Years ago, I was gifted this little book that was also signed by the author. I remember our Library Book Discussion Group was reading and discussing aYears ago, I was gifted this little book that was also signed by the author. I remember our Library Book Discussion Group was reading and discussing a particularly difficult book based in WWII about a Jewish resistance group. I brought this little book to the group, and each of us read a page out-loud until the book was finished.
The discussion was powerful.
The beauty of the story, about how one or two people can make a difference, was not lost on any of us. That it would be grandmothers, made perfect sense. Generations before us, fought for rights for women and others so that we could be prideful of our diverse communities and standing up for those issues that meant something. Their silent, but active protests mattered. Laws were changed, and respect was garnered across color, size, gender, identity, and disability.
“And for the rest of the day the women stood in the park. Not speaking.�
And yet, their silence spoke volumes. The mission of these grandmothers was to save the world.
“In towns and cities across America, hundreds of thousands of women, many of them grandmothers, gathered in public parks, school yards, vacant lots, and on the steps of churches, synagogues, mosques and Buddhist centers. They carried no banners, shouted no slogans and belonged to no organization.�
We know it is possible. We just need to believe in the power of our voices. Even Lily Tomlin said “I always wondered why somebody doesn’t do something about that. Then I realized I was somebody.�
The grandmothers and all the people that gathered with them in support, made an impact. Like any of us who protest peacefully typically do.
“In an unrelated story: Reports are still coming in from our affiliates, but it would appear there has been no fighting anywhere in the world today.�
So, for anyone who doesn’t like the way things are in our current political climate that has created chaos, havoc, discord, loss of jobs, rights and civility, always know there are those who are willing to stand out to make a difference.
Shall we join the grandmothers?
After all, consider Margaret Mead’s quote�
“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.� ...more
This week, my husband and I and our 2 cardigan corgis, Oliver and Oscar took a short trip up the coast of California. We d“I am more than me� I am we.�
This week, my husband and I and our 2 cardigan corgis, Oliver and Oscar took a short trip up the coast of California. We decided to walk in Monterey (Steinbeck Country), before settling in for two nights in Carmel-by-the-sea. This was our first overnight trip together in five years. It was also our first dog-friendly hotel experience. We stayed at the Cypress Inn, which use to be co-owned by late actress and animal activist, Doris Day. Her movies play on a television screen in the lobby.
I loved being in Carmel. Be-ing in nature amongst the white-sands, sparkly ocean, walkable, dog-friendly beach. The shops all within walking distance. And, it was at one of those shops, Pilgrim’s Way Community Bookstore & Secret Garden that I found this book.
This book teaches self-care. Self-love. Self-understanding. And, just how all of that makes us available to be there for others, “…because I do not exist alone; I am part of something bigger than myself.�
The book has a formidable, healing, and dynamic message for both parents, teachers and children to learn, set amongst colorful, bright and descriptive illustrations.
It’s message shares that we are more than just being me, because “I am we.� That we are a community. We are not alone on this journey.
The messages are powerful and passionate. Considering the world today, this book would be a great reminder for adults, about the importance of community. Recognizing how we learn and gain from our diversity. And, the significance of humanity working together.
“Connection is how I grow. Connection is how we grow. Connected is what we are: part of a worldwide community, diverse and magnificent, kind and accepting, supportive and present. All of us important, none of us alone.�
We took this short trip, not just as an opportunity for us to celebrate our current freedom from health drama that we have experienced for the past couple of years, but to also escape the current ugliness of what we bear witness to here in America. I wish America could see the value of this book’s messages right now. In fact, everyone across the world would benefit from this book’s messages. It is books like this that would be perfect as required reading in schools.
Be sure and read the Author’s Note which includes activities for building community.
In closing, it seems only fitting that I should post this review on Valentine’s Day. ♥️A day of love. For ourselves. For each other. For our communities.
I knew I was possibly heading towards love when I read the first line in this book.
“It has been said that books find their own readers � but sometimesI knew I was possibly heading towards love when I read the first line in this book.
“It has been said that books find their own readers � but sometimes they need someone to show them the way.�
Isn’t that the truth? Think about how we feel about books. And then look at us readers when we enter a library. Books are staring at us on the shelves. Not just stacked, or neatly in a row, but staring out at us, saying, “pick me, I am the one you want to read next.�
What do we usually do? We pick it, right?!
