Kylie Jean Drama Queen

Written by Marci Peschke and Illustrated by Tuesday Mourning

Kylie Jean's class is performing Alice in Wonderland! Kylie Jean knows she'd be just perfect as the Queen of Hearts. But mean girl Paula wants the part too . . . .

 

My Take:

Well, my favorite little pink lovin', hard workin', beauty queen aspirin' girl is back in Kylie Jean, Drama Queen.  Her last adventure was Kylie Jean, Rodeo Queen, where she learned the value of hard work and perseverance.  Her mama always tells her pretty is as pretty does, and this time around she's learned that lesson through learning to be nice to the new, mean girl in class.  I really love these Kylie Jean books, she's such a good example to little girls, she always works hard at her goals, and she always tries to be nice.  She doesn't always accomplish that last goal, but watching her learn and grow is the fun of the books.  Aside from learning to be nice to someone she doesn't like, she also learns how to handle the disappointment of not getting the part she wanted in the school play.  I've been there, and while as an adult it doesn't seem like a big deal, as a kid, it is devastating.  But Kylie Jean puts on a smile, and keeps on truckin'.  Of course, the ending of the book turns out picture perfect, but its a book for little girls, so it works just fine.  This is a series that I truly love and would recommend to just about any little girl.  I would say however, that the books might not appeal quite so much to the tomboy set, but Kylie Jean is so endearing, I think even they won't mind the pink overload in this book :) I whole heartedly rate this book, 1, Pay Full Price.

Tell me what you think!  Do you enjoy the Kylie Jean books?  Do they seem like something your little girl would enjoy?  I love the cover of this book, what do you think of it?  Hit the comments!

If Kylie Jean, Drama Queen was a movie, it would be rated G, appropriate for all audiences.

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing Kylie Jean, Drama Queen, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

Kylie Jean Rodeo Queen

Written by Marci Peschke and Illustrated by Tuesday Mourning

My name is Kylie Jean Carter.  Here are some things you need to know about me: I live in Texas.  My color is pink.  I have two brothers, but one of them is a dog.  And my number-one dream is to be a beauty queen!

The rodeo is coming to town!  I want to be Rodeo Queen just like Nanny was when she was a girl.  But if I want to be Rodeo Queen, I have to be in the rodeo.  Rope tricks, bull-riding, barrel-racing...I'll try everything to win that crown!  It would look just perfect on top of my pink cowboy hat--just you wait and see!

My Take:

I cannot tell you just how much I loved this little book!  Well actually, maybe this can give you a clue:  I am very cheap/broke (aren't we all right now?) and after reading the digital copy from NetGalley I am going to head straight out to the book store today to get the print edition of this book and the rest of the series (reviews to come later) to give to my little nieces for birthdays and Christmas.  I'll probably get a set for my daughter too, even though she is too young for the series :)  The writing is completely engaging, Kylie Jean's Texas twang practically jumps out of the pages and is adorable.  The character of Kylie Jean is definitely a kid you want your kids reading about.  She is a pretty little girl who listens to her mom's advice of "pretty is as pretty does."  She works hard to achieve her goals, and is happy and positive.  While her perfection might be a bit grating to a cynical adult, a child will love her.  Aside from the great story, there are fantastic illustrations and great features at the end of the book.  There are discussion starters to get you and your daughter talking, there are creative project prompts, a rodeo term glossary and recipes.  Kylie Jean is 8 years old, which seems to be about the right age of the audience.  It is a good introduction to chapter books and a good challenge for young readers.  Now I will say that Kylie Jean is a big girly girl, and little girls that tend to lean away from princess and pink will likely still enjoy this book, because it has horses and such, but perhaps not as much others who really embrace that which is ultra girly.  1, Pay Full Price

Tell me your opinion!  What do you think of my review?  What are your first impressions based on the cover and description?  Does this seem like a book your little girl would enjoy?  Hit the comments! 

If Kylie Jean Rodeo Queen was a movie it would be rated G, appropriate for all audiences

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing Kylie Jean Rodeo Queen, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

Petunia Pepper's Picture Day

By Cathy Breisacher and Christian Elden

Poor Petunia Pepper! Every year disaster strikes her on school picture day. Puffy hair, pumpkin-style smiles and pink eye help create pictures that only her family could love. But this year, Petunia promises herself things are going to change. She plans carefully for the perfect picture day. Unfortunately, she misses the school bus and begins a series of misadventures that lead to yet another picture day fiasco. In the end, Petunia spots her picture on the front page of the local paper, featuring her heroic rescue of a runaway poodle. Now that's a picture everybody in her class will love!

