end of each chapter switched up the reading experience a lot. They are depictions of the stories told in each poem, and I found myself studying the details of these pictures. Verna's poems are simple, to the point, and enlightening. The poems flowed effortlessly, as the words were well thought out and had a beautiful rhythm.

Verna Hall Linzey was the kind of woman that other women looked up to. She was successful throughout her lifetime and never shied away from displaying the gifts she was given. Verna knew the power of words and used these words carefully crafting them together to pass her message on. There is a lot to learn from the book, and I wish more people would read poems like this. It would go a long way in enlightening the people and making light of the problems they might have. Also, it would make them consider a different approach to life.


Pearls of Gold

"Gentle, peaceful, and beautiful poems survive actress Verna Hall Linzey in her final work. Soft and profound insight that can only come from a devout woman of faith flows with synergy and cadence, radiating through every line of her poetry. Each poem and prayer is a beacon of brightness…One could say that they even shine like "Pearls of Gold." —Michaela Gordoni, San Diego Book Review


Pearls of Gold

The author of this poetry collection stated that her “desire is to share my life poetically, prayerfully, and perceptively” and she seems to have accomplished exactly that through the poems contained within these pages. Each of the fifty-four poems is brief, none longer than a single page, and most use full rhyme techniques, along with regular meter, making them easy to read. One can easily imagine them being read aloud, perhaps to honor various occasions, and the book itself could make a lovely gift, as it is well designed, beautifully laid out, and the words are enhanced by numerous illustrations, primarily reproductions of classical paintings, along with some photographs of memorials and nature images.

Ms. Linzey was the author and editor of several books and Bibles, and evidently wrote poems throughout her life as well. The book contains one piece from 1947 and two others that honored Queen Elizabeth II in 2015 and 2016, while the rest are undated. With a foreword by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.’s niece, Dr. Alveda C. King, and acknowledgments given to Pat and Debbie Boone, Jimmie Rodgers, and Kathy Lee Gifford, it’s clear that Ms. Linzey was an evangelical Christian of some note.

This slim volume is divided into six sections, including Patriotic, Humor, Christmas, and Easter, while the largest section (“General”)  offers the poems alphabetically by title. Although a single section is labeled “Prayers,” many of the poems read like prayers, addressing the Divine, while others succinctly describe various moral qualities such as courage, patience, meekness, integrity, and temperance. These brief ones are more like aphorisms than full-blown poems, offering a single thought or idea. Perhaps like pearls on a string, they shine more brightly by being placed in a row and viewed next to one another.

This is the kind of poetry collection uses simple language and short lines, making it accessible to anyone, whether or not you’ve studied poetics or were an English major in college. short lines, there are vivid Although most of the poet’s choice of topics are ideal or symbolic, she also presents vivid images, such as “the small wildwood church,” a ship at sea, rescued by a lighthouse’s beam, and a humorous exchange between a saint and a dog: “He then got knocked right off his feet/by Spot, the dog, who licked his face!”

The book will primarily appeal to Christians who may appreciate seeing Ms. Linzey’s sentiments in verse and who will find her choices and approach inspirational. It would be strengthened if credits had been provided for the many illustrations.


Pearls of Gold

Pearls of Gold: The Poetry of Verna Hall Linzey is a heartfelt collection of poems that invites readers into a world of beauty and inspiration. Within its pages, readers will discover enchanting poems that evoke a sense of wonder and touch the depths of the human spirit. One such poem is "Angels," which paints a vivid picture of celestial beings radiating light and grace, transporting readers to a realm of ethereal beauty. The tender poem "Kindness" explores the power of compassion and leaves a lasting impact on the heart, reminding us of the profound effect a small act of kindness can have.

During the joyous season of Christmas, Linzey's words come alive in "One Wintry Night," capturing the magic and wonder of the holiday. The poem transports readers to a snowy landscape, where the air is filled with anticipation and joy. Linzey's skillful use of language and imagery allows readers to experience the enchantment of the season firsthand.

Throughout the collection, Linzey weaves together themes of love, faith, and the simple joys of life. Her poems serve as a gentle reminder of the beauty that surrounds us and the significance of our individual stories. Each verse captures the essence of human experiences, inviting readers to reflect on their own journeys and find solace in the shared human experience.

What sets Pearls of Gold apart from other poetry collections is its ability to transcend age and gender to connect with readers from different walks of life. While the collection may most strongly resonate with younger adults and middle-aged individuals, its themes and messages are universal and timeless. Linzey's poetry speaks to the human experience in a way that is relatable and accessible, making it a treasure that can be appreciated by readers of all ages.