And, even when we venture into a bookstore, there might be some that stand out amongst the rest, with notes attached by staff members that say why they selected this book as their favorite ones. And, those sweet intimate notes tell us, the prospective reader/buyer, why we want to take that particular book home and make it our own, too.
Yes, it is always nice when others show us the way.
So, as in this book, it is not unusual, for a customer to be thrilled when long-time walking bookseller Carl Kollhoff says to one of his customers (Carl’s job is to deliver books from the bookstore he works at, by walking to people’s homes and providing personal hand delivery of those books)�
“May I recommend a book that would make ideal bedtime reading?�
And then, he tops it off with�
“This book has been waiting for you since the moment it was unpacked.�
Readers…Shall we swoon now? How can we not feel fully taken care of? Appreciated? Looked after in the best possible way?
Still Carl has his quirks. And, things aren’t as perfect for him as he would like it.
For one, the original owner has given the bookstore to his daughter. She isn’t quite enamored of Carl, even if he has known her since she was a baby.
And two, on all his walking book deliveries, Carl sees his world in books. So, the people he delivers books to aren’t known by their real names, but character names. It is easier for him to see the world that way.
And lastly, one particular day, the world brings a precocious 9-year-old named Schascha who decides to join him on his walks. What is he to do now?
“You need to read more. It makes the brain flexible, so that anything can fit into it.�
But little does he know that this change may be the beginning of something quite unique and special for him.
Could it be a new sense of community that will change lives and routines in a very exceptional way?
Shall we start a book club, perhaps?
Or have conversations with the people, he delivers books to because Schascha brings this out in him and them? And, maybe just maybe the books they read, too? And, what about a cat named Dog? Will he find a HEA, too?
And, even as things change for Carl with his job, can readers hope for something magical to happen that will no doubt capture readers too?
Let’s just say that most likely readers will want to know what will happen to all the characters. Because, so many of them have something hidden behind their doors. And, we will become invested in all of them. And, more than anything, readers will be hopeful the most for Carl. Will he eventually come out of his shell? And, will the community be there for him, when he needs them most?
And, what about Schascha? What can readers hope for her?
This is a delightful, easy-to-read, page-turning short book that will keep readers engaged all the way to the last page....more
Readers will find themselves in the midst of three triplet sisters. They just happen to be witches that run a magical tearoom that offer tea readings Readers will find themselves in the midst of three triplet sisters. They just happen to be witches that run a magical tearoom that offer tea readings in their community. There is just one slight problem for these sisters. Apparently, they have been cursed.
With whimsy and charm, this is an endearing, imperfect, enchanting mystery story of self-discovery in which readers root for the sisters as they search for a way to break the curse.
This is a cozy, heartwarming story for anyone who loves magical realism and stories of sisterly connection and community....more
I was actually looking for another book when I was searching the online catalog of my local library. The one I wanted wasn’t available, and instead thI was actually looking for another book when I was searching the online catalog of my local library. The one I wanted wasn’t available, and instead this one came up in my search. I couldn’t resist the cover or the header, “A Magical Bookshop Mystery.� So, I decided to order this one.
Now, having said that, I will be the first to tell anyone that the best thing to do with any series, is to begin by reading the first in the series. So, needless to say, even though it was an easy cozy read, I probably would have benefited more if I had started this series from the beginning. Unfortunately for me, this was the only book in the series that was available at my local library. But I still couldn’t resist trying it out.
I know, that had I had the opportunity to begin the series at the beginning, I would have had a better understanding of the charm and magic of the “Charming Books� bookstore. Especially as it relates to the many characters that inhabit the place. Like its talking crow, Faulkner. Or the beautiful magical birch tree at the center of the store. Or the insightful tuxedo cat, Emerson, and the flying books that open to specific pages to give the proprietor, Violet important messages for the day to help her solve mysteries. And, then there is Grandmother Daisy who is also Mayor of the town, who was the previous proprietor. And then there is Police Chief David Rainwater who at the beginning of the story, is Violet’s fiancé, soon to be husband.
Of course, there are more characters that make up the small village of Cascade Springs outside Western New York.
And, I have to believe their characters were given center stage in the first book to explain how they came to be through backstory. When you come into the 5th book in the series, like me, the backstory isn’t there, but their magic is, and well, I just went with it.
So, besides trying to get a handle on all the various characters, there is the mystery. And, in this case it involves the death of person and a 1st edition copy of the book “Walden� by Henry David Thoreau. Oh yes, some people do die, even in a cute, cozy mystery.
