For instance, I like the fact that they cover what kinds of things can be done in the kitchen.  Children are smart and they get to thinking about those ideas (they are contagious you know); once the ball gets rolling…they come up with some pretty smart ideas of their own.  Here the book talks about making better choices when shopping for groceries or even the items that we use to serve our meals and snack.   Household chores are discussed and really teach about making the most of conserving water while doing dishes.  Opening up a dialog with children about using real dishes instead of toss away, like paper or styrofoam, products shows children that even simple choices can impact the world and save money.

        Reusing or recycling products is a great way to go green and this book has wonderful pictures and suggestions for doing just that.  This book is wonderful also for the fact that it encourages the whole family to make a commitment to saving the planet by telling the children to “help” their parents.  Sometimes it takes the faith of a child to move a mountain. 

        Taking care of the earth is important if we expect to have a place for our children and grandchildren to live safely with all that they need.  Gardening is making a resurrgence and learning how to do it properly is not hard to do if someone takes the time to teach you.  Conserving water and protecting it is crucial to the health of human beings. 

         The pictures or photos in this book are colorful and are relatable for both children and their family to grasp the concept of nurturing the world that we live in.  Many of the ideas are familiar but some of them aren’t.  In fact, you older readers may be surprised by the wisdom of those elders before us who did precisely some of these things; perhaps without knowing exactly how wise they were.

          I would recommend this book for children from ages 5-12 (and their parents of course). 

      I like how he lays out the story of what each child is doing when the tornado hits.  Then he delves into the chaotic world of the adults who are stumped on how to overcome the despair that comes with the responsibility of rebuilding a town which has seen disaster more than once.  As the adults are brainstorming ideas on how to go about financing the rebirth of their town and their personal lives…one adult has a crazy idea. 

       That idea just happens to be putting together a talent show.  When that crazy idea is compared to the other crazy idea…well, let’s just say that the crazy idea of a tallent show…suddenly becomes very popular.  Not only that, but kids become empowered and energized and so do the adults.  Everyone pitches in to make it a success.  Each child discovers things about themselves and their friends that they never knew.

        Of course, as the town gets behind the talent show and it’s efforts to raise money for the school library, that’s lost all of it’s books in the tornado, trouble brews behind the scenes.  Characters and personal integrity are revealed and friendships are strengthened and lost in the process.  What I like about Dan’s book is that if one pays attention; lessons on positive personal development can be put to good use.  Discovering our own strengths and weaknesses and learning how to encourage positive self- growth and diminish the negative qualities we possess, can be very enlightening. 

        If you want to learn more about the writer Dan Gutman or his books check out his website here:  http://www.dangutman.com .   This book, The Talent Show was published in 2010 by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers.   I would say that this book is ideal for kids 7-12 years old.

       The text of the book explains in real language that doesn’t talk down to a child.  The book was written by Pam Rosenberg and she does a wonderful job of answering the question of how the end product, ice cream, goes from raw product, to the wonderful delight on the desert wish list of most children. 

       Through both mouth watering pictures and words designed to lead from one thought concept to another about what has to happen to turn milk into ice cream…the reader is left with an understanding of how that happens. 

        I like that Pam Rosenberg inspires the reader to ask questions of those people in the everyday life of the reader who may play a part in a manufacturing process.   Those people may include a farmers who produce raw products, to a trucker who delivers raw or finished products, to a factory worker who works on an assembly line or, maybe even a grocery worker who stocks the product, or a cashier who sells the ice cream.

       I like the fact that this book also has a list of glossary terms to help young readers understand words that may not be in their vocabulary as well as a page of websites and other resources on the subject.  There are 24 pages and the reading level is for children grades 2-4. 

        Those examples in manufacturing open the eyes of a child to the world around them…not only for ice cream products; but , also to open their eyes to other manufactured products, and jobs or potential careers that may be in their future.

          This children’s picture book was published by: http://www.cherrylakepublishing.com  in Ann Arbor, Michigan; copyrighted in 2010. 

