Showing posts with label Book Reviews. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Book Reviews. Show all posts

Wednesday, April 1, 2015

A Discovery of Witches Book Review

8667848Book: A Discovery of Witches (All Souls Trilogy: Book 1)

 

Author: Deborah Harkness

 

Given by: No one. I checked it out from the library.

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)


Blurb:
"A richly inventive novel about a centuries-old vampire, a spellbound witch, and the mysterious manuscript that draws them together.

Deep in the stacks of Oxford's Bodleian Library, young scholar Diana Bishop unwittingly calls up a bewitched alchemical manuscript in the course of her research. Descended from an old and distinguished line of witches, Diana wants nothing to do with sorcery; so after a furtive glance and a few notes, she banishes the book to the stacks. But her discovery sets a fantastical underworld stirring, and a horde of daemons, witches, and vampires soon descends upon the library. Diana has stumbled upon a coveted treasure lost for centuries-and she is the only creature who can break its spell."


This was a great book! I have only one eye-twitching observation before I sing its praises. There was quite a lot of obnoxious dominance cloaked in valor from our handsome vampire. I get where this was coming from and understand this part of his character but it bugs me that our strong, brilliant heroine falls for this crap. There are times when she appears to be standing her ground, but is really just negotiating for things and decisions that should be non-negotiable. Diana will glare and protest but eventually gives in when she has moments of feminine weakness. It drives me nuts.

My pet peeves aside, this is a fantastic book. I mean magic in the Bodleian? Nerd girl fantasy! The manuscripts and texts described sucked me in immediately. I can feel my own fingers tingle at the thought of holding such precious historical literature in my hands. Mmmmm... Alright, back to reality.

Deborah Harkness uses brilliant language without ever seeming pretentious. The story flows and is easy to escape into. There are many unique scenes that held me throughout this book. My favorite involved witches, vampires, and daemons doing yoga together. Very cool! There are close calls, magical discoveries, and a bit of saucy romance. I already have the next book in the series on hold!

Interested? More about the book here.

Sunday, March 15, 2015

Stitch it Simple Book Review

This is a (kinda) book review for Stitch it Simple: 25 hand sewn projects to make and share by Beth Sheard. What makes this a "kinda" book review? I wasn't able to access the templates on the digital version that was given for review via NetGalley so I couldn't actually make any of the projects. This would not typically be a problem because this book is sold as a paperback. I still wanted to complete a review, however, because it has some really cute, simple projects.

The beginning of the book features information about supplies, preparing to sew, cutting fabric, and how to do a variety of stitches. The pictures of each stitch help the reader interpret the written directions. This would be a great section for people who need a refresher on stitches or people learning for the first time. It also helps figure out what stitch is most appropriate for the task at hand.  I learned ways to applique and attach binding than what I have done previously.

While I was not able to complete any of the projects without the templates, it seems that the step by step directions are thorough and simple. It also helps that each pattern has pictures to help understand the steps. Patterns include stuffed letters, a butterfly mobile, adorable pillows, and much more. You can check out the book, pictures of the projects in the book, and information about the author here.

Tuesday, March 10, 2015

Half a King Book Review

Book: Half a King (Shattered Sea Book One)

 

Author: Joe Abercrombie

 

Given by: Random House Publishing Group

 

Rating: 5/5 Won-derfuls (Amazing!)

 

This book was great! My review sat in Drafts growing dust long after I thought I had posted it. For shame! Anyway, I can now say that months after reading this book it has stuck with me. Here’s the review I failed to post earlier:

 

Half a King was fast to catch my attention and reluctant to release it. I quickly found myself cheering for our hero, young Yarvi, who made a promise: “I swore an oath to avenge the death of my father. I may be half a man, but I swore a whole oath.” In his own mind and in the minds of others Yarvi is weak – too weak to become the king he was meant to be. A crippled hand makes many physical tasks impossible, but Yarvi comes to find that strength comes in many forms. We follow him on his quest for revenge and watch him grow into a courageous man worthy of respect.
 
Abercrombie possesses incredible skill at bringing the reader into the setting. I can hear keys click in locks, smell the sweat of oarsmen, and feel the betrayal in the air when immersed in the pages of this book. Every paragraph is saturated in detail without becoming tedious. The characters are human and multifaceted, the lines of good and evil are not always clear, and the emotions palpable. I am recommending this book to everyone I know. I want them all to read it so I have someone to talk to about all the twists and turns! If you are searching for adventure, look no further. Abercrombie delivers again!
 
