Showing posts with label book. Show all posts
Showing posts with label book. Show all posts

Thursday, September 17, 2020

The Adventures of Rockford T. Honeypot Book Review

 A new book has arrived for your perusal! The Adventures of Rockford T. Honeypot, by Josh Gottsegen is currently on sale on Amazon. This new children's book has a quote that I quite adore - "Here's to who we've become... and who we've yet to become." Actually there are several from this book I enjoyed! It is an epic tale of a young chipmunk who is coming into his own.

Check out the description below:

"As a young chipmunk, shy, bookish Rockford T. Honeypot had dreams of thrilling adventures across the forest. However, timid of danger and germs, his only adventures were found in books and in his imagination. When his family abandons him after a mistake that destroys their hazelnut business, Rockford sets off on a legendary journey beyond his wildest dreams. From exploring cuisines with a famous chef, training with ancient warrior monks, flying on giant hawks, finding true love, and much more, Rockford recounts his epic origin story of hardship, perseverance, and fortune."

Things I enjoy about the book:

This book is incredibly well written! I was surprised with the ease in which he was able to incorporate popular culture references, like "Live long and blossom". The nerd in me was giddy by that one. 

Even as an adult, I can relate to Rockford in some ways. I dream of adventures, but mine are limited to books as well. I grew up the loner. The weird kid that didn't fit in so well with the other kids. So getting lost in reading was how I found a place where I belonged. Until being abandoned, that is how Rockford got by. I also got many of the modern references. Though this book is about animals, they live just like we do. And throughout the story, you find that Rockford is going through his history. From the discovery of green huts (greenhouses) to DOS (computer lingo of older tech).

Sometimes we find we are in circumstances that force us out of our comfort zone and into great unknowns. I like this lesson for kids as they need to know they can adapt and overcome, no matter the situation. Take 2020, for instance. It has blindsided the world. Turned chaos loose. But little by little, we have found ourselves getting back to a sense of peace. He was thrown out, family gone, and not a clue what to do. But step by step, he got closer to where he wanted to be - even if he didn't quite know it.

I'm glad that it is also lightly illustrated. My children love to read, but my oldest son and daughter both prefer stories that include artwork of some kind. This one has just enough to keep their interest but not too much that they aren't using their imagination. Simple, yet adorable, illustrations to begin each chapter.

In the beginning of the story, you find Rockford T. Honeypot in his later years with his great-grandson. He makes a comment that rings with great truth, "Age is a privilege." I have seen so many from the younger generation that don't have a grasp on this concept. Personally, I see each new day as a blessing, not something to take for granted. Being older also means you have experienced so much more in life. You have accumulated a wealth that cannot be measured. A rich database of knowledge that can be passed on to others. Such a simple phrase, but it holds so much depth. This wasn't the only one, mind you. There are others. Things that make you think on a bolder, deeper level. I appreciate this. His ability to write these in without making the story difficult for children is a true gift. 

This book reminds me of sitting around the elderly people in my life. I could sit and listen to their vivid stories for hours! Their adventures gave me courage later in life, when I would think back to how someone I knew could be so strong in the face of challenges. At the same time, children will be able to connect to the story as they live through the trials with Rockford on his journey. 

I highly suggest this book. It was a pleasure to read and share with my own children!

I interviewed Josh Gottsegen and wanted to share it with you all.

What inspired you to write this story? 

In 2014, I wrote a children's book about a family who runs a juice bar in Tropland Forest with the intention to make healthy eating "cool." After completing three books in my "Joosh's Juice Bar" picture book series, I decided to dedicate a full story of another character in Tropland. As I was brainstorming ideas, a close friend of mine fell ill, so I wrote a collection of short stories for her while she was in the hospital, all of which had messages of never giving up in the face of any obstacle. During her recovery, I continued to write and developed, "The Adventures of Rockford T Honeypot."   I was motivated and inspired to write something filled with laughs, love, perseverance, and excitement for both of us. She is now 100% healthy, happy, and strong. 


