Otto of the Silver Hand By Howard Pyle

Otto of the Silver Hand was originally published in 1888 - and I am amazed that the content within this novel continues to be relevant in today's society. This story is set in medieval Germany when castles, feuds, barons, knights, kidnapping, soldiers, and rescues were common. Violence, revenge, hatred are all themes that continue to permeate within our society. Yet, in both the past and present we can also find humility, gentleness, love, sacrifice and forgiveness. The traits that little Otto possesses will encourage children to see the good and evil in their world and strive to have a positive outlook on life, even when experiencing turmoil within ourselves. Otto's gracious and forgiving nature will inspire the best in all who read this novel.

Otto of the Silver Hand
By Howard Pyle
Publisher: Yesterday's Classics
ISBN: 1599151979

City Dog by Alison Pace

Who wouldn’t love a novel that is centered on a cute and funny White Terrier? My neighbors have two and they have such wonderful personalities but, back to Alison’s wonderful novel, “City Dog.” This novel is very unique in that Alison uses various view points to relay her messages throughout the novel. Even Carlie (the main character, Amy’s Terrier) has her turn at telling the story. These individual and unique viewpoints pulled me through Amy and Carlie’s experiences as I was interested in what each individual character thought about the events in the novel.

Our main character Amy, works through many real-life situations as she struggles with independence and finding herself and her direction in life. Amy is a very relatable character in which a young woman would easily share the very same interpersonal struggles. It takes Amy quite a while with many different experiences to gain self esteem and realize that she is a strong independent woman. At the conclusion of the novel, Amy is a confident young woman who has finally found her life direction and acts on her self-discoveries.

I truly enjoyed experiencing and working through Amy and Carlie’s situations, but was especially happy that Amy had found inner peace at the end of this novel.

As a side note for Alison - I hope the “Carlie” children’s books are in the works because I know for a fact my kids would love to read the adventures of Carlie and Robert Maguire!

City Dog
By: Alison Pace
The Berkley Publishing Group
ISBN: 9780425221433

Sacrifice for "Freedom From Oil"

“I plan to deliver an address from the Oval Office one month from today. The topic will be oil dependence.”

I tend to steer clear and far away from any type of political book. My disinterest stems from the obvious bias and propaganda that these types of political figures tend to bring into their views and writing. The viewpoint and rambling on and on bores my racing mind. “Freedom From Oil” was written from a completely different perspective and point of view that it took me by surprise. I was fully engrossed throughout the entire book and often referenced previous views and opinions as I read through Sandalow’s ideas.

The format of this book was written as fairly short, but highly detailed documents written to the next President of the United States by the various Directors and Secretaries within the President’s office. Each perspective detailed the pros and cons of how to eliminate the United States’ addiction to oil. The forward thinking approach brings in thinking from all factors which would affect the people and corporations of the US.

These views facing the problem of oil addiction include memorandums from the President, his Counselor, the Secretary of Energy, the National Security Advisor, the Council on Environmental Quality, the Environmental Protection Agency, the National Economic Council, with several articles profiling American viewpoints.

Solutions to the oil addition problems are presented by the Secretary of Transportation, the Secretary of Agriculture, the US Trade Representative, the Council of Economic Advisors, the Secretary of Energy, the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, and the Secretary of State. Additional viewpoints include profiles and ideas presented by American citizens. The range of solutions presented include Biofuels, Plug-in Cars, Fuel Efficiency, Coal, Hydrogen, Smart Growth, Strategic Petroleum Reserve, and Diplomatic Strategy.

Finally, a compilation of all the problems, solutions and discussion is provided via a press release and “The President’s Speech to the Nation.” The format presented in this book not only held my attention but strengthened my belief that all Americans should work toward finding solutions to our current energy crisis and work toward using cleaner fuels and be willing to sacrifice convenience for what is best for not only the United States, but also the world.

"Freedom From Oil"
By: David Sandalow
Publisher: McGraw Hill
ISBN: 978-0-07-148906-5

“Babyproofing Your Marriage”

The “Babyproofers” Stacie, Cathy, and Julia are a humorous bunch of moms (and wives) that not only give helpful tips, but they also share from their own experiences and experiences of others. Many stories and viewpoints from both the male and female perspective are given. The overall goal of this book is to unite husband and wives through the early childhood years while providing an understanding of what the other spouse needs and wants out of the marriage.

