Review: Hilly Colors Her Dreams

Book Description

 

Hilly Colors Her Dreams come out in second edition. This book is the first among a series in which Hilly is the main character. Children straightaway connect to Hilly whom is a unique character with charming personality, conveying important messages to children e.g. addressing their emotions, positive thinking, connecting to the peaceful self and more... these themes are brought with humor, fun, love and care. Every child who reads the book, drifted into Hill's world.

 The Friday 56

"On your marks, get set, ready, go!
The competition begins - the fish are putting on their aprons and showing off their fins."

My Review 

 

Indeed, children are precious and very sensitive little people with their own unique personalities. What a great story providing tools for kids to explore and process their delicate feelings. There are so many cute and colorful illustrations. Learning to identify colors is important and incorporating each color with a story is very exciting. The author is a holistic therapist and has written about a girl named Hilly who dreams in different colors every night. It's a great, unique bedtime story but I'm a bit disappointed in associating colors with the wheel of energy known as Chakras. Just my opinion but I don't think all kids need an eastern approach to appreciating the beauty and vibrancy of colors. Overall, children will enjoy the book.

4 stars. 

About The Author

 

Biography

 

Meytal Raz-Nave, holistic multidisciplinary therapist for children & adolescents.

I started my therapeutic journey 12 years ago, Very young girl but I was drawn into the holistic world with full knowledge that this is the right way for me.

Once I explored the holistic thinking I felt like home, the comfortable well-known area for me, so I continued learning, and being a therapist, to this day.

I see the holistic state of mind as a lifestyle, not only as a way referring to mind and body.

My goal is to give people the tools to grab their lives in their own hands.


Therapy, acquisition of tools, advising and consultancy can help us treat ourselves and improve our lives in the physical, spiritual and mental layers.
Those tools eases our personal process and enables us have Qualitative meaningful life.


Skywatch Friday

Vibrant sky colors! How is it where you are?


Happy reading and skywatching!

 “You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis

Review: Wonder by R.J. Palacio

About This Book

August Pullman was born with a facial difference that, up until now, has prevented him from going to a mainstream school. Starting 5th grade at Beecher Prep, he wants nothing more than to be treated as an ordinary kid—but his new classmates can’t get past Auggie’s extraordinary face. WONDER, now a #1 New York Times bestseller and included on the Texas Bluebonnet Award master list, begins from Auggie’s point of view, but soon switches to include his classmates, his sister, her boyfriend, and others. These perspectives converge in a portrait of one community’s struggle with empathy, compassion, and acceptance. 


The Friday #56

I had heard a lot about this book and was anxious to dig in since it was on the #1 Best seller list!

"Yeah, I know," I answered. "We're kind of like Beauty and the Beast."

My Review

It's a story about a loving family that deals with and endures everyday challenges that probably you and I have never had to experience. Woven throughout the story is a theme of unconditional love that family and friends have for Auggie who has a badly disfigured face. If that's not enough of a struggle to daily accept, then add to the mix that he's a 5th grader but so sensitive, funny and very intelligent. The detailed account of students and adults inflicting cruel wounds is so painful to read but the rewards of seeing the display of kindness is monumentally triumphant. The short chapters spoken from various characters is a refreshing approach, making the book a quick read. The author's style of writing is warm and she really draws you in. I cried at the very end with such a huge emotional release as I know you will, too. Auggie's journey will inspire you to practice kindness to all because we really don't know what each person we meet is going through. This story is so inspirational. This is a must read and a great addition for home and school libraries. I loved reading this one!

5/5 stars. Highly recommend!

Happy Reading!

Skywatch Friday

Although the winter night temperatures can get pretty low in December, sometimes the sunrises here in SoCal are so glorious... that there are no words!

Happy Skywatching!

