SEA INFUSED HERBAL MOISTURIZER from OZ NATURALS

OZ Naturals products are made in the USA, and have quickly become a trusted brand for those looking for extremely effective products that actually deliver on their claims.

My thoughts:  I have had the pleasure of reviewing several items in the Oz Naturals skin care line and found them all pleasant to use, non-irritating, and they seem to deliver on natural methods of caring for one's skin.

The Sea Infused Herbal Moisturizer is a different looking and feeling moisturizer. First of all it is a tan color which differs from usual moisturizers. It has a scent that seems out-doorsy, natural, and different. It has taken a bit of adjustment to me, personally, since this is so different. The moisturizer is a liquid/cream (meaning not quite as stiff as many moisturizers). I can easily over-dispense the product onto my hand, so I am careful. It doesn't take much to cover my face, neck, and chest area.

I cleanse my face, apply serum, and then apply the Sea Infused Herbal Moisturizer. It is important to wait for each product you apply to dry before applying the next. This is true, too, if you wish to apply makeup after your skin care routine. Makeup goes on very well and lasts well during the day when using the Sea Infused Herbal Moisturizer.

I can see this product being used by men and women, adults or teens.

The price is certainly affordable at roughly $25 per tube and will last quite awhile. I can recommend this for those who wish to have a natural moisturizer. I also recommend any other Oz Naturals products. (Use the search option and find my reviews of other Oz Naturals products.)

SEA INFUSED HERBAL MOISTURIZER (product information provided by manufacturer)

Research shows that aging skin is the result of more than just years spent on the earth. Exposure to environment elements like sunlight, smoke, and air pollution are the major causes for photo-aging in skin. Our toxic environment leads to the formation of lines, wrinkles, hyper pigmentation, and to more serious skin issues such as dermatitis. A comprehensive nutrient moisturizer can help prevent photo-aging and the onset of more serious skin conditions. Topical Vitamin C has now been shown to provide up to eight times the skin's natural protection from UV damage, protecting your skin from the sun in ways that sunscreens can't, preventing photo-aging and the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles...promoting positive skin health. Therefore, when used in conjunction with a sunscreen you truly have full protection from UV rays!

OZ Naturals Products.....

• Proudly Made in the USA
• Vegan Formulas
• FDA-Registered Facility
• Kosher Certified Materials
• No Animal Testing, Sustainable Raw Materials & Practices
• Biodegradable Products
• GMP Compliant
• In-House Quality Control Systems & In-House Shelf Life Testing
• Natural Products Association Alliance Wind & Solar Energy

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary product from Oz Naturals in exchange for this review. Opinions expressed are my own and I was not compensated for the review.

Coming soon "Monster Needs Your Vote"

I'm looking forward to another of the "Monster Needs..." books. Coming VERY SOON is Monster Needs Your Vote.

In case you're not yet familiar with these books, run to your favorite store or library and snag a copy of any or all of the "Monster Needs..." books and start enjoying.

The Monster Needs Your Vote story will help parents and teachers teach young readers about the voting and election process here in America. In addition to this really fun book, the creators, Paul Czajak and Wendy Grieb, along with the publisher, Mighty Media Press, have provided lots of goodies for you to download and use in the learning process.

There are Presidential Facts and First Lady Facts, vocabulary words, qualifications for being president (some great information), and activity sheets. CLICK HERE to get this FREE fun stuff. 

And be sure to watch Chat With Vera for a review.

Mesmerized: How Ben Franklin Solved a Mystery that Baffled All of France by Mara Rockliff & illustrated by Iacopo Bruno

About the book: Discover how Benjamin Franklin’s scientific method challenged a certain Dr. Mesmer’s mysterious powers in a whimsical look at a true moment in history.

The day Ben Franklin first set foot in Paris, France, he found the city all abuzz. Everyone was talking about something new. Remarkable. Thrilling. Strange. Something called Science!

But soon the straightforward American inventor Benjamin Franklin is upstaged by a compelling and enigmatic figure: Dr. Mesmer. In elaborately staged shows, Mesmer, wearing a fancy coat of purple silk and carrying an iron wand, convinces the people of Paris that he controls a magic force that can make water taste like a hundred different things, cure illness, and control thoughts! But Ben Franklin is not convinced. Will his practical approach of observing, hypothesizing, and testing get to the bottom of the mysterious Mesmer’s tricks? A rip-roaring, lavishly illustrated peek into a fascinating moment in history shows the development and practice of the scientific method—and reveals the amazing power of the human mind.

My thoughts: As an introduction to non-fiction, this picture book captures the essence of many things. The illustrations are humorously droll. The artist uses reds, browns, and burnt sienna to give richness to the compartmentalized illustrations.  The typesetting lends emphasis and French eloquence, Merci beaucoup.