My Take:

I really enjoy well done children's books.  Some people think you can just slap a couple rhymes together, add in a few colorful illustrations and bam! done.  Well, tis not so.  A book needs to have substance, as a children's book it is simple substance but substance just the same (phew!  Don't know if I've ever used the word "substance" so many times in one sentence.  Here's one more for good measure: substance)  The book should be relatable, (Petunia Pepper just can't seem to get a good school picture taken, is any kid ever happy with their school picture?  For that matter is any adult happy with their driver's license picture?  So,  relatable? check.) humorous, (the main character's name is Petunia Pepper.  Humorous? check.) easy on the eyes (look at the cover. check.) and finally have something of a message (learn to be happy with yourself and your appearance.  Message?  check.)  Petunia Pepper's Picture Day was a sweet little book that really put a smile on my face, and my daughter's as well.  She enjoyed it even though she is only 3, and my nieces enjoyed it (ages 5 and 8)  If it passes the kid test, it's good enough for me!  1, Pay Full Price

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

If Petunia Pepper's Picture Day was a movie it would be rated G

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing Petunia Pepper's Picture Day, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

A Path Less Travelled

Cathy Bryant

Trish James is tired of being rescued.  When a spooked horse claims her husband's life, she's determined to blaze a path for herself and her traumatized son without outside help.  But will than mean leaving the place etched on her heart?

Andy Tyler has had to struggle for everything, and starting a new law practice in Miller's Creek, Texas is no different  Though prepared for business challenges, he's not prepared to fall in love--especially with yet another woman who will probably abandon him for her career.

Will Andy and Trish be able to see past their limited human understanding to take a path less traveled?

My Take:

Well, Cathy Bryant has done it again!  See, she has this nasty little habit of writing wonderful books that get me all choked up and emotional, causing anyone around me witnessing the display to make fun of me.  I guess I'll just have to forgive her and continue to read her wonderful stories.  A Path Less Traveled is part of the Miller's Creek Series (click here for the review of the first Miller's Creek novel, Texas Roads) and if I may say, the best one yet (granted there have only been two so far, who knows maybe the third will top them all :)  If you are a regular follower of my blog, you probably already know that silly little romances are my guilty pleasure.  I eat them right up, but as much as I love those over dramatic and unrealistic stories, nothing compares to a solid, real romance that focuses on more than physical attraction and drama.  Cathy Bryant's stories are about faith, family, sacrifice and of course, love and romance.  A Path Less Traveled is by no means a silly little romance.  It is wonderfully written, and there is real heart behind every single word.  While the events in the story are fictional, the spiritual journey the main character takes is one the author has experienced, which makes the book authentic, not preachy.  How I hate preachy books!  I want to feel inspired, not talked at, and my expectations were met and exceeded in this book.  I said it for her first book, Texas Roads, and I'll say it for this one-this book is a must read for readers of Christian fiction.  The characters in the book were wonderful-they were strong but flawed.  It is heart wrenching to watch a young widow try to mend her young son's broken heart while battling her own prideful and broken heart, and Andy (a rather tragic figure from the last book), well, he's just about perfect in a completely clumsy and self deprecating way.  Of course he has had a troubled past, filling him with his share of inner demons, but you can't help but fall in love with him along side Trish as he puts her child first.  You will enjoy every minute of Trish and Andy's journey toward love and family, as well as enjoying the tying up of some loose ends from Texas Roads.  Judging by the fact that I literally stayed up almost the entire night last night to finish the book when I had to go to work very early the next morning, I easily rate A Path Less Traveled a 1, Pay Full Price-enjoy!

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

If A Path Less Traveled was a movie, it would be rated G, suitable for all audiences

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing A Path Less Traveled, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

 

  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sorry I Peed on You (and Other Heartwarming Letters to Mommy)

Jeremy Greenberg

MSN's resident parenting blogger Jeremy Greenberg, who also travels the world performing stand-up comedy, combines cute, informative letters from 50 precocious toddlers with accompanying full-color photographs inside Sorry I Peed on You (and Other Heartwarming Letters to Mommy).

Wouldn't you love to know what your toddler's thinking when he refuses to stop jumping on the couch? Jeremy Greenberg's hilarious and thoughtful letters give parents a glimpse into the minds of their little ones. Finally, we can hear "first person" how a kid really isn't fooled by broccoli buried in cheese, how he'd really appreciate it if he could start going down the slide by himself, or how he'd like to apologize for peeing on you during the two seconds it took for you to reach for a fresh diaper.

From Daddy's latest four-letter vocab lessons to the dog's (not the toddler's) repeated milk dribbles on the carpet, this hilarious book answers a question every mother of a toddler wants to know: What in the world are they thinking?!

