May 2012 - Library of Clean Reads

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Parenting a tech savvy kid? These books can help.

Cyber Bullying No More: Parenting a High Tech Generation by Holli Kenley
Loving Healing Press
ISBN: 978-1615991358
Published November 12, 2011
Trade paperback, 30 pages

With technology becoming more prominent in my children's lives, I am drawn toward literature that informs me and empowers me as a parent since I sometimes feel helpless as I witness how quickly my kids are becoming familiar with the Internet, social media, and any gadget that is placed in their still small hands.

Cyber Bullying No More is a concise, but highly informative book on wise strategies to help parents deal with a reality they wish would go away—cyber bullying. This simple, yet well-thought out book covers three areas of importance: protection, intervention and prevention. The best advice I got out of this book is the amount and quality of communication and supervision that is required from parents when parenting their emotionally young but tech-savvy kids. The principles and daily practices the author expounds are intelligent and they make sense. Her experience as a marriage and family therapist comes through as she takes an international problem and shows families they can deal with it.

All parents should be informed and armed to help their kids in the best possible way and this book does that. Initially, I thought there couldn't be enough information in this publication that looks more like a pamphlet than a book, but after I read it I can see that it's enough information to assist parents substantially without overwhelming them. Yes, technology is advancing at such a rapid pace many parents feel left behind, but this book can help you to see that you are the parent and your authoritative but loving parenting is paramount.

If bullying has become more of a concern for you, the author also includes a bibliography of books for additional reading. I think this book is beneficial for parents with children of all ages, especially 5 and over. Prevention is the best medicine. It's never too early or too late to start. This book is for those parents who want to get on the bandwagon of a parental movement to guide, monitor and balance their children' intake of the needed yet dangerous world of technology.

Note: This book is rated C = clean read.
To learn more about Holli Kenley's books, please visit her at www.hollikenley.com.

Catch Me If You Know How: Internet Edition: Discover Internet Habits, Dangers, and Abusers by Travis Morgan
Ominous Light Publishing
ISBN: 978-0983711803
Published Sept 18, 2011
Trade paperback, 214 pages

As an Information Technology (IT) professional, a concerned father, and a childhood victim of sexual predators, Travis Morgan felt the need to write a book as guide for parents and others—particularly those who need help to break dangerous computer habits—about what he calls “computer forensics”. Right from the onset, I liked Morgan's friendly voice and his sense of humour as he deals with a heavy topic.

This book is easy and quick to read with large font and plenty of screenshots to illustrate what your computer screen would look like as you apply his suggestions for search techniques. Morgan goes on to explain the basics (web browsing, emails, social media, browsing history) and the more complicated (web logs, peer to peer software and Key Loggers). There was a lot of info I already knew, but also a lot I didn't know. And I realized as I read this book that our kids will figure it all out in no time!

This book will serve as a guide and manual as I strive to become a better informed parent and learn more about the technology that will become more prominent in my children's lives. I've learned to decipher what may seem complicated about a computer and how to implement simple strategies such as how to block inappropriate sites, and how to program time limits of computer usage. Morgan has made me realize it's not so complicated. I smiled every time I saw the 2-page spread comic illustration that introduces every chapter. Morgan's experience as a father with three children is clear as he doles out his advice. He encourages parents to get to know the digital lingo and use it with their kids.

As the title implies, this book can help a parent or a spouse discover what their children or spouse is doing on the Internet. The author does warn that it's best to use open communication and to be aware of laws restricting you from breach of privacy of the other party. I also think that what is truly important is what we do when we do discover some illegal activity. Accusations can fly and destroy relationships especially if the information is not what it seems. Children can stumble on bad sites without having to go look for them. The author speaks of this as well.

Overall, this is a use-friendly book to better understand how to do research and monitoring on your computer with the ultimate goal of protecting your family. I'm so glad I read it. It is a sobering reminder of how dangerous the Internet can be and how I can do something about it as a parent. The author also offers additional information on his website: www.catchmeifyouknowhow.com.

Note: This book is rated C = clean read.

Reviewed by Laura

Disclosure: Thanks to the authors and publishers for sending me these book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Summer Fit: Exercises for the Brain and Body While Away from School

Summer Fit: Exercises for the Brain and Body While Away from School by Kelly Terril and Sarria James
Summer Fit Learning Inc.
ISBN: 978-0976280057
Published April 1, 2011
Paperback workbook, 144 pages

It's a well-known fact that during their summer vacation children lose some of what they learned at school. So I was thrilled to once again get a copy of Summer Fit—a summer workbook with daily activities and exercises for a 10-week program—for my son who is currently in second grade. When I showed it to him, he groaned. I understood why. He was now at the end of the school year, deep into projects and exams, and was waiting for the day when he could burst out of the school doors for the last time until next September.

But after a week or two of frolicking in the pool and enjoying the lazy, hot summer days, he will get antsy and will go looking for his workbooks, markers and books. This is when Summer Fit will come in handy. Although jam-packed with activities that cover academics, fitness, and core values, it's not overwhelming for the child to do. One leisure hour per day (2 pages) covers the material in a fun way. I also appreciate this workbook because my son goes to an all French school where they only cover one hour of English a week, so this will give him a chance to review school material in English.

Each week of the program begins with an incentive contract page where the child can check off his work as he does it during the week. He can write his incentive for completing the work, for example, getting a special treat. Most kids find it fun to be rewarded for accomplishing their work. The workbook also covers some info on nutrition, bike safety, and includes a fitness index with a list and explanation of the many exercises to be done. I'm going to encourage my kids by doing some of these together with them and getting more fit too!

