Eye Has Not Seen nor Ear Heard

          
                    Steven R. Musick was a typical young person with plans for his future, very much like any young adult when he had a tragic mishap.  He became comatose for five weeks after suffering from an allergic reaction from a vaccine.  It also caused his heart to stop. 
During this period of time God grants Musick a peek into Heaven.  It's profound beauty is hard for him to put into words but Steven is certain about one thing...he doesn't want to leave here.  The author confirms the verse found in the Holy Scriptures  1 Corinthians Chapter 2 verse 9 which states, '"No eye has seen, No ear has heard and no mind imagined what God has prepared for those who love Him"'.

I had a great desire to read this true account because on July 17, 2016 I suffered a heart attack and flat-lined more than twenty times.  Being in the hospital I was always close by the medical staff and they would immediately use the defibrillator to bring me back to life which would halt a near death experience.  I was very curious as to what the writer experienced.  I was given the opportunity to read in exchange for my thoughts by the Blogging for Books team.  I enjoyed this story so much that I read it several times before starting my review.  There is such encouragement and inspiration pertaining to the Heavenly home that Christ has prepared for His Children.  I highly recommend this book.

That's so 90s Pop! A Favorite for Teens

Patrick Sullivan's brilliant activity book that is sure to become a favorite among pre-teen's and teenager's alike.  There are fill-in's and word searches; mazes and puzzles among many more activities designed around young people's favorite singers and bands.  Just to list a few:  Backstreet Boys, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, TLC, Mariah Carey, Eminem...just to list a few.  Great as a collector's item and/or gift.  I am certain there will be a request for more.  A+  For more about this paperback read here   I was given the opportunity to review by Blogging for Books in exchange for my thoughts.

Beautiful Lessons of Mother Teresa

              A CALL TO MERCY Hearts to Love, Hands to Serve is a lovely compilation of the words of Mother Teresa and explanations on how we should serve the Lord and treat all human beings worthy of service.  The book is difficult at times for those less educated on the Catholic Faith and their rituals.  I fall into this category and could have become frustrated to the point of not reading.  Yet I desired to learn more about Mother Teresa and found much inspiration and understanding in her words.  Whomever she came in contact whether a dying poor man or the President of the United States, she showed the same respect and Love of Christ to all.  She confirmed the importance of treating all men/women equally and that is still very important today, in the time we are living.
She stresses the importance of visiting the sick and those who are imprisoned.  Our service should include praying for all individuals and being patient in our trials.  There is a multitude of testimonies from individuals who knew Mother Teresa. 
I was given the opportunity to examine this book for Blogging for Books in exchange for my thoughts.  It is an excellent read.

The Bible of What Is On Your Dog's Mind

                        For most, their precious pups are part of  their family.  Dogs melt our heart and bring comfort in ways nobody else can.  So when the opportunity arises where we can communicate with our furry friends, everyone jumps at the chance.  Victoria Stilwell, star of Animal Planet's It's Me or the Dog has created the perfect book for owners to learn what is going on in their pet's minds.  Every time that I notice a different look on my dogs face I run and get my copy of The Secret Language of Dogs ~ Unlocking the Canine Mind for a Happier Pet.  I cherish this book and have learned a lot in a few short weeks. 
There is a section on how to speak to your pet and what tones to use.  This helps greatly when training little fido.  There are also sections on pet behaviors which disturb us and how we can get them out of bad habits.
I rate this stellar book with all stars and am grateful I was able to read in exchange for my reviews for Blogging for Books.

Art Wolfe Takes His Readers Around The World

                  Few have the means to travel to Africa; or witness the Himalayas and natural wonders.  Legendary Art Wolfe allows us this priviledge in his newest publication "Photographs From The Edge".  He shares the beauty of the World through his lens, capturing the most soul stirring events.  All the while He shares his photo tips and camera settings.  Not only is this publication an asset for up and coming photographers but also a treasure for those who are curious about the customs of other nationalities around the world.  Photographs from the Edge is such a great conversation starter that it also makes for an excellent coffee table read.
                With so much to learn and share, this book would make for a wonderful gift. Blogging for Books gave me the fine opportunity of reviewing this in exchange for my review.  

Camila d'Errico Reigns Among Pop Mango Artists

Meet Camilla d'Errico, the young and talented canadian borne artist is gaining ground with her Pop Manga. Her work excels and she has a large following of fans.  One can't help but love her graphics which are cute and unique.  Her newest creation is Pop Manga Coloring Book where she gives her readers a chance to color her pictures.  I went ahead and framed a number of mine to put up in my daughter's room.

Coloring is known to relieve stress in adults and one can be proud to display the finishing projects from this desired book.  I was given the awesome opportunity to review for Blogging for Books.  It was a great pleasure.