My Take:

As the mother of a particularly hilarious and precocious little three year old, I can say that I completely related to this book and found it hilarious!  That being said, you don't have to have a toddler to get giggle from this book.  If you have ever had any interaction with a toddler, you know how frustrating they can be, and this book helps make light of all those frustrations.  I loved the voice the author gave to the children, here is one excerpt I found quite amusing:

Why is it that you won’t let the dog lick my face clean of the frosting, but when you can’t find a washcloth, you’ll lick your hand and wash me like a cat?  Personally, I think I look very cute covered in cupcake.  And it’s not that I have anything against your saliva.  As mommies go, I’m sure you’ve got some of the best saliva around.  I’m sure your spit is the envy of the moms’ club, and Windex keeps calling to see in they can tap your saliva glands and make the first-ever bottled toddler-face cleaner.

I think we've all dealt with a kid who won't eat their veggies, won't stop jumping on the couch and won't keep their hat on, etc.  Don't you wish you could get inside their head and find out why they object so vehemently?  Well...

I understand that I’ve got amazing, baby-soft skin.  But if the price of this skin is wearing THIS hat, I’d rather look like Nana’s neck.  And the hat’s so itchy, Mommy.  Was it made from poison oak?  Why does it say “lifeguard"?  I haven’t even taken swimming lessons.  Do you have to get ALL my clothes from garage sales?  Daddy’s hats are awesome and say things like “I”m with Stupid” or “Free Breast Exams.”  Can I also offer free breast exams or be with stupid?

 I am a passionate subscriber to the belief that if you don't laugh, you'll cry.  Since every parent out there has probably shed a few tears in aggravation, next time you find yourself in such a situation read this book and save your tear ducts the extra work. 1 Pay Full Price

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel.

This was a tough book to rate, everything is pretty much rated G except for one letter when the kid hears his dad say the "S-Word" and repeats it many times in the letter, which I guess makes the overall rating more like PG-13.

***FTC Disclosure: This book was provided by NetGalley in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing Sorry I Peed on You, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you! 















If you enjoyed this review, feel free to leave The Book Buff a tip in "Kate's Tip Jar" located on the sidebar.  All tips are anonymous and in no way affect any of my reviews, thanks a ton!

The Doggy Divas: Roxy's Rules

Lauren Brown

From head of the pack to lone, lone wolf!

Roxy Davis is in the dog house.  Big time.  After kissing her BFF's crush over summer break, Roxy finds herself banished to the company of Monroe Middle School misfits Georgia and Kim.  And when things can't get any worse, the town dog walkers go on strike.  Dogs are running wild, giving Roxy the bright idea to recruit her fellow outcasts to start their very own dog walking business.

Roxy soon learns that pampering pooches will not only earn her points for cleaning up the neighborhood, but will also teach her a thing or two about friendship.

My Take:

I really enjoyed this syrupy sweet little book.  The plot focused on the classic "popular girl falls from grace and discovers true friendship with underdogs" storyline that is so common in books of this genre.  But plot isn't everything, the writing is much more important, and this book is very well written.  It is obvious that the author of this book is very in the know on what technology kids are embracing, namely Twitter and Facebook.  The author is also very in tune with tween girls and I felt that the book was quite authentic in the dialogue.  She didn't go overboard with the teenspeak, which is good, because when an author does that, they don't make their book sound younger but instead end up aging themselves.  There were lots of cute things about the book, but my favorite parts were the "Doggy Confessionals" which were featured at the end of each chapter.  The dogs were observant,very insightful and sassy, much more so that their human counterparts.  The Doggy Confessionals are definitely what sets The Doggy Divas: Roxy's Rules apart from other books with similar premises.  Overall I really enjoyed this book, but as with many of the books written for those of a younger demographic, there were definitely some logic leaps where you have to force yourself not to over think.  I don't really mind this, as I believe it to be a perfectly acceptable writing device in a book for a 9 year old girl. I tried not to think too hard on why a dog walker's strike would lead to dogs freely roaming the halls of the local middle school (why not just lock them up in cages and dog runs?), because ultimately, it didn't really matter.  The book isn't meant to be a deep character study into the human condition blah blah blah, its just meant to be fluffy fun, and it absolutely is.  This book is a great price and a good book for a young girl, I'd say, 2 Borders with a Coupon.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I''d love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

If Doggy Divas: Roxy's Rules was a movie, it would be rated G, appropriate for all audiences

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing Doggy Divas: Roxy's Rules, please consider supporting The Book buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

If you enjoyed the review, feel free to leave a "tip" in  Kate's Tip Jar found on the sidebar.  All tips are anonymous and in no way affect my reviews, thanks!