 “You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

Review: A Christmas Hamper

About This Book

‘A Christmas Hamper’ is a volume of pictures and stories for little folks. It tells children about friendship, the family values and the winter traditions, such as winter plays, the Christmas legends and fairies.
‘A Christmas Hamper’ was originally published by Thomas Nelson & Sons in 1899.
The ‘Animedia Press’ e-book edition (2012) contains the illustrations, which were carefully restored by a publisher. 

Contents:

A very Naughty Little Person
Pour Uncle Tom
A SNow Man
Not Such Fun as it Seemed
On The Sands
Old Clothes
The Little Tiny Thing
Questions
A Lesson in Manners
The Prize Boat
The Little Thief in the Pantry
Great-Grandmothers Wish

The Friday #56

With there only being 48 pages to the book, I'm sharing a few snippets from the last page:

"Hut," said Trots, "what will the eleventh generation do when the wish stops and the good-luck?" "I don't know," said grannie, shaking her head. "I suppose they'll have to catch a fairy of their own." -- Thomas Nelson

My Review

It's an old fashion story written in rhyme with a variety of pencil illustrations. I found it to be a timeless read, taking you back to simple times, whether read alone or with your children aloud. You'll hear of fairies, family values, winter traditions and Christmas memories. I especially like the chapter, Great-Grandmother's Wish. My favorite quote from the book, "Give to me and to my daughters to the eleventh generation the lucky finger and the loving heart."

4/5 stars.

Skywatch Friday

Winter sky, from the east to the west.

Happy reading and skywatching!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

Review: Classroom Management

Product Details

• Paperback: 164 pages
• Publisher: JME Publishing (May 1, 2014)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0615993265
• ISBN-13: 978-0615993263

About The Book

Teaching 400-600 students every week presents the ultimate classroom management challenge, one that if you’re unprepared for can bury you in a mountain of stress and misbehavior.

Classroom Management for Art, Music, and PE Teachers is a proven solution that will transform even the most difficult group of students into the peaceful, well-behaved class you really want.

It provides the tools, tips, and strategies you need to simply and effectively manage any classroom, no matter how unruly or out of control, so you can focus on teaching, inspiring, and making an impact that lasts a lifetime.

The Friday #56

"Remember, you never want to move on until you're getting exactly what you want from your students. Whenever you forget this key principle, it comes back to haunt you." -- Michael Linsin

My Review 

I love the book and highly recommend it to all music teachers. I see it like a blueprint for successful management of people and time. The author provides simple, clearly understood tips and strategies for any possible out of control scenario. I especially like the organized content of the chapter titles of the book. For example:

Leverage & Influence

Routines & Procedures

Listening & Following Directions

Rules & Consequences

Bad Days & Tough Classes

Overall, what I found extremely useful to apply is the ability to remain calm and not to respond no matter what happens! My favorite line in the book, "You must be real and sincere and willing to be a teacher whose words and gestures will be remembered for a lifetime."

5/5 stars. Highly recommend to all Art, Music, and PE Teachers.

Biography

Michael Linsin is the author of Dream Class, The Classroom Management Secret, and Classroom Management for Art, Music, and PE Teachers. His simple and unique ideas about managing student behavior are read by thousands of teachers every day on his popular blog, Smart Classroom Management. He lives and teaches in San Diego.

 “You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

Truthy Ruthy: My Secret Language

Awhile back, I had posted my review from the Truthy Ruthy Series, Christmas Surprise. There's so many books in the series. The next one I went on to finish reading to the grandchildren is the one pictured above.

About The Book

HOW TO DEAL WITH A CRYING CHILD WITH A HUMOROUS ATTITUDE? 
HOW TO MAKE YOUR CHILD STOP CRYING OVER LITTLE THINGS? 

This funny children's book is about Truthy Ruthy, 
a cute and charming girl who doesn't want to stop crying 
over little things, until one day she reveals to her parents a huge secret: 
A child's cry over little things, is a secret language! 

What happens next will make you burst out laughing 
and above all, help your child to express their emotions and feelings 
in a very unique way. 

How? 