Interested? Find out more here.

Thursday, May 22, 2014

Makeup Makeovers Book Review

Book: Makeup Makeovers in 5, 10, 15, 20 Minutes

 

Author: Robert Jones

 

Given by: Quarry Books

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)

 

I loved a lot of things about this book. First, it was immediately apparent that there were a variety of faces in this book. The many face shapes and skin tones made it a much more inclusive book than many. There were tips throughout to accentuate whatever features a woman's lovely face has. 

Second, the beginning of the book had great information. Different types of makeup and tools were described. Recommendations were made for building up one's makeup supply with the right products. This was really helpful to me because my makeup experience is next to nil. I felt like I had a good enough grasp to move into the actually tutorials. 

I put the lessons listed to good use. I used them to complete my makeup for a wedding I was in and for the save the date pictures for my own wedding. It is nice to have a handbook to be able to choose out of and then have the right information to complete the look.

I don't think I would complete any of these for my every day look because there is a lot that goes in to the contouring and it is just not a priority to me. However, I will use this for all kinds of special occasions and for nights out.

On a different note, these looks certainly took me much longer than it said, but with practice I know I will speed up. I also did not want to spend the money to buy a whole new set of makeup, so I purchased a few essentials and moved forward with what I already had. Over time I can build up and be able to complete more of the looks in the book.  

If you are looking for a great reference book for complete makeup makeovers, look no further. Natural to dramatic, you will find it all here. Jones is very talented and I think it is just fabulous that he will share his knowledge. It makes me want to be famous so that he will come do my makeup! Check the book out. I think you'll like what you see.

Interested? You can find the book here.

Sunday, April 20, 2014

The Word Exchange Book Review

Book: The Word Exchange

 

Author: Alena Graedon

 

Given by: Doubleday Books

 

Rating: 2/5 Won-derfuls (It was okay)

 

I was so excited when I read about this book and even more excited when I was approved for an ARC! For a while it was interesting. A "word flu" breaks out and kills language as we know it. The days of print and even electronic reading are long dead. Instead society uses Memes for everything under the sun. These machines are so in tune with their owners that they order food and taxis with the merest hint from the human's mind.

One man, Doug, stands against this change and has the foresight to see the damage being done to society. He works against those trying to profit from the death of the language he loves so much. That is until he mysteriously disappears. Sounds exciting, right? Let's just say it has a lot of untapped potential.

First of all, our heroine is a bloomin' idiot. As Doug's daughter I would hope for a strong, intelligent young woman. Not so much. I love a good character flaw as much as the next person but there is only so much stupidity I can take. She's basically in love with a sociopath and frequently goes against the warnings of those she trusts most, i.e. dear old dad. I wanted to punch her right in the dome the third time this happened.

Second, the book got really confusing around the whole word flu thing. Cool idea, but deadly? There were links made between human viruses and computer viruses that were kinda cool, but really they didn't make much sense. Then people started dying. From nothing. The word flu caused mysterious fevers and eventually death but I couldn't quite figure out why. As far as I can tell there was not a virus as we know them that effected the brain and, therefore, speech and language. I could see that becoming septic and killing someone. But I don't know how having a device controlling one's language would lead to their death. Did I miss a key part of the story? Am I thinking too much about it? I don't know. What I do know is that I wanted the book to end long before it did.

Basically, awesome idea. Great potential. It didn't hit the mark with me.

If you want to check out the book yourself or see what others have to say look here.

Wednesday, April 9, 2014

Sally's Baking Addiction Book Review

Sally's Baking Addiction Cookbook - on sale Book: Sally's Baking Addiction

 

Author: Sally McKenney

 

Given by: Quayside Publishing Group

 

Rating: 5/5 Won-derfuls (Amazing!)

 

Love! Love! Love! I am a decent baker, but not anything particularly spectacular. With the help of this book I was baking like a pro without any special equipment or complex instructions. The directions are short and simple. The pictures are gorgeous and the pages high quality. The baked goods are DELICIOUS. In short, this is a great cookbook.

The 77 recipes in this book are divided into eight sections: Breads and Muffins, Breakfast, Brownies and Bars, Cakes Pies and Crisps, Candy and Sweet Snacks, Cookies, Cupcakes, and Healthier Choices. I made three recipes from different sections before writing this review.

