Showing posts with label Nonfiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Nonfiction. Show all posts

πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds, by John Fugelsang

Separation of Church and Hate: A Sane Person's Guide to Taking Back the Bible from Fundamentalists, Fascists, and Flock-Fleecing Frauds If you're feeling overwhelmed by the divisive atmosphere in our nation, tired of the endless stream of confusing rhetoric, or even if you're convinced that the current events in the United States are straight out of the bible, then you MUST READ THIS BOOK NOW! Everyone across the political spectrum - from both sides of the aisle - would benefit from this book.

@johnfugelsang has crafted an in-depth - albeit sometimes slightly irreverent - exploration of the true motives behind the actions of today’s administration. Are these actions aligned with true Christian principles? You’ll have to dive in to this book to fully understand. It’s penned by a comedian whose unique perspective comes from being the son of a former Catholic nun and a Franciscan brother, so you’ll certainly gain a whole new perspective by reading it!

I WHOLEHEARTEDLY RECOMMEND this book to both believers and non-believers alike! It’s a fantastic resource to help you navigate the tumultuous times we’re facing.

Read 6/1/26
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Agents of Change: The Women Who Transformed the CIA

Agents of Change: The Women Who Transformed the CIA
I have to say: there are some badass women in this world, and Christina Hillsberg is definitely one of them! Especially in this day and age, any books that document the plight of women in traditionally male-dominated fields are so important! Ms. Hillberg has done a fantastic job recounting the stories of the pioneering women who faced countless challenges and hardships while pursuing their dreams in these high-stakes careers. What's more is that they were unknowingly blazing the trail for others to follow, inspiring them to reach even greater heights!

The book is organized decade by decade, beginning in the 1960s, and highlights various women and their powerful stories along the way. The timeline traces the progress of the agency with respect to the treatment and acceptance of women.

Overall, these real-life accounts are gripping, and I must admit that it blows my mind how courageous these women are!!!

Many thanks to partners, Kaye Publicity and Kensington Books for this gifted review copy!

Read 7/21/25
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Propaganda Girls: The Secret War of the Women in the OSS, by Lisa Rogak

Propaganda Girls: The Secret War of the Women in the OSS
I love that more and more stories are coming out about the integral role women played in the outcome of WWII. This particular book, by celebrated author Lisa Rogak, pays tribute to four brave and forward-thinking women, all of whom contributed immeasurably to the war campaign. As members of the OSS, Betty MacDonald, Zuzka Lauwers, Jane Smith-Hutton, and Marlene Dietrich developed secret black propaganda aiming to break Axis soldier's morale by discrediting the Reich.

Ms. Rogak does a tremendous job in describing these gallant women's backgrounds and efforts in striking detail. As opposed to some nonfiction accounts, this one held my attention from the first page. In a time when women and minorities' voices are being silenced and erased, this novel brings to light the incredible contributions that ALL people can bring to the table.

Many thanks to partner, @stmartinspress for this 5-star gifted novel! I enjoyed learning about so much of this unknown history!

Read 4/1/25
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Wired and Connected: Brain-Based Solutions To Ensure Your Child’s Social and Emotional Success, by Craig A. Knippenberg

Wired and Connected: Brain-Based Solutions To Ensure Your Child’s Social and Emotional Success

I'm always up for a good scientifically-based parenting book. π‘Šπ‘–π‘Ÿπ‘’π‘‘ π‘Žπ‘›π‘‘ πΆπ‘œπ‘›π‘›π‘’π‘π‘‘π‘’π‘‘ is a great how-to manual that explains the best way to maximize children's brain potential socially, emotionally, and academically. This book addresses all of those important factors while using metaphors and stories to make it palatable for both adults and children.

With the understanding that "one philosophy of parenting or teaching does not fit all," Mr. Knippenberg simplifies three brain areas: the frontal lobe (the President), the limbic system (the Factory), and the mirror neuron system (Mirror) in an effort to help your understand the best way to help your child thrive.

Put your thinking cap on and pick up this book if you want to enjoy some Aha moments with regard to your children's behavior! Let's raise some resilient kiddos together!

I'm so grateful to Roger Charlie for sharing this very educational book with me!