The material is based on US National Standards, however, there is additional Canadian-specific content available on their website, www.summerfitlearning.com, which also contains educational games, online book report templates and other information from summer learning partners. I downloaded the list of fun activities and reading list. On the back cover of the book, it stated that trivia apps are available but I did not see any on the site. I will have to contact the publisher and ask about this. My kids have iPods and love apps! Also, there is no link on the website for online ordering. It would be easier for parents if this could be included.

The last page is a Certificate of Congratulations to be filled out with the child's name and given as he completes the Summer Fit program. Overall, Summer Fit is a great tool for parents to keep their kids motivated and active during the summer and prepared to tackle a new year of school in the Fall.

Note: This book is rated C = clean read.
For updates, promotions, activities, and fun facts, visit their Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/summerfitlearning

Reviewed by Laura

Disclosure: Thanks to the publisher and Michelle Carpenter from Mediaguest for sending me this book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

Monday, May 28, 2012

Whatever After: Fairest of All by Sarah Mlynowski (Review and Author Event)

Whatever After #1: Fairest of All by Sarah Mlynowski
Scholastic Press
ISBN: 978-0545403306
Published May 1, 2012
Hardcover, 176 pages
Ages: 8 and up

When we got this book for review and knew the author was coming to Montreal, we cracked it open, snuggled in bed together (my daughter and I) and began to read. Initially, my son did NOT want to join us in reading what he called "a girly book", but when he heard us giggling he sneaked in to see what the fuss was all about.

Late one night, 10 year-old Abby and her 7 year-old brother Jonah notice something strange about the mirror (left behind by the previous owners) in the basement of their new house. Before they know what's happening it sucks them in and lands them in Snow White's fairy tale. Their presence changes the story, and they race to fix it before their parents wake up (in real life) and find them gone. What ensues is a funny and adventurous story with a twist at the end.

My kids and I liked this cute tale for several reasons. They could easily relate to the brother and sister duo who are similar in age to them. Abby and Jonah squabbled and cared for each other, displaying a healthy sibling relationship. Abby looked out for her brother and he pushed her to be more adventurous. The dwarfs were funny too, and we laughed out loud several times. Snow came across as very naive, but she found her voice toward the end of the book. And the evil queen was not scary. Neither were the crocodiles in the moat. These elements made this book suitable for a younger middle-grade audience rather than an older one.

We liked how the author introduced a fun and different version of the fairy tale. We were curious to see how it would all end. Being in the fairy tale also made Abby realize that moving to a new home and school was also about accepting change, which was hard for her at the beginning.

The book is easy reading and would satisfy early readers who love fantasy books and fairy tales. It's also great for reluctant readers because it has lots of dialogue and double-spaced text that is easy on the eyes. The ending left room for other adventures, and we look forward to learning more about the mysterious mirror in the basement and where it will lead Abby and Jonah next.

Note: This book is rated C = clean read.

And so we met author Sarah Mlynowski!

My kids and I arrived at Chapters bookstore in Pointe Claire and heard Sarah talk about the Whatever After series. I also learned that she has written a slew of books. She started her career by writing adult novels, then YA and now she has branched out to middle-grade. She told me that soon she would probably be writing picture books. With a little daughter and another one on the way, I could easily see this happening. She was very pregnant and looked fabulous!

She signed my kids' copy of Whatever After and I also bought a copy of Gimme a Call, one of her YA novels, and had her sign it. Sarah came across as super friendly, unpretentious, and happy to meet the crowd of parents and kids that showed up. She is originally from Montreal now living in New York and told us she loves visiting our city. I look forward to reading more of her books!

I also met two other local bloggers there. Cindy from Cindy's Love of Books and Lucy from Moonlight's Gleam Bookshelf. A big thank you to Nikole from Scholastic for telling us about this event!

Reviewed by Laura & Kids

Disclosure: Thanks to Nikole Kritikos from Scholastic for sending us this book for review. We were not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

Sunday, May 27, 2012

Mailbox Monday for May 28

Mailbox Monday was created by Marcia at A Girl and Her Books. It is the gathering place for readers to share the books that came into their house last week. Martha will be hosting for the month of May at Martha's Bookshelf. You can also view the touring blog list at Mailbox Monday blog for the upcoming months.

The Unfinished Work of Elizabeth D. by Nichole Bernier (TLC Book Tour)

Summer vacation on Great Rock Island was supposed to be a restorative time for Kate, who’d lost her close friend Elizabeth in a sudden accident. But when she inherits a trunk of Elizabeth's journals, they reveal a woman far different than the cheerful wife and mother Kate thought she knew.
The complicated portrait of Elizabeth—her troubled upbringing, and her route to marriage and motherhood—makes Kate question not just their friendship, but her own deepest beliefs about loyalty and honesty at a period of uncertainty in her own marriage.

The more Kate reads, the more she learns the complicated truth of who Elizabeth really was, and rethinks her own choices as a wife, mother, and professional, and the legacy she herself would want to leave behind. When an unfamiliar man’s name appears in the pages, Kate realizes the extent of what she didn’t know about her friend, including where she was really going on the day she died.

Set in the anxious summer after the September 11th attacks, this story of two women—their friendship, their marriages, private ambitions and fears—considers the aspects of ourselves we show and those we conceal, and the repercussions of our choices.