First, I made lemon poppy seed muffins to take to work. Twice. They didn't make it to the office. Twice. Start to finish they took me less than 30 minutes to make and the outcome was scrumptious! I had plenty of help in my house testing these babies out. We all approve!! I plan to make these whenever we have company stay the night.

  

Next I tried out a recipe from the Breakfast section... crepes! With Nutella! YUM. I only made these once and they were easy peasy as well. This basic recipe is easily customizable, so we're going to try out some different toppings this weekend. This is another great thing about Sally's Baking Addiction. There are tips throughout about ways to modify or customize the recipes to make them more versatile.

The final recipe I tried out (for now) was for Blueberry Almond Oat Squares. Mine did not turn out pretty, but that is because we gave in to temptation before letting them cool fully. Maybe next time I'll give them a chance to settle before stuffing my face with deliciousity, but probably not.We had these filling squares for breakfast throughout the week and enjoyed every bite.

I highly recommend this book. It would make a great for any who enjoy baking because it is not a cookbook that sits out for show (although it is lovely). It is functional, practical, and perdy.

Want more information? Check out the book and blog here.

Monday, March 31, 2014

The Here and Now Book Review


Book: The Here and Now

 

Author: Ann Brashares

 

Given by: Random House

 

Rating: 3/5 Won-derfuls (I liked it)

 

 The Blurb:

An unforgettable epic romantic thriller about a girl from the future who might be able to save the world . . . if she lets go of the one thing she’s found to hold on to.

Follow the rules. Remember what happened. Never fall in love.

This is the story of seventeen-year-old Prenna James, who immigrated to New York when she was twelve. Except Prenna didn’t come from a different country. She came from a different time—a future where a mosquito-borne illness has mutated into a pandemic, killing millions and leaving the world in ruins.

Prenna and the others who escaped to the present day must follow a strict set of rules: never reveal where they’re from, never interfere with history, and never, ever be intimate with anyone outside their community. Prenna does as she’s told, believing she can help prevent the plague that will one day ravage the earth.

But everything changes when Prenna falls for Ethan Jarves.

From Ann Brashares, the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants series, The Here and Now is thrilling, exhilarating, haunting, and heartbreaking—and a must-read novel of the year.

My Review: 

This was a story about young love trying to survive against all odds. The disease that wiped out future populations seemed believable but there were some parts of the time travel that didn't make much sense when I thought about it too much. This might be my brain and not the book...

I really enjoyed the twists, turns, and surprises in this book. It was over before I knew it because I was cheering so much for our heroine that I couldn't put the book down.  The bad guys are easily hated and the good guys are easily loved. The problem is that sometimes it is hard to tell who is who!

I would recommend this book, especially to teens. I would have loved this book when I was in high school!

Interested? Find out more here.

Tuesday, March 18, 2014

War of Wings Book Review


 18714830

Book: War of Wings

 

Author: Tanner McElroy

 

Given by: JKS Communications

 

Rating: 5/5 Won-derfuls (Amazing!)

 

This is one story I would recommend judging by its cover because both are awesome! This book tells the tale of angels fighting for their deepest desires. Some desire power, some love of other angels, and some the love of God. These desires lead to an epic battle between incredibly powerful beings. Special weapons are created to destroy the previously indestructible and hearts are broken as many angels fall from grace.

I was frequently reminded of the pettiness, anger, good, and evil of the ancient gods of Greece and Rome. While this book explores a more modern mythology with hierarchies within the angels rather than the gods, there are many parallels to the ancient tales of polytheism. I have a basic working knowledge of the tales of Gabriel, Lucifer, and Michael, but this book really grabbed my imagination and made me think a little more about these beings. I would definitely recommend reading this book. I am already looking forward to reading the next installment!

Author Q & A will be up on March 20 to wrap up this week with War of Wings. I think you'll be hearing a lot more about this book so make sure you read it to keep up on all the bookish buzz!

Interested? To find out more click here.

Thursday, March 13, 2014

The Chase Book Review


18282915 Book: The Chase

 

Author: Janet Evanovich and Lee Goldberg

 

Given by: Random House

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)

 

I love both of these authors and I loved this book! I was ridiculously excited when the first book in this series came out and was stoked when I was able to review a copy of this second installment. The Heist (book one) is great as well, but you do not have to have read it to appreciate The Chase. 

