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Thursday, June 28, 2012

Book Review - An American Family

About the Book 
What did it mean to become American in the mid-20th century? Peter Lefcourt goes beyond assimilation to take a nostalgic and dramatic look at what makes us truly American in AN AMERICAN FAMILY: A Novel (Amazon e-book; $3.99; May 1, 2012). Lefcourt, known for his best-selling comic novels -- The Deal, The Dreyfus Affair, Di & I, Abbreviating Ernie, The Woody, Eleven Karens and The Manhattan Project -- takes a more serious approach here as he revives the settings, styles and sentiments of the 20th century.

Roots, The Godfather, Angela’s Ashes, The Joy Luck Club, My Antonia, The Amazing Adventures of Kavalier and Clay, Middlesex are just a few of the great family sagas that have evoked our shared immigrant experience. AN AMERICAN FAMILY is told through the shifting points of view of the five Perl siblings born in the 1940’s, between the two iconic dates of the last fifty years: the assassination of John F. Kennedy and the catastrophe of 9/11. Within this time frame the Perl family is swept up in the sweeping cultural changes of those years: the Vietnam War, the sexual revolution, rock and roll, drugs, women’s liberation, and the civil rights movement.

During this turbulent time, we meet the Perls -- Meyer, the immigrant tailor with a weakness for Yiddish theater actresses, whose nephew, Nathan, would become a fabric cutter on Seventh Avenue and the patriarch of the clan; Jackie, the young lawyer with a weakness for women, alcohol and Italian-American “clients”; Michael, the business genius intent on building his fortune; Elaine, the married school teacher who wants more from her life than being merely a wife and mother; Stephen, the brilliant and sensitive artist who struggles with his talent and his sexuality; and Roberta, the rebel hungry to experience perhaps a little too much of what life has to offer.

Lefcourt reaches back to his own family and memories to inform this saga. “Though this is not an autobiographical novel, it is, in a larger sense, a ‘cultural autobiography’ – specifically, that of Jewish-Americans born in the 1940’s. Our experiences are similar to that of all immigrants – Italian, Irish, Vietnamese, Iranian, etc. – as we all navigate the tide of our new culture.” Peter Lefcourt is a refugee from the trenches of Hollywood, where he has distinguished himself as a writer and producer of film and television. Among his credits are “Cagney and Lacey,” for which he won an Emmy Award; “Monte Carlo,” in which he managed to keep Joan Collins in the same wardrobe for 35 pages; the relentlessly sentimental “Danielle Steel’s Fine Things,” and the underrated and hurried “The Women of Windsor,” the most sordid, and thankfully last, miniseries about the British Royal Family. He is a 30 handicap golfer, drinks too much good wine, and has never been awarded the Nobel Prize for anything.

You can find a list of all of the blogs reviewing this book here -  http://booktrib.com/blog-tour-an-american-family-by-peter-lefcourt/

My Take on the Book 
While I am not Jewish, this book makes the experience of being Jewish in the 1940's tangible. You can hear, see and feel what it is like to be a part of this family. The book is so detailed, and you truly are drawn into the lives of the characters. While I have heard that many of the author's previous books have been more satirical in nature, this book was a great portrait of a family struggling to make it in America. The author does an amazing job at developing his characters and the plot of the overall story. Moreover, this story seemed to me to be similar to many immigrant stories and with my family and many families being immigrants to America, this story is really a portrait of an "American" family and what it means to be American. This is a story that all should not only read, but moreover should experience!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Teachers' Night Before Christmas

About the Book
What do excited students, craft projects, room mothers, nursing home visits, harried shopping, and near-disastrous pageants have in common?

They are all a part of a teacher’s pre-Christmas experience. In this energetic romp through a school’s last days before the Christmas break, the students are full of energy and are up to all manner of mischief. But the teachers are pulling out their hair trying to keep the students busy, while they despair over their own Christmas preparations.

Who should come to the rescue? Santa himself, of course! And he arrives at the helm of a flying school bus, with presents for all the teachers and a promise to take care of their shopping for them. The fantastic illustrations work with the text to make this a fast-paced, high-energy comedic interpretation of Clement C. Moore’s classic poem. The book is sure to be a read-aloud favorite at Christmas parties in schools everywhere.

About the Author
Steven L. Layne is a junior-high language arts teacher in Oak Brook, Illinois, and an adjunct faculty member in the Department of Curriculum and Instruction at Northern Illinois University. He is a member of the International Reading Association, the College Reading Association, and the Northern Illinois Reading Council. He is a recipient the ICare Reading Award, presented by the State of Illinois Council for Affective Reading Education in 2000, and in 1999 was named the Junior High Reading Educator of the Year by the Illinois Reading Council. He is also author of Thomas’s Sheep and the Great Geography Test.