Young readers will learn....

• That Ben Franklin was an American Statesman, an inventor, and a scientist.
• That a method of healing in France was debunked by Ben Franklin using the scientific method.
• The origin of the word MESMERIZED.

Young readers will enjoy this delightfully informative and educational story as Ben Franklin goes about the eloquently fashionable French Court debunking with the scientific method. This foray into the realm of non-fiction will leave young readers asking for more. Desiring to learn more. Looking to their librarians, teachers, and parents for more opportunities to learn about words, history, science.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by the publisher, Candlewick Press, to facilitate this review. Opinions are just mine. I was not compensated for this review.

Tea With Vera

Won't you pause in your busy day and enjoy a cup of tea with Vera? To learn about the tea brewed in each of these lovely tea cups in my collection, please see my review of Enjoying Tea's products. CLICK HERE 

Lovely tea cup is served in a family heirloom

Filtering Tea Mug compliments
of EnjoyingTea.com

T

A favorite tea cup - lovingly gifted
to me by my grandaughter

Lovely amber tea brewed in beautiful clear glass
collectible mug 

Fragile tea cup lovingly brought to me from
Vienna by my daughter

A son-in-law thoughtfully brought this tea cup
back to me from a trip he made to London!

Daisy Saves the Day by Shirley Hughes

About the book: Daisy Dobbs has a mother and little twin brothers, but she lives far from them, serving as a maid in a big house owned by two refined old ladies. Daisy scrubs floors and sweeps stairs, washes dishes and peels potatoes. And sometimes she makes mistakes—like hanging the ladies’ red bloomers out the window for all to see. But in the evenings, Daisy sometimes has a moment to herself, which she uses for her favorite thing: borrowing books from the big house’s parlor. When disaster strikes in the form of a kitchen fire, and Daisy’s quick thinking saves the day, the ladies reward her in the best possible way. With atmospheric text and engaging illustrations, Shirley Hughes gently reminds us that reading is a gift to be treasured.

My thoughts: The treasured illustrations of Shirley Hughes grace the pages of Daisy Saves the Day bringing this sweet character to life for young readers. In the early 1900s two elderly spinster sisters live in London and Daisy is taken in as the young scullery maid. Up to this point, Daisy had lived at home with her "Mum" and twin brothers, caring for the twins while Mum worked. Daisy went to school and loved to read. But the time has come for Daisy to help with earnings.

She works very hard for the elderly sisters under the watchful eye of cook and maid who are ill-tempered sorts. The weariness of Daisy is shown in the charming art of Shirley Hughes. And the dreaded lost feeling of homesickness that overwhelms young Daisy when evening draws upon her.

If you don't purchase your own copy of Daisy Saves the Day, be sure you find one in a library and enjoy it. The stories and art of Shirley Hughes are not to be missed!

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Candlewick Press to facilitate this review. Opinions are my own and I was not compensated for this review.

Enjoying Tea is a Company for Affordable Luxurious Teas, Tea Sets, and Tea Cups [Review & Giveaway]

I have long enjoyed a nice cup of tea to relax with or to simply warm myself. Tea has been a staple in homes for centuries. There are many types of teas and from many countries.

My personal preferences are varied. I enjoy green tea and spicy Chai. Oolong and black teas are also wonderful. I enjoy my tea hot and I enjoy my tea ice cold. I'm a southerner and for my ice tea I prefer it strong, dark, and very sweet. While I can drink unsweetened tea - hot or cold, I do prefer to add some sugar.

After opening the shipping container, these were the lovely
boxes. Can't wait to open! More on tea!

Since I enjoy tea, the Enjoying Tea company is right on target as a good choice. Their selection is varied and suited for most any taste preference. They also carry a beautiful line of tea accessories - tea pots, tea sets, cups and mugs - there is a plethora of wonderful items.

Just look at all these wonderful choices of
tea I will get to enjoy & tell you about .....

I have the opportunity to review some of their teas and a beautifully crafted ceramic filtering tea mug. This is such a pleasurable opportunity. See this beautiful Ceramic Bird Filtering Tea Mug here.  "It comes with its own lid and a removable infuser that allows ample room for tea leaves to expand and provide full infusion of the leaves. There is a picture of cherry blossom flowers and birds on the body of the mug. Cherry blossom and bird symbolize beauty and peace."

This beautifully crafted and artistic filtering mug is just wonderful! Cherry blossom and bird symbolize beauty and peace.

Jasmine Dragon Pearl steeping
in filtering mug. More on their
lovely tea cup collections!