I imagine that you must be an avid reader. If that assumption is correct, when did that love for reading begin? 

I loved fantasy stories at an early age, from Dr. Seuss's classic books to James and the Giant Peach, Willy Wonka, and others. 


When did you decide you wanted to be a writer? 

Growing up I've always loved to write stories. Throughout my academic years, I felt relieved when there was an essay for a test. I knew I had control of how to tell the story of my answer. What I love the most is the challenge to find the perfect words that express why inner thoughts. 


When you get writers block (if ever) what do you do to get out of it? 

The idea of writer's block is different for everyone. Writing stories can be challenging at any age. Of course, the most crucial aspect is the discipline to write without being distracted. I had to put my phone on "do not disturb" and try my hardest not to browse the web and to procrastinate. Writing is like working out your muscles; at first, it's challenging to start, but once you create a routine and motivate yourself in your own way, it becomes more comfortable and more rewarding.


What advice would you give to an aspiring young writer?

As previously mentioned, the hardest part is to disconnect from distractions. If you genuinely want to write, find comfort in your mind, work hard on the discipline to sit and write, and write what makes you entertained. 


And from the kids in our home, did your Mom make you eat vegetables when you were growing up? If so, what vegetable was your least favorite?

When I was young, I always ate on the healthy side. My grandfather was a bodybuilder and taught healthy eating habits to my mother at an early age. I grew up eating all kinds of vegetables without any fuss. I loved them more than sweets! Though I love them now, I wasn't the biggest fan of radishes when I was younger.  Now, my most favorite is to add radish slices on avocado toast! Deeeeeelicious!

"Live long and blossom. Cheers to both ears!"

Monday, January 28, 2019

How One Book Can Make a Huge Difference in So Many Ways!

How can you help National Park personnel who have been affected by the government shutdown as well as the parks they serve in? While also promoting your child to read a book that teaches them the importance of our National Parks? I have the perfect solution: The Adventures of Brock Cliffhanger & His Jr. Park Rangers!


*Disclaimer: I was not paid or endorsed for this book review. I own a physical copy of one book and the digital copy of the other. All opinions expressed are my own.*
 
Mark Villareal has been writing for some time now. I've had the pleasure of reading several, if not all, of his books. Lately, he has branched into writing a children's series. One that teaches kids the importance of our National Parks. His first book in the series was The Adventures of Park Ranger Brock Cliffhanger & His Jr. Park Rangers: The Missing Hikers of Allegany State Park. Not only does it tell the story of hikers gone missing, but it teaches the importance of proper safety while hiking. Now he has written the second book in the series. The Adventures of Park Ranger Brock Cliffhanger & His Jr. Park Rangers: Mountain Rescue: Preserving Our Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Readers also learn about the parks in these books. The proceeds of this second book are currently being donated to the National Parks Conservation Association.

Brock Cliffhanger brings a legend, that is bigger than life, to a reality that inspires children. He is the mentor of two kids that became Jr. Park Rangers. Their love of National Parks brought them to the program where they learn how to pay it forward and teach others. I fell in love with their story at the first reading. And was quite happy to share it with my children. I believe it teaches valuable lessons.  Our youth will be the ones shaping and changing the future. What they learn now, will decide what they choose to do later.

Now, I will be sharing the second in the series with them. I just purchased the digital copy today! This one teaches the importance of careful camping and respecting the parks with our actions. The Smoky Mountains went through devastation after careless people started a wildfire. It affected so much more than the park, however. Future generations can avoid making those same mistakes if they learn how to care and pay it forward. 

These books are perfect for grades 1-6. Or ages 6-11. I read to my kids, ages 6-10. And they all loved it. We discussed the book and some of the important points in it.

But enough of my talking. Here is where the truth shows through in action!