The Affluenza Antidote

James V. D'Amico 

Can affluent parents resist the pressures to make their children's lives too easy -- thereby ruining their work ethic? This book says "yes" -- but it's not easy. Read about a few wealthy families who are bucking the tide to raise the kind of purposeful young citizens our society so desperately needs. Learn what psychologists, educators, researchers and wealth counselors say about the traditional practices and values that help bolster a family's immunity to our society's destructive obsessions. The Affluenza Antidote is intended to stimulate awareness of the damaging effects of too much money and too little tough love, and to encourage younger parents to help restore the values that made previous generations great. A portion of proceeds from the sales of this book will benefit not-for-profit organizations that support families and children.

My Take:

I can only wish that my current financial situation made this book 100% applicable to my life in the here and now, but alas, I'm broke, so I don't need this book--yet.  But I'm hopeful :)  Anyway, I really enjoyed reading through this book, because, all joking aside, I think this book actually can be used for any parent wanting their child to grow up unspoiled and instilled with strong values.  So many teenagers, both wealthy and not, have a complete sense of entitlement, and this book can give you tools to knock sense into them!  The author draws insight from many experts on the subject, and puts all the info together into a compact and straightforward book.  The author discusses the importance of simple family rituals and setting an example, as well as the hows and whys of creating a strong work ethic within your child.  That is really, I think, the biggest message in the book.  Teach your kids to work, even if they will get a huge inheritance, even if they won't, they're lives will absolutely not be fulfilling if they don't learn to work.  My final word on this book is the honesty in which it discusses the reality in which you find yourself.  This book isn't saying that if you read it and follow it, your kids will be perfect.  There is a section toward the back called "No Magic Bullets".  It talks about how there is no foolproof recipe for success, external influences, societal pressures, tragedy, trauma, DNA and birth order all have influence in each child's life, there is no escaping it.  The Affluenza Antidote is merely trying to provide the reader with as much info on the topic as possible so that you as a parent glean from it what you will and do your best.  I really enjoyed this honest and straightforward book,  3 Find a Used Book Store

Do you agree with my review, do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

The Affluenza Antidote is rated G, appropriate for all audiences 

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own*** 

If you are interested in purchasing The Affluenza Antidote, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

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The Best For You

Kelsey Stewart

Adoption is about love for the child, not that the child was not wanted,  This heart warming book is aimed to help children and parents understand what one birth mother was thinking when she decided to place her child for adoption.  Written in her perspective, she tells her child the reasons why she chose adoption.  A great conversation starter for parents, or companions book for adopted children to discuss with other children, this is a unique journey for any child of any age.

My Take:

The Best for You is a heartfelt message for adopted children.  I can't say the book is the most professionally done, or has the best illustrations I've ever seen.  But you know what?  I think this book is the better for it.  The imperfections, and handmade feel, make this book feel much more personal.  As a mom who is considering adopting, I can say this is a book I would love my adopted blessings to have.  The book illustrates that many moms who give up their children do so because they love them, not because they didn't want them.  I think this is such an important fact for an adopted child to know.  This is a wonderful book, and easy to rate.  If this is applicable to your life, definitely 1, Pay Full Price.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel.

***FTC Disclosure: This book was provided by the author for an honest review, all opinions are my own, no other compensation was given***

If you are interested in purchasing The Best for You, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

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Looking Like You: A Step-By-Step Guide for Medical Hair Replacement

Barry Hendrickson

"Barry Hendrickson and his staff are like guardian angels." 

-New York Times

"I myself and top NYC stylists refer our clients to Barry Hendrickson for superior service, and the ultimate in quality and style."  

-Edward Tricomi of Warren & Tricomi Salon

My Take:

Looking Like You is a wonderful resource for any woman that is about to embark upon the journey through chemotherapy.  The book discusses the realities of what will happen to your hair during the chemo process in a positive and constructive way.  The visual styling of the book is bright and fun.  The author understands women in this position need something uplifting and happy.  Many of the pages are devoted to great pictures of wig styles, showing how awesome a properly styled wig can look.  Looking Like You is also chalk full of practical advice about choosing a wig, caring for the wig, and keeping yourself healthy.  The author, Barry Hendrickson, is one of the top wig stylists in the world.  He is highly recommended by top stylist, Edward Tricomi (whom you may know as the stylist who does the makeovers on America's Next Top Model) and is sought after by the heavy hitters of the entertainment business.  Basically, this guy knows what he is talking about.  He offers great advice gleaned from actually caring about, and listening to his clients over many years.  If you find yourself in a situation where you would benefit from a book on medical hair replacement, this book is top notch.  I rate this book a 1, Pay Full Price.  

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

This book is appropriate for all ages.