Now, Violet, our main protagonist, happens to find herself in the middle of a crime scene by being present when the body is discovered. She also tries to figure out who did it, and she is also in a scene trying to get away from a probable killer. Yes, she managed to get herself in all three of these circumstances throughout the story! It is a good thing she is marrying/married to the Police Chief!
Still, despite the predictability of Violet’s role, and the over-cuteness of the magical creatures that reside in the bookstore, it was a delightful easy read, while I was waiting for my PET CT. And, most likely will be the same for any reader who is looking to enjoy a sweet winter read that has likable characters, heart-warming moments, and a well-paced plot that will keep readers engaged....more
I use to have very vivid dreams. And, I was usually fairly successful in interpreting them. Don’t ask. Anyway, one of my favorite dreams was when I woI use to have very vivid dreams. And, I was usually fairly successful in interpreting them. Don’t ask. Anyway, one of my favorite dreams was when I would levitate and fly across the sky, looking down at life as I knew it. I remember mostly how I felt so free and joyful amongst the clouds. And, when I would wake up, I felt so light. As if every burden I had once carried no longer existed.
So, when I read the premise of this book about a levitating woman, I thought, “why not read this one?� Maybe this might be what was needed in my life, a bit of magic and freedom and belief in possibilities.
Sometimes as readers, we need to find different ways to handle grief, and in this story, levitation was a unique emotional response to the death of our main character’s husband. There was definitely a sense of whimsy with her levitation as she navigated her loss.
Tere, our widow, is vibrant, funny and relatable. As readers, following her journey, we can’t help but feel her emotions, too.
The magical realism of the story (one of my favorite genres) blended with cultural heritage helped to create a cozy comfort feeling. And, an opportunity for any of us to reflect on life’s greatest questions when faced with important losses and changes in our lives.
Of course, there is a mystery to her levitation, and so Tere sets off on an adventure, that she takes readers on with her. Thus, allowing all of us to find healing along with her.
Maybe in healing � we also can believe in living life fully, despite the sadnesses or disappointments we may face along the way. Which makes this story although, imperfect in its telling, still uplifting in its message. ...more
Several weeks ago, I looked up at my well-loved books on my bookshelf as I con“And so, we come to the end.�
How does one contemplate a well-lived life?
Several weeks ago, I looked up at my well-loved books on my bookshelf as I contemplated my own life with cancer, and wondered why I was holding on to my old Dr. Seuss books that I no longer read. I also reflected on some of my other children’s books that seemed to be collecting dust. And, I looked at my husband, and I said, “I think it is time for these books to find a new home where they can be loved again.� He smiled at me, and knew that I had made my decision.
We decided to give them to some dear friends of ours that have a one-year-old. We believed eventually her time would come where she would cherish the books in her life-time. And, in the meantime, her parents would love reading these cherished books to her. I felt a happy sigh that I was letting go of something I loved and giving them to people that we adored who would appreciate them as much as we did.
Why do I share this personal story? Because as I began this book, I could feel the sadness and emptiness of loss that happens when the collection of things occur after one passes, especially when no one cares about the “things� that may have meant something to the person that once loved them. And, I didn’t want that to be my story.
But here it clearly was�
“Mr. McGlew’s life arrives in a black bin bag packed by a stranger.� “Do you happen to know the first name of Mr. McGlew?� I ask, taking out a donation form. “…I think it was bud.�
We soon learn that it is Eddie who is observing and asking this question. He is our protagonist who volunteers at the charity shop where the donations of Mr. McGlew’s things are being dropped off.
Eddie is 90 years old. Eddie is compassionate, observant, caring and curious. And, as readers we feel his awareness of the aloneness of those who are left with no one who cared for them upon their passing. Eddie is acutely sad for those individuals even if he never met them. And, he watches as Mr. McGlew’s things are divvied out into various piles for dissemination � to be sold, recycled, or thrown out. But we also see that there is an Eddie pile. That will soon become part of an Eddie shelf.
An Eddie shelf is special. On this shelf, Eddie considers the “better evidence of a love that never wavered.� As an example, it could be letters, or a list, or pressed wedding flowers, or a box of photographs, or a wedding certificate, among many things. It will always be something that is a memory that conveys love. Because Eddie Winston is looking for love. (Hence: the title of the book!)
And, the more I read, the more in love I became with Eddie. Each time a character enters the charity shop readers can feel the emotions that Eddie feels. And, wonder what drove the donations that the shop is receiving. Because Eddie senses these things acutely. And, as readers, we can’t help but be right there with him.