Read 10/14/24
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy, by Tia Levings

A Well-Trained Wife: My Escape from Christian Patriarchy
There are some books I read that I just want to skywrite the importance of. Tia Levings has bared her soul in this unputdownable memoir filled with heart, grit, and jaw-dropping courage. Being part of the homeschool community, but not having made the choice for religious reasons, I have been caught off guard a few times by brow-raising comments from homeschool moms. Some have admitted they can only vote for whomever the husband decides, that they have to get approval for homeschool curriculum from their husbands even though they are the primary teacher, and that they did not want to have a gaggle of children, but it wasn't their choice. I have been told that the husband is the only one who is able lead the family to heaven, that they must tolerate their husband's cruelty because divorce is not an option, and that the bible says they should be submissive to their spouse under any and all circumstances. Many of these comments have left me scratching my head, but it wasn't until I read this eye-opening book that I realized that many of these women have no choice in these matters. Not only have they been raised in this belief system, but these realities are also a closely guarded secret that many never reveal. This book shines light on the fact that many ultra-conservative Christian women are in an abusive situation that they cannot escape and includes some horrific details that absolutely broke my heart. It angers me to no end when people hide behind their religion, but to use religion in such a perverse way that excuses domestic violence is evil on another level. I have been a Christian all my life, but I refuse to accept that Christ would ever sanction abuse in any form, especially within the family unit.

This book sheds light on religious extremism and how it can infiltrate family life, communities, and even politics. Tia Levings I am in awe of you for speaking outπŸ™πŸΌ.

Many thanks to partners, St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for this gifted review copy.

Read 8/13/24

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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: The New Menopause: Navigating Your Path Through Hormonal Change with Purpose, Power, and Facts, by Maty Claire Haver, MD

The New Menopause: Navigating Your Path Through Hormonal Change with Purpose, Power, and Facts l
I have been a big fan of Dr. Mary Claire since my dear book club friend began following the Galveston Diet program. I appreciated the common sense approach to her proposed lifestyle changes and her focus on the reduction of inflammation, so I followed suit. Fast forward two years, and yes, ladies and gents, my body has had a mind of its own lately. Looks like perimenopause is on the horizon, and I certainly 
do not want to be caught unawares. So, when I was given the opportunity to read this wise woman's upcoming release, I was all over it! Plus, she's an ObGyn here in the Houston area, so that makes it all the more accessible!

This book is CHOCK-FULL of important information to navigate the inevitable changes in our bodies as we age. Dr. Haver is clear and concise, with patience and womanly intuition that makes all the difference in a female doctor.

I love how the book is split into 2 parts: Part One is The Story of Menopausal Medicine, explaining its history (or lack thereof) and the current trend to normalize this shift and make it comfortable for us women folk. Part Two goes into the specific symptoms that come along with this shift in hormones and the best strategies to deal with each concern. Each section is detailed and gives readers a precise plan of action to navigate some of the discomforts of this huge transition.

Dr. Haver is a visionary in the field of obstetrics and gynecology, and she is forging a new path for women of a certain age to be able to have more control and direction in their choices as it relates to their own body's shift. Her commitment to putting the power in our hands is refreshing, and I highly recommend this book to women, their friends, and family members.

As the good doctor says, "𝑴𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒑𝒂𝒖𝒔𝒆 π’Šπ’” π’Šπ’π’†π’—π’Šπ’•π’‚π’ƒπ’π’†; π’”π’–π’‡π’‡π’†π’“π’Šπ’π’ˆ π’Šπ’” 𝒏𝒐𝒕."

WE'VE GOT THIS, THANKS TO DR. MARY CLAIRE HAVER!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Random House for this gifted review copy.