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing Looking Like You, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

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Giving You the Wow and the How

Sharmen Lane
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Giving You the Wow and the How is written by a woman who has been where you might be right now.  Sharmen Lane not only shares her story of success and how to achieve great things, because she has personally done it, but also she gives you the simple tools to do it yourself and shows you how to use them.  If you want to change your life, if you want to go from now to wow, Sharmen Lane will show you the how.  She personally went from being a high school dropout manicurist, to a millionaire and college graduate by using the tools, tips and strategies she shares with you in this step by step inspirational book.  Sharmen Lane gives you the wow and the how, starting right now!

My Take: 

Giving You the Wow and the How is one of the more entertaining Self Help books I've read.  The themes and ideas discussed in the book are very much the same as other books of the same genre.  Find out what you love to do, knock out negativity, write down your goals, etc.  What sets this book apart, however, is the readability of the book.  The author is a good story teller, and accompanies all of her tips with applicable and interesting stories from her own life experience.  She has a lot of passion for the message she is trying to convey, and you can definitely see her passion come through the book.  This is a great book for people who have found themselves in a rut and just need a little motivation.  This book is filled with practical exorcises that help bolster a person's drive.  One of the qualities I most enjoyed, was how unpretentious the author was.  So many Self Help authors are painfully uppity that I can't bear to read their books.  Sharmen Lane is just regular woman who worked hard and found a way to achieve success, she isn't looking to spout off about how great she is for all of her accomplishments.  If you aren't a Self Help fan, this book probably won't convert you, but if you are looking for something to kick your behind and get you moving, this is one to check out!  As far as Self Help books go, this is one of the better ones, and as such I am giving it a rating of 2, Borders with a Coupon

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

This book is acceptable for all audiences

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing Giving You the Wow and How, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

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How to Help Parents and Kids Get Over the Fear of Math

Saundra Carter

In my family, I am the brains behind English, History, and Writing.  My hubby is the brains behind math, science and computers.  I always figured he'd be the one helping our kids with their math homework when the time came, and I'd help them with their essays.  Well, after reading this book, I'm still totally intimidated by math, but I feel like with the help of this book, I'll be more able to muddle through and help the kids.  Its broken down into useful sections such as Time Saving Techniques, Areas that Give Math Students the Most Difficulty, and also Careers in Mathematics.  I found this last section to be really great.  She goes into detail about jobs such as Actuary, Statistician, Economist, Geoscientist, and Surveyor.  As you can see from my blog, I'm a books and words kind of person, so you'd probably have to pay me triple to work any of those jobs, but I showed my nephew those pages (he LOVES math) and he was really interested and really excited to see the opportunities in pursuing math.  I also let my sister, who is a former elementary school teacher, current homeschooling SAHM, borrow the book to get a good look at it.  As a former teacher and mom of kids the age appropriate for the book (my daughter is 3, we don't need the book for her quite yet :)  I was anxious to get her opinion.   She and her home school group have found it to be a great book to have on hand in class to help students get through tough spots. Coming up with the right rating for this book was tough, I found this book to be a really great resource, and if is something you think you'd be able to use, then 1, Pay Full Price. However, if you are just fine in math and don't need the additional help, 5, Don't Even Bother. 

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

This book is rated G for all audiences

Now a few words with the author, Saundra Carter:

The Book Buff: When and why did you begin writing?

Saundra Carter: After tutoring young people in math for more than 15 years, I noticed that many of my students forgot their math lessons over summer break or after long absences. Writing the book provided a permanent record of our sessions together that they carry with them to college and in life to help their own children with math.

TBB: What was the hardest part of writing How to Help Parents and Kids Get Over the Fear of Math?

SC: The most difficult part of writing the book was knowing when to finish. There are so many more math concepts that cause young people to struggle.  I did not want to re-write a text book, but an inspirational, educational, and entertaining book for parents and their children.

TBB: Is this book inspired by events in your own life?

SC: By sharing my own struggles with math as  a youth, I can let people know that they can move from fear to ferocity in math.

TBB: Is there a specific message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

SC: There is nothing to fear about math, but fear itself.

If you are interested in learning more about Saundra Carter, or her books and upcoming projects, check out the following link: http://www.math1on1.net

If you are interested in purchasing this book, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

The Adventures of Harvey The Wonder Dog: Harvey the Hungry Dog

Lise Dominique

 My Take:

I love reviewing children's books and The Adventures of Harvey the Wonder Dog: Harvey the Hungry Dog was a joy to read.  The book isn't super educational, but it is a lot of fun.  It teaches kids to have a love for animals.  The book has great entertainment value.  The little storyline is cute, and the illustrations are bright and fun.  My 3 year old gave this book her seal of approval as well.  She thought is was funny when Harvey got a time out for eating the couch.  The Adventures of Harvey the Wonder Dog: Harvey the Hungry Dog also comes with CD of the book as read by the author.  I'd love to give this book full marks, but my rating system is based on asking price vs. value.  With the cost of the book in mind, I would have to rate this book a 2, Borders with a Coupon.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

Harvey is suitable for all ages, and thus rated G

A few words with the author, Lise Dominique:

The Book Buff: Do you recall how your interest in writing originated?