Dead Running by Cami Checketts (for review from author)

Cassidy Christensen is running. Running from the mercenaries who killed her parents. Running from a scheming redhead intent on making her life miserable. Running from painful memories that sabotage her dreams of happiness. With two very tempting men competing for her attention, she hopes she’ll finally have someone to run to, but can she trust either of them? When secrets from her past threaten her family, Cassidy decides to stop running and fight for her future.

Eat Pray Love: One Woman's Search for Everything Across Italy, India and Indonesia by Elizabeth Gilbert (bought at garage sale)

This beautifully written, heartfelt memoir touched a nerve among both readers and reviewers. Elizabeth Gilbert tells how she made the difficult choice to leave behind all the trappings of modern American success (marriage, house in the country, career) and find, instead, what she truly wanted from life. Setting out for a year to study three different aspects of her nature amid three different cultures, Gilbert explored the art of pleasure in Italy and the art of devotion in India, and then a balance between the two on the Indonesian island of Bali. By turns rapturous and rueful, this wise and funny author (whom Booklist calls “Anne Lamott’s hip, yoga- practicing, footloose younger sister”) is poised to garner yet more adoring fans.

The 39 Clues: The Cahill Files: Operation Trinity by Clifford Riley

For 500 years, the Cahills have been the most powerful family in the world. For 500 years, they've protected the source of their power - the 39 Clues. And for 500 years, they've kept their secrets silent. Until now.

This extraordinary stand-alone novel cracks open the Cahill vault to tell the story of the most coveted piece of artwork in the world, a masterpiece that has been the target of seven separate theft attempts: Jan van Eyck’s altarpiece at Ghent. OPERATION TRINITY chronicles the first Vesper attack on the altarpiece in the 1600s, then jumps to WWII and young Grace Cahill’s desperate bid to save the masterwork from the Nazis. The final piece of the novel tells the story of Ian and Natalie Kabra’s first solo operation and features an 11th hour appearance by Grace Cahill on her final mission.

And my son was super excited about these books that came in for his review:

Poopendous! The Inside Scoop on Every Type and Use of Poop! by Artie Bennett; illustrations by Mike Moran

Rhyming couplets feature Professor Poopdeck and two young friends as he takes them on a type of poop safari. Words for poop (i.e. guano, number two, ca-ca), its forms and styles (cubes, tubular, wet and dry), and myriad of uses (i.e. souvenirs, a means of tracking and marking, housing insulation, food, fertilizer, fuel) are all conveyed with humor and a certain demand for respect. It's a book that says: Don't just flush this stuff away! While it may dismay and stink, there's more to this stuff than you might think!

Don't Laugh at Giraffe by Rebecca Bender

Giraffe and Bird squabble and get on each other's nerves. There's nothing the irrepressible Bird likes more than to have a laugh at the expense of his dignified friend, and one thirsty day at the water hole, he gets his chance. Giraffe's awkward attempt to reach the water without getting his hooves wet raises a snicker from a flamingo, a chortle from a zebra and a howl from a hippo. Soon everyone is laughing—especially Bird. In fact, Bird is having a ball until he realizes that his mortified friend has left the water hole without so much as a sip. Now Bird is ashamed. How will he get Giraffe back?

Mom, I Fired the Babysitter! written by Colleen H. Robley Blake, illustrated by Randy Jennings

Alex thinks he is quite capable of taking care of himself so he resents the fact that he has to be watched by a babysitter. He fantasizes about all the reasons why she needs to be fired and tries to convince his mother. Mom becomes the go-between for Alex's and the babysitter's complaints about each other. But in the end, will the babysitter stay or go? Mom, I Fired the Babysitter! is a fun and engaging reading experience that sheds light on the subject of getting along with people, but also standing up and voicing your opinion when it's appropriate.

Has anyone read any of these books?

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Extra Extra Read All About It!

I thought I would share some news in the form of a new feature called Extra Extra Read All About It! Every few weeks I will gather noteworthy news for book bloggers and post it here. Check what I came across this week:

Astraea Press Book Club
On June 1, 2012 Astraea Press with be starting a book club. Each month a new book will be offered for FREE to readers to read and enjoy. At the end of the month we will host a Chat with the Author and readers on the NEW Astraea Press Book Club Facebook group. http://www.facebook.com/groups/319805601428268/

Readers are encouraged to post a reader review at Amazon, B&N and or Goodreads if they choose but it is not required. For information about upcoming books please join the Facebook group and have fun reading your free copy each month. That's 12 free books each year :) The books offered will span all genres that Astraea Press offers and showcase a number of talented authors.

Trajectory Launches Classics Illustrated

Now Available on Kobo Vox eReader
Trajectory, Inc. announced today that the iconic Classics Illustrated comic and graphic novel series are now available in the Kobo eBookstore. The series consists of over 120 digital graphic novels presented in a comic book format with robust color illustrations that introduce great literature to readers of all ages. Trajectory is collaborating with Kobo, Inc. a leader in eReading to deliver the series on the Kobo Vox eReader. Read more.

Free Kindle Books
Author Rachel Ann Nunes has invited her readers to take advantage of this offer:
This Saturday, May 26th, kick off your summer with FREE Kindle books by two best-selling authors! What better way to celebrate the start of summer than by stocking up on books? This is the perfect opportunity to get that Kindle you always wanted—or download the Kindle app for your iPad or computer and read for free!

A Bid For Love – a heart-stopping contemporary romantic suspense novel by Rachel Ann Nunes (newly revised for ebook).