Read 5/1/24
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: How to Stand Up to a Dictator, by Maria Ressa

How to Stand Up to a Dictator
"𝑾𝒆 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 π’π’‚π’–π’ˆπ’‰π’Šπ’π’ˆ 𝒂𝒕 π’Žπ’†π’Žπ’†π’” 𝒂𝒏𝒅 π’‡π’π’“π’ˆπ’†π’•π’•π’Šπ’π’ˆ 𝒐𝒖𝒓 π’‰π’Šπ’”π’•π’π’“π’š. 𝑬𝒗𝒆𝒏 𝒐𝒖𝒓 π’ƒπ’Šπ’π’π’π’ˆπ’š, 𝒐𝒖𝒓 π’ƒπ’“π’‚π’Šπ’π’” 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒕𝒔, 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒃𝒆𝒆𝒏 π’”π’šπ’”π’•π’†π’Žπ’‚π’•π’Šπ’„π’‚π’π’π’š 𝒂𝒏𝒅 π’Šπ’π’”π’Šπ’…π’Šπ’π’–π’”π’π’š π’‚π’•π’•π’‚π’„π’Œπ’†π’… π’ƒπ’š 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’•π’†π’„π’‰π’π’π’π’π’ˆπ’š 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 π’…π’†π’π’Šπ’—π’†π’“π’” 𝒐𝒖𝒓 π’π’†π’˜π’” 𝒂𝒏𝒅 π’‘π’“π’Šπ’π’“π’Šπ’•π’Šπ’›π’†π’” 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’…π’Šπ’”π’•π’“π’Šπ’ƒπ’–π’•π’Šπ’π’ 𝒐𝒇 π’π’Šπ’†π’” 𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒇𝒂𝒄𝒕𝒔, π’ƒπ’š π’…π’†π’”π’Šπ’ˆπ’."

Wow. This book.

"π‘­π’“π’†π’†π’…π’π’Ž 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒆𝒄𝒉 𝒅𝒐𝒆𝒔 𝒏𝒐𝒕 π’Žπ’†π’‚π’ π’π’Šπ’„π’†π’π’”π’† 𝒕𝒐 π’”π’Žπ’†π’‚π’“ π’“π’†π’‘π’–π’•π’‚π’•π’Šπ’π’ 𝒂𝒏𝒅 π’“π’–π’Šπ’ π’„π’“π’†π’…π’Šπ’ƒπ’Šπ’π’Šπ’•π’š. π‘­π’“π’†π’†π’…π’π’Ž 𝒐𝒇 𝒔𝒑𝒆𝒆𝒄𝒉 π’Šπ’” 𝒂 π’“π’†π’„π’π’ˆπ’π’Šπ’•π’Šπ’π’ 𝒐𝒇 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’“π’Šπ’ˆπ’‰π’• 𝒐𝒇 π’‚π’π’šπ’π’π’† 𝒕𝒐 π’”π’‘π’†π’‚π’Œ π’‰π’Šπ’” 𝒐𝒓 𝒉𝒆𝒓 π’Žπ’Šπ’π’… 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒆𝒙𝒑𝒓𝒆𝒔𝒔 𝒂 π’„π’π’π’•π’“π’‚π’“π’š π’—π’Šπ’†π’˜ π’˜π’Šπ’•π’‰π’π’–π’• π’ƒπ’†π’Šπ’π’ˆ π’π’ƒπ’‹π’†π’„π’•π’Šπ’π’π’‚π’ƒπ’π’†."

If your democracy is important to you, if you think you know everything there is to know about our current political state, and if you can remain open-minded enough to take in this important information, pick up this book NOW. This is a cautionary tale from someone who has lived through the worst, first-hand. There is just so much to learn from this nobel peace prize-winning journalist, Maria Ressa.