Lise Dominique: Sure! An absolutely  voracious appetite for reading anything and everything at a very early age set the table. Several excellent and very encouraging teachers moved me in the right direction and let me know that I had great potential.

TBB: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

LD: Yes, definitely. This book embraces, albeit lightly, the tenets of a healthy lifestyle both through food choices and exercise as a fun activity year-round. A deeper and more subtle message is that ultimately, it's love that will fill you up the most and the best.

TBB: Do you have something you are working on at the moment that you’d like to share with readers of The Book Buff?

LD: Well, I am about to begin work on the next in The Adventures of Harvey the Wonder Dog series, "Harvey Finds His Smile"

TBB: What book are you reading now?

LD: ( laughing)....Well, believe it or not, I am reading a book that was given to me by a friend for my birthday, " Why my third husband will be a dog".

TBB: What is the interview question you always dread being asked?

LD: How did Harvey get his name? The answer has to do with the ex-boyfriend who gave him to me as one of my  Christmas gifts . Harvey is his middle name. He is also an 'ex' for a very good reason. 'Nuff said.

If you are interested in learning more about Harvey the Wonder Dog or Lise Dominique, check out http://www.lisedominique.com/

***FTC Disclosure:  This book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all reviews are my own***

If you are interested in purchasing The Adventures of Harvey the Wonder Dog: Harvey the Hungry Dog, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link, thank you!

Batty Malgoony's Mystic Carnivale & The Mystery of Journey's Crowne

K. Michael Crawford

 Batty Malgoony's Mystic Carnivale is a wonderful little book for the kids out there who love to draw and show off their creativity.  The book is formed around a simple, yet awesome, concept.  The book takes you through a carnival and offers prompts as to what to draw.  It has outlines of bodies and shapes, so that your child's pictures will fit and blend well with the other illustrations provided by the author.  This book allows your child to express their creativity and have a lot of fun.  The illustrations included in the book are gorgeous.  They are colorful and delightfully haphazard.  This is a book I would enjoy getting for my child.  However, since my rating is based on whether or not the book is worth the asking price, I can't give this book a 1, as the asking price is just a bit too high for my taste.  This being said, I rate Batty Malgoony's Mystic Carnivale a 2, Borders with a Coupon.  Awesome book!

As for The Mystery of Journey's Crowne, I can't say I loved it as much.  This book is an "Adventure Drawing Game" filled to bursting with prompts for drawings, puzzles, games, and riddles.  I have to say that this book was not "Delightfully haphazard" as I described Batty Malgoony, rather, it was just plain old haphazard.  There was too much going on on each page, and it was a bit confusing to the eye.  There wasn't really a clear path through the adventure game.  I really think the puzzles could have been toned down, and a bit more linear, rather than scattered all over every page.  There also was not a place to check you answers.  This was the main complaint of the children I had check out this book to back up my opinion.  They wanted to know if they were right before moving on, and there was no way to do that.  Of course, while the illustrations were a bit all over the place, they were gorgeous and colorful, just like Batty Malgoony.  The author/artist is definitely one to watch.  His art is gorgeous and he has such a talent for cartooning.  Due to the feeling of chaos I just couldn't shake while going through The Mystery of Journey's Crowne, I rate it a 3, Buy at a Used Book Store, as it just wasn't up to par with the other book.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

These books are suitable for all ages.

Now a few words with the author, K. Michael Crawford:

The Book Buff: What is the interview question you always dread being asked? 

K. Michael Crawford: “Where does your creativity come from?”  Since I don't know exactly, I tell them that Fred lives in my head and he quite frequently whispers strange things in my ear for me to hear.

TBB: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

KMC: When my Mother stopped asking me when I was getting a real job.

TBB:  If you had to choose something besides writing, what career would you choose?

KMC: Astronaut or Royalty would be good. Then again I would make a great Spy. Why would I choose these?  Because they would be full of adventure. Every creative person needs to have lots of adventure to put in their work.

TBB: Which writer would you consider a mentor?

KMC: To pick one writer would be like trying to pick one flavor of ice cream. It's better if you get a scoop of each and mix them together. Every time I read a book there is an influence that goes on with every writer. Some stronger than others.

TBB: If you could mirror the career of any other author, who would it be?