Thursday, December 20, 2018

Pepper the Parrotfish is on a Mission and You Can Help! (+ free shipping for limited time)

I am a strong believer that reading is an important life skill that needs to be cultivated as young as you can. The desire must be stirred and kept going by engaging in books that kids not only love, but can interact with. Through my association with US Family Guide, I was chosen to review Pepper the Parrotfish children's book. 
*Disclaimer: I was sent this book free of charge in exchange for my honest review. I was not otherwise paid or endorsed. All opinions expressed are my own.*

This book is adorable! And it carries a great message. First off, it came in hardback (a personal favorite of mine). The high quality is very evident with its glossy cover and great pictures that match a friendly, but easy to read, story. The writer and illustrator are both locals of Colorado. Stephanie Enser and Mark Holly created this book to teach children the importance of caring for our oceans.

Growing up in Florida, I absolutely loved the beach. Sand between my toes, waves that could sing me to sleep and the sun overhead (that sometimes bit me hard...). But did you know that there is a creature in the water who makes sand? A very special kind of fish, actually. A parrotfish. They eat algae from the reef, keeping the algae levels at the right amount so as not to make the algae sick. But as they eat some of the algae, they chomp down on coral as well. After getting the nutrients they need, out comes - SAND! Yep, he poos it out! While he isn't alone in this ability, he does make the most of it. This easy to read book is geared towards 3-8 year olds, but even my 10 year old liked me reading to him.

What did my kids think about it?  

I made this a time to read with them so that we could interact on what they were learning from it. Of course my oldest thought the best part was how Pepper poops sand. But they all had something to say when I had a discussion after reading it. Check out the video!



Why is this book worth getting?

Besides a magnificent book that children can love and learn from, your purchase will also help with marine conservation. Pepper The Parrotfish is swimming to your door with FREE SHIPPING for a limited time only.

Go here to purchase and for more details: http://www.PepperParrotfish.com

Use promo code FREESHIP at checkout. And let me know in the comments below what you like about this book! Know any 3-8 year olds who would like it?

Monday, October 16, 2017

Space to Spare Book Review

*Disclaimer: I was sent the digital copy of the book to review and write my own honest opinions about by US Family Guide*
Being organized is important to me. But staying there is quite difficult. I've read books, received tips and been trying to keep up.
That's where Space to Spare: A Mom's Guide to Organization by Debbie Lillard comes in handy. She walks you through the steps after presenting the problematic scenario. And it's not just about physical organization. Mom's need to have their time organized as well. After all, how can we tackle the mountain of tasks when we can't prioritize them first?

She lays out ways to organize your things. How many of us have lost things and bought something to replace it only to find the lost thing later? *raises hand here* This chapter leads to the next about organizing your home. Once you know your things, you can organize how efficiently the home runs.
I like the section about decluttering my time. I don't know about you, but I am terrible about overcrowding my days with tasks that I think I need to have done every day. I overwhelm myself. The truth is, there are some things that only need to be done weekly. Some things can be done monthly. And then a few can be done daily.
I'm learning to keep things organized by functionality. Like keeping bags for dirty diapers near the trash can.
It's the little things that do add up in helping us Moms keep things rolling smoothly.
This book is great for Mom's who seriously want help getting life organized. I don't think every solution is for every individual. We are all different with our own needs and situations, but like any organizing help it can give you ideas to get you started.

Tuesday, March 7, 2017

Leadership Lessons From Mom


There are few things I greatly pride myself on in life. But today I can say I have another thing to add to my list of accomplishments. I was the editor for International Best Seller, Mark Villareal's, new book.
The title, Leadership Lessons From Mom, says a lot. He takes great pride in quoting lessons he learned over his life time from his mother. And while doing so, he ties everything together to show applications towards business.
I loved the correlations and portrayals of how these lessons came to be told and how they related to situations he encountered later in life. His mother truly had a wonderful mind for business, but great care for her children as well. I enjoyed reading and editing Mark's book. I would suggest this as a must read for Moms, for business women, and those who enjoyed Mark's first book, Shortcuts Get You Lost!


But don't take my opinion. Check it out for yourself. You can read a sample chapter on Amazon. It is available for purchase on Amazon as well as Barnes & Noble.