I began with the Jasmine Dragon Pearl (Imperial Long Chu) tea. "This green tea has a unique shape of a pearl and comes from the Chinese of Fujian. These hand rolled pearls consist of both leaves and bud. This tea has a sweet flavor with a flowery jasmine aroma." This is a very enjoyable green tea!

Jasmine Dragon Pearl brewed

Next, I brewed Vanilla Chai. Oh! This is an absolutely wonderful Chai. The spices are perfectly suited for my taste and the touch of vanilla is superb. "The Vanilla Chai is a top grade Indian tea. This delicious tea includes black tea, ginger, cardamom, coriander, cinnamon, black pepper, calendula, and daisy. When brewed this full body tea produces a spicy and creamy vanilla flavor. Superb with milk and sugar.

Chai is so prevalent in India and Sri Lanka that it could be called the National drink. Chai is brewed with milk and a mixture of spices. Each recipe can be different depending upon the spices used. Indian spiced chai is often referred to as Masala Chai. The word chai literally means tea in Hindi. Our chai is mixed from real Indian spices and top grade Ceylon black tea. The quality of the tea elevates this chai to a new level."

Lovely Vanilla Chai. Just right! Most folks drink their Chai with
milk, but I enjoy it either way. Here it is shown sans-milk. 
(Note: teacup was gifted me and is from Vienna.)

Oolong tea is always a treat. This Organic Slimming Oolong is light and refreshing. "The slimming organic oolong tea comes from China. When brewed, this tea offers a smooth taste, nutty flavor, and a sweet lingering aftertaste. This tea is also great served chilled. Studies have shown that this tea has weight loss benefits."

Organic Slimming Oolong

Can you tell I'm enjoying tea time in my house? Next was the interesting Zhejiang Silver Needle. I'd never seen tea in this form before. Interesting! "This white tea with a white downy appearance comes from the province of Zhejiang. The Silver Needle, highest quality white tea, is picked during the spring before the buds open to preserve its tenderness. Exquisite and delicate, Silver Needle has a fresh, sweet fragrance and produces a pale yellow brew."

Zhejiang Silver Needle - Lovely white tea and absolutely delectable. 
(Note: teacup was gifted me by a granddaughter 
and is shaped to see a loving heart.)

As you might have guessed, I'm taking several days to sample these teas and brew them in some of my favorite tea cups. Today's tea is English Breakfast Black Tea. This is tea in a traditional, tried and true form. "This is a classic blend of Sri Lanka Ceylon flowery pekoe (FP) black tea. Although usually served in the morning, it is the perfect refreshing and invigorating tea for any time of the day. When brewed the English Breakfast produces a bright, full bodied, and amber tea." I'm sitting here after dinner, and after cleaning the kitchen, and enjoying a lovely cup of this English Breakfast Black Tea.

This lovely amber tea is English Breakfast Black Tea &
is served in a delicate tea cup brought from England as a
gift to me by my son-in-law.

Ceramic Bird Filtering Tea Mug

I have been enjoying my tea in lovely tea cups of my own, but there are so many lovely tea cups on EnjoyingTea.com. If you love tea and if you love serving it in lovely tea cups (or with a full tea set with pot and cups), be sure you check them out!  NOTE: Ceramic Bird Filtering Tea Mug comes with its own lid and a removable infuser that allows ample room for tea leaves to expand and provide full infusion of the leaves. There is a picture of cherry blossom flowers and birds on the body of the mug. Cherry blossom and bird symbolize beauty and peace.

Delicate in taste and color, the
Dragon Well GreenTea (Lung Ching)
is served in a family heirloom.

Often I find green tea bitter and sometimes "fishy" tasting. I was pleasantly surprised by the  Dragon Well Green Tea, (Lung Ching). I enjoyed this green tea and found it light and aromatic. "This extraordinary green tea comes from the city of Hangzhou in Zhejiang province. The flat leaves are harvested in early spring when the leaves are full of aroma."

Served in a lovely glass mug that showcases
the beauty of this Earl Grey Black Tea.

Today I have enjoyed the Earl Grey Black Tea. "This tea is made from top grade orange pekoe Ceylon black tea scented with the elegant fragrance of bergamot. The Ceylon tea is grown at the altitude of 7000 feet above sea level from the Sri Lanka region. When brewed this tea produces a bright coppery color liquid with a piquant and refreshing taste." Earl Grey Black Tea is always in good taste to serve (pun definitely intended). Often, though, I find that the bergamot overshadows the tea which is a mistake. Tea should taste like the tea it is. Flavors and enhancements should take a quite backseat. The Enjoying Tea Earl Gray Black Tea is absolutely perfect. The color is beautiful. The taste of top quality black tea and not bitter. The flavor and fragrance of bergamot subtle and perfect.