        This novel explores so many subjects that it is hard to imagine how they could all be woven so expertly into the story line without feeling like you are ticking off a list; however, the author skillfully does so.    Saving Cicadas shares with us an adult unplanned pregnancy, we learn of a teenaged pregnancy, an estrangement from parents in a time of need, we get a window into what it is like for a parent to deal with life’s ups and downs while parenting a special needs child.   Along with those issues we get exposed to the consequences of relationship failures and how they not only impact those in the intimate relationship; but also, into other peripheral relationships and how they are affected.   This story explores the raising of children without fathers, it dives into adoption, abortion, abandonment, and the complicated layers of influence that religion plays on our decisions and our choices in our daily lives.

         There are some definite artistic licenses taken with traditional Christian beliefs when it comes to exploring the concept of angels and the limits, or lack there of, that they play in our earthly lives.   The line between our physical selves and our spiritual selves is explored too.    I love how the story line explores the ramifications of what would have, should have, or could have been, in regards to the life of the unborn who’s lives were terminated through abortion.  This may be a hard read for those who have been touched by abortion.  However, the book also underscores the power of repentence and forgiveness which is exactly what scripture promises to those who truly seek it.

          All in all, this book is a life affirming book which I believe makes it worth the time and emotional energy that the reader expends while unfolding the storyline.  It is a good book and I like that the author takes the time to write questions at the end of the book which helps guide the reader’s feelings and understanding of the different areas of thought on these subjects. 

            The author is Nicole Seitz and the book was published in 2010 by Thomas Nelson Publishers.   The publisher’s website can be found here:  http://www.thomasnelson.com/consumer/  and here is the author’s website:  http://www.nicoleseitz.com/

       Her life as a young child can be described as, one horror after another.  Her definition of family was redefined by her experiences.  She considers one certain foster family to be her parents and that would be Barb and Dave.  Jessica considers their children Tony and Alyssa her brother and sister. 

        They were a foster family that had the care of Jessica within their family for one blissful year.  They accepted her as their own until the foster care system decided to end her stay there.  The tragedy is that she doesn’t know their last name or, what city in Indiana that they lived in.  To top it off…the system will not allow her to try to trace them or contact them.   It would be an amazing miracle to find them after all of these years.  Her heart aches to reconnect with them and to tell them of their impact on her life.  They gave her gifts that they may not realize that they bestowed upon the young girl who had never known unselfish love and acceptance.   How different would her life have been had she been allowed to put down roots in this family and grown to flourish and flower?

      There has been a long history of betrayal in Jessica’s life…through foster care and in her personal romantic relationships.   It is hard to trust when a childhood is filled with betrayal and abuse; so that makes it especially evil to have others in your life, as an adult, treat you with violence, abuse, neglect or betrayal.   Jessica developed a life long love of reading, horses and empowerment.  These are tools she employed to survive the torture that she endured.

       She has learned how to survive and how to overcome.  As a mother of two boys she has passed on her commitment to living a life of purpose.   She has documented her journey in The Road To Me.   As she says, her life isn’t pretty…but, it is real.  I like the fact that Jessica has strengthened her relationship to God.   She is still here on Earth because God ordained it.  She has resolved that she was allowed to go through so many soul wrenching situations so that she could be a voice for children and for individuals who suffer and come through stronger, because she knows what they are going through.  She also knows that it shouldn’t and doesn’t have to be that way!

        Jessica has developed what she calls her Definitive Voice.  In fact, she uses her voice to call attention to organizations and non- profits that change peoples lives for good.   She is a strong voice for things such as Live Strong the organization that Lance Armstrong started to create an awareness about cancer and it’s touch on the lives that it affects.  She is a strong supporter of CASA , advocates for children in foster care…this is one of her biggest legacies…as a champion for children.  In fact, she also  a strong advocate for Children’s Rights.   Another recipient of her support is The Lampion Center in Evansville, IN . 

        The human spirit is an amazing thing.  It has an powerful ability to heal & survive when all odds seem stacked against it’s very existance.   All it needs is a kernel of real love, real affection, real hope, real peace to begin rebuilding what forces of destruction have tried to tear down.  Those very things that have come against it to destroy, only serve to strengthen the wings of that person’s soul.  To reclaim joy and direction; the human spirit needs a purpose in life to be effective in connecting to others to make the most out of the short time that the human spirit has here on earth.   I believe that Jessica Angelique has found the path that God would have her on and I believe that he will reward her efforts to be obedient to her calling.  