The collection's impact lies in its ability to touch the soul, evoking a range of emotions and inspiring introspection. Linzey's words have a way of resonating deeply, leaving a lasting impression on the reader. Each poem is a testament to the power of language and its ability to convey complex emotions and ideas.

I wholeheartedly recommend Pearls of Gold. It is a beautifully written collection that touches the heart and ignites the imagination. The poems are rich with meaning and imagery, allowing the reader to truly connect and visualize the experiences portrayed. This collection is a testament to Linzey's talent and will be greatly appreciated by true poetry lovers. I have no doubt that Pearls of Gold will find its place on the shelves of many readers, providing solace, inspiration, and a renewed sense of wonder in the power of language and the human spirit.


Pearls of Gold

I enjoyed reading  Pearls of Gold  by Verna Hall Linzey. A poetry book focused on Linzey's desire to share her life in a prayerful, perceptive way, she bestows to the reader what she calls "pearls of gold". These pearls are timeless words of advice and inspiring momentums she has written, some allegorical and some biographical, all aimed at helping the reader live their most fulfilling, happy, and abundant life.

This poetry collection is divided into six sections: Christmas, Easter, General, Humor, Patriotic, and Prayers. The vast majority of these poems are short and sweet, just 5-7 lines of reflection, story, or advice for the reader. Accompanying each poem is a picture image, supplementing the text with a visual aid to bring Linzey's words to life. Many also hold a biblical motif, either speaking directly on Christianity or common themes that the faith possesses.

Of the sections listed, I have to say I enjoyed the Christmas section the most, specifically the poem, "The Three Magi." Linzey recounts this infamous story beautifully, drawing on Christ's birth as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the Magi's journey to meet him. I love the imagery that she uses in this poem as well as the way her deep faith and love of Christ shine forth from the pages. Similarly, I also enjoyed, "The Holy Night" in this section.  In only a few short lines, Linzey eloquently captures a summary of the shepherds looking towards the heavens. Flowing gracefully and delicately, once again the reader can see Linzey's deep spirituality and relationship with Christ as well as her writing talent.

Of course, the star of this collection is the poem, “Pearls of Gold” itself. A way to show the reader the point of her work, Linzey writes of the “pearls of gold” that come forth from the lips of the old. She conveys that the wise youth listen to these pearls, as they come from experience and lessons taught with age. Concluding this poem, she writes that those who listen will also spiritually grow, learning from the old pearls of gold. A beautiful prose with a skillful theme, this poem did not disappoint!

Overall, I enjoyed reading  Pearls of Gold . A quick, refectory read I would recommend this collection for women aged 35+ who like beautiful poetry.


Fog & Fireflies

In master storyteller T.H. Lehnen’s debut novel, Fog & Fireflies, 14-year-old Ogma of the Windmill town takes her job seriously. As one of the children who must walk the tall walls of the village, minding the fog and chasing phantoms away, she knows that it’s not a game anymore like the younger ones tend to think. The fog shifts villages, obscures everything, plays tricks, and hides monsters. It kills adults, but not children. It is ever unpredictable, but the first thing that upsets the village isn’t the fog exactly, but the arrival of an outsider, followed by caravaners—visitors who fly the fog. Eventually, Ogma may be forced into the fog on her own. And what she might find there, she can only imagine.

Ogma’s character is brave and responsible, but she is still a child, curious and captivated by the caravaners and their wares. All of the other children who watch the wall are likable, while the villagers, who are clearly not the focus of the book, remain somewhat distant throughout the story. As I read, so many new features of the fog unfolded. To think of the fog as one thing, like a single malicious cloud, would be false, as it holds so many complexities and even shifts time. Nothing is concrete.

Author T.H. Lehnen puts a lot of detail into his writing. For example, he gives one character, Dunkirk, a wound that sounds very realistic, which makes the story feel very lifelike. It helped set up a vibrant scene in my imagination as I read. Less thoughtful authors gloss over elements like this and oversimplify them. But Lehnen takes tremendous (and much appreciated) effort to let readers see everything that transpires in his imagination without being overly wordy. There is a good balance between storytelling and dialogue throughout the work. Lehnen does include some heavy themes, like death, abuse, terror, and parentification. So the story is not quite suitable for young children.