Sencha, (Japanese Green Tea)

The last tea in the sampler is the Sencha, (Japanese Green Tea). "Sencha is a traditional Japanese steamed green tea with a soothing taste and fresh green scent that makes it a perfect everyday treat." I was careful to steep this green tea just three minutes and remove the leaves immediately. For this tea I felt it wise to use a tea infuser that I could easily lift out. I enjoy the health benefits of green tea and this Japanese Green Tea is lovely.

GIVEAWAY 

Ceramic Bird Filtering Tea Mug here &
Top Seller Tea Sampler
Begins July 28 & ENDS August 19 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 
Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary tea sampler and filtering tea mug to facilitate this review by Enjoying Tea Inc.. Opinions are mine alone. I have not been compensated for this review. The giveaway prize will be provided and shipped to the winner by Enjoying Tea Inc.

Direct Hit By Mike Hollow

ISBN: 9781782641278 
$14.99 | Paperback
Lion Fiction

About the book: The jagged blast of high explosives rips through the evening air. In the sky over East London the searchlights criss-cross in search of the enemy.

On the first night of the Blitz, a corpse is discovered in a van in the back streets of West Ham. Detective Inspector John Jago recognizes the dead man as local Justice of the Peace Charles Villers. But then a German bomb obliterates all evidence.

Villers was not a popular man, both powerful and feared. As the sirens wail, the detective must start matching motive to opportunity--and it doesn't help when his boss foists an intrusive American journalist on him.

Jago soon discovers the dead man held many secrets, some reaching back to World War I. A lot of people wished Villers dead--and an air raid is a good time to conceal a murder.

My thoughts: This is not a fast paced action novel. The style is a bit plodding and yet very readable and one that makes the reader want to read on. The way the story is written, characters drawn and fleshed out, and the setting of London during the Blitz all lend authenticity and readability to Direct Hit.

Students of World War II history will recognize the Blitz as a major event in Hitler's war on Europe and England. London is a city beset with the life-toll of shortages, air raid sirens blasting, fear brought about by their involvement in WWII. Also running through society at this time is the strong under-current of brooding and breeding communism.

Amidst war and social unrest, life goes on for Detective Inspector Jago who is embroiled in finding who murdered Mr.Villers. During his investigation he uncovers a variety of criminal situations.

As a reader that enjoys historical fiction, it was a good read to see how Mike Hollow described London during these treacherous days. This story only covers a short period, but each day is eons long as the clock of war charts their course.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by Kregel Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions herein are mine alone. I received no compensation for this review.

The Curiosity Keeper (Treasures of Surrey #1) by Sarah E. Ladd {Review & Giveaway}

"It is not just a ruby, as you say. It is large as a quail's egg, still untouched and unpolished. And it is rumored to either bless or curse whoever possesses it."

Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She's done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille must allow a mysterious stranger to come to her aid.

Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content to work as the village apothecary. But when his brother's death made him heir just as his father's foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession---a ruby called the Bevoy---can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop---and the beautiful shop girl who may be the answer to his many questions.

Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, these two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, they will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness.

My thoughts: Sarah E. Ladd has again succeeded in crafting a story that unfolds the hearts and minds and souls of beautifully drawn characters. The Curiosity Keeper is a treasure of a young lady raised in early youth on an English estate  and who has all the bearings of a lady born. She is, however, now in the back streets of London in her father's Curiosity Shop. Hence, she is the keeper of the curiosities.

We meet her father, who while raised benefiting a gentleman, has lower himself in his personality and character to rude, mean, and brutish. Enter the scene our male hero - the current heir to the Kettering Estate, but whose heart and soul belongs to the healing trade of Apothecary.

A traitorous theft, a cruel stabbing, a mad chase, a desperate escape take these unforgettable characters on uncharted paths.

There is a sweet romance that blooms amidst this trouble. And as always, we look forward to the next installment in the Treasures of Surrey and hope to see more of Camille and Jonathan.

Purchase a copy by clicking here

GIVEAWAY 

Begins July 17 & ENDS July 31 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 

 Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

More review & information -click here

About the author: Sarah E. Ladd has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. The Heiress of Winterwood was the recipient of the 2011 Genesis Award for historical romance and a finalist in the Debut Author category of the 2014 Carol Awards. The second book in the series, The Headmistress of Rosemere (2013), was on the ECPA best-seller list for several months.

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review by Litfuse Publicity Group. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I was not compensated for this review. Giveaway copy is also provided by Litfuse.

Blessed are those who trust in the Lord...

Borrowed from Family Christian Facebook page.

If an Elephant Went to School by Ellen Fischer, Laura Wood [Review & Giveaway hosted on Goodreads.com]

About the book: Would an elephant learn the ABCs if she went to school? No way! She would learn to use her trunk as a nose, a straw, a hand, and a hose!