Read this story and see how having a humorous attitude 
can help your child to stop crying over little things. 
Learn how respect and humor can help you to deal 
with a crying child. 

Ruthy is a cute girl; happy and cheerful. She loves to eat, play, laugh and... cry!

The Friday 56

"Just before we part (again), would you like to practice the secret language, too?"

My Review

The main character is always crying! Meet Ruthy who has a hard time remembering happy times and expresses what she wants through her tears. She's always in charge and often seems to get her own way. Everyone who hears the crying aloud and at high volume wants her to stop! The little girl is taken back by her family's reaction and begins to explain her actions. Ruthy shows her parents that her tears are a form of communication, called 'the secret language of tears.' Everyone tries to understand Ruthy's feelings and copies Ruthy's behavior. Soon all are expressing 'happy tears.' The author shares ideas on helping the children to stop crying and how to experience different types of crying tones and expressions. Although it's a cute story, I found the author's approach to deeper lessons on self-respect to be a bit confusing. Sounds like a free-school approach here and I'm not sure I agree with the perspective of crying all the time in expressing wants vs. needs and especially hearing about a young child re-training their parents to think like them. In my opinion, there's disappointing story content here.

3/5 stars.

About The Author

Sari Barel is the author of children's books and co-author of the books and method called - think like a zebra® - which helped people to think outside the box, to develop creative thinking and innovation, both in business and everyday life. The first book in the series has been translated into many languages including; Japanese, Chinese, Italian, Portuguese and Hebrew. 20 years as an innovator, leading brainstorming sessions for managers and employees in a variety of businesses, training people for success and leadership and to look for ideas outside the box.

Sari Barel is a graduate of the ISEME, an extension of the University of Swinburne, Australia, where she earned the degree of Master of Entrepreneurship and Innovation (MEI). In addition, she has completed graduate studies in education, advertising, copywriting and screenwriting. She has extensive experience in each of those fields.

Her training and work experience also includes public relations, internet and video marketing, mediation, acting as a life coach, coaching theatrical and comedy performers, and visual arts.

Sari is known internationally as a consultant to a wide variety of businesses with regard to marketing, creative thinking and innovation.

The variety of Sari's background is directed to her stated goal, which is to help as many people as possible--adults and children-- to escape restrictive thinking patterns and realize their full potential, not only in their life's work, but in their entire life experience. That goal has inspired her recent writing, a series of books for parents, to help them help their children think outside the box.



Missed everyone last week. We have old overhead power lines and we were having a bit of a struggle with our internet connection. All seems to be working properly at the moment. The world seems a bit crazy at this time, so we're keeping France in our prayers. Wishing you and your family happiness around the table this year!

 Happy Reading and Happy Thanksgiving!






“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

Review: Two for Joy

Product Details Age Range: 7 - 10 years Grade Level: 2 - 5 Hardcover: 96 pages Publisher: Candlewick (June 9, 2015) Language: English ISBN-10: 0763630101 ISBN-13: 978-0763630102

 About This Book

When an adored—and very independent—aunt suffers a fall and comes to live with them, Jenna and her mom discover what makes a family bond unbreakable.

Eight-year-old Jenna is dreaming of playing Olympic soccer when the phone call wakes her. Great-Great Aunt Tannie has broken her ankle, and Jenna’s worried mom decides Tannie should move in with them. Tannie is no delicate old lady—she does heavy chores on her Virginia farm, drives a huge pickup, and even rides her own motorcycle. Plus she’s full of joie de vivre, given to kicking a soccer ball and teaching Jenna all about the birds she’s collected on her life list. Jenna’s excited to have her favorite aunt and cat, Butt, come to stay, but with so many changes to get used to, tempers around the house soon start to flare. Maybe with all the caring and being taken care of, they’ve forgotten what Tannie is still so good at—and neglected to have any fun. In a familiar story told through a child’s eyes, Gigi Amateau reminds us that everyone needs help sometimes, especially those who least expect it.