Like when the girl with the pink hair with the red eyes named Bella, dropped off a box of donations. Eddie knew something was terribly wrong about this particular box of things. And, as he sorted through the box it was only right for him to come to this conclusion�
“I will keep them safe, until she’s ready to come back.�
I’m only on page 17, readers! Pass the Kleenex please!
By page 20, Eddie knew he had a mission. Part of his collection includes a series of love letters and poems written by Mr. McGlew. And, in this particular case, these letters of love to someone named Elsie were never sent, but they were addressed to her. So, Eddie decides to contact Elsie, in hopes that she will respond. Will she respond? Why did Mr. McGlew never send the letters in the first place? What door is Eddie opening here?
With Eddie’s many good deeds and “love� collections, mysteries abound. Leaving readers anxious to learn more.
But wait. We turn more pages and readers are now in 1954 meeting Bridie Brennan. Will we also learn Eddie’s backstory, too? And as we do, will we ever understand what happened?
As readers weave back and forth in time, more is revealed.
And, each time readers are thrust back into the present we can’t help but wonder if, even at 90 years young, is it possible for Eddie to find a long-lasting love for the rest of his life, too?
This book truly is a love story like no other. It is sensitively felt, poignant, thoughtful, delightful, heart-full, joyous, heart-breaking, heart-warming, and elegantly written with memorable, multi-layered characters. Readers will be taken on a journey. A journey filled with love. Buckle up, readers. And, bring your Kleenex.
Could this possibly be my favorite book of 2025 already?...more
“In every ocean…just beyond our shores…lives an animal with characteristics we think of as “human� � intelligent, social, curious, gentle, and fierce.“In every ocean…just beyond our shores…lives an animal with characteristics we think of as “human� � intelligent, social, curious, gentle, and fierce. They build cities, use tools, and collaborate with other species to hunt. They have personalities � some are bold, while others shy. These animals can change their skin color, texture, and body shape in a blink of an eye and see in wavelengths beyond our vision. Recent studies reveal octopuses� consciousness, sophisticated decision-making, and unique personalities. On tropical reefs, in frigid waters, from the shoreline to the deep sea and everywhere in between, the octopus have made a home.� � Secrets of the Octopus � National Geographic Wild
It was the author’s book, “The Soul of an Octopus� that made me want to read this one. Review here: /review/show...
So, when this book became available at my local library I put a hold on it, this last July. Yes, I have been waiting for the book since July. I finally got it this month, (November, 2024). I have been patient. Of course, I read a lot of books, so it is understandable why I could be SO patient.
But when this one arrived, my eyes expanded in amazement. This one is a glorious picture book, as much as it is a book to be read.
It actually is a short book, which made it a quick read that was also easy to appreciate and enjoy. One that readers could actually savor the moments. And, even as a quick read, readers could still take the time to turn the pages and be easily mesmerized by the colorful photographs of life below the sea. With the octopi. Learning about all of them. Because this is what the authors did for readers. They showcased the various octopus in all the different regions of the world so we could learn about them. With pictures and statistics.
Still. This isn’t a book to be just read. Or to garner statistics. It is a book to be experienced.
The chapters with their glorious titles, are a giveaway to our reading experience. From Monster to Superhero. Masters of Camoflage. Gelantinous Geniuses. Octopus Kingdom.
How can we not be captivated by what we are coming to learn about these fascinating creatures?
As an example, the author titles her epilogue, “Expanding imaginations, opening hearts.� And, as readers, that is exactly what we do as we turn pages. There is something magical about octopi. Dare I say, humanness? Just as the opening quote had shared above. Through the pages readers are given so many examples as to how the octopus’s have the ability to communicate. And, how they invariably show feelings. As well as, display behaviors so willingly and openly. Sometimes even better than humans!
“The more we reveal the octopus’s secrets, the more empathy and compassion we can feel, which in turn fuels a need to protect these enigmatic critters and their fragile ecosystems.�
The authors openly share these insights with readers by giving us a tour into their lives that make us believe in the importance of these sea creatures. Thus, making us feel things we never thought possible. We can only hope that books like these can be wonderful teachers to the importance of climate change and a desire for humans to want to preserve and protect our natural Earth wonders. ...more
Yesterday, I picked this one up on my weekly visit to my local library. And, I was pleasantly surprised by the simplicity of it.
This is a story…that tYesterday, I picked this one up on my weekly visit to my local library. And, I was pleasantly surprised by the simplicity of it.