"π‘¬π’—π’†π’“π’šπ’˜π’‰π’†π’“π’† π’Šπ’ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’˜π’π’“π’π’…, π’”π’π’„π’Šπ’†π’•π’Šπ’†π’” 𝒂𝒓𝒆 π’ƒπ’†π’Šπ’π’ˆ 𝒇𝒆𝒅 𝒂 π’”π’•π’†π’‚π’…π’š π’…π’Šπ’†π’• 𝒐𝒇 π’π’π’π’Šπ’π’† π’—π’Šπ’π’π’†π’π’„π’†, 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒔 π’Šπ’π’•π’ 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒍-π’˜π’π’“π’π’… π’—π’Šπ’π’π’†π’π’„π’†. π‘½π’†π’“π’”π’Šπ’π’π’” 𝒐𝒇 π’˜π’‰π’Šπ’•π’† π’“π’†π’‘π’π’‚π’„π’†π’Žπ’†π’π’• π’•π’‰π’†π’π’“π’š 𝒂𝒓𝒆 π’”π’‘π’‚π’“π’Œπ’Šπ’π’ˆ π’Žπ’‚π’”π’” π’”π’‰π’π’π’•π’Šπ’π’ˆπ’” π’‡π’“π’π’Ž π‘΅π’π’“π’˜π’‚π’š 𝒕𝒐 π‘΅π’†π’˜ 𝒁𝒆𝒂𝒍𝒂𝒏𝒅, 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π‘Όπ’π’Šπ’•π’†π’… 𝑺𝒕𝒂𝒕𝒆𝒔, π’‘π’π’˜π’†π’“π’Šπ’π’ˆ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’“π’Šπ’”π’† 𝒐𝒇 𝒖𝒔 π’‚π’ˆπ’‚π’Šπ’π’”π’• π’•π’‰π’†π’Ž, 𝒐𝒓, π’Šπ’ 𝒂 π’˜π’π’“π’…, π’‡π’‚π’”π’„π’Šπ’”π’Ž. π‘»π’‰π’Šπ’” π’Šπ’” π’‚π’π’ˆπ’†π’“ 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒕𝒓𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒂𝒍𝒆𝒔𝒄𝒆 π’Šπ’π’•π’ π’π’–π’•π’“π’‚π’ˆπ’†, 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒏 𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒏𝒔 π’Šπ’π’•π’ π’Žπ’π’ƒ 𝒓𝒖𝒍𝒆."

Read 12/27/23
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Flee North: A Forgotten Hero and the Fight for Freedom in Slavery's Borderland, by Scott Shane

Flee North: A Forgotten Hero and the Fight for Freedom in Slavery's Borderland
Scott Shane has written an informative, intellectual account of Thomas Smallwood, a free black man, who partnered with Charles Torrey, a white abolitionist, to help slaves escape their bondage. This non-fiction historical book is full of factual information and sheds light on a lot of lore surrounding the Underground Railroad and how so many were escorted to freedom in the north.

If you're a history buff or just purely in awe of this history and amazing change makers like I am, pick this one up today!

Many thanks to Celadon Books and NetGalley for this informative book!

Read 11/1/23
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Chasing Alexander: A Marine's Journey Across Iraq and Afghanistan, by Christopher Martin

Chasing Alexander: A Marine's Journey Across Iraq and Afghanistan
This book was a play by play of the author's experience joining the military, enduring boot camp, learning of his deployment, and then withstanding the chaos of war. It is very detailed and comes across as an old friend telling the reader a story about his experience as a marine. It is all at once fascinating and horrifying, fast-paced and drawn-out. I definitely learned a ton about the life of a marine, and truly appreciated receiving a quick education on what these men and women go through for our freedom and security.

I also thought it was a novel idea to include a snippet of the history of Alexander the Great as an intro to each of his chapters.

My gratitude knows no bounds for these incredible individuals. THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR ALL YOU DO FOR US!!!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Notional Books for sharing this very important and informative memoir.

Read 10/14/23
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer: Lessons From the Healthiest Places on Earth, by Dan Buettner

The Blue Zones Secrets for Living Longer: Lessons From the Healthiest Places on Earth
What a book! Even if it weren't packed with fascinating information about Blue Zones (longevity hot spots around the world) and the secrets of these people's long lives, I would buy it for the gorgeous photos alone!

I was intrigued by so many details in this book, but took away the fact that these people, whom live extraordinarily long lives, don't set out to "live longer," "eat healthier," or "lose weight"; instead, their way of life and environment lends itself to natural longevity. This newfound knowledge was backed with proof from projects in our own backyard that Dan Buettner spearheaded. The concept was to bring a healthier way of life to Americans in multiple cities across the US, and the effects were extraordinary!

I also appreciated the focus on the importance of family with respect to longevity. Time and again, it shows that people who feel loved and appreciated ALL their lives, prosper.

Thrown in are some yummy recipes, so that made me really happyπŸ˜‹! You'll have to pick up a copy to learn about some of the superfoods that most of these Bluezone diets have in common!

Most exciting is that Netflix just debuted this 4-part series tomorrow! Don't miss it! I'm a big proponent of healthy lifestyle books, and this one is truly unique!