Friday, February 26, 2016

Give Grace to those who give you Grief

I’ve been reading Facing Your Giants by Max Lucado. My bosses wife and dear friend sent it to me. She knows I have been facing several of my giants in a very intimate way. And she knows that I need encouragement from time to time. I’ve barely gotten into it. It is my go-to on breaks at work or during down time (like when the work system crashes for a while).  But even as little as I have read, I have found such meaningful things to ponder.

The chapter I am reading now is about giving grace to those who give me grief. This is a huge deal in my life right now. My ex-husband, whether he is doing it on purpose or not, gives me so much grief. From being stupid and wrecking every vehicle he drives to putting me down to not lifting a finger for his kids’ needs… It can be so frustrating for me at times. We were married for over seven years before I decided I’d had enough and filed for divorce. I’ve been so relieved by such a choice, despite the strains that come with my decision.
Despite being divorced, however, we came to the agreement that we would stay living together since we were in a lease together and neither of us wanted to pay or break the lease. In hindsight, that was a mistake on my part. So much stress and arguing came after. I’ve bent over backwards for him. Let him call the shots with several of the divorce points, kept him in the loop with what I am doing, was even still doing his laundry and making his dinners. And to him… it was like I was still under his control. If I didn’t hang his shirts straight out the dryer, he yelled at me. If his plate wasn’t made in the fridge when he woke up, he complained. I started dating someone else. And this guy kept telling me to stand up. To stop doing for the ex. Stop letting him use me as his doormat. I made excuses. Let’s face the facts – I’m too nice to even my enemies. I let people walk all over me. I claim that it’s my southern upbringing that drives me to be kind and that my religious upbringing has instilled in me the thought of “turning the other cheek” every time someone does me wrong. We are to forgive 70 x 70 times, right? Does this mean I take abuse every time? No. Does it mean I have never stood up for myself and for others? No. In the past couple of years, I have grown a strong backbone again. I have established my dominate side. I know what I want. I know how to get it. And I’m not letting anyone get in my way anymore. Well… I get in my own way at times, but that is another story.

So getting back into the book, Facing Your Giants. I came across this statement, “Once again, we think about the purveyors of pain in our own lives. It’s one thing to give grace to friends, but to give grace to those who give us grief? Could you? Given a few uninterrupted moments with the Darth Vader of your days, could you imitate David?” (pg. 46)
My Darth Vader, my Saul, my Timothy McVeigh – he destroys my happiness, he seeks to kill my joys in his jealous rage, he blows up my plans for a better future. I can’t begin to count the times that I have thought, why? Why are you like this? Why do you do these things to me? Why are you so evil? I tell him that I don’t care how he feels. I don’t care what happens to him in the future. But I still wash his clothes. I still buy him food. Or grab printer paper when I’m doing my shopping. To some people, I’m too patient. I’m too nice. According to some, I should slip something into his food and drinks. Maybe I should put something on his clothes to give him an uncomfortable feeling. Will I do this? Most likely no. I want to. Not gonna lie. I want him to feel something of what I feel on a daily basis when he is around. But I won’t do anything. Its not me. I smile to my enemies. I might scare them with that smile, but it’s still a smile. The next thing that this passage of the book says is this, “Some people are graced with mercy glands. They secrete forgiveness, never harboring grudges or reciting their hurts.” Call me arrogant, but I think this is me. I don’t hold the past against anyone. I will never hold your mistakes against you when my own haunt me. We are human and our mistakes are how we learn and grow. And I am growing my patience daily with my ex .