Through a series of questions and answers, readers learn about animals and their unique behaviors. And in the end, you might find yourself asking just what would you learn.

My thoughts: I previously reviewed Ellen Fischer’s If An Armadillo Went to a Restaurant and found it to be fun to look at just what various animals and critters would eat at restaurants. Ms. Fischer has just released a second in this series and it is just in time for those little ones going to school – either for the first time or returning – If An Elephant Went to School. Frankly, I enjoyed this one even more than the Armadillo story. This is just plain fun.

Laura Woods is again illustrating this book just as she did the Armadillo book. These animals are full of life, expression, and just down right cute. I like that she uses different tones of color in her illustrations than we normally find in kiddie books. She deviates a bit from basic primary colors and incorporates teals, russets, and variations of browns, greens and oranges. The colors literally pop.

There are lessons to be learned for these critters going to school. Each learns what is best for that type of critter. Would the bee learn to read? No, the bee would learn to make honey.

The story is great as a read-aloud book for group settings such as library groups, classrooms, etc. as well as reading it individually to a child. It can also be  read by early readers, though the vocabulary right be beyond really early readers.

At the end, the question is raised, “If I went to school what would I learn?” Then the comparison of learning what critters learn and what a child learns is brought about ending on a happy note where the child is brought into the story himself.

GIVEAWAY

Enter Giveaway on Goodreads.com - Click Here 

Giveaway dates: May 21 - Aug 11, 2015

3 copies available

Countries available: US

DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy by the Mighty Media Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

The Lost Garden (Tales from Goswell) By Katharine Swartz

ISBN: 978-1-78264-091-2
$14.99 Paperback Lion Fiction

About the book: Marin Ellis is in search of a new start after her father and his second wife die in a car accident leaving her the guardian of her fifteen-year-old half-sister, Rebecca. They choose the picturesque village of Goswell on the Cumbering coast and settle into Bower House, the former vicarage, on the edge of the church property. When a door to a walled garden captures Rebecca’s interest, Marin becomes determined to open it and discover what is hidden beneath the bramble inside. She enlists the help of local gardener Joss Fowler, and together the three of them begin to uncover the garden’s secrets.

In 1919, nineteen-year-old Eleanor Sanderson, daughter of Goswell’s vicar, is grieving the loss of her beloved brother Walter, who was killed just days before the Armistice was signed. Eleanor retreats into herself and her father starts to notice how unhappy she is. As spring arrives, he decides to hire someone to make a garden for Eleanor, and draw her out of—or at least distract her from—her grief and sorrow. Jack Taylor is in his early twenties, a Yorkshire man who has been doing odd jobs in the village, and when Eleanor’s father hires him to work on the vicarage gardens, a surprising—and unsuitable—friendship unfolds.

Deftly weaving the dual narratives, Katharine Swartz explores themes of loyalty and love through her memorable characters and strong sense of place.

My thoughts: As I began the book, it struck me as being intensely depressing. I sensed desperation, death, despair. I thought to myself that this was not particularly the type of book I would typically choose, and not what I expected The Lost Garden story to hold for the reader based on the description of the book. However, I persisted.

The setting is on a plot of land that shared a history with a monastery prior to the Reformation. The church, the vicar's residence, and a cottage for another feature the enclosed garden gone to ruin are the dwellings for the families of both timelines. While the author doesn't delve back into pre-reformation days for this story, it is two stories from different decades running throughout. This seems to be a favorite technique of writers which some readers find daunting as the story switches back and forth. It adds interest, but is not a favorite style of mine.

As I continued to read on, I found myself feeling the heart of the characters and of the village in which they lived. The cutting of weeds and brambles unearthed more than a former garden. This is a warm story but has depth of meaning and characters as everyday as your neighbor might be.

The setting is England (UK) and many terms and names of items and activities may be somewhat strange to the American audience. This does not detract at all from the reading.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Kregel Publishing to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely mine. I received no compensation for this review.

Rufus Goes to School by Kim T. Griswell, Valeri Gorbachev [Review & Giveaway]

ISBN: 9781454904168
Sterling Children's Books

About the book: All Rufus Leroy Williams III wants is to go to school so he can learn to read his favorite book. But there's one problem: he's a pig and Principal Lipid says: “NO PIGS IN SCHOOL!” Rufus even gets a backpack, a lunchbox, and a blanket to prove he's ready. But Mr. Lipid won't budge. Is there ANYTHING Rufus can do to change his mind? Kim Griswell and illustrator Valeri Gorbachev have created a love letter to reading that's also a charming, original, and child-friendly first-day-of-school story.