Fast Metabolism Food Rx

Haylie Pomroy (New York Times Best Selling Author) grew up with a number of physical ailments which became a real challenge to her.  Not wanting to live her entire life on prescription drugs she took a nose dive into researching and learning.  What she found out could put a damper on many doctor's businesses.  It is not by chance that she is a well known nutritionist today.  She has discovered the remedy to most illnesses is what we eat.  She even prescribes food to her clients.

Fast Metabolism Food Rx lists the foods we should avoid and equally as important, the food we can have.  This publication is a wealth of information and can be used over and over for reference.  I think it is the perfect companion for those who want to develop a healthy lifestyle.  I am honored to have read and reviewed for Blogging for Books.

Annie Novak Proves You Can Grow Anywhere

   Annie Novak does not miss a beat in her "The Rooftop Growing Guide -".  There is numerous reasons outside of lack of space that a gardener may want to transform their roof into a small farm.  Those who live in rural areas, as myself, would be thrilled not to have to contend with the many creatures on the ground - namely moles, rabbits and deer.  Thus I was excited to read this book and gain some new in sight.
  The author suggests to the reader to '"Grow with the Pro's"' stressing to use her book along with the internet to receive latest updates and tips.  This book is a wonderful collaboration of experiences from your common gardener along with professional gardeners as well.  It is packed with information on everything you need to know from getting a permit to setting up a plan.  It is a true asset for all who want to embark on this adventure.  I just can't say enough good things about it.
  I was given the honor of reading for Blogging for Books in exchange for my views.

Cats in Paris, Adult coloring book

                Won-Sun Jang is well known as a writer for Vogue Korea.  He now offers us this adult coloring book with lovely illustrations of Paris as well as numerous cat drawings.  Find tabbies; Siamese; Persian; Abyssinian and Sphynx just to name a few.  Once coloring is completed, these look nice in frames.  Great fun for snow days when stuck indoors.  Blogging for Books gave me the opportunity to read in exchange for my honest review.

Next Cognitive Therapy By Naming What You See in The Clouds

Have you heard?  Right up there with living off the land and getting back to basics, we now have adult coloring books for unwinding and relieving stress.  It really does make sense and now I wonder, Why didn't I think of that?  Waterbrook Press comprised this collection of  beautiful pictures and spiritual quotes from inspired authors or beloved hymns.  Creating is enjoyable.  Coloring is calming.  I recall many fond memories of coloring right along with my children while they were growing up  Using adult coloring books as a tool for therapy is not that far fetched.  

These books differ from children's coloring books in many ways.  For one, the book is quite large and the paper is stronger so that the owner can put their finished products in frames to share.  That being one of the reasons the books are more expensive.  Also these coloring books all have a certain theme to allow the owner to escape their daily problems if but  for a little while.

I have really enjoyed reviewing this outstanding product for Blogging for Books. 

Not Just A Story of Losing A Child; This Book Is An Answered Prayer

As a christian, I always have believed in Miracles.  The book, Rare Bird by Anna Whiston~Donaldson was an answered prayer for me.  It's the true, tender story about how the author loses her son and how she copes with the most difficult situation any person can face.  This New York Times best seller came to me at exactly the perfect time.  Unlike other books on this same subject, the author offers hope through her suffering and finds a closer relationship with God after losing her beloved child.  My best friend, lost her second child to cancer this past March and I have been trying desperately to reassure her that God can help her with her pain.  As humans, it's always easier and more true when we hear this from someone who has experienced what we have gone through.  I couldn't wait to give a copy of this heart touching read.  I am also ordering a copy for my Aunt and Uncle whom, just a couple weeks ago, lost their third child.  My cousin Jimmy.  It has been a blessing reviewing this true account for Blogging for Books.  I recommend highly for Clergy and those who serve the public.  Personally I will be keeping several copies on hand.

Adam Benforado's "Unfair- The New Science of Criminal Injustice"

             
                     "Unfair" by Adam Benforado takes a stark look at the unfortunate failings of our justice system.  It is no secret to most individuals that the legal system has had is flaws.  Benforado unveils as to what degree.  His findings are dismal.  The author reveals shocking evidence through case experiences and thorough research.  The book left me feeling frustrated and with further questions.  I was given the opportunity to review this book for the Blogging for Books Network

Monika Korra's Rise Above Adversity

Monika Korra refused defeat; although she was brutally raped by three individuals on her way home from a party while she was in college she determined to rise above this horrific experience.  In her book, Kill The Silence A Survivor's Life Reclaimed Monika bravely recounts the night she was abused and allows the reader to follow step by step in her healing.  There is much to be learnt about courage from this amazing woman.  Definitely her story is so compelling that I would encourage others to put on their "must read" list.  Kill The Silence is my favorite read for 2015 and I had the honor of reading for the  Blogging for Books website.