This is a story…that takes few words. But those few words and charming illustrations show the importance of reading, libraries and books. It is so beautifully written, I felt myself mesmerized as I turned pages slowly. And, as I looked at the pictures, I imagined what each child must be feeling as they studied and experienced the pages, and read the words, or had them read for them, before turning to the next page.
Honestly, this one is a keeper, parents! Teachers, please include this one in your classroom, because this truly…is a story worth reading!
Please take time to read the last page of the book which is the copyrights page which names all the book covers that were illustrated throughout this story.
When I saw this book in the children’s section at my local library, I was immediately attracted to it for 3 reasons.
First, it was the book title. I hWhen I saw this book in the children’s section at my local library, I was immediately attracted to it for 3 reasons.
First, it was the book title. I have always believed that we all have this innate power within us � this light that emanates outwardly to others. And, for a book to be able to showcase this through a title, especially in a children’s book, this seemed particularly powerful to me.
Second, the book cover illustration showed smiling faces with the illusion of light surrounding them. I found such positivity in those illustrations by Kamala Nair.
And, third because I was going on my own personal journey with cancer, and even though this was “just� a children’s book, who wouldn’t enjoy having positivity and light within surrounding them on “such� a journey?
Which made this a book, that felt strangely powerful. Because here I was feeling all these feelings connecting me to this book, and, I am just looking at the book cover. And, I didn’t even open the pages yet!
What would this lovely book share inside?
This is a story of travel and traditions, family, connection through community and finding one’s inner light. Believing in one self. Yes! ...more
I love when an author has a purposeful name for their book, and we as readers get to spend some time with it trying “Where you are is where I belong.�
I love when an author has a purposeful name for their book, and we as readers get to spend some time with it trying to figure out what and why it was named the way it was, like this one.
With this book, could it be because Rafe and Jeremy as friends 15 years ago, got lost in the forest, and thus, as the lost boys, something changed because they were gone?
Or, could it have been when they were found, Rafe came back with no memory of what had happened to him, and thus he lost his story?
And, how will those two points even make sense to readers without continuing to turn pages?
Or, when Emilie came to Jeremy to find her sister, since now that is what Jeremy does, find lost girls, that perhaps they might have lost their stories, too?
Or, will Emilie’s entrance into the story be a catalyst to unraveling the mystery to Rafe and Jeremy, and possibly more?
Or, is there something about the forest of Red Crow that makes one wonder that maybe that is where stories end up? Lost?
Or, is there another mystery within this story that is bigger than we ever thought possible?
Well, I’d like to believe that with this little enriching, fairy tale of magic and mystery and love and (possibly) lost stories, it will capture readers in a way that makes those reading want to turn pages until answers are found.
And, because this is a story of unusually talented boys, now grown up, readers will undoubtedly want to know more about the main characters, Rafe and Jeremy’s back stories. And, will most likely be curious about the sisters, who are (possibly) lost and maybe�? (To say more would be a spoiler, and that is not my thing.)
I believe this is a story that is beautifully, and artfully told. With prose that guides readers through a unique magical realm that makes it hard to put this book down. And, that is what makes Shaffer such an exquisite storyteller.
The question remains, can we hope for a HEA ending? (Again, if you are looking for spoilers, you have come to the wrong place! ☺️) Just, take your chance on a little adult fairy tale.
Lastly...There may be some triggers within this story that are not always seen but may be alluded to (while some are obvious): domestic and family violence, adoption, depression, mental illness, death of parents, implied gay character....more
In all probability, it is very likely we know the rhyme. Most children probably have made that wish every night to the stars� (At least, I know I did In all probability, it is very likely we know the rhyme. Most children probably have made that wish every night to the stars� (At least, I know I did as a kid. To be honest, I still do! ☺️)
“Star light, star bright First star I see tonight I wish I may I wish I might Have the wish I wish tonight.�
But what makes this book so beautiful, is the gorgeous illustrations by Alexandra Day and the lovely positive message that goes along with it.
Each child and parent will have an opportunity to enjoy the star gazing colorful beauty of this book for each bedtime reading.
My Favorite Fiction Book - and all-time Favorite Book that I read in 2024
“I have always imagined that closing a book is like pausing a film midframe, My Favorite Fiction Book - and all-time Favorite Book that I read in 2024
“I have always imagined that closing a book is like pausing a film midframe, the characters frozen in their halted worlds, breath held, waiting for the reader to return and bring it all back to life � like a prince’s kiss in a fairy tale.� � Ashlyn Greer
I wanted to start my review with this quote from one of the main protagonist characters in this book, Ashlyn, because I have just finished this book, and this is how I feel.