KMC: I don't want to mirror the career of another author, I am having too much fun writing my own life story.

TBB: Did you learn anything from writing your book?

KMC: With every book I write and every piece of art I create, I learn something. Sometimes not sure what I learn, but I know the next time I will do something better. My creative voice gets stronger.

TBB: Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

KMC: I hope that they enjoy the books I create and Waahoo!

If you are interested in learning more about K. Michael Crawford, his books, and his upcoming work, check out his website, http://www.happilyeverart.com/

**FTC Disclosure: These books were given to me by the author in exchange for an honest review, no other compensation was given, all opinions are my own.**

If you are interested in purchasing these books, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon links.  Thanks!

 

Homespun Bride

Jillian Hart

Montana Territory in 1883 was a dangerous place-especially for a blind woman struggling to make her way through an early winter snowstorm. Undaunted, Noelle Kramer fought to remain independent. But then a runaway horse nearly plunged her into a rushing, ice-choked river, before a stranger's strong, sure hand saved her from certain death. And yet this was no stranger.

Though she could not know it, her rescuer was rancher Thad McKaslin, the man who had once loved her more than life itself. Losing her had shaken all his most deeply held beliefs. Now he wondered if the return of this strong woman was a sign that somehow he could find his way home.

My Take:  

Homespun Bride wasn't bad.  The main character, Noelle, was a strong an inspiring woman, and her man, Thad, was a great character as well.  Honestly, though, not a lot happened in the book, there was a lot of pondering and inner questioning, which is important for a well developed character, but at some point, SOMETHING needs to happen.  I felt like their wasn't' quite enough drama for the end to be totally fulfilling.  In my day to day life, I hate drama, but when I read a romance, I want utter heartbreak, sadness, overwhelming joy, total euphoria, you know what I mean?  Drama.  This book had two lovable, yet mellow people coming together.  Homespun Bride is nice for a rainy day, but don't expect it to change your life in any way, shape, or form.  I am giving this a rating of a 4, Borrow from a Friend.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel.

If this book were a movie it would likely be rated G, totally clean, nothing offensive.

If you are interested in purchasing Homespun Bride, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the following Amazon link!  Thanks!

The Power of Your Child's Imagination

Charlotte Reznick, PhD

Imagine your frustrated four-year-old calming her own anger with a few simple breaths.  Picture your fourth grader visualizing an ice blue pillow to cool his headaches.  Or your worried eleven-year-old improving her concentration by consulting a personal wizard to help with homework.

The Power of your Child's Imagination will show you how to empower your child with easy, effective, and creative skills for surviving--and thriving--in a stressful world.  This indispensable guide provides nine simple tools to help children cope with stress and anxiety by tapping into their imagination to access their own natural strength and confidence.  Dr. Reznick illustrates how each tool can be used every day to deal with problems such as stress-induced headaches and stomachaches, phobias, panic attacks, and social anxiety, bed-wetting and sleepless nights, separation anxiety and fear of the unknown, coping with death, divorce and other losses, hurt, frustration, and anger, trouble with schoolwork and concentration, sibling rivalry and school-yard squabbles.

My Take:

I am generally not one for parenting books.  I feel that each child is an individual, and parenting books just don't account for each child's unique nature.  Many times the books give the most impractical and theoretical advice, you would have been better off not ever reading the dang book.  I can tell you wholeheartedly that this book is different.  It is all about figuring out your child, and using the tools provided by tailoring them to your child's specific needs.  I also feel that many parenting books take children and childhood too seriously, and it feels like the author is trying to transform your child into a little adult.  I think my aversion to this practice is why I was interested in The Power of Your Child's Imagination the moment I read the title.  What??? A book that wants your child to day dream?  Yup!  This book introduces the theoretical concepts, coupled with practical tools to allow you child's imagination to calm their anxiety and stress.  Being the mother of a very fiery and independent red headed toddler, I have come to love this book.  We have already implemented several of the tools given.  Our favorite is one called "balloon breath".  When I try to get my daughter to take deep breaths to calm down, even her little 2 year old mind can feel that it is a bit patronizing, so she'd never cooperate.  With balloon breath, I have her imagine that her tummy is a balloon, and she has to take deep breaths to fill it up all the way, then I have her slowly let the air out of her balloon/tummy, and voila! she's calm.  This book is filled with awesome features, like a "back track alert", warning you about what to do if the kid starts sliding back, "quick tips" (self-explanatory :), "sample scripts" to help you broach some of these sensitive topics gently, and "putting it all together" (again self-explanatory).  I recommend this book to basically every parent out there.  Our kids all have stress and anxiety, this book can really give some wonderful tools to overcome these problems.  I give this book a 1, Pay Full Price Guilt Free.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off-base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

If you are interested in learning more about the author, please visit her at http://www.imageryforkids.com/

To download a free e-book with more information on The Power of Your Child's Imagination: How to Transform Stress and Anxiety into Joy and Success and Dr. Reznick , visit http://bookpromotionservices.com/reznick/.  For a limited time Dr. Reznick is offering a very special gift to each person who purchases a copy of her book, including over 80 free gifts, please visit http://www.imageryforkids.com/book/ for all details.

