Sherlock Holmes Puzzles: Lateral Brain Teasers

100 Challenging Cross-Fitness Brain Exercises

by Pierre Berloquin

The author of this puzzle book has been specializing in Sherlock Holmes related challenges. This one with lateral thinking puzzles offers 100 chances for readers to test their wits.

The book begins with a discussion of what lateral thinking is and then come the puzzles. They were a bit different for me as there was not always one clear solution. So, that has to be accepted in order to enjoy what follows. Let your inner Watson out and see how you do!

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title. All opinions are my own.

Quick CBT Skills to Find Calm

by Edmund J. Bourne and Lorna Garano

This title is part of a series that also includes Pocket Therapy for Emotional Balance and Pocket Therapy for Stress. One or all of these may be quite helpful to readers as they deal with our unique historical moment and their own personal challenges.

Following an introduction this book is divided into ten chapters that are filled with strategies for self-care. A few of the chapter headings include Relax Your Body, Face Your Fears, Get Regular Exercise and Your Anxiety Took Kit. A great deal is packed into this title’s under two hundred pages.

The book begins with a helpful introduction that describes the nature of anxiety and its various types. Readers will learn about everything from situational anxiety to panic attacks and the multi-factorial basis that may result in an individual’s anxiety. The included approaches to coping with anxiety come from a variety of clinical orientations including cognitive-behavioral therapy, mindfulness and more.

Following the introduction, the book moves to its individual chapters. The first chapter on the body offers a technique described as progressive muscle relaxation. There are many more approaches and tips that follow throughout this title.

This book appears to be an excellent resource on its topic. It will be welcomed by those in the mental health community along with individuals who are trying to live with the effects of the anxious state.

Note: the book is for self-help. Those needing medication are encouraged to consult with a mental health professional.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC All opinions are my own.

Pub date: November 1, 2020. This title will be available in both e book and book formats.

Sense and Sensibility, Emma, Persuasion

by Jane Austen

I am a reader who is very fond of the works of Jane Austen. I have read and reread her books always enjoying them and taking away something different each time. I have also listened to many of the novels.

This collection is narrated by Prunella Scales, a British actress. Her accent, voice and tone seem perfect for the works that are in this collection. There are three of Austen’s well-known novels here. Each features engaging characters and the keen observations of the author.

There is only one thing that I don’t love about this collection and that is that the books are abridged. Still, it is a wonderful omnibus for a quicker Jane Austen experience or for those who want an introduction and may follow up with the full narrations at a later date.

Many, many thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this enjoyable collection. All opinions are my own.

japan

CONNECTING YOU TO WONDERLANDS

by TAKASHI SATO

Until we can travel in real time, armchair travel is an escape. Anyone who has ever thought of visiting Japan will, I think, enjoy this title. The photographs are gorgeous, the book is well organized and it includes a good amount of detail. The author/photographer knows Japan well and is an excellent guide. I enjoyed the escape that the stunning photos provided.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this beautiful title. All opinions are my own.

H Is for Home

A Sesame Street ® Guide to Homes around the World

by Karen Latchana Kenney

Always a treat to be able to read more Mary Oliver. I liked The Whispers of War which I reviewed.

Frankie Comics

by Rachel Dukes

If you are have a cat or enjoy cats, you must get this book! The cartoons are so sweet and cat folks will recognize just how true the human/cat interactions are. I smiled over and over again as I made my way through this book; I don’t think that there is a higher recommendation than that.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

Winter with Lily & Milo

by Pauline Oud

Even though it is hot and humid today, winter will come. In this cutely illustrated story for toddlers, Milo and Lily enjoy some fun winter activities. The illustrations and text invite a child to become involved, for example, helping to decide what Lily and Milo could wear to go outside, and they will watch as Lily and Milo do things like make a snowman. All in all, a nice cold day for two friends.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.