The Friday #56

"Butt! Butt! Baby-Butt!" I called under the sofa. Then I made a kissing sound; I walked all through the house; Butt did not come out."

My Thoughts

This is a nice book for young girls to discover the joy and insights in caring for the elderly, especially when the family member lives in your home. At first, Aunt Tannie doesn't want to leave her large beautiful ranch but the young girl Jenna, and her mom lovingly persuade their great aunt to live with them. Facing a painful broken ankle injury, Aunt Tannie realizes and patiently surrenders to the idea of family support.  Woven throughout the story are difficult issues of emotions for everyone to face, like asking for help and yielding to one another's needs when you don't feel like it or just too busy. Children of multigenerational families will relate to Jenna's attraction to Aunt Tannie's cat, and together their love of soccer and bird watching. Throughout the short easy to read book, you'll find many pencil sketched illustrations to enhance the story. Overall, it's a good book for grades 2-5.

4/5 stars.

About The Author

Gigi Amateau's first book for young adults, Claiming Georgia Tate, was published by Candlewick Press in 2005. That title was selected as a New York Public Library Book for the Teen Age and hailed by author Judy Blume: "It's rare and exciting to discover a talented new writer like Gigi Amateau." The Wall Street Journal called the book "an ambitious push into the young adult market."

She is also the author of A Certain Strain of Peculiar, a Bank Street College Best Children's Book of the Year, and Chancey of the Maury River, A William Allen White Masters list title for grades 3-5. Come August, Come Freedom, her first work of historical fiction, was named a 2013 Jefferson Cup Honor title and chosen by Bank Street College as a Best Children's Book of the Year. In 2012, Gigi received a Theresa Pollak Prize for Excellence in the Arts from Richmond magazine.









“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

Faithgirlz Bible: Review

Product Details

• Age Range: 8 - 12 years
• Series: Faithgirlz
• Hardcover: 1504 pages
• Publisher: Zonderkidz (October 6, 2015)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0310751179
• ISBN-13: 978-0310751175

Book Description

Bestselling Faithgirlz Bible now available in the New King James version!

Every girl wants to know she’s totally unique and special. This Bible says that with Faithgirlz sparkle. Through the many in-text features found only in the Faithgirlz Bible, girls will grow closer to God as they discover the journey of a lifetime.

Features include: * Book introductions—Read about the who, when, where, and what of each book * Dream Girl—Use your imagination to put yourself in the story * Bring It On!—Take quizzes to really get to know yourself * Is There a Little (Eve, Ruth, Isaiah) in You?—See for yourself what you have in common * Words to Live By—Check out these Bible verses that are great for memorizing * What Happens Next?—Create a list of events to tell a Bible story in your own words * Oh, I Get It!—Find answers to Bible questions you've wondered about The complete New King James Version (NKJV) translation Features written by bestselling author Nancy Rue.

Book Review

Love the colorful cover art and the overall layout of the book is excellent. Each chapter page (Book Introductions) of the Bible is very bright and  colorful (just what girls like) and well detailed with subjects like:

Who wrote it

When it was written

where it takes place

Cool characters you'll meet

Bad guys to watch for

The point

How it connects

The wording is easy to understand for ages 8-12 and there's a special section called "Bring it on!" that breaks down difficult concepts for young girls to examine. The multiple choice questions really get them thinking. The Dream Girl section fosters the imagination to picture the culture of Bible times. What I especially like here is the fun approach the author has created for reading the Bible. It's engaging, kid's are learning and discussing their take on it with one another. I love the new King James version, faithgirlz Bible! It's very attractive to discover the treasures within!

5/5 stars! Highly recommend!  

I received this book from BookLookBlogger in exchange for my honest review.

About The Author

Nancy Rue has written over 100 books for girls, is the editor of the Faithgirlz Bible, and is a popular speaker and radio guest with her expertise in tween and teen issues. She and husband, Jim, have raised a daughter of their own and now live in Tennessee.

Great gift for young ladies!