The Captain of Her Heart – an intensely romantic historical novel set in the Revolutionary War period by Anita Stansfield

Offer available in any country where Amazon sells ebooks (US, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.).
Note: Though both these authors have also written inspirational/religious novels, these particular ebooks are clean romances written for a general audience.)

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Beverly Akerman is also offering a free Kindle edition of her book The Meaning of Children. She's a Montreal author and I've been meaning to read her book for some time now, so I was exciting to get it on my android phone. You don't need a Kindle to view the e-book. You can download the Kindle app on your PC, android phone, tablet, ipod, etc.

Giveaway on Essentially Italian Blog
Enter for a chance to win Chique Secrets of Dolce Vita! It will get you in the mood to visit Italy.

The Words
Opens in theatres September 2012
I'm really looking forward to this movie!

Starring Bradley Cooper, Oscar®-winner Jeremy Irons, Dennis Quaid, Olivia Wilde and Zoë Saldana, the layered romantic drama The Words follows young writer Rory Jansen who finally achieves long sought after literary success after publishing the next great American novel. There's only one catch - he didn't write it. As the past comes back to haunt him and his literary star continues to rise, Jansen is forced to confront the steep price that must be paid for stealing another man's work, and for placing ambition and success above life's most fundamental three words. Read more and see trailer.

Sunday, May 20, 2012

Mailbox Monday for May 21

Dreamspell by Tamara Leigh (Kindle edition)

Sleep disorders specialist Kennedy Plain has been diagnosed with a fatal brain tumor. When her research subject dies after trying to convince her he has achieved dream-induced time travel and her study is shelved, she enlists herself as a subject to complete her research. But when she dreams herself into 14th-century England and falls into the hands of Fulke Wynland, a man history has condemned as a murderer, she must not only stay alive long enough to find a way to return to her own time, but prevent Fulke from murdering his young nephews. And yet, the more time she spends with the medieval warrior, the more difficult it is to believe he is capable of committing the heinous crime for which he has been reviled for 600 years.

Baron Fulke Wynland has been granted guardianship of his brother’s heirs despite suspicions that he seeks to steal their inheritance. When the king sends a mysterious woman to care for the boys, Fulke is surprised by the lady's hostility toward him--and more surprised to learn she is to be his wife. But when his nephews are abducted, the two must overcome their mutual dislike to discover the boys' fate. What Fulke never expects is to feel for this woman whose peculiar speech, behavior, and talk of dream travel could see her burned as a witch.

Dangerous Favor by Joyce DiPastena

Her father has been accused of stealing from the king, an allegation that has reduced her family to poverty. She has one chance to find and marry a man who can help her prove her father's innocence. Lord Therri, heir to a rich barony, has the wealth and connections Mathilde needs to delve into the mysteries of her father's past. Furthermore, Therri embodies all her romantic dreams.

Etienne, the younger son of a disgraced family, has neither wealth nor connections, but is smitten with Mathilde at a glance. She finds the knight intriguing, but believes he is only out to seduce her. While she seeks for a way to win Therri's attention, Etienne tricks her into granting him her favor, an embroidered white ribbon, for a tournament, setting in motion a dangerous chain reaction of events. Can Etienne save Mathilde from a nightmare from her past and prove himself the true hero of her dreams?

Cold River by Liz Adair

Mandy Steenburg thinks her doctorate in education has prepared her to run any school district - until she tangles with the moonshine-making, coon-dog-owning denizens of a tiny district in Pacific Northwest timber country. She's determined to make a difference, but the local populace still looks to the former superintendent for leadership. When Mandy lands in the middle of an old feud and someone keeps trying to kill her, instinct tells her to run. And though she has to literally swim through perilous waters, she finds a reason to stay and chance the odds.

The Hidden Sun by J. Lloyd Morgan

A Faraway kingdom.
A beautiful princess.
A courageous hero.
A ruthless villain.
An impossible choice.

Eliana and Rinan are in love. However, she is destined to become queen of Bariwon, obligated to marry the victor of a competition called the Shoginoc, while Rinan, her royal guardian, is forbidden to marry. Normally they could renounce their titles to be together, but these are not normal times. Abrecan, the malevolent governor of Erd, is determined to win the Shoginoc, thereby placing his easily manipulated son Daimh on Bariwon s throne. Can Eliana and Rinan find a way to be together without jeopardizing the peace they are so desperately trying to protect?

Replanting Lives Uprooted by Mental Illness: A Practical Guide for Families by Nancy Pizzo Boucher

This is a reflective , educational, and interactive workbook for families with a loved one who suffers with a mental illness. The workbook activities are included in an appendix and may be copied and used in workshops run by families or mental health providers.

Summer Fit: Exercises for the Brain and Body While Away from School by Kelly Terrill and Portia Marin

Summer Fit contains grade appropriate, basic skill activities in reading, writing, math and language arts. The daily fitness component is a fun and easy-to-use exercise routine that gets children moving on a daily basis and is designed to help children build healthy exercise habits while away from school. Children choose from Aerobic, Strength and Sport activities using a Fitness Index developed by professional trainers, school coaches and parents. Exercises are reinforced online with videos that show children performing each of the different exercises.

Weekly core value activities and exercises are a resource for parents and guardians to use in talking about and teaching good character and values. Each week a different value is introduced and reinforced using real world examples of a person who represents that value.

Summer Fit is the most comprehensive summer workbook available and provides parents with the tools and the motivation to develop the physical and social well being of their child as well as the academic It includes online games to reinforce basic skills in reading, writing and language arts.

Have any of you read these books?