Read 8/29/23
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Birdgirl, by Mya-Rose Craig

Birdgirl
I always love to tout books that highlight the importance of saving our environment, not only for the benefit of the human race, but also for the rest of this world's inhabitants. Mya-Rose Craig has written her story in these pages - a personal story "uplifted" by the birds she has found on all seven continents she has visited, and a story about the effect climate change is having on these special feathered creatures.

This young environmental activist includes personal stories about her upbringing, including her mother's battle with mental illness. It is a detailed account of her life and the guidance she has received along the way.

I would say this book is best suited for birdwatchers and environmentalists. There are many technical details of birdwatching included in these pages that would appeal to those whose hobby or passion includes naturalism.

I must also add how impressed I am by this young lady's wisdom at such a young age. And she's only just getting started. Watch out, world - Birdgirl is here!

Many thanks to Celadon Books for this enlightening book.

Read 5/29/23
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Black Skinhead: Reflections on Blackness and Our Political Future, by Brandi Collins-Dexter

Black Skinhead: Reflections on Blackness and Our Political Future
What an insightful, informative, and engaging book. I can't tell you the number of "aha moments" I had while reading this book. @brandingbrandi did an exemplary job of presenting facts that allow readers to step outside their own political understanding while showing the reality of black voters and their circumstances.

"π‘©π’š 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’•π’Šπ’Žπ’† 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 π’ˆπ’†π’• π’Šπ’π’•π’ 𝒂𝒅𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒐𝒅, π’•π’‰π’†π’š π’ƒπ’†π’ˆπ’Šπ’ 𝒕𝒐 𝒔𝒆𝒕𝒕𝒍𝒆 π’Šπ’π’•π’ 𝒂 π’‘π’†π’“π’Žπ’‚π’π’†π’π’• π’”π’π’„π’Šπ’‚π’ π’„π’Šπ’“π’„π’π’† 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕'𝒔 π’Žπ’π’“π’† π’‰π’π’Žπ’π’ˆπ’†π’π’†π’π’–π’”. 𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒅𝒂𝒕𝒂 π’‘π’π’Šπ’π’• π’Žπ’†π’‚π’π’” π’Žπ’π’”π’• 𝒐𝒇 π’˜π’‰π’‚π’• 𝒏𝒐𝒏-π’ƒπ’π’‚π’„π’Œ 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 π’ƒπ’π’‚π’„π’Œ 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒕𝒆𝒏𝒅𝒔 𝒕𝒐 π’„π’π’Žπ’† π’‡π’“π’π’Ž π’‰π’π’˜ π’ƒπ’π’‚π’„π’Œ 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆 𝒂𝒓𝒆 π’”π’‰π’π’˜π’ π’Šπ’ 𝒄𝒖𝒍𝒕𝒖𝒓𝒂𝒍 𝒑𝒓𝒐𝒅𝒖𝒄𝒕𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 π’‰π’π’˜ π’•π’‰π’†π’š 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒔𝒆𝒆𝒏 π’Šπ’ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’Žπ’†π’…π’Šπ’‚."

Although I am constantly learning and open to new information when it comes to the black experience in our nation, I learned that I STILL have preconceived notions about black voters. Prior to reading this book, I just could NOT comprehend the likes of those such as Kanye West and Candace Owens. Enter Ms. Collins-Dexter, & I get it now.

"𝑢𝒗𝒆𝒓 π’•π’Šπ’Žπ’† 𝑰 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒍𝒆𝒂𝒓𝒏𝒆𝒅 𝒕𝒐 𝒖𝒏𝒅𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒕𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’‘π’π’˜π’†π’“ 𝒐𝒇 π’”π’•π’π’“π’š: 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 π’˜π’† 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒖𝒓𝒔𝒆𝒍𝒗𝒆𝒔, 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 π’˜π’† 𝒕𝒆𝒍𝒍 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒔, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒐𝒏𝒆𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒐𝒍𝒅 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒖𝒔."

And boy, do we get those stories delivered incorrectly all too often. I appreciate the author's willingness to be real with us; if readers can be open to this book's wealth of information about a social circle outside our own, we will be all the better for it.

Many thanks to @celadonbooks for this #gifted review copy!