There is one thing I want to point out though. Some people think I hold grudges because I cut people off. I block them from my personal life. Well, they are wrong. There is one thing I have learned over the years – forgive as you are forgiven, but don’t stand there and take the same abuse for the rest of your life. That saying “turn the other cheek”, for me, means that you can hurt me once and I will forgive you and let you try again. You can hurt me again once I’ve turned my other cheek to you. But after this second hurt, you will be forgiven and let go. I won’t stand there switching cheeks for continual abuse. You can tell when someone is truly learning from their mistakes. When they genuinely want to change and be the better person. They will do everything they can to never fall into that pattern again. Not everyone is like this. And you have to step up and say enough is enough. You have tried, you have forgiven. Now it is time to move on. And that is what I do. You can keep making your mistakes. But you won’t be making them towards me anymore. I am fiercely loyal to friends and family. I will lay down my life for those I hold dear. Stay on that side of the line and I will be with you until the end. Cross that line and you will lose me forever.
This is who I am. I will show mercy and forgiveness. I will continue to grow and try to be stronger against those that cause me pain. But I promise there will be times when I will be a pushover and someone will use me. It is going to happen. Have patience with me. I’m still just a diamond in the rough. Look past my rocky outside to find the gem inside that shines like ice but is still fragile.

Sunday, January 18, 2015

Time for a book review!

James DeSantis is at it again. I'm probably going to have nightmares about a clown with a long tongue, and for that... James, I hate you. Just teasing! He's a fantastic writer with a sharp mind that translates emotions into such vivid imagery that I'm truly honored to have met him in person and been allowed to share in his journey as a writer. Enjoy the review!


My reviews for previous books. 
Exterminators Infected
 

Saturday, February 22, 2014

Let's build memories with specialized books from Twigtale!

As a mom, I love promoting my children to learn. I want to build their self worth views and let them grow with memories of love and happiness. As such, I enjoy building photo books for them. I was recently contacted by the CEO of Twigtale, Carolyn, about hosting a review and giveaway, as well as offer my readers a discount towards purchasing books.
Twigtale offers you the ability to make personalized books that promote learning, self esteem and teaching life lessons while using personal photos and information that bring it all home to young children. These books are written by child experts. I chose the Loved book.
It shows children various pictures that help them associate what it means to be loved. Being loved is not just something you feel, but it comes in the forms of actions taken by others to you. Things that make you happy, keep you well, and provide that warm fuzzy feeling that is typically associated with love. That's what real love is. But how do you explain that to a child? This book tells the story of love in pictures of the child with the parents/caregivers feeding, changing, bathing, hugging, teaching and otherwise "loving" the child.
This is how children learn, by seeing and hearing. Especially at younger ages.
I chose to make my book for my youngest. Uploading the pictures was a snap. The book is completely ready and all you have to do is adjust which wording you want, such as names and age. Then put the pictures that best match the wording on each page. Its short and simple. They provide you with a list of which kinds of pictures you should have ready. This helps you to know what to expect when getting ready to build your book. I highly suggest checking the list against your photos before attempting to make the book. 
Each book is only $20. Plus shipping which is about $5.50 and is priority. After making my book, it took a week (or less) to be made and shipped! There are several books to choose from for just about every stage you might go through with your little ones. Transitions that may be difficult for your child such as potty training, new siblings or starting school. 
So about my book. I love how well it's made. Great binding. The colors are vibrant and the printing is so nice. 
I love the way it's written out. The thought that was put into it's wording is really special. Telling my daughter I love her won't put it into perspective. Not like letting her see pictures with explanations of how I care by changing her diaper and clothes.
It's in the way I give her a bath to help her stay clean. It's how she gets her morning hug. She also knows we are thinking about her even when she sleeps. I'm very pleased with the shipping. Using priority might cost a little more, but it's going to get here quicker.
Over all, its been a wonderful experience to make, order and read this amazing book with my little girl. You can check out their blog with has a great number of helpful posts. Now that I've shared my experience with you, I get to offer all of you, my dear readers, a unique code that gives you 10% off any book you choose. Simply put in TWIG10 at checkout. And then, you can also enter the giveaway for one winner to get a FREE book with free shipping. Check them out and tell me what you think.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, January 5, 2014