Friday, May 18, 2012

The Milestone Tapes by Ashley Mackler-Paternostro

The Milestone Tapes by Ashley Mackler-Paternostro
CreateSpace
ISBN: 978-1468150063
Published Feb 19, 2012
Trade Paperback, 346 pages

The Milestone Tapes is one of those books that really touched me because it is about the journey of love between a parent and child. Jenna Chamberland loves being a mother, but after a 3-year battle against breast cancer, she is dying. She makes the decision to stop treatment so that she can spend the most quality time left with her family, especially her 7-year-old daughter, Mia. Jenna records a set of ten audiocassettes that her daughter can listen to as she grows older and goes through different milestones in her life that her mother would have helped her through had she been alive, such as her first love, college graduation and her wedding day. What a loving provision and legacy from a mother to her daughter!

As I began reading this book, I realized there were several similarities between Jenna and myself. Jenna was married for about twenty years, had a loving husband, Gabe (who reminded me so much of my own hubby!) and had a child later in life. So in this respect I could really relate, and my heart broke time and time again as she tried to deal with her situation. I kept asking myself how I would have dealt with dying had I been in the same situation.

The novel is divided into two books. The first part is Jenna's story and the second, taking place nine years later, is Mia's. The novel flows well and Jenna is very much alive even in the second part through the milestone tapes she leaves for her daughter. I loved reading this part the most. It read like a YA novel and I liked Mia, who was then a sixteen year-old teen. The first part was very emotional and I was in tears as Jenna's illness progressed.

I was surprised how well the author dealt with the sensitive topics of dying and motherhood. She has no children of her own, but captured the love and complex bond between mother and child. The characters were real to me, especially Mia and Ginny, with her words of wisdom. The only relationship I found underdeveloped was that of Jenna and her sister, Sophia. At the onset, Jenna has a strained relationship with Sophia who harbours resentment from childhood, but this gets quickly resolved within a few pages. It wasn't realistic to me. This could have been better explored, while some mundane everyday dialogue and scenes eliminated.

I think the beautiful book cover captures the essence of this novel. It is haunting and symbolic. Better editing was needed, however, as I caught many typos, missing words and repetitions, especially in the latter part of the book. Barring this, I think this is a beautiful and well-told story. Ashley Mackler-Paternostro is an author to watch out for, having shown talent by writing a story that pulled at my heartstrings. I look forward to reading her next novel.

Note: This book is rated P =Profanity for 8 f-words, some religious expletives and crude words, and S = one sex scene between a married couple.

Reviewed by Laura

Disclosure: Thanks to the author and Pump Up Your Book Promotions for sending me this book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

Wednesday, May 16, 2012

Mariana by Susanna Kearsley

Mariana by Susanna Kearsley
Allison & Busby, 2nd edition
ISBN: 978-0749007065
Published: Oct 3, 2009
Trade paperback, 400 pages

After reading The Rose Garden, (read my review) I just knew I wanted to read Mariana. When I spotted it on the shelf of a used book store I nabbed it. Susanna Kearsley's novels tend to evoke mystery and romance with the element of time travel, and Mariana is no different. I can't say that I loved it like I did The Rose Garden, but I did enjoy it a lot.

Julia Beckett moves into Greywethers, a sixteen century farmhouse, where she senses she belongs. She befriends the locals and enjoys interacting with Vivien, Iain and Geoff de Mornay, the handsome and wealthy owner of Crofton Hall. Then Julia starts having episodes where she goes back in time but as Mariana, a woman who lived at Greywethers three hundred years ago. With each episode back in time she lives what happened to Mariana until it all comes full circle in the present.

The ending was totally unexpected for me. Parts of it were brilliant, but I must admit the love story of Mariana touched me so much that when it came full circle through Julia in the present it was a little disappointing, the revelation too abrupt. For some reason, I have an easier time with the concept of time travel than time slip, where a character goes back in time and lives someone else's life. However, like I said, I really enjoyed the whole journey, especially the historical one that involved treachery and danger. Kearsley has a way of immersing the reader in the mystery of the past and making it all come together in the end.

This was a compelling read, pulling me in to find out who Mariana was and why Julia became her as she slipped through time. The cast of characters are intriguing and all play an important role in the plot, so much so that if you miss a few details, you may miss an essential piece of the mystery. I also enjoyed the setting of Exbury, a small village in England. For fans of time travel and romance, this one is not to be missed. I can see why it's still a favorite since having been first published in 1994.

Reviewed by Laura

Note: This book is rated P = profanity for religious expletives.
I will count this book toward the following challenges: Time Travel Reading Challenge, TBR Pile Reading Challenge

Disclosure: I bought this book at a used book store. I was not told how to rate or review this product.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Winner of Blue Asylum!

Congratulations to our winner!

# 19 Margaret has won the book Blue Asylum by Kathy Hepinstall

The winner was chosen using Random.org and has been emailed. The winner has 48 hours to claim the prize. Library of Clean Reads would like to thank Houghton Mifflin Harcourt and TLC Book Tours for offering this book to give away. Thanks also to all the participants and followers!

Laura

Sunday, May 13, 2012

Mailbox Monday for May 14

Lost in Shangri-La by Mitchell Zuckoff

On May 13, 1945, twenty-four American servicemen and WACs boarded a transport plane for a sightseeing trip over “Shangri-La,” a beautiful and mysterious valley deep within the jungle-covered mountains of Dutch New Guinea. Unlike the peaceful Tibetan monks of James Hilton’s bestselling novel Lost Horizon, this Shangri-La was home to spear-carrying tribesmen, warriors rumored to be cannibals.