        Jessica’s book, The Road To Me can be purchased on http://www.amazon.com . 

       There are some behaviors that the young man, Dylan, does that confuse Mackenzie Mackabee.  He sits and swings alone for long periods of time.  He covers his eyes and his ears for no apparent reason.  He doesn’t seem to smile or talk back when any other students talk to him.  One day, the kids are playing soccer when out of the blue, the young man runs and takes the ball and continues running.  The kids are upset thinking that he is trying to stop their game.

       Mackenzie consults her teacher about her questions regarding young Dylan’s behavior.  The teacher is thrilled to have an opportunity to explain that Dylan has Autism and how that affects him.  She explains that she is sure that Dylan isn’t trying to stop their game or trying to be a bully. 

       You will have to read the wonderful story to see how the situation is resolved and how a little understanding can go a long way to helping others to include someone who is a bit different from themselves.  This is a wonderfully written book and the colorful pictures on the pages help to show how students can learn about one another and appreciate their differences.   The emotions of the characters are reflected in the artwork so that the reader can empathize with the characters in the story. 

        I think this is a wonderful story book for any classroom setting; but, especially any classroom that may include special needs students who may be struggling to feel acceptance from their peers.   The author of the story is Julie Coe and the illustrator is Sondra Brassel; the story was inspired by the children of Jennifer Maloni.  I like the fact that these women intend for this book to make a difference in how children see another child who is a bit different from themselves and appreciate and include them in their social lives!   There are even some great activities to promote positive interaction between children who are living with Autism or any other challenge that sets them apart from their peers and others who are in their daily lives.   After all, everyone deserves the opportunity to be accepted for who they are and to feel like they fit or belong with others in the peer group.  Pick up this book and let it be an inspiration to teachers, students and families everywhere!

        The book can be purchased at:  http://www.amazon.com

       Many people did stop and listen because Mattie’s personality and the way that he delivered that message of hope, love, and peace was such that he was very engaging.  I remember seeing him on talk shows and news programs and being very impressed by him.  He was a gifted writer and a deep thinker.  He knew, communicated and worked alongside of celebrities like Oprah, presidents like Jimmy Carter, media personalities like Chris Cuomo, or musicians like Christopher Cross, actors like Sean Austin from the Harry Potter movies, champions like firefighters and advocates, like Jerry Lewis, for those suffering with muscular dystrophy and everyday people; to share his message of peace and hope.  I am grateful for and respectful of his sacrifices while delivering the message he bore in his heart.  That is commitment.

        He suffered much in his physical affliction.  He suffered much emotionally at the loss of his siblings.  He was loved and guided by a mother named Jeni who not only raised her child to be so special but also recognized that he had something to accomplish in the short time that he was given to live here on Earth.  I think that she is pretty inspirational too.   She lost all four of her children to this disease and she lives with it herself.  She has not let it stop her from living her best life or from continuing to spread the message that God put on Mattie’s heart while he lived.  Surely God will bless her for continuing to be faithful in her love for him inspite of all of the challenges that her family has faced.

     Mattie Stepanek was a young man with an amazing personality and wisdom far beyond his 13 years.  He lived his best life to the fullest by fulfilling his purpose to the best of his ability.  I think you will be blessed by this behind the scene’s story of Mattie’s life and mission.  You will be blessed by reading any of Mattie’s writings, his series of books called Heartsongs.   I dare you to read them and not be changed in some positive kind of way!

     If you want to learn more or are interested in one of his books you can go to the site that was set up for Mattie before his death here:  http://www.mattieonline.com/ .

        Instead, Jason brings his own perspective about how living a life in pursuit of a close learning relationship with God, through his son Jesus, will allow all who accept him and strive to live by God’s principals to be admitted to heaven.  God says that no sin will enter into heaven; and trust me, no one is going to want to be left here on Earth once Jesus has come back for the saints; because, Satan will be unleashed to wreak havoc on those who have not commited their lives to God before hand.