My thoughts: Delightful Rufus is back again! Rufus really wants to go to school and he finds there is a "no pigs allowed" rule. He begins to persuade the principal that he really and truly is ready for school even if he is a pig. You see, Rufus dearly loves books. Turning the pages of his favorite books is a joy to him but he needed to learn to read the words - that's what school is for.

I just love the expressive, colorful drawings that capture the drool expressions and depict the scenes so aptly. The illustrations will provide ample opportunity during read-aloud sessions to engage the child in discussions that will increase his/her attention to detail.

What is "in" this book? I see a deeper, underlying theme of discrimination. "No pigs allowed" because of a variety of reasons. This isn't addressed, but can be during read-aloud sessions when ultimately the discrimination is set aside because the real reason to go to school is to learn. This is the strong ending and no one is discriminated against learning.

I see the theme of "having things" as a qualifier for attending school given a backseat by the truth that school is for learning - Rufus wanted to learn to read the words in his beloved picture book.

I see the story ending on the high note of students enjoying all aspects of school.

It is BACK-TO-SCHOOL time and this would be a good read at home for the kids starting school, in school libraries for read-aloud sessions, and for shelving at libraries everywhere.

Another delightful "Rufus" book that Chat With Vera heartily recommends.

GIVEAWAY 

Begins July 20 & ENDS August 13 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 

 Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review and the opinions expressed are solely my own. I was not compensated for this review.

The Curiosity Keeper (Treasures of Surrey #1) by Sarah E. Ladd {Giveaway}

"It is not just a ruby, as you say. It is large as a quail's egg, still untouched and unpolished. And it is rumored to either bless or curse whoever possesses it."

Camille Iverness can take care of herself. She's done so since the day her mother abandoned the family and left Camille to run their shabby curiosity shop. But when a violent betrayal leaves her injured with no place to hide, Camille must allow a mysterious stranger to come to her aid.

Jonathan Gilchrist never wanted to inherit Kettering Hall. As a second son, he was content to work as the village apothecary. But when his brother's death made him heir just as his father's foolish decisions put the estate at risk, only the sale of a priceless possession---a ruby called the Bevoy---can save the family from ruin. But the gem has disappeared. And all trails lead to Iverness Curiosity Shop---and the beautiful shop girl who may be the answer to his many questions.

Caught at the intersection of blessings and curses, greed and deceit, these two determined souls must unite to protect what they hold dear. But when a passion that shines far brighter than any gem is ignited, they will have to decide how much they are willing to risk for their future, love, and happiness.

GIVEAWAY 

Begins July 17 & ENDS July 31 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 

 Open to USA addresses only.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
About the author: Sarah E. Ladd has more than ten years of marketing experience. She is a graduate of Ball State University and holds degrees in public relations and marketing. The Heiress of Winterwood was the recipient of the 2011 Genesis Award for historical romance and a finalist in the Debut Author category of the 2014 Carol Awards. The second book in the series, The Headmistress of Rosemere (2013), was on the ECPA best-seller list for several months.

Patterns of of Evidence: EXODUS (...important, significant, and stirring documentary film...) [Review & Giveaway]

About Patterns of Evidence Exodus: For more than 50 years, the vast majority of the world's most prominent archaeologists and historians have proclaimed that there is no hard evidence to support the Exodus story found in the Bible.  In fact, they say that the archaeological record is completely opposed to the Bible's account.  This view of extreme skepticism has spread from academia to the world.  The case against the Exodus appears to be so strong that even some religious leaders are labeling this ancient account as historical fiction.

Filmmaker Timothy Mahoney begins with the questions, "Is the Bible just a myth, or did the archaeologists get it wrong?"  He decides to tackle this issue wit a deliberate scientific approach.   After examining the details in the biblical text, he journeys across the globe to search for patterns of evidence firsthand.  The result is the most in-depth archaeological investigation into the Exodus from Egypt ever captured on film.   This scientific documentary's goal is to communicate the TRUTH of the Bible and help equip believers with defending their faith and the Bible.

The DVD features stunning animations and a cast including narrator, Kevin Sorbo (God's Not Dead, Hercules: The Legendary Journeys), interviews with leading archaeologists including Israel Finkelstein, Kent Weeks, and David Rohl, and guest appearances by Israel's Benjamin Netanyahu and Shimon Peres.

My thoughts: This is an absolutely awesome documentary film! First, I must disclose that 1) I am not a student of archaeology, 2) I am not a historian [but I love history], 3) I am a Christian, 4) I believe in the account of the Exodus as recorded in the Bible, and 5) I am not equipped to argue, discuss, or postulate on the differences in historical and Biblical records. Now all that being said, let's see what I thought of this documentary.

It is exceptionally well done and captured my attention right from the beginning. The filming is top quality. The exposure of both sides of the argument for an Exodus of the Israelis from Egypt well presented and fair. The comparison of timelines clearly demonstrated and understandable.