But the pleasure tour became an unforgettable battle for survival when the plane crashed. Miraculously, three passengers pulled through. Margaret Hastings, barefoot and burned, had no choice but to wear her dead best friend’s shoes. John McCollom, grieving the death of his twin brother also aboard the plane, masked his grief with stoicism. Kenneth Decker, too, was severely burned and suffered a gaping head wound.

Drawn from interviews, declassified U.S. Army documents, personal photos and mementos, a survivor’s diary, a rescuer’s journal, and original film footage, Lost in Shangri-La recounts this incredible true-life adventure for the first time. Mitchell Zuckoff reveals how the determined trio—dehydrated, sick, and in pain—traversed the dense jungle to find help; how a brave band of paratroopers risked their own lives to save the survivors; and how a cowboy colonel attempted a previously untested rescue mission to get them out.

Travelers Rest by Ann Tatlock

Jane Morrow has a dilemma. She's engaged to Seth Ballantine, a member of the National Guard's 30th Heavy Brigade Combat Team, and he's returned from Iraq severely wounded. Jane hasn't seen him for nearly a year, and with trepidation, she heads to the VA hospital in Asheville, North Carolina, where he is being treated.

Seth isn't happy to see her. He'd asked her not to come. He wants to end the relationship. But Jane loves him, and despite his injury, she's determined to convince him that they can have a life together. Her faith has never beenstrong, yet she hopes God will answer her prayers and tell her what to do.

Flame of Resistance by Tracy Groot

Years of Nazi occupation have stolen much from Brigitte Durand. Family. Freedom. Hope for a future, especially for a woman with a past like hers. But that changes the day American fighter pilot Tom Jaeger is shot down over occupied France. Picked up by the Resistance, Tom becomes the linchpin in their plan to infiltrate a Germans-only brothel and get critical intel out through Brigitte, a prostitute rumored to be sympathetic to the Allied cause.

D-day looms and everyone knows that invasion is imminent. But so is treachery, and the life of one American pilot unexpectedly jeopardizes everything. He becomes more important than the mission to a man who cannot bear to lose another agent and to a woman who is more than just a prostitute, who finally realizes that her actions could change the course of history.

Norman Mailer: The American, a film by Joseph Montegna (DVD)

The life and times of Norman Mailer as told by those closest to him and by the man himself...

A provocateur, a rebel, a performer, and a true American, Norman Mailer never stopped giving people something to talk about. This documentary goes beyond the Mailer of the book shelves and NY Times best seller list to Mailer the social critic, family man, filmmaker, and lover. Here's a look into the life of a complex, intellectual, working class hero.

Cyber Bullying No More: Parenting a High Tech Generation by Holli Kenley

Cyber bullying is rampant. Every day children are being humiliated, violated, and degraded through the use of electronic devices. Young people are frightened and don't know where to turn. Parents are frustrated and unsure how to help or how to protect their children. Although there are dozens of excellent books, videos, websites, and resources addressing cyber bullying, this book will give parents/guardians a manageable number of effective parenting strategies to incorporate into their lives and their children's.

Have any of you read any of these books? What did you get in your mailbox last week?

Saturday, May 12, 2012

Kid Konnection: "Seeds" by David Ankrah

"Seeds" by David Ankrah
Evolu-Sol Publishing
ISBN: 978-0957145702
Published April 14, 2012
Paperback, 32 pages

About the book:
If you would like to help children understand some of the benefits of using money wisely from an early age then this is a story that will inspire them…

Without actually mentioning the word money until after the story ends, this story is designed to show them some of the choices they have in life when it comes to looking after not only their money, but their friends and family. In fact, you should find that this story has parallels in your life whether you are 6 or 60.

So find out what happens to Palooko and Greecho as they go through life and one mysterious day an event takes place that would change their lives forever…

Our thoughts:
"Seeds" is a fable that teaches a lesson regarding money. It's a short story that takes place in the beautiful land of Zoniye. I read it to my 11 year-old daughter and my 8 year-old son. They were both listening carefully as I started out, taken in by the fairytale beginning.

My daughter quickly figured out the story was about how to make use of money. Half-way through, my son seemed to lose interest because the story got into the concept of borrowing with interest. If the book contained more illustrations (there were only two), I think his interest would have held out longer. My daughter on the other hand thought it was a cool story.

Even though the story is simple, its message is universal and can be read by every culture. I took the opportunity to discuss with my kids the importance of using their money wisely, the way Palooko did as opposed to Greecho. The themes of saving money, helping others, and living a simple life shine through in this unique fable.

Note: This book is rated C = clean read.

Reviewed by Laura

Disclosure: Thanks to the author and Pump Up Your Book Promotions for sending me this book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

Every Saturday, Booking Mama hosts a feature called Kid Konnection—a regular weekend feature about anything related to children's books. If you'd like to participate in Kid Konnection and share a post about anything related to children's books (picture, middle grade, or young adult) from the past week, visit Booking Mama.

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

The Secret Me Book by Rachel Kempster and Meg Leder

The Secret Me Book: A Journal to Celebrate What Makes You, You by Rachel Kempster and Meg Leder
Sourcebooks
ISBN: 978-1402265709
Published April 23, 2012
Trade paperback, 208 pages

This is a fun book! But at the same time it is a book that allows you to reflect on things about yourself you probably never questioned or had time to explore. The Secret Me Book is a journal that helps you discover your secret self by allowing you to answer all kinds of interesting questions or do various activities, such as drawing. I found questions I never thought to ask myself:

You have one year to do whatever you want. What do you do?
If you could open a store, what would you sell?
Imagine starting your life over from scratch. How would you begin? What would you change? Who would you become?