The authors go through lengthy descriptions of how children change marriage, and individuals. Examples of men not helping in the house and childrearing yet yearn for more physical contact with their wife predominate the better part of this book. For those that are experiencing this situation (and by the sound of it from this book – the majority of married couples) there are numerous tips to help both parties get what they need out of the other spouse.

While reading this book, I realized very early in my reading that my marriage is unique and not at all like the partners described in this book. I have been blessed with a wonderful husband who probably does more than his share around the house and has always helped with the children. Whether it is feeding, changing a diaper, washing clothes, cleaning up bodily excretions, reading a story, or sitting next to a toddler while he makes potty, my loving husband is always there for me and my children.

Although this book was not written for my particular situation, it would be extremely helpful for many. This book is well written with plenty of humor along the way. My advice would be to read this book while expecting your baby. Once your baby arrives, there is very little free time to read during the first few months. In addition, this book would be a wonderful shower gift for any expectant couple.

“Babyproofing Your Marriage”
By: Cockrell, O’Neill, and Stone
Publisher: Collins
ISBN: 978-0-06-117355-4

Ready to Make a Purchase? Check out Its Review...

Before making a purchase, most people head to the Net to see what the reviews have to say. But besides being time-consuming, this can also be pretty unreliable. So who's reviewing the reviews?

When you're researching a product, what do you do when one website gives it five stars and another only gives it two? How do you know which sources are dependable? Have you read all the analyses? These are the questions the experts at ConsumerSearch.com keep in mind when putting together the ultimate review (so you don't have to).

But how is ConsumerSearch different from all the other sites out there? They review the reviews. They start by scouring the Web for the best, most trustworthy product reviews, analyze their selections and identify the best picks. And they give you four ways to help make the best decision possible. Check out the "Fast Answers" first to see a listing of the top-rated products in a category. Then head to the "Full Story," where you'll find a complete analysis of who the reviewers are and what they have to say. Finally, you can get a complete list of all the reviews reviewed, with ranking and descriptions of each one (and a link to where it originally appeared) as well as sites where you can buy each product. And with review categories ranging from Electronics to Lawn & Garden to Kitchen & Food, you're bound to find the information you're looking for.

Don't spend all your time searching the Web for reviews — just head straight to the site that reviews them all. Visit ConsumerSearch

You Have Always Been Brilliant

Life changing, motivational books are only effective if a connection is made between the author and reader. The reader must believe what the author is sharing and then make changes in their own personal life. Through “Release Your Brilliance,” Simon Bailey has connected with the reader as a real person, sharing his own personal story and using symbolism that is understandable to all readers in order to share the knowledge he has gained through his own life experiences.

Throughout this journey, we are compared to magnificent diamonds that are already “Brilliant.” We are taught through the process of reflection and journaling exactly how to release the brilliance that is within each of us. Reflection is the key component and Simon helps the reader to reflect on many parts of their life in a new and inspiring way.

We are encouraged to examine all relationships, goals and “Facets” of our life. Once our “Facets” are polished and refined, our inner “Brilliance” will begin to shine and others will notice the positive changes we have made in our lives.

In addition, real-life “Brilliant” people share their stories with us which help to clarify, focus and motivate the reader to answer questions and develop plans to enhance the individual’s own life.

In addition to this book, Simon has many additional tips and resources available on his website and DVD.


“Release Your Brilliance”
By: Simon T. Bailey
Publisher: Collins
ISBN: 978-0-06-145187-4

"Plane" Jane Discovers Life and Art

“If Andy Warhol Had a Girlfriend” is a fun, lighthearted story of a young woman finding her own identity with the help of her friends and strength that she finds within herself. “Plane Jane”, as she calls herself, is easily identifiable in most every young woman. She is single, has relationship issues, resents her boss, dislikes a co-worker, is bored with her mundane life and is having difficulty finding meaning in her chosen career. These real life issues are so very common among young women that the character of Jane is easy to identify with, even if the reader has moved passed this phase of their life; it can bring back so many individual memories from the readers past.

