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!

It’s going to be okay: Group

How One Therapist and a Circle of Strangers Saved My Life

by Christie Tate

The guide in this memoir is an author with a unique and honest voice. While very accomplished, she has clearly had her struggles. In this memoir the reader observes Ms. Tate as she brings her issues to a therapy group and her rather unconventional therapist. As a result her life was changed.

This book has received mixed reviews. There are those who have given it five stars and others who have barely given it one. Having facilitated support groups as part of my career, I was intrigued to read about the author’s experience with her therapist and the other members of her group. I recommend that you take a look and decide for yourself. I am glad to have read it.

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

Recently published:

Louise Bourgeois

by Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara

#LouiseBourgeois #NetGalley

I adore the illustrations in this latest entry in the inspiring Little People, Big Dreams series. In this title, young readers get to meet Louise Bourgeois.

Young Louise learned the importance of art to her sense of well-being. It helped her in coping after her mother died and with her fears throughout her life.

As a student, Louise showed her work to Fernand Leger who encouraged her to become a sculptor. Readers find out that another art lover, an art history painter was interested in her…and they married.

It took many years for Louise’s talent to be recognized; she was 70 when the Museum of Modern Art showcased her works. So, readers will discover that it is important to persist and to keep to their vision of what they hope to achieve.

This is another excellent entry in this long running series. Get to know the “grandmother of modern art.”

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

From the publisher:

Louise Bourgeois (Little People, BIG DREAMS)

little people big dreamslittle people big dreamslittle people big dreams
One Christmas Day in Paris, a little girl was born. Her name was Louise. She was not the gift-wrapped boy her father had wanted her to be, but her mother loved her very much.Every day after school, Louise helped at the family tapestry studio, where huge pieces of fabric were dyed and sewn. Her mother asked her to help by filling-in a missing section of the tapestry. Here, Louise learnt how to draw legs and feet.

Out now:

Gobble, Gobble Murder

by Leslie Meier

#GobbleGobbleMurder #NetGalley

Leslie Meier has been chronicling the adventures of Lucy Stone since about 1991 so she is quite experienced at writing the light mysteries that her fans enjoy. The stories are set in Tinkers Cove which would be an idyllic spot were it not for the murders. This book contains two previously published novels.

In these novels, fall is in the air and Thanksgiving is approaching. In Turkey Day Murder an activist is killed while in Turkey Trot Murder a frozen corpse is found. Lucy can’t help but get involved.

Fans of cozy mysteries and those who enjoy the novels of Katherine Hall Page will I think enjoy this collection. There is the added bonus of enjoying time with Lucy’s family.

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

Start now: Daily Mindfulness

365 Exercises to Deepen Your Practice and Find Peace

by Benjamin W. Decker

#DailyMindfulness #NetGalley

There are many books on mindfulness out there. Yet, even in a crowded market, this one is worth a look. The author is experienced and knows what he wants to accomplish in this title.

He begins with a helpful introduction. Then comes something to contemplate for every day including affirmations, mantras, quotes, exercises and more. I enjoyed the diversity in the entries and having something to look at for each day.

If you are looking for an accessible mindfulness title with something to engage in each day, consider this book.

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

Let’s meet them: People who help us: At School

by words&pictures

#PeoplewhohelpusAtSchool #NetGalley

This short book offers a cheerful introduction to school. It depicts some of the fun activities that the youngest students will experience when they get there. The illustrations are bright, appealing and inclusive while the rhyming text should nicely engage young children. This book can help demystify school and help children to look forward to beginning their education.

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

Pub date: November 10, 2020

Recently published:

Good Morning, Farm

by Anita Bijsterbosch

#GoodMorningFarm #NetGalley

This sweet title is sure to appeal to toddlers. Its brightly colored illustrations will keep young listeners attention. The text is simple with the repetition that toddlers love. Children will watch as the animals welcome the day with each entry leading to the next by showing a small bit of the next animal. as a clue. This book offers a fun way to acquaint little ones with farm critters.

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

Now out:

Even More Fantastic Failures

True Stories of People Who Changed the World by Falling Down First

by Luke Reynolds

This is the second book that Luke Reynolds has written about “Fantastic Failures.” I gave the earlier title four stars observing
“This book, written by a seventh grade English teacher, is replete with the biographies of those who faced significant challenges in reaching their goals. Each entry starts with a fantasy description of how things went, before, more accurately, detailing the setbacks that were faced along the way. The author believes that it is important that young people focus, not on being perfect, but on risk taking and learning. He tells his own story of having been a poor student and then turning things around. The author offers comments to students suggesting coping mechanisms when they face challenges. This book is broad and expansive. It would be an excellent resource for students and school libraries.”
I stand by these earlier comments while noting that in the introduction to this title readers will learn about the author’s baseball experiences. The message remains the same. Some of those featured in this volume include Socrates, Emma Gonzales, Lin-Manuel Miranda, Joan of Arc along with many more. There are also sections called “The Flop Times” that are about people including Michael Phelp, Ta-Nehisi Coates and others. Some of the entries in these sections are also about groups as for example the U.S. Women’s Soccer Team.
This title is an inspiring resource that is written in a very readable style. I highly recommend it for elementary school aged children. The message of the book is so encouraging and hopefully will be welcomed by its readers.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.