This book brought me back to my childhood. It made me ponder on what my secret desires, fears, motivations and aspirations are. It's got space for you to write, draw, doodle or stick pictures or photos in. It's also peppered with quotes from famous people and little anecdotes, interesting facts or thoughts from the authors themselves. Most questions are thought-provoking and fun, whereas some questions may be difficult to answer or may bring up painful memories, but addressing them may just be the healing balm you need. I was surprised with some of the answers I came up with! I also loved the secret surveys, the cute illustrations, and the soothing turquoise colour of the font.

Once filled, this journal will be an intimate portrayal of who you are. Depending on how deeply you want to explore it, it can be left as a gift to your children. They in turn might be surprised (or shocked!) at what you write in this journal. It should also be interesting to look back, let's say 5 or 10 years from now, and read what you wrote and did in this journal. It may just end up being the right thing you need to hear or look at when you may be experiencing some life changes.

Sometimes you may feel like recording things about yourself but don't know where to start. This book is great for allowing your to record things you never thought of, or it could be a springboard for other projects you had in mind. Whatever the case, this book is fun and a great gift to yourself or your friends. For the person who is constantly on the go, this could be the key to learning more about yourself and taking the time to enjoy who you are.

Note: This book is rated C = clean read.
I will count this book toward the following challenges: What's in a Name 5

Reviewed by Laura

Disclosure: Thanks to Sourcebooks for sending me this book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

Launching Today: Allergies, and Awesome You

Do you have a child with allergies? Can you imagine life allergy free?

The AmazingAllergist will show you how!

Allergies, and Awesome You: Believe You Can Get There Too!

This book, through a life story of an allergic child, will empower you and your children.

"Allergies, and Awesome You" is a part of the AmazingAllergist’s Awesome Series that empowers allergic children to live and lead great lives, allergy-free. It is a by-product of the author’s extensive medical knowledge, vast experiences as an allergy specialist, and the desire to make a difference, one allergic child at a time.

Learn more here - http://amazingallergist.com/book/

About the Author

Atul N. Shah, MD, FACAAI, FAAAAI, is a celebrated author of this AmazingAllergist book series, founder of www.AmazingAllergist.com, and the medical director of www.Center4AsthmaAllergy.com. He is a board certified allergist who has earned an honor of fellowships in both the American College of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology and the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

He has personally treated more than 20,000 patients, made a significant impact on more than 100,000 lives as an allergist so far, and earned the nickname “AmazingAllergist” from his patients and peers. His work is rewarded daily with numerous compliments of smiling patients and their families. He has been recognized with various awards, including the America’s Top Physicians’ Award, the Patients’ Choice Award, and the Most Compassionate Physicians’ Award. He believes that every allergic child and individual has a potential to live a great life, allergy-free. His desire to empower allergic individuals translated into this series of books.

Meet the Author

Buy the book - http://amazingallergist.com/book/

Join our online community

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/AmazingAllergist

Twitter - https://twitter.com/LifeAllergyFree

~ ~ ~ WIN A FREE KINDLE FIRE! ~ ~ ~

Pump Up Your Book Tour and the AmazingAllergist are giving away a FREE KINDLE FIRE! Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to win! This giveaway is only open to U.S. and Canada citizens. Deadline is June 1 and announced on June 2. If you are the winner, contact Dorothy Thompson at thewriterslife (at) gmail.com or Tracee Gleichner at tgleichner (at) gmail.com. You have 48 hours to reply. If we do not hear from you in 48 hours, another winner will be selected. Thanks!

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Sunday, May 6, 2012

Mailbox Monday for May 7

Confectionately Yours #1: Save the Cupcake! by Lisa Papademetriou

Confession: My life is soooo not sprinkles and sunshine . . .

Hayley's world is far from perfect: her parents have divorced, her mom has lost her job, and she and her sister Chloe are stuck sharing a bedroom in their grandmother's apartment. Luckily, Hayley has a knack for baking cupcakes -- and cupcakes always make life just a little sweeter! But when she and her best friend Artie start drifting apart, she realizes that it's going to take more than sugar and spice to make things nice.

Whatever After #1: Fairest of All by Sarah Mlynowski

A fresh, modern spin on a classic fairy tale--from bestselling author Sarah Mlynowski!

Mirror, mirror, on the basement wall . . .

Once upon a time my brother and I were normal kids. The next minute? The mirror in our basement slurped us up and magically transported us inside Snow White's fairy tale. I know it sounds crazy, but it's true.

But hey -- we're heroes! We stopped Snow White from eating the poisoned apple. Hooray! Or not. If Snow White doesn't die, she won't get to meet her prince. And then she won't get her happy ending. Oops.

Now it's up to us to:
- Avoid getting poisoned
- Sneak into a castle
- Fix Snow White's story

And then, fingers crossed, find our way home.

Sleuth or Dare#1: Partners in Crime by Kim Harrington

Whodunit?

When best friends Darcy and Norah have to create a fake business for a school assignment, they come up with a great idea: a detective agency! Darcy loves mysteries, and Norah likes helping people, so it's a perfect fit.

But then their pretend agency gets a real case. Someone is missing, and it's up to Darcy and Norah to take on the search. Unfortunately, there's someone else out there who doesn't want the two detectives stirring up any trouble. . . .