Overall, Fog & Fireflies is a truly unique and enjoyable piece of fantasy fiction. It starts at a level that is already below the surface, and it just gets compellingly deeper and deeper. Lehnen kept me hooked with the many threads he left hanging throughout parts of the book. The only thing that might be improved upon is clarity in the mechanics of the world he has created, yet still, I could hardly ask for a better fantasy.


Fog & Fireflies

Ogma lives in constant fear of the fog, along with the residents of her village. A malevolent presence has been rumored to lure others to a grim fate. The town’s youth are engaged as a border patrol to ensure there are no security breaches along the town’s walls. Ogma is viewed as a role model for the adolescent youth. The townsfolk look forward to the fog’s gradual dissipation because that leads to the nearest town being able to connect and engage in commerce with Ogma’s village.

Ogma’s best friend is a young teenager named Wheeler. Wheeler possesses a knack for storytelling and he can calm the children with tales of those lost to the fog. Ogma and Wheeler’s constant concern is coupled with their worry of getting older and having to leave their village once they reach a mature age. This is a rite of passage but is intimidating to them and others. On one murky night, Ogma and others are alerted to a possible security gap along the town walls. They are shocked to discover a young boy in the grips of an exotic beast. The beast is dead, and the boy is clinging to life.

The young boy is named Dunkirk, his demeanor and pallor hint at experiencing something unspeakable. He awakens with a restless manner and appears to speak primarily Norwegian. Ogma is at times amused and frustrated by Dunkirk’s demeanor but everything changes when the town’s security is violated and during the fray Ogma goes missing. Soon Ogma finds herself outside the only home she’s known. She finds herself in similar circumstances as Dunkirk experienced and must acclimate to her situation while struggling to survive in a truly strange land.

Fog & Fireflies is a tantalizing book combining elements of fantasy, mystery, and horror. The specter of the unknown is a persistent theme running throughout the book as Ogma and fellow townsfolk can only guess at the true villain’s identities and their motives. Ogma is an adept heroine looking after her home and her fellow townspeople and she will fight to preserve both. The path of her character’s storyline is changed when she becomes the outlander, she must learn to cast aside preconceived notions about those she meets, such as the Caravaners.

Author T.H. Lehnen has written an excellent novel which elicits terror and wonder in equal measure and will appeal to more than a youthful audience.


Fog & Fireflies

A young-adult fantasy novel featuring a plucky, tenacious, and relatable heroine and set in a richly evoked world filled with danger, magic, and intrigue, T.H. Lehnen’s Fog & Fireflies is an action-packed coming-of-age story in which the fate of many rests on the shoulders of one feisty young woman.

Fourteen-year-old Ogma has now spent eight seasons walking the wall—that is, serving as a lookout and guard to protect the adult citizens of her village from the phantoms that lurk in the pervasive fog that surrounds their home. While it’s better to be angry than afraid, the screams that are heard on the nights when the fog is particularly bad sometimes make it difficult to remember as much.

Life hasn’t always been this way, or so Ogma has been told. Centuries ago, the devastating consequences of a war among wizards caused the land to be covered in a continuously shifting but always malevolent fog that conjures phantoms capable of killing anyone who has reached adulthood. Due to their relative immunity to the dangers that lurk in the fog, children have since been tasked with keeping their communities safe.

On one particularly bad night, when the fog is unusually thick and the voices screaming within it are abnormally loud, Ogma is shocked to realize that one of the voices to be heard is not a phantom—there is an actual person lost somewhere outside the village’s walls. She and close friend Wheeler bravely venture outside and rescue a boy of around their age from a fearsome beast.

The new arrival, Dunkirk, comes from another time and place, and his presence threatens to upset the carefully maintained equilibrium of the village. What’s more, a brief respite from the fog sees the arrival of a group of Caravaners, who promise trade and entertainment for the villagers but who have a secret nefarious agenda. When the children are kidnapped and the safety of the village threatened, Ogma finds herself alone in the fog outside the walls.

Fog & Fireflies then follows Ogma as she attempts to rescue her kidnapped comrades and find a way back home. In so doing, she might just find a way to save the whole world from the perils of the fog. During the course of her quest, Ogma emerges as a brave and insightful warrior with wisdom beyond her years and a fierce loyalty to her companions. She also encounters a host of intriguing people and creatures—both friends and foes—who influence her journey.

Aside from the well-developed and engaging characters, T.H. Lehnen also excels at world-building, as the world Ogma inhabits is richly detailed and vividly described, with plenty of backstory and mythology to add depth to the story. For instance, one of Wheeler’s shadow-puppet stories tells the tale of another village and a monster that appeared in it: “It was tall and slender, and covered in what were either dirty feathers or tattered rags. It had the beak of an enormous bird and its eyes were dark chasms in a polished white skull.”