About the Illustrator
Widely acclaimed as the South’s leading illustrator of juvenile books, James Rice is the illustrator and/or author of fifty-plus titles with over 1.5 million copies in print. Rice was born on a farm in Coleman County, Texas, and currently resides in Hico, Texas. He has taught art at the grammar school, high school, and university levels, and enjoys talking to schoolchildren across the country about writing and art.

My Take on the Book
I can completely appreciate this story as my wife taught for many years before we had kids ourselves and I know how busy and hectic (and stressful) the times around the holidays became and how difficult it was for the teachers to actually teach during these times of year. This book captures all of this wonderfully and presents it in a fun to read way. My kids loved how Santa and his team come to the rescue to teachers and give them some needed relief. The book also was a wonderful testament to the dedication of teachers and all that they do to make our children's lives that much more meaningful!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Nurse's Night Before Christmas

About the Book 
Christmas Eve can be busy, especially for the head nurse at Angel Hope General Hospital. Too many patients, too little help, and a crowded ER all threaten to make this night before Christmas one big headache. It seems that nothing could bring holiday cheer to the patients and staff of this hectic hospital.

That is, until the North Pole Rescue Team arrives! Saint Emergency Nick saves the day with eight helpful elves (certified RNs, of course), an ambulance-load of gifts, and well-deserved raises for the hospital staff. This updated holiday poem pays tribute to the hardworking men and women who take care of all of us - even on Christmas Eve.

About the Author
David Davis studied fine art at Stephen F. Austin University in Texas and has published pen-and-ink artwork, cartoons, poems, humorous essays, and short stories in various magazines and newspapers. A member of the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators, Davis is also the author of Jazz Cats, a Children's Book Choice for 2002; Librarian's NIght Before Christmas; Redneck Night Before Christmas; Ten Redneck Babies: A Southern Counting Book; Texas Aesop's Fables; Texas Mother Goose; and Texas Zeke and the Longhorn, all published by Pelican. He resides in Fort Worth, Texas.


About the Illustrator 
James Rice (1934-2004) illustrated Pelican Publishing Company’s best-selling Night Before Christmas series for more than thirty years. Widely acclaimed as the South’s leading illustrator of juvenile books, Rice is the illustrator and/or author of more than sixty titles, with nearly two million copies in print. When not working on new books, Rice visited schools throughout the country to teach children the joys of writing and illustrating. His stories and his detailed illustrations continue to captivate readers of all ages. 


My Take on the Book
We know a number of nurses, so this book really hit home and through the fun story and rhymes, you can truly come to appreciate the hectic, stressful nature of the job of a nurse, especially around the holidays. The story itself was fun and engaging and I have to say that my kids loved the illustrations and seeing Santa in a different way. The book also spurred some interesting conversations about what other people do to prepare for Christmas (and this was in July). This was a great book that makes you truly appreciate the work that Nurse's do in their daily lives and I for one will be sharing this book with some of the Nurses that I know in my own life!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Witches' Night Before Halloween

About the Book
In this cleverly spooky parody of Clement C. Moore’s famous Christmas poem, the witches are up to their elbows in cobwebs and slime, making sure their witchlings are well prepared for their first Halloween. Featuring characters like Mad-Maud and Snaggle-Tooth-Ruth and plenty of ghouls, zombies, monsters, skeletons, and moldy cellars to satisfy all Halloween lovers, this good-natured book about these wickedly fun witches will have kids more amused than frightened.


About the Author 
Author Lesley Pratt Bannatyne is a leading authority on Halloween who has shared her knowledge of the holiday on television specials for Nickelodeon and the History Channel (“The Haunted History of Halloween”), with Time Magazine, and at venues as diverse as the 2000 Halloween Convergence in New Orleans and the St. Louis Art Museum. She contributed the Halloween article to World Book Encyclopedia and is Halloween advisor to the Vampire Empire, formerly the International Count Dracula Fan Club. Her previous books with Pelican include A Halloween How-To: Costumes, Parties, Decorations, and Destinations; Halloween: An American Holiday, an American History; and A Halloween Reader: Poems, Stories, and Plays from Halloweens Past.