I am totally impressed with Timothy Mahoney's exploration of documents, sites, and interviews with professionals on both sides of the argument. I highly recommend this documentary for Christian schools, churches, homeschoolers, and individuals who wish to explore the Patterns of Evidence for the Exodus.

GIVEAWAY 

Begins July 17 & ENDS July 28 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 

 Open to USA & CANADA addresses only.

Only one entrant per mailing address, per giveaway. If you have won a prize from our sponsor Propeller / FlyBy Promotions in the last 30 days, you are not eligible to win. If you have won the same prize on another blog, you are not eligible to win it again. Winner is subject to eligibility verification.”
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Official Website to Purchase:  http://shop.patternsofevidence.com

"Disclosure (in accordance with the FTC’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”): Many thanks to Propeller Consulting, LLC for providing this prize for the giveaway. Choice of winners and opinions are 100% my own and NOT influenced by monetary compensation. I did receive a sample of the product in exchange for this review and post.

ALLY-SAURUS & THE FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL by Richard Torrey [Review & Giveaway]

Summer will be over before you can say "Jack Robin" or quick as a wink and before the leaves turn red and orange. Mom will be buying backpacks, pencils, crayons and all kinds of goodies and tools of the craft of being a student. And for that first-ever-in-school-child there will be talks and instructions and all kinds of fear-allaying techniques. 

Meet ALLY-SAURUS as she goes to her First Day of School.....

About the book: You can call her Ally-SAURUS! When Ally roars off to her first day at school, she hopes she'll meet lots of other dinosaur-mad kids in class. Instead, she's the only one chomping her food with fierce dino teeth and drawing dinosaurs on her nameplate. Even worse, a group of would-be "princesses" snubs her! Will Ally ever make new friends? With its humorous art, appealing heroine, and surprise ending, this fun picture book celebrates children's boundless imagination.

My thoughts: First a quick glance through the book at Richard Torrey's delightful drawings. He uses color sparsely and in just the right places. It emphasizes what is important in that drawing.

The children are sketched with lines for smiles and dots for eyes. And their teacher wears big, bug-eye glasses. There are lots of stripes  on kids in their shirts, dresses, and leggings. Typical of kids. And drawings that make kids comfortable because they, too, can draw dots for eyes and lines for smiles.

Ally loves dinosaurs and her vivid imagination - so typical of the young child - carries the dinosaur on her very person. She is Ally-Saurus and she goes to school for the first time.

She meets the other children and find they, too, have vivid imaginations and their imagination has made them princesses, pirates, astronauts and other creatures and persons. Some don't want a roaring dinosaur around them, but soon they all discover that friends understand that each likes different things.

I just love Ally-Saurus. She will find her way into your, and your child's, heart and will help you to help your child enter their own first day of school.

Let's meet the author:

1. What gave you the idea for Ally’s “Saurus” identity and its relationship to her first day of school?
   First of all, Ally-Saurus was originally going to be about a boy.  When my son was between the ages of 3 and 5 he often insisted that he was a giant black dog.  He would then rattle off a litany of specific characteristics that he (as the giant dog) had, including sharp teeth, claws, and a spiked collar.
   
   His description never varied, and if we ever interrupted him while reciting said attributes, he would have to start over—in case we had forgotten or missed one.  In other words, while this was his imagination at work here, he was quite serious about it.  Looking back on it, my wife and I concluded that he might have pretended to be this giant fearless dog to compensate for the fact that he was always the smallest child in any classroom he was in (he has Celiac Disease and before he was diagnosed and treated, was quite small).
2. I read a bit about your background and you began doodling as a child. Taking that talent to a professional level is amazing. Do you even feel you have lost your love of doodling and it has become a chore? 
   
   While I have never lost my love of doodling, I find that I don’t spend the same amount of time “just doodling”.  Because I now do it professionally, and due to the constraints of time, I rarely just pick up a piece of paper or a pad and just doodle. If I do, I almost reflexively become aware of the fact that I need to be perfecting a character’s look, or expanding on an idea I’m trying to develop, and invariably that doodle becomes something else…. something with a purpose behind it.  I’m not complaining, mind you.  I love it just the same.
3. What advice would you give aspiring illustrators and authors of children’s books?
   I would first ask them if they are really interested in creating children’s books or are they more focused on being able to hold that book up and say, “I DID THIS!”. 
   
   Those who will succeed are the one’s who are interested in the creative process.  It is fraught with rejection and disappointment, but if they stay positive, and learn from the rejections or the mistakes, they will, in the end, make it.  There is no one guaranteed path to success.  There is one guaranteed path to failure, and that is quitting.  As Richard Bach said, “A professional writer is an amateur who didn’t quit.”