         Jason felt God delivered the title of the book to him and that he planted the need to write this book because Armageddon is coming soon and God wishes that none miss their opportunity to avoid the trials and tribulations that are to come for those who are not ready when he returns for those who have prepared their hearts and minds, before that takes place.   It is going to be hell on earth after Jesus returns and takes his saints away.   The book of Revelations describes in great detail what will happen and how it will happen.  Jason’s book strives to point out the wisdom in heeding the warnings in the book of Revelations by learning the lessons that God wanted the churches and the individuals in the Bible to understand.  Grow and seek his guidance and approval in all things so that all who read it may draw closer to him and be saved!

        Jason does not claim to be a pastor or a theologian; but he writes the book with a sincere heart.  He felt compelled to write the book to share with as many people as possible.  He does a very fine job of breaking down some very difficult to understand Biblical text that many people avoid reading because they say they can’t understand it.  This book would be a great way to witness to those who are on the fence with making a commitment to God and the calling that he has on their lives to live according to his purpose.

        Thank you Jason for being obedient to the leading of the Holy Spirit by writing, In Case Of Armageddon, Break Glass.   The book was copyrighted in 2009 and it can be purchased on Amazon.com. 

While much has been made of  the roller coaster relationships that she had within her family with her father, her grandmother a famed “heroic figure” in her native country of Puerto Rico, her mother who committed suicide and her brother the drug addict; and, i can appreciate her emotional bondage within those relationships; it escapes me how she could then, choose to place a relationship with the man of her choice…a much older man…over the lives of the children that she helped to create.

Irene admitted that her desire to be a mother “allowed her” to forget to take her birth control pills…knowing that she would have some time alone with her secret knowledge of the child that grew within.  She did this knowing all along, that she would chose abortion because her man demanded it of her; to remain in the relationship with him-this in the ‘name” of his never-ending pursuit of the illusion he called “freedom”-meaning no children.  Part of this sad tales equation is that, in the beginning of their relationship, Irene was a mere 15 years old.  She was sent over here, from her own country, to attend college.  The professor would probably be brought up on charges today; for having a sexual relationship with a minor, if their relationship were to begin anew under those conditions.

The object of her desire wanted no children.  He demanded no child be born of him; she knew this.  Why didn’t he seek a physical, permanent solution to his own fertility, if it was so very important, to him to remain childless?  I suspect it had more to do with his need to control the women in his relationships.  He allegedly told Irene that his previous wives and relationships couldn’t be strong in their commitment to “freedom” and they chose to move into motherhood with partners other than him.  What this says about him and his requirements of a relationship is sad.

Sadder still, to me, is a woman who can carry 15 lives and abort them all.  Most of those 15 pregnancies were with the man her obsession.  There were other babies who had different fathers.  She can not place her reasons for aborting strictly on the relationship with the freedom seeking professor, in my opinion.  I do have to say that, Ms. Vilar went on to give birth to two living children, with a new husband.   I can’t imagine the emotional journey those children will experience, as they enter into adulthood and an age of understanding.  What kind of emotional damage will they have when they ponder why they got to live and their siblings did not? 

She talked about her mental breakdown, about her going hungry…she talked about her suffering friendships.  What she didn’t address is how she forgave herself; if in fact, she has been able to do so.  How has she handled the emotion of seeing other children who would have been the approximate ages of her unborn children?  She did address looking down at her infant in the crib and agonizing over having to die and leave her child one day.   But even in that observation, the concern is more for herself rather than any child that she gave life to.   I find this very troubling.  I hope that somehow she has allowed herself to learn how to “place the importance of the life, the emotion and the spiritual needs of the child” before her own.

While I would have more compassion for a woman who wrote this book as a means of therapy; for coming to understand herself and her choices and resolving how to live with those choices; i did not find that kind of completion in this book.  I borrowed this book from my local library because I would have had a hard time paying for a book that was born out of the prematurely ended lives upon which this book was written.  It would have felt like i was condoning the author for having written this book, about the deaths of her babies; by paying her money for living it and for writing about it.   I would have felt guilt by association.  Instead, I feel as if I was the lone visitor at the memorial for their lives, and it is just sad to me.

This book was copyrighted in 2009 and published by: http://www.otherpress.com.