“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

Push Start: A Practical Guide To Jumpstart Your Life from Average to Awesome

Product Details Paperback: 166 pages Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform (June 17, 2013) Language: English ISBN-10: 1490469400 ISBN-13: 978-1490469409

About This Book

Push Start is filled with one hundred tips, tools, techniques, quotes, anecdotes, stories, ideas, thoughts, and concepts that will provide you with the motivation and inspiration to take you on your journey through life’s situations and circumstances. So, push start and take your life from average to awesome.

The Friday #56

From the chapter, Finding Value.

"Even though a Leader is ultimately responsible for the outcome of many situations under their charge, they still have to be able to have confidence in others to also get things done and value their opinion when something cannot be done or if a suggestion is made that something needs to be done a different way."

My Review

There is a plethora of good information and valuable insights for improving yourself and getting better. The book covers a variety of subjects on life's experiences, especially making good choices and being motivated towards personal excellence. The author outlines a similar thread through the chapters and that is to improve one's life. I especially like the discussion regarding how to apply and adapt where you can control your destiny. Be open and flexible. If you want to make a change with a renewed perspective, this book offers some vital tips in accomplishing that.

5/5 stars.

About The Author

Terry Thompson grew up in a military family and has spent his entire life travelling around the world gaining valuable knowledge and experience that he shares with you through his writing about life and leadership. Terry has served in multiple positions of increased authority and responsibility that spans many assignment locations to include two deployments to Iraq, one to Kuwait, and one to Afghanistan. Terry has led teams as small as 3 to much larger groups of over 200. Terry brings to you valuable insight that he has gained from his personal and professional life that will lead you to success. Terry does this through multiple platforms to include his website (Leadertank.com) and his three books (Leadership Solved, Leadership Is . . . , and Push Start).

Pick up a copy!

As I write this post, I'm remembering back to some former posts that I had written around the end of October. Hope you folks have a fun and safe Halloween!

If you're looking for some ideas for a Halloween costume, take a look at my grandson as Super Mario. Plus, you'll find the recipe, Batman Biscuits to try for ages 4-6.

In the mood for a chuckle, visit some of my Pumpkin Quotes!

Happy reading!











“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

The Legend of the Christmas Cookie

Product Details Age Range: 4 - 8 years Hardcover: 32 pages Publisher: Zonderkidz (October 6, 2015) Language: English ISBN-10: 0310747678 ISBN-13: 978-0310747673

Book Description

New artwork by New York Times bestselling illustrator Richard Cowdrey, this Christmas book tells the story behind the meaning of the Christmas cookie.

The Legend of the Christmas Cookie tells the story of a young boy named Jack who learns from his generous mother the story behind the Christmas cookie. The family who began the tradition of baking the special cookies gave them to the needy and shared the story of the very first Christmas. This sweet holiday book offers inspiration for readers to become cheerful givers themselves and encourages them to share the true tale of Jesus' birth. A delicious recipe is included on the jacket flap so readers can make their own Christmas sugar cookies.

The Legend of the Christmas Cookie: Sharing the True Meaning of Christmas

Although it's soon approaching Halloween and all of my grandchildren have their costumes ready for our church fall festival tomorrow, I still enjoy reviewing Christmas books at this time. That way, I know which ones go to each grandchild for a loving present, along with homemade fleece blankets. After all, the weather is changing and getting a bit cooler in my neck of the woods. How is it where you are?

  The Friday #56

"Then right there, beside the railroad tracks, under a gray sky that promised snow, Jack began: "Long ago an angel like this one brought us the most wonderful news: Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord."

(I chose the last page because the children's picture book only has 32 pages).


My Review

This is a tender story, set in very hard times during the Depression, about a boy named Jack and his mom barely scraping by. Word reaches them that Jack's dad is not coming home for Christmas since he is out west finding work. Naturally, hearing the sad news on Christmas Eve leaves Jack feeling very disappointed. On top of that, he sees his mom making heavenly scented cookies but alas, not for them but for the needy at church.