I Spy a Dragonfly

Carla Burke

Join a little boy and his Mom on a fun and colorful journey where they discover the beauty of the Dragonfly. This book also has some fun activity pages in the back for your enjoyment.  

My Take:

I have to say "I Spy a Dragonfly" might have been one of the easiest books to review, because I put it through the 2 year old test and it passed with flying colors!  I have a very energetic 2 1/2 year old, and she was glued to the book while I read it to her, and insisted on thumbing through it for quite sometime after we were finished reading.  She loves her "Dragafly Book".  The writing was good, there was a bit of repetition on each page, which is good for a preschool book, and the illustrations were absolutely beautiful.  The book also had something that most books don't, coloring pages at the end.  My daughter flipped for that, she couldn't wait to play the games on the coloring pages.  This is a great book for a young child that loves color, the outdoors, or cute bugs.  Given the cute writing, gorgeous illustration and coloring pages, I rate "I Spy a Dragonfly" a 2, Borders with a Coupon.

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

A few words with the author:

The Book Buff: What inspired you to write your first book?

Carla Burke: I wanted to write a children's book after my second child was born but didn't have a clue what to write about.  In 2005 my brother died tragically. Shortly after his death I discovered he loved dragonflies.  The next year when Spring came there were literally hundreds of dragonflies flying around our house all the time.  I told my son who was 4 at the time to hold out his arm and be patient and a dragonfly might land.  That's how "I Spy a Dragonfly" was born.

The Book Buff: Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?
 

Carla Burke: It's about discovering nature through the eyes of a child

The Book Buff: Do you have something you are working on at the moment that you’d like to share with us?
 

Carla Burke: I am working on my next children's book about a little girl living with peanut allergies.  It is called "My name may be Peanuts, but I say Naayyy to PB& J".

The Book Buff: Do you have any advice for other writers?

Carla Burke: Don't just say you are going to do it. Do it!

If this book were a movie it would be rated G, suitable for any and all audiences.

If you are interested in purchasing this book, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing from the link below.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid Series

Jeff Kinney

Boys don't keep diaries-or do they?

The launch of an exciting and innovatively illustrated new series narrated by an unforgettable kid every family can relate to

It's a new school year, and Greg Heffley finds himself thrust into middle school, where undersized weaklings share the hallways with kids who are taller, meaner, and already shaving. The hazards of growing up before you're ready are uniquely revealed through words and drawings as Greg records them in his diary.

Author/illustrator Jeff Kinney recalls the growing pains of school life and introduces a new kind of hero who epitomizes the challenges of being a kid. As Greg says in his diary, "Just don't expect me to be all 'Dear Diary' this and 'Dear Diary' that." Luckily for us, what Greg Heffley says he won't do and what he actually does are two very different things.

My Take: 

These books were absolutely hilarious!  I blew right through them, not just because it was a kid's series, but I couldn't wait to see what happened next.  The main character is not necessarily the most likable character, but for some reason you love him anyway.  He can be quite selfish, but I think that this helps kids to understand that some of the things they do can hurt people, even if they didn't necessarily mean to.  I think these books provide not only entertainment, but a little comfort, because so many kids get picked on, it would be good for them to read these books, and be able to laugh along, feel like someone understand how they feel.  I also see these books are good "gateway books", which are books you get your kids to read to get them interested in reading in general.  These are goofy, and don't really have  much intellectual merit (in fact the main character is obsessed with video games and would rather die than read a book) but they show kids that contrary to popular belief, the written word can be fun and interesting.  You get them started on books like this, next time something a bit more intellectually stimulating, and so on until your kid is loving classics like Treasure Island, and they didn't even see the change.  I give these books a 2, Use a Coupon at Borders.  Your kids will love them, and you just might find yourself sneaking a peek too.  Don't take them too seriously, they are meant to be fun, and enjoyed, so enjoy them!

Do you agree with my review?  Do you think I'm totally off base?  Either way I'd love to hear from you, be sure to leave a comment and tell me how you feel!

Looking for something a little older?  Check out the Teen Section of The Book Buff.

If this series were a movie, it would likely be rated G, because there is nothing suggestive, or adult in nature in these books.





If you are interested in purchasing this book, please consider supporting The Book Buff by purchasing them from these links!