In this second novel, FBI agent Kate O'Hare and internationally known con artist Nicolas Fox team up to take down some big fish. O'Hare is often uncomfortable walking the fine line between good guys and bad guys but is willing if it will help catch some crooks. Of course these capers wouldn't be successful without the back up of a few retired geezers armed to their ears with explosives, a very serious "actor", and a kinda scary lady to cause diversions.

Here are the top five reasons I recommend this book:

1. Fox is SEXY. And O'Hare has not failed to notice.
2. The bad guys are easy to hate.
3. The capers are clever, hilarious, and exciting.
4. The supporting characters are a total crack up and add a lot to the book.
5. Lots of things go BOOM.

And did I mention that Fox is the sexy?

Interested? To find out more or purchase the book click here.

Sunday, March 2, 2014

Bobby Ether and the Academy Book Review

18501115Book: Bobby Ether and the Academy

 

Author: R. Scott Boyer

 

Given by: Create Space via Net Galley

 

Rating: 5/5 Won-derfuls (Amazing!) 

 

If you are a fan of YA and/or fantasy you need to read this book. Now. Capisce? Bobby Ether and the Academy  is an adventurous tale exploring the power of children, the mind, friendship, energy, and magic. Okay, well maybe not magic because according to one of the characters "There is no such thing as magic." It looked a lot like magic to me though! 


I was captivated from the first chapter by our young hero, Bobby. After experiencing some pretty odd things followed by some pretty terrible things, Bobby is taken to Tibet to learn about said odd and terrible events. Here he makes both friends and enemies of epic proportions. 

 

Boyer created characters and settings that held me captive until the very last page. I loved be taken to jade mines, gardens manned by monks, a bear cave, and many other imaginative locations. If there is not another book after this one I may have a temper tantrum like a toddler... This is definitely going to be a YA series to watch out for!

 

Interested? (The answer is "YES" by the way...) Find out more here.

Thursday, February 27, 2014

Be Normal Book Review

16168303Book: Be Normal

 

Author: Brittany Nicole Sanford

 

Given by: Author via Goodreads Giveaways

 

Rating: 2/5 Won-derfuls (It was okay)

 

This is a book with tons of potential. It has a solid idea but needs a good edit and some reworking. I was also a bit bothered by the message of the book not seeming to match the conclusion. It caused some cognitive dissonance that I do not believe was intentional. Rather than being challenging or causing thought it was just kind of confusing.

 

That said, there are some very interesting characters and relationships. There were several times that I wanted to scream at a few of the "teachers" because they were so good at being awful. Emotions were complicated and diverse throughout. The setting of a boarding school to teach kids how to be "normal" was unique for modern times.

 

My recommendation would be to wait until a more polished edition of this book comes out before reading it.

 

For other reviews or to buy the book click here.

Saturday, February 15, 2014

This is the Garden Book Review


18045631 Book: This is the Garden

 

Author: Giulio Mozzi

 

Given by: Open Letter Books via Goodreads

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)


This is such a beautiful work. It is an award winning compilation that was translated into English from Italian by the talented Elizabeth Harris. I picked it up to read after winning it in a giveaway without knowing quite what to expect. I was pleasantly surprised. This text can be appreciated on many different levels. It can be as complicated or as simple as the reader decides it should be, which makes it both readable and contemplative. I chose to read each of the eight works with a day in between to digest and I am so glad I did! There are common strands throughout, but each section provides plenty to chew on independently. I look forward to rereading this book again. It can mean different things when read in different moods, different times of day, or different times in life.

On a more concrete note, this book is well translated, edited, and published. This allows the reader to focus on the text and allows the imagination to take hold. I look forward to recommending this book and am so grateful I had the opportunity to read it!


Interested? Find out more here.

Sunday, February 9, 2014

I.T. Confidential Book Review

17843473 Book: I.T. Confidential

 

Author: C.D. Rahm

 

Given by: JKS Communications

 

Rating: 3/5 Won-derfuls (I liked it) 

 

This book was a short read at 119 pages and would make a PERFECT gift for the I.T. or computer nerds we all love so much. I think it is especially good as a congrats for college graduation or for a new job in the technology world.

I.T. Confidential is a guide to the I.T. world for new comers or outsiders. Computer vets will recognize every hilarious character and company type in this book. Think I.T. version of "The Office". I loved the insider's look into this quirky world!  Let's just say that I now have a whole new level of empathy for our technology department at work. 

The only downside I could see was that there seemed to be a bit of repetition even though it is such a short book. Still, I am so glad I read this book! It was worth the laugh.