I honestly believe I have just read my absolute favorite book of 2024!
And, I don’t say that lightly.
I have read lots of books, and this one has captivated me from the first page to the last. And, as I have come to the very last page, I am filled with many emotions. Enchanted. Engaged. Centered. Present. Moved. Inspired. Fulfilled. Grateful. Touched.
This book started with a private message from ŷ friend Lynda, who thought she read my review and felt she needed to thank me. You now must read her review here: /review/show... She said she was so grateful for my review of this book. I said, I hadn’t read it yet, I was still on the waiting list for the book. But grateful that she enjoyed it so much.
And, then it finally arrived from my local library. It was now my turn to have a reaction to this book.
There is something to be said about a character like Ashlyn, that is so attached to books, that she has a special gift in which she can “read the echoes that attached themselves� to pages within books. In other words, she could feel the people who were apart of the books they touched. The emotions they experienced.
And, when two books come in to her possession, they will not only change her life, they will change the lives of the individuals who wrote them.
What mystery lies within those pages she reads?
How will this mystery help heal Ashlyn and her life?
This is a book within a book. When Ashlyn receives a couple of books, she is curious to discover that these books have no author names or publisher. Who do they belong to, and how can she find the writers? The mystery only deepens.
“Books are feelings,� he replied simply. “They exist to make us feel. To connect us to what’s inside, sometimes to things we don’t even know are there. It only makes sense that some of what we feel when we’re reading would . . . rub off.�
And, so these two books that Ashlyn discovers leads her to Ethan who is the one that was cleaning out his father’s books. Little did each of them know that these stories would unravel a family history of Ethan’s he had little memory of that would possibly open doors for both of them.
What happened to Ethan and Ashlyn that closed doors for them? How will the mystery of the books that they are reading now together open doors for them?
“She still couldn’t say how far she was willing to leap, but she had forced herself to look down and at least judge the distance of the fall. It was a start.�
“We develop a particular fondness for our favorite books, the way they feel and smell and sound, the memories they invoke, until they begin to exist for us as living, breathing things.�
Ashlyn graces each chapter with a quote that leads readers to wonder what we will learn through the “current� year 1984, as she and Ethan read through the books about the mysterious Belle and Hemi of the past. One book was written by Belle. And one book was written by Hemi. But who are they? What happened to them? And, are they still alive?
“Without a reader, a book was a blank slate, an object with no breath or pulse of its own. But once a book became part of someone’s world, it came to life, with a past and a present—and, if properly cared for, a future.�
Could the power of forgiveness be the gift that helped find a happily ever after ending here?
“But if something tragic happened in a book, you could just close it and choose a new one, unlike real life, where events often played out without the protagonist’s consent.�
My emotions were all over the place as I kept turning pages. But then I would find myself asleep holding the book still. Oh gosh, I needed sleep. Okay, sleep it was. I would have to wait for the ending.
And then I woke up. It was pitch black out. I knew I had a few pages to go. I couldn’t help myself. I needed to know. I was so invested in these characters. I loved Ashlyn and Ethan, and Belle and Hemi. I wanted to know what would happen.
“Like humans, books experienced their share of heartache—and like humans, they remembered.�
How does one describe that feeling when you close a book that you have loved everything about it? There are so many quotes in this book that have been so worthy, that I feel like my review is simply a series of the author’s quotes.
At the same time, I have found myself in a book about books. About a life lived, or missed, or regrets, or needing forgiveness, or finding second chances, or being strong under the worst of circumstances.
And, thus reading this book felt like something more. Not just a love story about people. But my own love story about how I fell in love with a book, if that makes sense.
So, the author’s quote�
“There is nothing quite so alive as a book that has been well loved� feels perfect here.
Because, that is exactly how I feel about this reading experience.
I have come to appreciate that life is something we can’t take for granted. And, when Ashlyn shares that “people’s lives were defined not by the scars they acquired but by what lay on the other side of those scars, by what’s done with the life they have left,� I knew she was speaking a truth we could understand.
And, sometimes books do that to us. And, this one did that to me. Yes, this one to date is most undoubtedly, my favorite book for 2024! Maybe, even yours?...more
This is the story of a yellow school bus. But not just any yellow school bus. A yellow school bus that is meaningful to a neighborhood of kids and famThis is the story of a yellow school bus. But not just any yellow school bus. A yellow school bus that is meaningful to a neighborhood of kids and families and the community it drives through. A yellow school bus that has a specific mission to get children from “one important place to another.� It could be school. Or the library. Wherever it was, it was always an important place to go. And, be.
