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I have read many books in this author’s Scumble River series but this is the first that I have read in her newer series.  Winner Cake All is the third entry in Ms. Swanson’s Chef-to-Go series.  The chef is Dani and, as in many cozies, she finds herself investigating a murder as an amateur sleuth. In this entry Dani is organizing an engagement meal when a murder takes place.

If you are a reader who enjoys stories about food and amateur detectives, this book is worth a look.  Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title.  All opinions are my own.

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.

pub date:  September 22, 2020

Some variety here from mystery to literary fiction to spiritual wisdom.  Enjoy.

I always find that spending time with Melanie Travis, her pets, friends and family to be relaxing. I think that Laurien Berenson has a good sense of what cozy readers are looking for. She has likeable characters, decent plots and…the dogs!
In this entry in the long running series, the story takes place around Halloween. Melanie’s school colleague is accused of murder after an elderly man dies after eating sweets that she made. Readers can be certain that the case will be solved.
This 26th entry in the series is a fun seasonal mystery that can be read both by long time fans or new readers. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

This book opens by letting young children know that part of growing up is learning to recognize and manage emotions. The offer is extended to learn how to do this with some Sesame Street friends. What a good way to learn!

A mindfulness tip is given for every day situations, for example, falling asleep. The behavior is described then modeled by a Sesame Street character and then the child is invited to try. In the sleep scene, it is suggested that the child say good night to each part of their body working upwards from the toes. In another, milk is spilled and rather than feeling bad, Cookie Monster and children are invited to use positive self-talk. There are a number of additional situations packed into this short title.

This book is appealing and helpful. I recommend it for young children and a trusted adult to share together. It could also be used by early childhood educators.

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

pub date:  October 6, 2020

#CalmMonstersKindMonsters #NetGalley

Protagonist Hara likes Jane Austen.  The book opens with a quote from Pride and Prejudice and Hara listening to a Jane Austen audio book as she waits to visit her imprisoned father. Knowing that this novel is somewhat of a take on Pride and Prejudice, I found it interesting that in the opening scene Hara’s glasses are remarked upon several times.  I felt that the author was setting me up to know that the way in which Hara sees the world may be open to misinterpretation.  It left me thinking about the near sighted Helena in A Midsummer Night’s Dream.

During her visit to her father, Hara tells him that she won an important contest. She is off to Boston. Hara is going to be interviewing a famous basketball player.   This sets up everything that next happens in the novel as Hara gets to know him and a rookie player whose last name is Darcy.

I think that this book will be enjoyed by those who are looking for a bit of escapist reading.  Austen fans will enjoy the quotes that begin every chapter.

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

Mystery and light fiction along with the series on Alexander the Great and poet Elizabeth Alexander’s memoir.  Enjoy!

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.

Pub date:  October 20, 2020

The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn is a true classic and one that is described as a bit more complex than The Adventures of Tom Sawyer.  I read about Huck Finn and Jim many years ago and was delighted to revisit him through this audio recording.  The narration is very good and brings this title to life.  Listen to enjoy time with Huck either for the first or as a return to a well-known work.

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

Kabbalah has become popular among celebrities.  Because of this, many more have now heard of this Jewish tradition.  For those who are interested in understanding more about Kabbalah, this book is a very good starting point.  It covers the main concepts along with providing some history and ways to practice.  The author begins the book with the personal experiences that led to exposure to Kabbalah.  From there, in a readable style much information was provided.

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

#KabbalahforBeginners #NetGalley