Author: joycesmysteryandfictionbookreviews

I love to read, recommend books and open the world of reading to others. I tutor to ensure that the next generation of readers will know the joys of a good book because their reading skills have improved. I am an avid reader, especially of mysteries and fiction. I believe that two of the world's greatest inventions were the public library and eyeglasses!

Recently published:

Kindness Cards for Kids

52 Ways to Make Every Day a Little Better

by Nuanprang Snitbhan

#KindnessCardsforKids #NetGalley

The author of this deck for children begins by explaining what kindness is. It is distinguished from “being nice.” Kindness is described as having elements of compassion, empathy, courage and responsibility. The deck of included cards is then divided to represent each of these qualities. It is noted that some cards may be used more than once, some may be used right away, while others may require just the right time.

I think that these cards will work best with an adult’s encouragement and modeling. The directions are very easy to follow yet I think that it will help children to know that adults also need to practice kindness. Make it a game with a child you know. You will both benefit.

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

Now out:

How to Fly (In Ten Thousand Easy Lessons)

Poetry

by Barbara Kingsolver

#HowtoFlyInTenThousandEasyLessons #NetGalley

I have read and enjoyed novels by Barbara Kingsolver and so was both excited and intrigued to see that she was publishing a book of poems. I read about this volume in an interview with the author that said her poetry was personal and could not have been put out into the world earlier in her life.

The poems themselves cover many topics. The first section, aptly in view of the title of this collection, is all about how to…how to Have a Child, Cure Sweet Potatoes, Survive This and more. There are a number of other sections as well.

The poems can, of course, be read in any order. I loved many of them. There is a life wisdom that Ms. Kingsolver has acquired and shares; take part in it. Read this title.

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

The season is coming: Christmas on Reindeer Road

by Debbie Mason

#ChristmasonReindeerRoad #NetGalley

Readers who are fans of holiday stories with happy endings may well want to read this book. The romance between a widow and police chief is sure to appeal. The protagonists meet because of the trouble that Mallory’s stepchildren have landed in and the story goes from there. With the added bonus of the Christmas season, readers can relax and enjoy the novel secure in the knowledge that all will be well.

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

Recently published:

Nasla’s Dream

by Cecile Roumiguiere, Simone Rea

#NaslasDream #NetGalley

There is a time in a child’s life when they decide that they are too “grown up” for the stuffed animals that offered comfort at bedtime. Nasla has just made this declaration but…her world suddenly feels less safe. How will she get to sleep? This book with its nocturnal illustrations will answer that question.
I feel that the youngest children might be a little frightened as they hear this story. Slightly older children may enjoy it though, especially if it is served with a bit of reassurance and a good night kiss!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

Now out:

Sissinghurst: The Dream Garden

by Tim Richardson

#SissinghurstTheDreamGarden #NetGalley

Garden lovers will rejoice in this title about a very well known and gorgeous English garden.  After an informative forward and introduction, the book is organized according to the varied sections of the extensive plantings.  The text is interesting and the photos invite readers right in.  I very much enjoyed my armchair time in the peaceful nature of this beautiful place. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this beautiful book in exchange for an honest review.  I plan to purchase the book when it comes out so that I can enjoy it in its physical form.

The Friendship Poems of Rumi

Translated by Nader Khalili

by Rumi

#TheFriendshipPoemsofRumi #NetGalley

If you are not familiar with Rumi, you may want to get to know his writings. Rumi lived in the 1200s but so much of what he wrote resonates today.

In this collection, readers can find Rumi’s views on life, friendship and relationships. The book is illustrated with patterned borders, perhaps reflecting Rumi’s religious beliefs.

I recommend the writings of Rumi. It may take a minute to acclimate to his voice but readers will be left with something to ponder.

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

Return to Gilead: Jack by Marilynne Robinson

Marilynne Robinson is a writer who cannot be rushed and the result shows in her beautiful novels. Gilead, the first novel to feature some of the characters in this newest book, was published in 2004. That was followed by Home in 2008, Lila in 2014, and now Jack.

Jack is the “bad boy” of the novels and the one to be featured in this one. The novel follows him as he tries to live his life. In part, the novel tells the story of Jack’s complex relationship with the Black woman with whom he falls in love. Given the historical time period of the novel, readers can be sure that this will be challenging.

Readers of Ms. Robinson’s novels will undoubtedly welcome this novel. However, I think that Jack could be read and would make an impression on readers, even if they have not read the earlier books. They may well want to go back to them though.

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

Now out:

The Environment

Explore, create and investigate!

by Jonathan Litton

#TheEnvironment #NetGalley

This cheerfully illustrated title provides a good introduction to the environment for grade school readers. They will learn what the environment is, and then about endangered species, greenhouse gases, how to limit a carbon footprint and more. Children will also be invited to complete projects including making your own microhabitats and making a mini greenhouse. There are also some fun quizzes. This book provides a positive resource that will teach children to respect and preserve the world around them.

Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review. I highly recommend this engaging and thoughtful title.