This novel is centered on the theme of art. However, the reader does not need to know anything about art to enjoy this heartwarming story. This Novel is not a true romance story; it is more in the category of “chick-lit.” However, I would imagine many men would also enjoy Jane’s quirky nature and her experiences in the art world.

I found that this was a very quickly paced novel as Jane and the famous artist Ian traveled around the globe promoting Ian’s artwork. I was eager to read of their adventures together and the mishaps along the way. I was very please by Jane’s character development throughout this story. She began as a very week and uncertain individual who needed to rely on others. In the end, she was transformed into a strong woman who knew exactly what she wanted out of life and carrier and was able to vocalize her feelings and solve her own problems.

One major theme presented in this novel is to always think positive of situations that may seem negative or not fit into our plans. You may find unexpected growth in yourself by remaining positive and finding the “good” in all situations.

“If Andy Warhol Had a Girlfriend”
By Alison Pace
Publisher: Berkley
ISBN: 0-425-20024-8

A Fun Read with Great Food, Wine, and Company

Right of the bat I am going to admit that I am not into sports novels or sports stories. However, Grisham has once again sucked me into a book that I would normally not read or even pick up off the shelf. Football is the overlying theme with good, no…. great food. It must have been the great Italian food and wine that kept me reading… right?

As we learn about Rick Dockery’s pathetic football carrier which continues through much of the first half of the book, you have to wonder if anyone who plays a sport so poorly and for the NFL could actually exist. Throughout the novel, Rick grows in so many different directions. Italy will certainly leave a permanent mark on this character. He finds friends, a great girl, contentment, and even improves his game. There is truly growth in his character leaving us to wonder where his next adventure will lead.

Throughout this novel, and through Rick, the reader learns a little about the NFL, but mostly about Italian football, life, food, wine and sites. This short novel is quickly paced and I found I was eager to continue on with Rick and his adventures throughout Italy.

Unlike Grisham’s normal crime, court and lawyer novels, “Playing for Pizza” proved to be a wonderful short read that inspires us to keep working hard, even if we are struggling and want to give up.

“Playing for Pizza”
By John Grisham
Publisher: Doubleday
ISBN: 978-0-385-52500-8

Kill Me Instead

“The Good Guy” by Dean Koontz
Publisher: Bantam
ISBN: 978-0-553-80481-2

As a writer, Koontz is improving. I found that this novel had very little rambling about his characters and scenes. His development of characters was amazing. I found that even though I despised the evil character, Krait, I was just as attached to him as I was the main characters, Tim and Linda.

This novel had a very interesting and scary plot. What made this Novel so intensely frightening was that it was a plausible situation. It is a plot that could very well be happening or could happen to anyone that unknowingly was in the wrong place at the wrong time.

Krait had received payment by his “people” numerous times previously to kill. This time, the payment was for Linda. In a strange mix-up, Tim was given the money to perform the hit on Linda and refused to give it to the killer, Krait. Instead, Tim took it upon himself to save Linda from the determined killer. A cat-mouse chase ensues where Tim and Linda are unable to escape Krait and eventually they must face him.

I do not think the reader is totally surprised by the ending, but what is surprising is what we learn about the characters and why the mission to kill Linda took place. Anyone that enjoys crime novels, mystery, and suspense will find this a very entertaining read.

Dark and Cold.... always

“The Road” by Cormac McCarthy is a very strange, post-apocalyptic novel with unconventional dialogue, gruesome details and nearly stagnant plot line. Although I read this novel very quickly, I found this both easy and difficult to read. Easy in the sense of following a very minimal story line, but difficult due to the negative feeling it left within me as I read.

One very strong theme presented in this novel was love. The characters in this story were nameless. However, I felt a deep and strong connection to the father and son as they traveled to find the good people and a better place. I was disappointed in the end as there was no clear resolution of finding a warmer, safer environment.

In reflection, I guess all books and stories do not have resolutions or happy endings. However, being human, we yearn for stories that give us hope and make us feel good. This book did not do that, it left me depressed and prayerful that this will never be a world in which myself or my children will have to live or try to survive.