Children will love the beautiful warm illustrations woven throughout this sweet story, showing a caring relationship between mother and son. Jack begins to make cookies with his mother, using intricately wooden carved cutters, as she tells him why people started making Christmas cookies. It's a wonderful memory hearing of the Savior's birth through many snowflake type cookies handed out to the village, hearing of the true meaning of Christmas.

The story doesn't end there because just as Jack's mother handed him a big angel cookie she had been saving, well... there's a knock at the door. You've got to get the book and read on to the very end where you'll find two delicious cookie recipes waiting for you! Overall, it's an inspirational book filled with love and hope for all families. Loved it!

5/5 stars. Highly recommend to friends.

I received the book from BookLook Bloggers in exchange for my honest review.

About the Author

Dandi Daley Mackall is the author of over 450 books. She still can't believe she gets to write for a living, helping children of all ages grow spiritually. Dandi and her husband, Joe, both write from rural Ohio, where they're blessed with three children and a variety of horses, dogs, and cats.

About the Illustrator

Richard Cowdrey's favorite things to draw and paint are the things that reflect the awesomeness of God and His creation. From vast landscapes to the littlest bug on a leaf, Richard marvels at the beauty in the details. Richard's bestselling children's books include Legend of the Candy Cane, Bad Dog, Marley and A Very Marley Christmas.

The Legend of the Christmas Cookie: Sharing the True Meaning of Christmas







“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books

A Rose Blooms Twice: Review

About The Book

Rose Brownlee has suffered more loss than most people can endure. Now she must find a purpose and a way to move on with her life. Will she bow to conventional wisdom or will she, like Abraham of old, choose to follow where God leads her . . . even to a wild and strange land she does not know?

Set in the American prairie of the late 1800s, this story of loss, disillusionment, rebirth, and love will inspire, challenge, and encourage you.

Book 1 in the series, A Prairie Heritage. Read the exciting prequel and companion to A Rose Blooms Twice, Wild Heart on the Prairie.

A Prairie Heritage:
Book 1: A Rose Blooms Twice
Book 2: Wild Heart on the Prairie
Book 3: Joy on This Mountain
Book 4: The Captive Within
Book 5: Stolen
Book 6: Lost Are Found 

The Friday #56

"If she continued eating like this, her clothes might begin to fit again rather than slide around like they belonged to someone else."

My Review 

A fiction novel about a strong woman who is a widow and has suffered greatly. After losing her family in a terrible accident, Rose decides to head West. The early settlers of the 1800s who lived on the prairies learned to rely on God a lot. It warms my heart to read about a close rural community of people helping one another out. You feel as if you are part of their clan, participating in all their work routines, attending church together and experiencing good old fashion fellowship with one another. Follow along as you read about the main character, the lovely Rose and her spiritual journey of strength, courage, faith in God and love. Love the book. It drew me in and could not put it down.

5/5 stars. Highly recommend to friends.

About The Author 

Vikki Kestell’s passion for people and their stories is evident in her readers’ affection for her characters and unusual plotlines. Two often-repeated sentiments are, “I feel like I know these people” and “I’m right there, in the book, experiencing what the characters experience.”

Vikki holds a Ph.D. in Organizational Learning and Instructional Technologies. She left a career of twenty-plus years in government, academia, and corporate life to pursue writing full time. “Writing is the best job ever,” she admits, “and the most demanding.”

Also, an accomplished speaker and teacher, Vikki and her husband Conrad Smith make their home in Albuquerque, New Mexico. To keep abreast of new book releases, visit her website, http://www.vikkikestell.com/, or find her on Facebook, http://www.facebook.com/TheWritingOfVikkiKestell.

Have you read the series or are familiar with Vikki Kestell's writing? I like this one a lot!

So, what are you reading this week that you can't put down??

Happy Reading!

“You can’t get a cup of tea big enough or a book long enough to suit me." C. S. Lewis
© copyright 2015 – All rights reserved
LadyD Books