With the help of hidden clues, spy gadgets, and trusted friends, can Darcy and Norah crack the case in time?

The Secret Tree by Natalie Standiford

When a group of students depend on a tree to keep their secrets for them, things don't turn out quite as they expect. Secrets are told, found, shared and kept in the latest from the compelling imagination of Natalie Standiford.

Saturday, May 5, 2012

Kid Konnection: Kevin's Point of View by Del Shannon

Kevin's Point of View by Del Shannon
Flatiron View Books
ISBN: 978-0615401232
Published Oct 26, 2011
Trade paperback, 400 pages

Kevin is a twelve-year-old boy with an amazing imagination. Impersonating his favorite superhero, he uses it to deal with grief over his father's death which happened a year ago. When a mysterious package arrives in the mail with a remote control-like gadget called the Influxitron, Kevin is suddenly hunted down by a ruthless killer and his henchmen who will stop at nothing to get it back. Once Kevin discovers what the gadget does, his whole life changes in ways he never expected.

Seeing how much I enjoy action-packed middle-grade novels, I was excited to read this book with my daughter. She took one look at the book cover and grimaced. Okay, clearly this book is aimed at boys—my son had no objection to the cover. But I managed to convince her to read it with me. Overall, we enjoyed Kevin's adventure, especially since the storyline has time travel in it. It has funny moments and we loved the ending. My daughter guessed where the story was headed way before me. She's such a smart cookie. But the author still managed to include a twist at the end that surprised us.

There is a lot of action in this book, with the chase scenes taking up two-thirds of the book. After a while, though, it became just too long, and we had to suspend disbelief at how easily two young boys escaped professional killers. It reminded me of a Robert Ludlum novel. Kevin and his friend Tony were chased non-stop. Later, they run into Kevin's sister Betsy and her pizza-delivery boyfriend Scratch (who was funny) and more chasing ensued. Kevin is a quirky but likable kid, whereas Betsy comes across as dim-witted and plays a minor role even though the synopsis of the book seemed to indicate otherwise.

Had there been less chasing and more of the Influxitron part in the story (throughout most of the book we were waiting for Kevin to figure out how to use it, rather than it being a useless object until the very end) we think this story could have been a better adventure. We would have been more emotionally engaged as readers. However, barring all that, this was a fun book to read and will appeal to boys who love action-packed stories.

Note: This book includes religious exclamations, but is otherwise a clean read.
I will count this book toward the following challenges: TBR Pile Reading Challenge

Reviewed by Laura

Disclosure: Thanks to the author for sending me this book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Blue Asylum by Kathy Hepinstall (Review and Giveaway)

Blue Asylum by Kathy Hepinstall
Houghton Mifflin Harcourt
ISBN: 978-0547712079
Published April 10, 2012
Trade Paperback, 288 pages

I didn't quite know what to expect from this book, but I certainly didn't think it would blow me away the way it did. Don't let the cover fool you, this isn't chick lit but literary fiction. It's a story that pulled me in right from the very first paragraph and didn't let go until the last page. I stayed up till the wee hours to finish it!

Those of you who regularly read my blog know that I like to read good fiction and non-fiction books that deal with mental illnesses. So when I read the synopsis of this book I knew I wanted to read it. During the Civil War, Iris Dunleavy is a young plantation wife who strongly opposes her husband's treatment of his slaves. She ends up committing an act that puts her in an asylum situated on an isolated island where she is to be restored to a good wife. The asylum is run by Dr. Cowell who lives on the island with his wife and twelve-year-old boy Wendell. At the asylum, Iris meets Ambrose, a war-haunted Confederate soldier and they fall in love.

First off, I loved Hepinstall's writing. I was excited to know this is not her first novel and I now want to read her other books. She brings the island to life with her description of the fauna and wildlife. As a matter of fact the island is like a character, with its azure sky and white sandy beaches against the backdrop of the razed land and horrors of the Civil War. This setting lures us into thinking that it can shield the patients from their illnesses.

The asylum is populated by a great cast of characters that I truly liked. Dr. Cowell intrigued me as I was never quite sure what his reaction to things would be. I felt for Wendell, who thought he was also crazy but who suffered from loneliness and had no kids to play with. Iris is a strong character, wanting justice yet sometimes naive in how she metes it out. Ambrose is a gentle man broken from what happened during the war and his story is revealed only at the end. What happened to Iris is also revealed a little at a time and fully disclosed as the story heads to its climax. And what an ending!

There is sadness in this story, but it triumphs in its rendition of resilience, hope and acceptance. No matter the loss in one's life, the future can bring the birth of new things. Although the synopsis may seem to indicate this is a romance story, I felt it was more a subtle look at what truly makes us who we are and why. What one person considers insanity, another may see it as the mind's way of coping with unspeakable horrors or injustice. This story left me so thoughtful and contemplative for days after I read it. It is an absorbing read, and I highly recommend it if you want to read a well-written story that captures so well the psychology of humanity.

Note: This book is rated S = sexual scenes, P = mild for two religious expletives

To read other reviews, please visit the TLC Book Tour page.

About the author:

Kathy Hepinstall is the author of three previous novels, The House of Gentle Men (a Los Angeles Times bestseller), The Absence of Nectar (a national bestseller), and The Prince of Lost Places. She is an award-winning creative director and advertising writer, whose clients have included top brands in American business. She grew up in Texas.

Visit Kathy at her website, and check out her blog.

And now for the giveaway!

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Disclosure: Thanks to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for sending me this book for review. I was not compensated in any other way, nor told how to rate or review this product.