But it isn’t just about the transporting of the kids. It is about the feelings that occur on the bus. A bus that is always filled with joy.
But what happens when the yellow bus no longer serves its intended purpose? Where does it go? What does it become? What happens to its joy? Can it be brought back? What will it take for life to bring the bus back to joy?
This is a stunningly illustrated and beautifully articulated story about how a yellow bus impacts its community in so many different ways. It will be a perfect teaching tool for both parents and teachers.
Please be sure and take the time to read the author’s note at the end to gain the full understanding of how the story came to life for him.
Reading level: Ages 3 � 6 years � Grades � K � 1st Grade...more
“The heart is the inner face of your life. The human journey strives to make this inner face beautiful. It is here that love gathers within you. Love “The heart is the inner face of your life. The human journey strives to make this inner face beautiful. It is here that love gathers within you. Love is absolutely vital for a human life. For love alone can awaken what is divine within you.�
Catching up�
This is one of those books that is with you, that you pick up and read as you need it when you need it. And so, even as I review it, I share with you, that this book has been with me for years. It is ageless to me. I started reading it slowly years ago. Then I read it cover to cover years ago. I still read it. It is an old book to me. It is a new book to me. I always see it with fresh eyes every time I open its pages.
And so, if you find this book, it may be one that once you get it, you may be like me. You may choose not to let it go.
Listen closely to his opening words�
“It is strange to be here. The mystery never leaves you alone. Behind your image, below your words, above your thought, the silence of another world exists. A world lives within you. No one else can bring you news of this inner world.�
If I were to even begin to attempt to interpret his thoughts, I would consider that he is asking us to go within. To recognize what is in each of us. To see the true artist within each of us. How can we not be mesmerized by what he sees within each of us? Or what he is asking each of us to see that exists within us?
This book taps into the richness of Celtic spirituality, poetry and stories. He explores friendship, awareness, and intimacy. Our senses. Our soul.
He asks us to recognize the aging process as living in rhythm with our soul and our life. Even looking at life all the way through to his last chapter as we affirm death and see it as an invitation to freedom.
There is so much to appreciate about his words. He is truly stirring our soul and stoking the fires of our imagination. He reminds us of the precious gift of present moment living.
Most the time my books are read and reviewed and released to my Little Free Library Shed. But this one evokes a different and deeper meaning for me. And so, it stays with me. Where I can read it again and again. As I need it, when I want it.
The words continue to resonate with me and remind me of the preciousness of life. The gift of what we have been given. And what comes back each time for me is a feeling of immense gratitude. I am grateful for this life.
Sometimes families can mean well and expect you to follow along iMy #2 Favorite Romance Novel for 2024
“I refuse to live in a world without you in it.�
Sometimes families can mean well and expect you to follow along in their rich footsteps � the successful family funeral business.
But then there are those, like Ricki who have their own creative, talented spirit that needs to follow their own destiny, despite what the family expects of them.
“She was all hope and light and captivating artistic vulnerability, as luminous and colorful as sunlight refracted through a stained-glass window.�
Would Della who walks in the door seeking support for her recently departed husband at Ricki’s family funeral business, be the right angel that sees what her own family can’t in her?
“She just remembered knowing, with certainty, that she’d randomly met her real-life fairy godmother and that she’d felt as dazed and dazzled as if she’d been touched by a magic wand.�
Off Ricki goes to Harlem, New York to set her destiny in motion.
Starting her own business and living in the basement building owned by Della who lives in the top 3 stories of the same building, what new life is in store for Ricki?
Especially when she runs into the tall, dark, rude and secretive Ezra.
And speaking of secrets�
What is that secret that is holding Ezra back?
Will Ricki be what Ezra needs to ultimately save him from himself � or is he an ultimate danger to her?
This magical, sexy, rich racial consciousness undertone poetic story had me going from page one. I was mesmerized by Ricki’s desire for independence just as much as I was curious by Ezra’s mysteriousness.
Still there were so many questions that passed through me as I flew through the pages�
Would Ricki succeed without her family? What was the pull and tug between Ricki and Ezra? Would they overcome whatever it was that presented such tension between them? Could they ever have a chance as a couple? Will these two be able to find what they needed for a truly happy life? And, will it include each other?
