Joyce's mystery and fiction book reviews with some non-fiction too!

In this picture book, a very tiny little girl explores in a house. For example, she is so little that she can ride in a toilet paper tube. She is having fun until…a big shadow looms. She is brave, finds out whose shadow it is and makes a friend.

This is a simple, cute book that those who feel small or afraid in their world may enjoy. The illustrations are a bit muted, fun and go well with the text.

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

A cook book, an historical novel by Moyes, a book from the always entertaining Susan Isaacs, a cookbook and more.  Happy reading.

This title offers lots of ways of expressing oneself.  After an introductions and chapters on materials and techniques, a umber of projects are detailed.  There are sections on Dot Grid Journaling, Junk Jornaling, Mixed Media Journaling and Travel Journaling.  The book ends with a section on DIY Accessoreis and Papers.  There are 52 projects in all.

The author presents a helpful list of materials to have on hand and suggestions for creative lettering for one’s journal pages. There are then colorful example of borders for one’s journal.  I had never heard of washi tape but see now how it can help to make beautiful, quick journal pages.

My own journal up until now has been quite utilitarian.  If yours is as well, perhaps you would like to experiment with adding an artistic statement to your writings, lists, and more.  The ideas in this book will definitely yield unique and colorful results.

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

This is a short picture book story that has sweet illustrations. It tells the story of Bear who loves Squirrel but is too shy to let Squirrel know directly. Instead, Bear leaves small gifts for Squirrel. Squirrel does not know who her secret admirer is. By the end of the book, the two make a connection. Children will be glad to see that they have gotten together.

This book is for young children who will relate to the the wish to be friends. It may read differently to older children who might not want to have someone whom they do not know reaching out to them anonymously. Still, for the age group of the book, I think that it may be well received.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this book in exchange for an honest review.

This book is a fantastic resource for elementary school students, especially girls, who are interested in science. Reading it either in order or at random, they will see all that women have accomplished despite formidable obstacles. Girls will realize that with curiosity and perseverance there is no limit to what they can accomplish.

The book begins with a helpful introduction on women in science. One fact that I learned, for example, was that, since women did not attend university until about 200 years ago, many women were educated in convents. The book goes on to look at scientists in many fields with entries that date all the way from 2700 b.c.e to current times. Adults will see names that they recognize along with many that may be new to them. Girls will read about physicians, astronomers, plant scientists, women in computing, environmentalists and more. There are women from many cultures and societies in this book which attempts to be diverse.

I wish that I had had a book like this when I was thinking about what I wanted to be when I grew up. It is expansive, well illustrated, easy to read and full of inspiring stories. By the way, this book is not only for girls. Boys will be inspired and also be reminded that girls are their equals.

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

Mrs. Miniver is a classic.  The Dupont Circle title looks interesting about people like the Roosevelts and the Dulles family.  Melissa Hill writes women’s fiction and this book is free.  Knitting Yarns has stories from writers about knitting in their lives.  I did not list them but there are also many James Patterson novels today.  I have not read his Alex Cross series.  Any opinions out there?

Horse lovers will enjoy this book with its lavish illustrations.  As the author notes, horses have served as working animals since ancient times.  They have also afforded much pleasure through disciplines including show jumping, dressage and cross country.  From large horses to ponies there are many breeds, each suited to its job and rider.

After a section on many aspects of horsemanship, including preparing for shows, the book goes on to show gorgeous photos of breeds, along with information about each horses’ features, uses, origin and distribution and more.  The book ends with photos of horses in action.

This is a lovely book for a horse lover, whether new to riding and interested in the breeds of horses. or a more knowledgeable reader who would enjoy spending more time with horses.

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

A take away message from this board book is that Muhammad Ali was “the greatest” both inside and outside of the boxing ring. The youngest listeners will learn about Ali’s decision to learn boxing and also his refusal to fight in a war. They will see that he also gave back by doing charitable work.

As is usual with this series, young readers and listeners will learn a bit about a well known person and what makes them someone to admire.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.

This book is part of the Little People, Big Dreams book series for the youngest children. The illustrations are very appealing; Stephen and those around him are cartoon like while the skies look very pretty. This short book tells the main facts of Stephen’s life including his illness.
Two quotes from the book: “But instead of looking down at his feet, Stephen decided to look up at the stars.” Another quote: No matter how difficult life may seem, there is always something you can succeed at.”
The message of this book is to not give up and to follow dreams old and or new. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for another entry in a wonderful series.

 

Lots to choose from here. I always enjoy reading Anne Lamott’s perspective on life.  The Vanished Bride got good reviews and is a mystery featuring the Brontes.  I am a fan of both Anne Perry and Donna Leon.  The Ann Patchett is an earlier novel of hers and one that I was glad that I read.  Jill Mansell is for when you want froth. And of course, there is also an Agatha Christie.  Let me know if you find something that you like.

This title is a lovely resource for travelers both virtual and real.  Iconic locations from each featured city are highlighted.  For New York, it is the Empire State building.  For Beijing readers see the Forbidden City while in Venice, we view St. Mark’s Basilica and in Paris, Notre Dame.  Then there is Christ the Redeemer in Rio, Tower Bridge in London and Senso-ji Temple in Tokyo.  If these locations intrigue you, this book will be a delight.

For each featured city, there is a spread with a map, key facts and then an essay.  This is followed by a detailed look at the featured building.  Throughout there are many photos of each of these amazing metropolises.

This book would be a great addition to the travel library of someone you know.  Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this title in exchange for an honest review.