Let's have some fun! Here is a link for downloadable activity sheets. These are sure to please. Word games, a maze, color, draw. Just sheer fun as a gift from Richard. CLICK HERE

GIVEAWAY

Begins July 16 & ENDS August 3 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT.

 Open to USA addresses only.
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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy to facilitate this review from Sterling Publishing. Opinions are mine, alone. I received no compensation. The giveaway copy is also provided by Sterling who will send it to the winner.

The quoting of Scripture in fictional works

When an author pursues the writing of a work of historical fiction, they typically do research into the era so that their writing is credible. The existing business enterprises and how they function in the community, the mode of dress, method of transportation, speech habits, etc. are all researched and presented in the text in an “authentic” manner so as to add believablity to fiction.

Fantasy and science fiction are a different product entirely and therein the author may take liberal license.

However, it is within the pages of historical fiction – particularly Christian historical fiction – that my question is raised:

“Why does an author of Christian historical fiction quote Scripture from modern translations?”

When writing about the 1850s, an author is not going to interpose a 1950s automobile complete with “fantails,” shinny chrome bumpers and trim, and racing along at 95 miles per hour. No! The mode of transportation will fit the 1850s.

Why then quote from the “Common English Bible” in an 1850s or 1900s novel? It simply is not appropriate. Even if the author prefers the Common English Bible for their own person reading and study, their fictional work should use the Bible that was predominantly in use during the period about which they write.

Can I have an “Amen!” on that one readers?

Beyond the Ashes (The Golden Gate Chronicles Series Book Two) by Karen Barnett [Review & Giveaway]

"Tis better to have loved and lost...," but can Ruby Marshall risk her heart a second time?

Where better to rebuild and face one's fears than in 1906 San Francisco, a city rising from the ashes? Ruby Marshall, a young widow, is certain she'll discover new purpose assisting her brother Robert with his cancer research, but she doesn't anticipate finding new love.

Dr. Gerald Larkspur dreams of filling his empty home with family, but he'd always hoped it would be a wife and children. In the aftermath of the great earthquake, the rooms are overflowing with extended family and friends left homeless by the disaster. When Robert's widowed sister arrives, the close quarters seem close indeed. Ruby and Gerald's fledgling romance is put at risk when Gerald develops symptoms of the very disease they're striving to cure. Together they must ask---is it worth a second chance at love when time might be short?

My thoughts: Just as life itself is a mixture of storylines, so Karen Barnett has woven a word picture in Beyond the Ashes of the continuation of life for a variety of characters in the months following the devastating earthquake and fire in San Francisco in the early 1900s. At any time period of history, such an earthquake and fire would level the playing field of the people whose lives are so torn and disrupted.

As medical professionals seek to visit the clinics, hospitals, and tent camps to care for the survivors they encounter the dark side of San Francisco that survived along with the children sick with contagious disease that often follows such devastation. Housing is in very short supply and Dr. "Gerald" has opened his home to his extended family and that of his co-worker, Dr. "Robert." 

Onto this scene, Robert's sister, Ruby, arrives to lend her support in earthquake recovery. She is a nurse and brings her skills to the task. Soon we see a blossoming romance between Ruby and Gerald. All is not well,even for earthquake torn San Francisco, and even the healers see intrusion of disease into their own lives.

Amidst these storylines of survival and romance, there is the 1900s research into the treatment and eradication of cancer as the two doctors pursue radiation for this purpose. I found it interesting to read the author's interpretation of hospital and clinic scenes during this period. Also, the inclusion of early cancer treatment held a special interest to me as my own grandfather died of brain cancer at a young age. He had three surgeries at Johns Hopkins Hospital in the early 1920s and died at the time of the third surgery. Whether they used radiation as a treatment option for him, I do not know. I just know that any treatment during that time was primitive at best.

I found that the book began a bit slow as the author had to lay the character foundations and set the scene for the reader. About a third of the way into the book, the story picked up and was more enjoyable. As I said, a romance blossomed and while a good clean read, there is a bit of kissing going on which some might find offensive in Christian fiction. I would say the book is suitable for highschool teens and adults. There are no teens in the book, so they might not find it interesting, anyway.

GIVEAWAY 

1 Copy of "Beyond the Ashes"
Begins July 10 & ENDS July 19 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. 
Open to USA addresses only.

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Read more reviews by clicking here

Meet the Author

Karen Barnett is the author of Mistaken and several articles that have been published by Guideposts and other national magazines. She lives in Albany, Oregon, with her husband, two children, and three cats. Find Karen online: website, Facebook,Twitter   DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy to facilitate this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I was not compensated for the review. Giveaway copy is provided by the publicists.