Fog & Fireflies is an atmospheric and often nerve-wracking story. The fog and the phantoms that lurk within it are truly menacing, and there is a real sense of danger throughout. This renders Ogma’s bravery even more remarkable and really makes her a character to root for. Aside from the dangers, there are other mysteries hidden by the fog, mysteries that extend to other times and places and ensure that there is much to discover as Ogma attempts to find her way home.


Fog & Fireflies

Hundreds of seasons ago, a wizard's war scarred the earth, leaving a malevolent fog blanketing the land, and carrying the settlements within it like ships adrift at sea. The phantoms, the fog created are deadly to adults, so children must guard the walls now, and care for each other. Ogma and the other children of her village have only themselves to depend upon, with only their courage to guide them against the phantoms of the night in this cruel and blacked world.

The very best of YA (young adult) media are the ones that manage to both empower and unnerve their target audience. Young readers who have spent the whole of their lives being dependent on parents, slowly longing for independence; now witnessing through literary surrogates the challenges and rewards that such independence can yield.  The very media and novels that serve as bridges between the escapist fantasy of childhood and the self-sufficient autonomy of adulthood.

The captivating Fog & Fireflies by T.H. Lehnen certainly fits and exceeds that total order. Lehnen has created a compelling world of rich, dangerous elements, and vivid detail. Ogma is a perfect character for the reader to relate and root for. Envision Dorothy in a world of cruel mists summoning up her last bites of courage to save all her Oz companions. Ogma is by now a seasoned warrior, she is far more prepared and wiry than most of her other YA genre counterparts.

A literary world in which the social order has not only broken down is a common trope of fantasy. But, here Lehnen has turned it on its head, our author is less interested in the process of decay, than in the ability of humanity to withstand it. To find the courage to adapt and keep pushing forward. A world in which children are robbed of a carefree childhood and have to take on guardianship of younger children and teach them all the life lessons they've managed to absorb. Ogma is one of the eldest children in the Windmill Town, and there is a muted uncertainty in the reader's mind as she races to protect a much of her fellow towns people, for as long as she can, before the fog comes for her.

Make no mistake, this is a great and triumphant tale. Dark and soulful; haunting and hopeful. Epic world building, beautiful prose, and the uncertainty of what moves and screams beyond walls of protection. It's the kind of book and author that makes a darning, masterful, and compelling bid for literary greatness!


Fog & Fireflies

A wild and dangerous fog plagues the area around Ogma’s village. The fog is deadly to the adults, so Ogma and the village’s other children are tasked with keeping watch. As the village moves through the fog, Ogma and the other children rescue a stranded and injured boy, but not from their own time or place. But as the fog recedes, a troupe of caravanners approaches with promises of trade and festivities. During the festival, otherworldly invaders attack and abduct the children, vital to the safety of the village. As a result, Ogma becomes lost in the fog. To find her way back, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery where she finds much more than she expects.

Fog & Fireflies is the debut novel of T.H. Lehnen. His fantastical story pits the character against an ever-changing, always-threatening environment. As Lehnen’s characters grow and adapt, their relationship with the fog and the landscape changes. As the story continues, the new characters he introduces become more wondrous and more strange. But always present is everyone’s relationship with the fog and landscape. Conflict comes from every direction and internally as Ogma proceeds through the tale.

Lehnen takes world-building to a new level. This is not world-building like Tolkien’s Middle Earth or Lewis’s Narnia. The landscape of Lehnen’s creation cannot be defined by features on a map. It is an ever-changing landscape that not only influences how the character reacts, but it seems to have a personality of its own. In most fantasy tales, world-building consists of a physical map with place names and landmarks. The world of Lehnen’s creation is a dark, brooding character that taunts, invades, and can abduct the adults of the villages. The settings and environment are an essential character in the story. The more one ignores the landscapes around them, the more dangerous the situation gets. Better examples of world-building on Lehnen’s level would be Lewis Carrol’s Wonderland or Micheal Ende’s Fantastica.

Lehnen’s novel is marketed to young adults. Other than the mild violence, this book has a much broader audience. This action-packed fantasy is reminiscent of stories written in the late nineteenth century and early twentieth century, meant for younger readers. The story is complex and engaging enough to keep the attention of a more mature audience. Fog & Fireflies is a fantastic, fantastical tale of exploration and discovery that will delight both young and old readers.