Interested? Check out the book  here.


Friday, January 31, 2014

World's Best Cocktails Book Review


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Book: World's Best Cocktails

 

Author: Tom Sandham

 

Given by: Quayside Publishing Group

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)

 

I was very impressed with this book. It is full of excellent photography, drink recipes, and histories of different beverages. The book begins with descriptions and histories of different cocktail styles and then is split by type of spirit.

Each section has bar and bartender biographies and a combination of classic and modern recipes. I had a great time trying out a few of these cocktails at home. This book is great for beginners but also has very interesting facts and ideas for the experienced mixologist. I look forward to visiting a couple of the recommended bars when we travel to Europe later this year. 

The book itself is quite hefty. The pages are glossy and lay open nicely for coffee table or kitchen use. The colors are vibrant and the layout easy to enjoy in small sections. My only complaint is that the pages split from the binding in two places the first time I opened the book. It really wasn't a huge deal, but I think I would be kind of upset if I had paid the full $30.00 list price. 

I would highly recommend this book. If you are concerned about heft or cost, remember that this book covers all the bases. You need look no further for a cocktail resource. Sandham has created a wonderful and enjoyable text!

Interested? More information can be found here.

Monday, January 20, 2014

The Grimm Conclusion Book Review


17465447

Book: The Grimm Conclusion

 

Author: Adam Gidwitz

 

Given by: Penguin Group via Goodreads

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)

 

A sweet happily ever after tale for the wee ones... NOT! I just finished the whole trilogy and holy wow, loved it. This book takes us back to the good old days of fairy tales. The days when it was perfectly fine to use blood and gore to scare the tar out of kids. 

Each chapter represents a separate classic tale (mostly from the brothers Grimm). They are woven together to make one story with two children as the central characters. Although there are some references to the other two books in the trilogy, this book can easily stand alone.

Appropriate for 10-14 year olds of either gender, this book could certainly make you the cool aunt/uncle/parent/grandparent. My favorite part about this book? Kids will feel like they are getting away with something when they read it. I only wish this book had been around when I was in middle school!

Interested? Learn more or purchase the book here.

Want to know if it is appropriate for your child? Check it out at Common Sense Media.

Sunday, January 12, 2014

How to Make Stuffed Animals Book Review



13195669Book: How to Make Stuffed Animals

 

Author: Sian Keegan

 

Given by: Quayside Publishing Group

 

Rating: 5/5 Won-derfuls (Amazing!)

 

I am having so much fun with this book! There is a short introduction with information about materials, techniques, sewing, and stuffing. This section was very helpful for me as I have only made a couple stuffed animals before. I returned to this initial chapter several times while completing my two stuffed animals.

The next part of the book includes 18 sets of patterns and instructions for adorable stuffed animals. I found the directions simple and easy to follow. I personally looked at the well drawn illustrations more than the words. This is perfect for different learning styles. There are photographs of the finished animals, detailed drawings for each step, and written instuctions. I made some mistakes, but found that these patterns are very forgiving and give room to insert your own creativity. I started with the Grizzly Bear and the Bunny. Next I think I will give the Bulldog a go. There are also patterns for other dogs, deer, a cat, a tiger, a narwhal (yes! A narwhal!) and quite a few others.

As far as the book itself goes, the printing and paper are high quality. I was able to keep the pages open to follow the directions without breaking the binding, which is so handy to have with craft books! 

I would definitely recommend this book. If you are a beginning sewer, this gives good practice with quick working projects. If you are more advanced, these patterns give you a foundation for adorable gifts that can easily be personalized. There's even a baby mobile and a cake topper in this book. Awesome!

Finally, this book is apparently Ella approved. She would not leave it alone!





Interested? More about the author and the book can be found here.

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Silence Book Review

12437907Book: Silence (Book One of The Queen of the Dead)

 

Author: Michelle Sagara

 

Given by: Will Martin at Penguin Group

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)

 

This is the first of Sagara's books I have read, although I have heard a lot of praise for her Chronicles of Elantra series. Silence is a YA fantasy book in which a teenage Emma begins to have contact with the dead. She meets some people who would like to help her and some who want her to join the dead she has befriended. 

There were some very imaginative parts of this book that made the whole thing worth the read. I loved Sagara's imagery and characters. Golden chains into the hearts of the dead? Soul fire? Heck yes.