Read 3/22/23
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Birnbaum's 2023 Walt Disney World, by Birnbaum Guides

Birnbaum's 2023 Walt Disney World

I can't thank partners, TLC Book Tours and Disney Books enough for this awesome review copy! Y'all know I did the HAPPIEST PLACE ON EARTH DANCE as soon as I received itπŸ’ƒ!!!

We are big fans of Birnbaum's Guides and have bought several over the years. Packed with helpful information, this guide is the gold standard for Disney vacation planning handbooks. It has everything you could imagine from accommodations and transportation to how to get the most out of each park. It also describes sports and recreation around the parks and where to find the best meals! The full-color pages are incredibly well organized and have maps of the properties to boot. It even includes coupons at end of the book, so it's absolutely worth every cent!

So if Disney World is in your future, don't hesitate to pick up one of these super helpful guides! And feel free to DM me with any questions - we're unabashedly seasoned Disney travelers!

Read 10/20/22
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Poster Art of the Disney Parks, Second Edition, by Vanessa Hunt & Danny Handke

Poster Art of the Disney Parks, Second Edition
Most of y'all know what a HUGE Disney fan I am! So you can imagine what a joy it was to receive this gorgeous deluxe edition from TLC Book Tours and Disney Books - thanks a TON generous partners!!!

I REALLY wanted to bring this awesome updated second edition along on our trip to Disney World this past weekend to get some great shots, but this this big boy is worth its weight in gold and I didn't want to damage it in my luggage, to be quite honest!

This 12X14 book is perfect for your coffee table - definitely a great conversation piece. It would also make an awesome gift for any Disney fan! The full-color pages include 85 new posters along with behind-the-scenes information about their creation.

Anything Disney-related gets ALL the stars from me, especially when it includes some history and amazing photos!

Kudos to Vanessa Hunt and Danny Handke for this awesome compilation!

Read: 10/11/22
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: A Story of Karma: Finding Love and Truth in the Lost Valley of the Himalaya, by Michael Schauch

A Story of Karma: Finding Love and Truth in the Lost Valley of the Himalaya
You'd think I'd learn from previous experience & stay away from travel memoirs, but I'm so glad I gave this one a chance! Michael Schauch wrote a heartfelt, honest book filled with insight and lessons that was in no way self-centered or arrogant. His experience came from a place of empathy for others and moved away from being a self-serving adventure to a humble display of generosity.

With an awareness of the importance indigenous wisdom:

"It is strange that we speak with such a sense of sorrow about the disappearance of so many animal and plant species on our planet, while seeming indifferent to the danger that, in our lifetime, we are at risk of seeing half of the world's cultures disappear, and with them their languages, thoughts, stories, and legacies."

And an understanding of our blessings as North Americans in contrast with the experience of children from poor countries:

"We in the West remain ignorant of how fortunate we are. Our children are taught to dream as big as they want. That anything can be accomplished."

Along with the recognition of differences in what we teach our children vs. what he witnessed in the Himalayan villages:

"competition vs. collaboration, individuality vs. community, pride vs. humility, judgment vs. empathy, and learning how to get more vs. learning how to let go."

Mr. Schauch reveals the depth of character that he and his wife have. The fact that they took it upon themselves to enrich these little girls' lives, expecting nothing in return, speaks to their compassion.

The lessons within these pages are ones that we can all learn from & I'm grateful for the reminder of our privilege.

Many thanks to @mikeschauch for gifting me with this copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 3/24/22
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive, by Stephanie Land

Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother's Will to Survive

πŸ“ΊI read this eye-opening memoir back in early October on the heels of watching the award-winning Netflix series. Booksparks was kind enough to include me in their fabulous pre-screening, after which we were able to watch a live conversation between the author, Stephanie Land, the producers, and the lead actress Margaret Qualley.

πŸ™ˆIn an unusual departure from my norm, I actually watched the show before I read the book... don't @ me for breaking this unwritten bookworm rule, but man was the show AMAZING!!! I highly recommend it for a Netflix binge! It gave me great empathy for women who are victims of domestic violence and opened my eyes to the harsh realities that these women face in trying to work their way out of their situations.