Scores of Young Mothers Agree "The Bump Pregnancy Planner" is a Great Tool

                 Scores of young mothers agree that Carley Roney's "The Bump Pregnancy Planner and Journal" is the best resource and tool that they can have.  This book is full of tips of what to eat, places to record questions for the obgyn, prenatal exercise suggestions; preparing for the coming baby month by month and so much more.  It's a fun book, where the mom can write memories to share later in life.  "The Bump Pregnancy Planner and Journal" was written to use along with The Bump Website .  The Bump Website was created for first time parents and is almost an online Bible of everything to prepare for birth and thereafter.  This book would make the perfect gift for new mom's.  Blogging for books gave me the opportunity to read in exchange for my honest review.  

Inspiralized: Turns Ordinary Vegetables into Extraordinary Meals

            Growing up Italian and struggling with menopause, I knew I had to do something about the unwanted weight gain that just naturally comes with growing older.  Knowing I would have to give up on a lot of my favorite foods was going to be difficult but I sought out some way that I could still have my pasta sauce and eat it too!  Kudos to Ali Maffucci and "Inspiralized turn vegetables into healthy, creative, satisfying meals" my new meal plans would be way less difficult and actually delicious.  I had just bought Veggetti slicer and this book opened the door to dozens of different recipes I could enjoy with it.  Whatever your vegetable of choice:  zucchini, eggplant, carrots, onions, squash, or cucumber to name but a few...this cookbook has sensational recipes to keep your tastebuds begging for more without the calories.  Ali Maffuci even has a section of healthy snacks, what more can we ask for.  This book is not only a blessing for me but my favorite book of the year which will get much use in the coming years.  I highly recommend.  I had the priviledge of reviewing this book for Blogging for Books.  A+

Excellent Resource for All Gardening Enthusiast

           
            As a gardening enthusiast for more than thirty five years, I can appreciate all that one must know to produce prolific outcomes.  My passion was embred early on after accidently cutting off my favorite grandpa's prize roses.  Part of my punishment was learning all the work it took to keep his collection going.  As a young mother interested in giving her children the very best food choices; I immediately began growing my own vegetables.  Oh how I wish I had the knowledge that is available in Karen Newcombs book "The Postage Stamp Vegetable Garden" which leans towards growing in tiny spaces and containers but offers so much more pertinent information for all growers.  The author emphasizes on organic gardening and there is a whole chapter dedicated to the different types of vegetables, many of which I didn't know of.  She covers everything from preparing the proper soil, when and how to plant and there is a special chapter which I really appreciated on controlling pests, diseases and critters.  This latter information is key to whether your garden will survive or not.  This is an excellent resource for all gardeners and would make for an awesome gift.  To learn more about Karen Newcomb .   I was given the wonderful opportunity of reviewing this book for Blogging for Books.  

The Knot Proves to Be Best Friend for Brides-to_be

 
   Every bride wants her wedding day to be the very best so that it will make a lasting impression.  Trying to decide all the pertinent details is very stressful, especially for those who can not afford a wedding planner.  Carley Roney offers this set of four books filled with inspiration, ideas and everything a young woman needs to make her day perfect.  I highly recommend this lot for the engaged new couple.  I was given the wonderful opportunity of reviewing for Blogging for Books community.  To learn more about the writer Carley Roney .
The price is right and it's a book that can be shared with others.  

The 13th Gift Will Renew Your Belief That There Is Still Good in the World

Joanne Huist Smith's The 13th Gift proves that there are still good Samaritan's in the world and that Charity conquers all.  This true account of a Christmas Miracle can be read at any time in the year.  Anytime you need a lift for your spirit.  The writer retell's of her first Christmas after the death of her spouse when she feels overwhelmed and totally alone.  She wants to make the Holiday's special for her children but funds are strained.  When word spreads among friends and neighbors, they get together to make Christmas special for her and the children.  A very touching book with a powerful message.  One that I can read over and over again.  I was fortunate to review this book for Blogging for Books.  To read more about the author .

Will Capture The Heart of Cat Lovers

Lisa Erspamer gets credit for this sweet compilation of notes between feline fans and their respective furry little friends.  The love is deep and the tales of memories will soften the readers heart.  Among the contributing writers are such greats as Mariel Hemingway, Gina Gershon and Stacy London.  The photos are superb.  This book will be treasured for many years to come.  I was elated to review for Blogging for Books.  I was happy to get the invite and now I found the perfect holiday gift for about a dozen of my friends and family.  Learn more about the writer here Author's Bio

God Gave Us Angels Will Touch The Hearts of All Who Read

      Lisa Tawn Bergren has a magical way to inspire everyone's hearts and that is through her God Gave Us series.  In simple terms she helps young and old alike to understand the Goodness of serving God.  In her latest creation, "God Gave Us Angels" Papa Cub and Little Cub explore everything about Angels including what they do all day and what they look like.  Laura J. Bryant lends her beautiful illustrations (she does a splendid job).  This special book will give you quality time with your little ones while they learn to praise God.  I was given the great opportunity to review this book for Blogging for Books.  To learn more about the author, click here.