About the Illustrator
Illustrator Adrian Tans is a painter and illustrator who has exhibited in a variety of galleries and venues. He has worked as a carpenter, ship’s cook, stay-at-home dad, five-time Vermont state snow-sculpting champ, professional coffee pourer, and photographer’s assistant. His travels have taken him from coast-to-coast and around Europe. He is also the illustrator of Kick the Cowboy, Pirate Treasure Hunt! Pirates Don't Say Please!, and The Emperor's Army.

My Take on the Book
My kids love all things Halloween, and this book simply brings alive Halloween and all of the ghosts, ghouls and other creepy crawly things that come with it in a fun to read, rhyming book that will engage and delight all readers. My daughters asked me to read this about three times through the first time we read it and I know that this will only continue in the future! The story was fun and light (not scary) and the illustrations were so vivid that they drew in the eye, but more than that, the illustrator hid so many gems in the pages of the book that you will have a fun time finding and enjoying! This was a great book that the whole family will enjoy!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Teachers' Night Before Halloween

About the Book 
It's the day before Halloween, and to every teacher's dismay, school has been overrun by princesses and monsters, Jedi and ghouls. In every classroom, teachers are struggling to keep order, but students have brought in their costumes to celebrate a day early. A group of girls sneak into the bathroom to exchange tiaras, and grotesquely dressed fifth-graders pretend to eat two younger students in the cafeteria.

The entire school has turned into a haunted house, and as cupcake icing spreads all over the desks, the teachers look for a way to escape the annual Halloween Day parade. But when the principal issues a memo that says all teachers must attend the parade, the faculty wake up on Halloween morning filled with dread.

But there's a treat in store for the teachers this year. The students and their parents have canceled the Halloween Day parade, and the teachers are ecstatic. There’s just one catch, the students promise–next year, there’s bound to be more trick than treat.

Fine out more by visiting - http://pelicanpub.com/proddetail.php?prod=9781589805859#.T-wxi7XY870

About the Author 
Steven L. Layne serves as associate professor of education and literature at Judson University in Elgin, Illinois. Dr. Layne’s collection of Pelican books includes several titles in the Night Before Christmas Series, including Preacher's Night Before Christmas, The Teachers' Night Before Christmas, and The Principal's Night Before Christmas; the gift books Verses for Dad's Heart and Verses for Mom's Heart; two young-adult thrillers, This Side of Paradise and Mergers; and the picture books Over Land and Sea: A Story of International Adoption and Love the Baby, as well as several additional titles. He lives with his wife and their four children in Illinois.

About the Illustrator
Ard Hoyt was born in Temple, Texas, and is the illustrator of nine picture books, including New York Times bestseller I’m a Manatee, by John Lithgow. This is his second collaboration with Dr. Layne, the first being Love the Baby. Hoyt lives in Bentonville, Arkansas.

My Take on the Book
If you have ever taught you know what it is like around Halloween in schools. This book captures wonderfully the craziness of the season and the more tricks than treats that teachers usually get during this time of year. The book was wonderfully written, with flowing rhymes and imagery that simply jumps off the page. I particularly loved the fact that all of the teacher (even though they were exhausted) went through the trouble of making very intricate costumes for the kids, thus continuing to show their dedication to heir jobs and the kids, even during the most trying times!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Picky Little Witch

About the Book 
Mama Witch stirs up a cauldron of special Halloween soup for her Picky Little Witch. From a pinch of snail and salted rock to goblin tears and shower of soil, she tosses in an assortment of ingredients in an attempt to please her Picky Little Witch. After much coaxing, the tyke takes a bite and realizes that it isn’t so bad.

 When the two fly off for trick or treating, Picky Little Witch immediately sets her sights on such sweets as licorice snakes, coconut cakes, and caramel dandy. After much resisting, Mama Witch finally nibbles on a piece of candy and discovers that it is really quite delicious! 

Complete with a recipe for Halloween Soup and humorous illustrations, this fun read addresses the subject of picky eating. Parents and children alike will enjoy this treat.

My Take on the Book
This was a wonderful story with a great rhythm and cadence that the book follows. I also love the illustrations as every page just draws your eye in and makes the page just come alive! If you have a picky child (when it comes to food) they will love this book as the little witch and the reader will get a kick of the things that are placed in the soup that is being made. As a parent, I have to also say that the book also does a great job at showing a positive relationship between mother and daughter, which is always something that I like sharing with my own girls. This was a great book that I would highly recommend!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Christmas on the Farm

About the Book 
Built in 1877, Bob Artley’s family farm in Hampton, Iowa, was without indoor plumbing and was heated by a wood- and coal-burning stove. The prevailing atmosphere was love and security, especially during the holiday season. It created a magical childhood that Artley wishes every child could have had the opportunity to experience. This sharing of his memories is an endeavor to make that wish come true.