😒Of course, the incredible Netflix series could not have been possible without this heartbreaking, yet redemptive memoir by Stephanie Land. It is an enlightening look into the world of the working poor, and the ways in which society undermines their progress at every turn. On that note, I should mention that the book and Netflix series are quite different.

Read 10/7/21
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Chill Out and Cheer Up: A Ten-Step Guide

Chill Out and Cheer Up: A Ten-Step Guide
My It is such a joy to share this little gem of positivity with you this holiday season on this #selfcaresunday . I read it at just the right time, during the Holiday chaos and stress, when I just can't even catch my breath. Well, Grace Grossmann is here to remind us that the chaos and stress is manageable and even avoidable with the right mindset. With an abundance of wisdom, and no lack of experience in life's blows, Grace's self-published self-help book is brimming with concrete self-care ideas.

Although many of her ideas are not necessarily new, it is such a great reminder on how to bring positivity into our lives. I appreciated the highlighted and bolded information which gives each chapter focal points. The well-thought-out exercises in between to guide you through the concepts is also helpful. I thought of how much my young adult daughters could benefit from this approach to stress reduction and doubt deflection. I also love her focus on children as guides for how we should approach certain things in this life.

There is a smattering of scripture as you read, as well as some fun celebrity quotes. I should also mention that there is some colorful languageπŸ™‰.

So, in the spirit of the season, take advice from a snowman or in this case, the author: Chill Out and Cheer Up☃️!

Many thanks to Grace Grossman for gifting me with this copy in exchange for an honest review.

Read 12/6/21
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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Dude Perfect 101 Tricks, Tips, and Cool Stuff, by Dude Perfect

Dude Perfect 101 Tricks, Tips, and Cool Stuff
Get ready for some serious family fun with this 𝑭𝑨𝑡𝑻𝑨𝑺𝑻𝑰π‘ͺ hardcover, full-color, photo-filled edition of Dude Perfect. It is truly a π™œπ™€π™§π™œπ™šπ™€π™ͺ𝙨 book.

Aside from its aesthetic qualities, it has some great content too! My 11-year-old just can't get enough - he's been reading it daily since we got it a couple weeks ago!

The book is filled with games, how-tos, fun facts, science info., and behind-the-scenes insight! And there's plenty of fun family-friendly things to try as well! I was excited to learn that they're fellow Texans to boot!

"𝐴𝑑 𝐷𝑒𝑑𝑒 π‘ƒπ‘’π‘Ÿπ‘“π‘’π‘π‘‘, 𝑀𝑒 π‘‘π‘œ π‘’π‘£π‘’π‘Ÿπ‘¦π‘‘β„Žπ‘–π‘›π‘” 𝑀𝑒 π‘π‘Žπ‘› π‘‘π‘œ π‘π‘Ÿπ‘–π‘›π‘” π‘“π‘Žπ‘šπ‘–π‘™π‘–π‘’π‘  π‘π‘™π‘œπ‘ π‘’π‘Ÿ π‘‘π‘œπ‘”π‘’π‘‘β„Žπ‘’π‘Ÿ, π‘Žπ‘›π‘‘ π‘‘β„Žπ‘Žπ‘‘’𝑠 π‘€β„Žπ‘¦ 𝑀𝑒’π‘Ÿπ‘’ 𝑒π‘₯𝑐𝑖𝑑𝑒𝑑 π‘‘π‘œ π‘ β„Žπ‘Žπ‘Ÿπ‘’ π‘‘β„Žπ‘–π‘  π‘π‘œπ‘œπ‘˜ π‘€π‘–π‘‘β„Ž π‘¦π‘œπ‘’. 