Exterminators: Shadows book review

I wrote about a book I had helped edit for a friend of mine a while back. He's a great author who has some new adventures to read as he continues his series, Exterminators. Book two, Shadows, is now available on Amazon for Kindle download or you can order the paperback edition
This up-and-coming writer is named James DeSantis. He has a truly wonderful sequel that continues to shed light on the characters and story from book one, Infected. A battle has been brewing, but now there are more groups getting involved. The Shadows have taken an active roll with the Summoners towards bringing the Exterminators down. 
Riven is battling the memories from his past, especially the most recent one taken from the body of previous Exterminator, Fred, as well as Cole from the Summoners. They differ in opinions. He also doesn't believe that David is leading him in the right direction or trusting him. 
Jin and Emily go to battle where tragedy strikes. Jin falls into a depression that leads to a passionate quest for revenge against the man responsible. He also has to deal with the loss of his father. 
Carl has to get himself back together. With the loss of Fred so soon, he takes a more active role in leading his team of new Exterminators. 
Nick pushes himself daily to be the absolute best he can as he leads his team against the Unknowns. He wants to be strong. He's still keeping his secret from Kelly who becomes more and more convinced that he has a big secret. She pushes him to tell but still loves him enough not to push too hard. He also has to keep his secret from his dad.
Peter and Rachel get closer and soon become a couple of the cutest sort. Even though he still has trouble relating to others, he finds a love that he's willing to die to protect. Even if its not reasonable to someone who isn't sentimental or even romantic. He also learns to stand up against his father who is trying to come back.
Marshall and Lucy are going strong. A bun in the oven has Marshall going on a serious job hunt that lands him work with someone dangerous. His new friend and coworker puts Marshall in a deadly situation that leads to the death of someone he loved very much.
The battle begins to wage and losses are high. Shadows and Summoners are gathering forces that join together to create a world in which Unknowns are allowed to be "known" to humans. The Exterminators are working double time to keep them out and protect themselves against attacks. Secrets are revealed, deaths take their toll, and desire for revenge courses through more than one involved. This book will keep you on the edge. Its amazing follow-up has you begging for book three. 
You can get the Kindle download here. Or order a paperback copy here. Also check out my review of  book one, Exterminators: Infected. He also has a short story, Those Devils that is climbing the ladder in popularity! All of them are available for purchase on Amazon. 
Those Devils  Available for download only. 
Exterminators: Infected is still on sale here.  Follow James and see all his upcoming works on his Fan Page on Facebook
Be sure and leave a comment on what you think. Both here and your own review when you buy it on Amazon. He loves to hear feedback from his readers!  He has another review on his Facebook page. So if you need reinforcement in encouraging you...

Sunday, June 2, 2013

Exterminators Infected book review

Time to talk books, my fellow nerds! While I read a great deal of non-fiction and true story things, especially gory crimes and strange facts that other people find useless... Occasionally I need a moment to dive into fantasy where I can wonder what it's like when reality is no longer real. The most recent adventure I had the pleasure of reading was Exterminators Infected by a friend of mine - James DeSantis.
He really does an excellent job of keeping you on the edge of your seat. And just when you think you had it all figured out, he throws that unexpected twist in, changing everything!
The story is about 4 young men at the end of their high school years set in modern times. They juggle grades, relationships and family issues that are prominent in today's youth while also being chosen by an underground organization to battle and destroy creatures labeled as Unknowns. These Unknowns break into our realm with intent to kill. It's up to our young heroes, Exterminators, to hunt and to kill as they save the world from one monster at a time.
The story is very well written. I advise parents to know that it is geared more towards mature teens as there is some language and sexual references in it. The personalities of the characters are so varied that you are guaranteed to find a favorite. They encourage loyalty, team work, and dedication.

You can learn more about this first original book in the upcoming series by Mr. DeSantis at the following links, enjoy!
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/349581348468970/permalink/453555678071536/#!/ExterminatorsSeries

Amazon (currently on sale!) - http://www.amazon.com/Exterminators-Infected-The-Volume/dp/0615819028/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1370093427&sr=8-1&keywords=Exterminators+infected

Check it and be sure to like the Facebook page as he updates it. Then you will know when book 2 comes out!
Totally nerding out while I read ;-)