And then there was Della � what key did she hold?
This unique page-turner with some magical elements was captivating and emotionally charged throughout. It kept me extremely engaged wanting more.
With an endearing (and sometimes quirky fascinating) supporting cast of characters, this story stayed with me up to the last page.
One last thought…this truly is an epic love story on so many levels. Maybe, one of the best ones I have read this year! Could this possibly be my favorite of 2024?...more
Next to our local high school there is a walking dirt path that we like to take the dogs. It includes two rows of trees that appear to embrace each otNext to our local high school there is a walking dirt path that we like to take the dogs. It includes two rows of trees that appear to embrace each other and create this beautiful tree canopy. It is almost like once the trees grew to mature size adjacent to each other they conjoined and formed this amazing long covered walkway from one end to another (.30 miles). We sometimes imagine that the trees are looking out for every level of life that passes through or chooses to live amongst them.
That truly is one of our favorite walks � to be amongst those trees. We feel so protected � and loved. And if a branch falls from a harsh windstorm or rainfall, we feel sad that the tree has lost one of its limbs. Because we know, once a branch falls, it will not grow back.
There is something to be said about the beauty, and loss and power of trees.
So, when I learned of another book by this author, where the star of the story was a talking tree named Red, I had to read it.
The beauty of stories like this, is the moment you open the book, it is so engrossing, it is unputdownable. And before you know it, it is done.
Even if it appears to be a normal size novel (hardbound 211 pages), with its larger size font and illustrations, it moves along quickly for readers.
Having just finished a talking dog story, how could I not fall in love with a talking tree story. I’m finding myself open to about anything now. Especially if the author has imagination.
After all, I am a fan of magical realism.
Still, this is a kid’s story, so anything is possible in the realm of children’s books. Right?
This is a strong message book. Handled with sensitivity and humor.
This is a story about trees, the protection of, and importance and appreciation of trees.
It is also a story about diversity and differences and friendship.
There will be lots of learning moments too about trees and animals.
There will be moments where friends will disagree, and even through disagreement, people can find ways to like each other.
And, there will be teaching moments of how diversity within the community can bring people together and eventually work through those differences.
Red’s message�
“I’m not just a tree. I’m a home. A community.�
May we always value trees recognizing Red’s message....more
This is a beautifully and artfully illustrated book by the author of the short story, “The Arrival.� The same story that was made into a movie in 2016This is a beautifully and artfully illustrated book by the author of the short story, “The Arrival.� The same story that was made into a movie in 2016 and starring Amy Adams, Jeremy Renner, and Forest Whitaker.
But this isn’t about that short story. Although the cover of the book, gives you the same “out-there� feelings. As if someone is walking around in a space age suit, when it really is just a deep sea diver walking on dry land in your neighborhood. Still, even that may be odd trying to look rather normal.
Keeping that picture of the deep sea diver in mind as an example of just one story, this is a collection of short stories set in the Australian suburbs, about how the most outlandish things can appear normal or commonplace.
But this is more than a collection of stories.
The author’s greatest asset is his artwork. His images remind us of Japanese woodcut prints or Renaissance frescoes or sepia photographs. Whatever the vision being presented, they are stunningly beautiful.
One story has children following a map to the end of the world. Literally. They sit with their feet hanging over the edge. Who does that in storytelling? What an extraordinary image. The author allows our own imagination to take us beyond the words and visual image as the reader. Is the world really flat? Or did we just read a charming collection of imaginative art?...more
This is the second book that came from my local library after I heard about the author’s passing.
The story My Favorite Children's Book I read in 2024
This is the second book that came from my local library after I heard about the author’s passing.
The story opens with a boy kneeling at his bedside putting his hand towards his stuffed bunny rabbit. It looks like he is dressed in his pajamas. He is in a very neat bedroom that has several stuffed animals placed on a dresser or sitting at a table. The books first lines read�
“Somewhere a pair of shoes lies under a chair. A window yawns open. Twilight blazes a trail across the wall.�
There was something surreal about this opening page. About this boy. This room. About a window that yawns open.
The story continues to show a beautiful moon with outdoor life alive. There are vibrant colors painted across the pages. The boy not ready to quite sleep.
But what we soon learn, is that it is more than this set-up, it is really about what happens if the moon could talk all across the world.
And that is the beauty of this beautifully illustrated book.
Through these pages, we visit so many places around the world � nature � people � wild life � and back again to the boy’s room � to find out what happens�
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