From the perilous tobogganing sessions to the gleeful receipt of mail-order catalogs for the notations of coveted Christmas gifts, Artley depicts a rural Christmas rife with the simple activities that often go unnoticed. In loving detail, Artley describes the homemade, often impractical, gifts that he and his siblings created for their parents, which were accepted with gratefulness nevertheless. He remembers the “popcorn evenings” his family shared on those cold winter nights and the sumptuous, delightful meals that marked the return of a Yuletide season complete with a personally selected and cut Christmas tree. An Artley family Christmas emphasizes the joys of family and friends over the excess of material wants and needs.

Find out more about the Book - http://pelicanpub.com/proddetail.php?prod=1589801083#.T-wsqLXY870

About the Author 
Bob Artley was born on his family’s farm, established by his grandfather, in 1917. He began drawing as a boy, receiving extensive encouragement from the Des Moines Register and Tribune’s great cartoonist Ding Darling. Drafted in the U.S. Army in 1941, Artley met and married Ginny, a WAC technician who shared the joy of raising four children with him. His career as an editorial cartoonist began at the Des Moines Register and continued at the Worthington (Minn.) Daily Globe, where he developed his syndicated cartoon series Memories of a Former Kid. He is the author of ten books, among them Living with Pigs and Once Upon a Farm, both published by Pelican.

My Take on the Book
As someone who have great grandparents who lived on the farm, I have vague remembrances of their home around the holidays, but alas, I did not spend much time there. This book paints a beautiful picture of the holidays on the farm in all of its glory. I have started to read this with my kids now and have been tying in my own memories of farm life as well as they have never know any family member who has lived on the farm unfortunately. This book changes that and affords them the opportunity to dream and imagine a simpler life unlike their own!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Bee-Come! A Collection of Short Stories

About the Book
As many would guess, Tsehay Alemayehu’s latest book is about bees. However, more importantly, ‘Bee-Come!’ is captivating insight into the important role that bees play in the interconnectedness and coexistence of Earth.

Beautifully told through a collection of short stories about nature, children and the young at heart will view one of the planet’s most useful creatures in a positive new light.

“The book focuses on the plight of bees, as well as showcasing the many benefits they bring to both mankind and out planet” says Tsehay, who wrote the book and is a firm supporter of nature’s role in the development of children’s education.

She continues, “Through wisdom-rich stories and engaging illustrations I hope to make my contribution to the thousands who are already taking positive action to reverse the problems that bees face. Their coexistence on Earth is under huge risk.”

The book’s first story starts at a local London park, allowing children to emerge themselves in the stories from a perspective that they understand. As children progress through the book they are treated to stories steeped with education and entertainment; all with the aim of instilling a caring and respectful attitude towards the world they are living in.

“While it’s a children’s book at heart, I am finding that many adults are also finding inspiration from the stories. I think that everyone can learn to appreciate bees’ contribution to the balance of our ecosystem and biodiversity” Tsehay adds.

The author also used the book as an opportunity to connect readers with real-world action. In fact, the book provides a list of organisations that readers may want to learn about and even join, to do their bit for the conservation of bees as well as the integrity of overall nature.

Links for these organisations can also be accessed via the book’s official website, which also contains a wealth of other information including a blog, online store and videos of the book.

“We are having an excellent response to the book and are delighted to be educating young people so that they can provide a safe and healthy planet for their future generations to enjoy” Tsehay concludes.

Bee-Come! A Collection of Short Stories is available now, published by Balboa Press. It can be purchased from Amazon and directly from the publisher.

For more information, please visit the book’s official website: http://www.bee-come.co.uk

About the Author
TsehayAlemayehu is a Montessori teacher, writer, and firm supporter of nature's role in the development of children's education. She is the author of two other children's storybooks, Zeraf! and The Girl Who Smelled Like Orange. She grew up in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. She now lives in the UK with her husband and their two children. Illustrator: Maya Bazzini was born in London. A graduate from University of Arts in London, she has been working on film production for the BBC, channel 4, Al Jazeera, and for independent British filmmakers.