There was a lot left unexplained, but I think that is because this book is the first in a series, not because of error or carelessness. I did hit a lull in the middle of the book. Luckily the beginning had me so hooked that it carried me through to the end where it picked up again.

Basically, I loved this book because it was an original idea with some neat magical imagery. Also, I loved the cover art by Cliff Nielsen. If you have not seen his work you should definitely check it out. It is pretty incredible.

Interested? You can read more reviews or buy it here.

Monday, December 30, 2013

Little Flower Yoga for Kids Book Review

16158302

Book: Little Flower Yoga for Kids

 

Author: Jennifer Cohen Harper

 

Given by: New Harbinger via Goodreads First 

Reads

 

Rating: 5/5 Won-derfuls (AMAZING!)

 

This is an incredible book! It provides wonderful ideas about helping children practice mindfulness and yoga. I work with parents and young children in a child abuse prevention program. I plan to use what I learned in this text with my families in their homes when discussing emotional regulation and exercise. Everything I need to get started is in this one book. 

There are tons of step by step exercises and helpful tips for initiating the program at home. It has very specific instructions and illustrations which are very useful. I have done yoga a few times, but do not practice regularly. Without a book like this I would have no idea how to introduce these valuable techniques to the families with whom I work. Teacher or parent, experienced or not - this book caters to all. Jennifer Cohen Harper has created a very user friendly guide that is going to be a valuable asset in my professional library. I highly recommend this book!

You can click here to purchase the book or learn more about the Little Flower Yoga program.

Monday, December 23, 2013

Darkness and the Devil Behind Me Audiobook Review

18607152Audiobook: Darkness and the Devil Behind Me

 

Author: Persia Walker

 

Given by: Marti Dumas (narrator) via Goodreads First Reads

 

Rating: 1/5 Won-derfuls (Not my cup of tea)


In fairness, if I removed my emotional frustration, this book would get two or there won-derfuls instead of one. However, I was so frustrated and unable to concentrate from beginning to end that I had to give it a one.

The hero of our tale is a single, black, female, society columnist living in 1920's Harlem. She investigates the disappearance of a young and talented pianist. Though she is put in frequent danger, she refuses Harlem mysteryany help. Over and over and over and over again. Instead of seeming brave, this protagonist comes across and infuriatingly obtuse. Yet she comes out on top. Every. Single. Time. If I had not promised myself that I would read any book for review in it's entirety, I would have quit early on.

Also, despite the frequent references to popular clubs and famous individuals, I could not buy in to the 20's setting. The language felt off, although I'm not sure if this was the writing or the narrator. 1920's lingo seemed randomly inserted, almost as an afterthought.

The other part of this may be my own ignorance about the time period, but having a young, single, black female stand up against every power she encounters and then be able to afford living completely independently, in New York, with a private phone line seems highly unbelievable. I get that it was the Harlem Renaissance and the heart of progression. I understand the popularity of society columns in the era. But for some reason I could still not buy into the idea of this particular woman, who openly fights the powers that be, living such a life in an era festering with racism and sexism.

The whole thing rubbed me the wrong way. It seems that I am alone in these views, however. This book has received some excellent feedback. Although I have not seen many opinions about the audiobook as it is a much newer release than the text.

Before dismissing the book, check out some other reviews as they are largely positive. It is entirely possible that I do not know enough about this place in time to appreciate the story. All I can say is that I'm glad it's over.

For other reviews or to purchase look here.

Tuesday, December 17, 2013

Heartfelt Letters from Santa Book Review


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Book: Heartfelt Letters from Santa

 

Author: Veronica Christine Steck

 

Given by: JKS Communications

 

Rating: 4/5 Won-derfuls (I loved it)

 

This beautiful set comes in two parts. The first is a parent's guide to writing letters to their children from Santa. It provides a clever and fun way to make a keepsake for children to have as they grow. The author talks about her experiences with writing letters to her children from Santa and offers practical advice for readers on how to do the same. From how to engage children in the idea of receiving letters from Santa to helpful hints at answering awkward Santa related questions, Steck covers it all.

The second book in the set is the keepsake book itself which has plenty of space for years of letters from the big guy. It can then be passed on to the children when they grow up and possibly have children of their own. The keepsake book is beautiful on its own or could be dressed up with craftiness or a picture from each Christmas.

This set is a great tool to add an extra dash of magic to already existing Christmas traditions. I fully intend to do this every year with my children!

Interested? You can buy it here.