πΈπ‘Žπ‘β„Ž π‘‘π‘Ÿπ‘–π‘π‘˜ 𝑖𝑛 𝐷𝑒𝑑𝑒 π‘ƒπ‘’π‘Ÿπ‘“π‘’π‘π‘‘ 101 π‘‡π‘Ÿπ‘–π‘π‘˜π‘ , 𝑇𝑖𝑝𝑠, π‘Žπ‘›π‘‘ πΆπ‘œπ‘œπ‘™ 𝑆𝑑𝑒𝑓𝑓 𝑖𝑠 π‘‘β„Žπ‘’ π‘π‘’π‘Ÿπ‘“π‘’π‘π‘‘ π‘π‘œπ‘šπ‘π‘–π‘›π‘Žπ‘‘π‘–π‘œπ‘› π‘œπ‘“ π‘β„Žπ‘Žπ‘™π‘™π‘’π‘›π‘”π‘–π‘›π‘” π‘Žπ‘›π‘‘ π‘‘π‘œπ‘Žπ‘π‘™π‘’ π‘‘π‘œ π‘˜π‘’π‘’π‘ π‘¦π‘œπ‘’π‘Ÿ π‘¦π‘œπ‘’π‘›π‘” π‘Ÿπ‘’π‘Žπ‘‘π‘’π‘Ÿ π‘œπ‘“π‘“-π‘ π‘π‘Ÿπ‘’π‘’π‘› π‘“π‘œπ‘Ÿ β„Žπ‘œπ‘’π‘Ÿπ‘ ."

Truly, this is the perfect Christmas gift for your tweens!

Many thanks to TLC Book Tours and Tommy Nelson Books for including me on this book tour and gifting me with this amazing hardcover!

Read 11/20/2021

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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: I Love You More Than Coffee: Essays on Parenthood, by Melissa Face

I Love You More Than Coffee: Essays on Parenthood


What a little treasure of an anthology Melissa Face has written. It is an honest, relatable, and humorous look at motherhood that may just give you that little bit of encouragement you need!

I loved the sweet stories she shared from her personal life as a mama that so many of us can easily relate to. If you're looking for a quick pick-me-up that you can read in a matter of a couple of hours, this is the one for you! And even if you're not a coffee drinker (like me), the sweet message in the title is universal... which leads me to my favorite part: the story of how Melissa came up with the title...

But alas, I can't give that up! You'll have to pick this one up to discover the delightful story for yourself and along the way you may just find several nuggets of wisdom...

"π‘ͺπ’‰π’Šπ’π’…π’‰π’π’π’…, 𝒂𝒏𝒅 π’π’Šπ’‡π’† π’Šπ’ π’ˆπ’†π’π’†π’“π’‚π’, 𝒑𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒇𝒂𝒓 𝒕𝒐𝒐 π’’π’–π’Šπ’„π’Œπ’π’š. 𝑰 𝒄𝒂𝒏'𝒕 π’˜π’‚π’”π’•π’† π’‚π’π’š π’Žπ’π’“π’† π’•π’Šπ’Žπ’† π’˜π’‚π’•π’„π’‰π’Šπ’π’ˆ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’ˆπ’“π’‚π’”π’” π’Šπ’ 𝒐𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒑𝒆𝒐𝒑𝒍𝒆'𝒔 π’šπ’‚π’“π’…π’”. 𝑰'π’Ž π’ˆπ’π’Šπ’π’ˆ 𝒕𝒐 π’…π’Šπ’ˆ 𝒅𝒆𝒆𝒑 π’Šπ’π’•π’ 𝒕𝒉𝒆 π’”π’π’Šπ’ 𝒐𝒇 π’Žπ’š π’π’Šπ’‡π’† - 𝒂𝒏𝒅 π’ƒπ’π’π’π’Ž."

Many thanks to Melissa Face for gifting me with this charming little gem in exchange for an honest review!

Read: 10/11/21

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πŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘ΆπŸ‘Ά: Three Sisters, by Heather Morris

Three Sisters


Heather Morris has done it again! Ms. Morris has written this astonishing true story of three sisters who, against all odds, survived the horrors of Auschwitz. Cibi, Magda, and Livi's story is extraordinary and Ms. Morris has done an exceptional job of sharing their journey.

She has also, once again, brought to light little known history: in particular, the towns of Haifa, Kfar Ahim, and Rehovot, where many survivors of the Holocaust settled in their country of Israel, where they finally felt accepted and safe.

These stories of survival always leave me astonished and remind me of the many blessings I have and the many things I take for granted. Though difficult to read, they always remind me if what is truly important in life.

Many thanks to Erica at St. Martin's Press for reaching out to me with this early review copy and NetGalley for providing it in exchange for an honest review.

Read 10/5/21



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