Skipper's Revenge by Julie Teahan

Skipper's Revenge, Julie Teahan's debut novel, is a perfect read for anyone who has ever felt less than perfect. Follow intently as the story's star, Paige Sheehan, copes with the fact that she'll never have the perfect job, the perfect man or the perfect wardrobe. And how does she cope? By embracing her plain-Jane appearance and strutting her stuff.

Paige has a theory: In this world there are Barbies and there are Skippers. Like that famous doll from Mattel, a "Barbie" is glamour personified. You know, the girl who always gets what everyone else can only dream about. And then there is Skipper, Barbie's flat-chested, tagalong little sister. Guess which one Paige is? That's right.

And Paige is okay with that. That is, until her gorgeous boyfriend (who just happens to be named Ken) dumps her for a specimen of proportionate improbability — a Barbie. She's had enough. But can she get over her jealousy of the Barbies of the world enough to believe that she is as deserving of her life's desires as the most immaculate of beauty queens?

Well, I don't want to spoil anything. But if you're hungry for more, stop by Julie Teahan's site for Barbie trivia, excerpts and press about Skipper's Revenge.

Visit Julie Tehan's novel "Skipper's Revenge"

A Fiery Historical Novel

“Fire Bell in the Night”
By: Geoffrey Edwards
Publisher: Simon & Schuster
ISBN: 978-1-4165-6424-9

Crime, conspiracy, manipulation, racism, slavery, honesty, and mystery are all themes dealt with in this page turning novel. The setting is pre-civil war in the US. The mix of detailed history and research provides a rich learning experience about America of the past through the telling of a unique historical trial in the South. North-South divisions are debated through the perspectives of southern plantation owners, residents and a northern reporter, John Sharp.

Throughout this story, we learn about a simple man, Darcy Calhoun, who is charged with harboring a slave. We learn about this man’s history and fate through the investigative reporting of John Sharp. John uncovers many secrets that are held by the plantation owners throughout his adventures.

Angry mobs and fires are common occurrences in this normally quant city of Charleston, SC. John’s little friend Samuel helps to research the fires and disturbances around the city which lead to further discoveries and several near death experiences for John.

At the end of the trial, John struggles with the information he uncovers about his new friend Darcy Calhoun. John must decide how to handle this information as he will have to live with these decisions that will impact the rest of his life. These life changing experiences make John a stronger character as he has grown from a novice questioning reporter to a decisive strong man at the conclusion of the novel.

A Murder Mystery with Fishing on the Side

“Blue Heron Marsh” by Douglas Quinn
ISBN: 978-0-595-45822-6
Publisher: iUniverse

“Blue Heron Marsh” is a unique mystery told from the perspective of a loner Webb Sawyer, who must deal with his difficult past to bring him into today’s world in order to solve a series of murders.

We learn about quiet life and fishing though Webb’s life. He lives for fishing and shares this passion with all that touch his life throughout this novel. We also see a transformation in Webb Sawyer as he deals with the difficult situation presented to him while serving the US. His closest friend looses trust in Webb and he is forced to reconnect with an old friend Bly after making several bad decisions. Bly helps to ground Webb, bringing him into the technological age and finds him the perfect fishing and hanging out buddy that he desperately needs.

Begrudgingly, Webb assists a soon to be Private Investigator, Amanda, as she hunts down clues across the state of NC trying to free her friend Clara from jail and find the true murder of a well known business man. Amanda believes that she has found convincing clues that prove her friend is innocent and seductively begs for Webb to help her and present her case to her former boss and an old friend of Webb, the prosecutor, Randy Fearing. After reviewing Amanda’s research and following her lead, Webb gives in and agrees that something is not right about this case.

After Amanda leaves the case, Webb continues to follow his gut feeling and seek additional information about other murders around the state that occurred in the same fashion. His research leads him to confront the killer and he finds that he is perplexed as to what to do once he knows the past and truth.

The twists and turns and unexpected events in this novel will continually make you second guess who is at fault and what should be done about the evidence that is uncovered.