“Behind Closed Doors” is a unique assortment of symbolic, free and rhyming verse that creatively show us what is hidden behind one of those closed doors. Plus, I loved seeing some of the beautiful fondant cake art. Some poems moved me while others had me thinking, but all touched on an emotion. The tankas may have been my favorites, but I enjoyed them all. Here are a few favorite lines. “as she danced, unfettered/in her own, glittering world/The stars gave her hope/allowed her to soar….” “Desperately, she peers through the dimness. An assorted array of items drift past her….” “Gratefully she sinks/Into sleep’s loving embrace/Thoughts gently unfurl/Reorganising themselves/Answer revealed in sweet dreams,” and “The crimson rose/Stands tall and alone/A stately queen….” A great glimpse into current events through a poetic eye. This is a poetry collection I recommend.
by Rox Burkey & Charles Breakfield
“Out of Poland” is a fast-paced short story set in 1939 during the fall of Poland. The story paralleled with the confusion of the invasion as three young men were tasked to obtain something called “Baby” from the Germans. Although there wasn’t a chance to learn about all the characters, there was a chilling insight into this moment in history. I couldn’t put this story down, and my heart was racing at the end. I knew what would happen to the country, yet I couldn’t help but root for their success. This is a great short story for history buffs and those who like to root for the heroes.
“Learning about Autism” is not only a great resource of information but inspiring. Carol and Allen Tucker are almost empty nesters after raising their two children. They decide to adopt a special needs child into their family, Justin, who is dealing with cerebral palsy and autism. Later, they add Joshua, who has down syndrome. The book details how they loved and helped these boys and covered Carol’s path to opening her school for autism. I learned a lot reading this and came away with more understanding of the challenges and gifts raising and advocating for these boys. There is plenty of help and knowledge, but there is also an amazing example of love. This is a great book that I recommend for those looking for advice and those who want to be inspired and understand.
Hayley the Halloween Cat and the Search for Bitty the Bat
by Wanda Luthman, Author, and Mara Reitsma, Illustrations
In our house, we love all things Halloween. So, when it was time to buy my soon-to-be five-year-old granddaughter a book, I had to get this one. Hayley, the black kitten, is searching for her friend, Bitty, the bat. It’s a few hours before Halloween Evening, and she can’t find him anywhere. There are adorable illustrations that were colorful and brought Halloween to life without making it scary. The rhyming added a pleasant flow and made it fun to read aloud. The story shows a great friendship and a nice surprise. As I always do, I read and review “Hayley the Halloween Cat” before wrapping it up. I know I’m going to enjoy reading this with my granddaughter many times over.
I only post my 4 & 5-star reviews. If I don’t like a book, I won’t finish it. It doesn’t feel right leaving a review in that case, but I have been known to email the author:) Life is too short not to enjoy every book you read!
NOTE: You’ve seen my weekly poetry challenges from Colleen Chesebro here. Well, Colleen and Jules are putting out a book on 10-1-21, Word Weaving #1: A Word Craft Journal of Syllabic Verse. It has a lot of poets who contributed; myself included. I picked up my pre-order. If you like poetry, I have a feeling this will be a must-read.
Here’s the LINK
Read a great book and embrace your inner child! D. L. Finn
A diverse selection, Denise and they all sound like great reads. I think the Halloween cat story would be a lot of fun.
Thanks, Joan. It is a lot of fun 🙂
Thank you!
Four fab reviews, Denise! Each book sounds good for different reasons. I’m curious about Word Weaving #1; off to check it out!
Thanks, Priscilla:) It should be the perfect autumn poetry read!
That’s a broad selection. Thanks for sharing them with us.
It was quite a variety to read 🙂 Thanks, Craig!
You’re getting some good reading done 🙂 These all sound wonderful. I’m adding a few to my staggering TBR list.
Congrats on your entries in Colleen’s new book!
I have been, but slowed down the last couple of weeks 🙂 Staggering is a good word for TBR lists…lol. Thank you, Jacquie!
Wow, what an eclectic assortment of books and reviews, Denise. I loved the variety, and was especially charmed by the Halloween book. Congratulations to all the authors.
It definitely is as assortment that has something for anyone. That was a charming Halloween tales for the little ones and the big ones to enjoy reading it 🙂
Thank you!
Thank you for reading and reviewing my children’s book, Hayley the Halloween Cat & the Search for Bitty the bat! I truly appreciate you taking the time to do that. It means a lot. I’m sharing!
My granddaughter and I are enjoying it 🙂 Thank you for sharing it!
Great reviews, Denise. Thanks for sharing. Some good reading here 🙂
Thanks, Harmony 🙂 There sure is some good reading here!
Denise, It is delightful that you posted Out of Poland on your blog. Thank you. The format for these multiple reviews is so helpful for those want to have choices. I snagged Behind Closed Doors as soon as I read your review, thank you.
Glad to have you and your wonderful story here! Thank you, I try to keep it under four books but think the choice is a good thing while drawing great authors in one spot. You have some good reading ahead!
Wonderful reviews, Denise. Thanks for sharing.
You’ve been a busy reader, Denise! Wow. I hope you’re getting lots of writing in too. 🙂 Congrats to all the authors on the fabulous reviews. 🙂
I have been doing a lot of reading, but finally slowed down. I’m on the last few pages of “Sorcerer’s Garden.” It’s a page turner for sure! I’m in a busy phase of life right now and limited on reading and writing time. Hope your muse is treating you well. xo
Same here, Denise. So busy, and I hardly know why. Let’s hope for a bit of a slowdown come October. Thanks so much for picking up the Sorcerer’s Garden! That book was really fun to write. I’m glad you’re enjoying it. <3
Thank you for sharing your thoughts on these books, Denise. I have several of these on my Kindle and your reviews make me want to hurry up and read them!
Thank you, Jan. Any one you pick will be a good read!
Denise, I am thrilled and honored to read your review of my book about autism and the Tucker family. Thank you so much for highlighting it on your site.
Congratulations to the other authors whose books you reviewed. They are definitely books I will add to my TBR list…will buy the books about Halloween from my young great grandson.
I learned so much reading your book, Karen. Thank you for writing it. You have some good reading ahead, and I know your grandson will enjoy that story. Xo
Hi Denise, thank you so much for this lovely review of Behind Closed Doors. The other books featured here look good. I have Out of Poland on my TBR.
I really enjoyed it, Robbie 🙂 I know you’ll like Out of Poland.
Great reviews, Denise. Thank you so much for sharing. I’ve only read Karen’s book, but now I’ve added the other three. Thank you!
Thanks, Gwen 🙂 You have some good reading ahead. Xo