My Take on the Book
For anyone who loves nature, this is a book that will transport you into the world of bees. The stories are vivid and truly bring out the amazingly complex world of bees and all of the things that they do to make our world that much better.After reading this book, I have to say that I have a much higher appreciation for bees and can see why it is so important to have them in our world! This was a great collection of well written stories that all should read (it is not a book just for kids)!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Wednesday, June 27, 2012

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  All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Alexia Foods Oven Fries and Sides Make Every Meal Fun

About the Company (What They Say) 
At Alexia, our creativity and passion for the highest quality side dishes runs deep in our roots. As a Manhattan chef, Alex always wondered why there weren't quality side dishes that achieved the same discerning standard as the main entrée. He knew others would agree, and believed he could create distinctive and inspired convenient everyday side dishes that lived up to what he might create in his own Greenpoint kitchen. Alex started by hand selecting the finest all-natural ingredients and producing only small batches making Alexia a hard to find favorite. Whether seasoning his Beauregard Sweets and Yukon Gold Potatoes or baking the perfect artisan Ciabatta and Focaccia breads, Alex always used real ingredients and put quality and taste first.
My Take on the Products 
These were so good! I first tried the onion rings and they had to have been the best onion rings that I had ever tasted! What I loved most about them was that they were all natural and not as oily as you would get when you go out to a restaurant. I tried the Sweet Potato Puffs next and they were just as good. Sweet and crunchy they hit the spot with the burger that I ate them with! If you are looking for a snack that is not as oily or fatty as others on the market, look no further than Alexia!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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A Summer-Long Popcorn Giveaway!

From local fairs in the summer to nights spent at the movies, popcorn never fails to satisfy our warm-weather salty cravings.

That’s why G.H. Cretors, makers of all-natural, GMO-Free, premium popped corn, is hosting a Freebie Fridays sweepstakes that lasts all summer long! For a chance to win a popped corn variety pack (including Chicago Mix, Kettle Corn, Cheese, Caramel and Caramel Nut Crunch!), simply fan the brand on Facebook and enter to win.

Enter as many times as you want. A new winner will be announced each week, and over $400 in prizes will be given!

You can enter this contest by clicking here - http://woobox.com/i858vi/19irwc


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Tuesday, June 26, 2012

Game Review - Elmo's Musical Monsterpiece

About the Game 
Elmo's Musical Monsterpiece is a new game for the Nintendo Wii and DS that kids will be able to rock out with their favorite Sesame Street characters, engaging in activities that promote musical creativity and dancing. The game also manages to throw in a few activities designed to foster development of math skills through connections between math and music. The in-game music comes from eclectic Los Angeles band Ozomatli, who use a wide range of styles in their music - ideal for kids who need a lot of variety. Ozomatli is also no stranger to lending their work to the video game world, with songs featured in many prominent sports games, so their work should feel natural on these new Nintendo Wii and DS games. The game is simple enough for toddlers to play without too much help, but there is plenty of room for parents to get involved and get in some playtime with their kids.

My Take on the Games
I was lucky enough to try out both versions of this game for WII and Nintendo DS and I have to say that both were engaging, fun games that really encourage kids to get up and dance, but even better (in my humble opinion) was the music that the children could make while playing the game. My daughter loved playing the game and seeing what she could create music wise (as she already loved to sing). The games remind me some of the Ready, Set, Grover! game that came out a while back, as it gets the kids playing to jump and move to accomplish tasks and to be able to take control of the characters. As I mentioned, my daughter just loved the games and I now know that this will be a great addition to our family game collection for the foreseeable future!




All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Arlo Needs Glasses

About the Book 
One out of five school-age children need eyeglasses, and one beloved children's author shows them just how lucky they are.

Going from two eyes to four isn't a bummer, says Barney Saltzberg, the creative force behind nearly 40 popular children's books. In fact, it's a rich adventure.

Just ask Arlo, a shaggy, free-spirited dog who loves to play catch ­ until one day, he can¹t see the ball anymore. He needs glasses!

Arlo Needs Glasses (Workman, July, 1, 2012) is the latest book from Saltzberg, the bespectacled bestselling author of Beautiful Oops!, Peekaboo Kisses, and Good Egg.

Arlo Needs Glasses is inspired by Barney's own four-legged-friend. Just like his character, the real-life Arlo is not very good at playing catch either ­ although he loves to play.

"He just couldn't get the ball to land in his mouth," he says. "We tried over and over and I honestly had never seen anything like it." Thus, the idea for Arlo Needs Glasses was born.

Arlo Needs Glasses is an inventive, interactive picture book that helps kids see the fun in wearing glasses. Every child in glasses will know just how Arlo feels, and will feel better because of it. Saltzberg helps them see why glasses are cool ‹ they enable us to do the things we want to do.

Saltzberg charms young readers (and their parents!) with a perfect light touch and joyful spirit, and kids get to do just what Arlo does to solve his problem: they read an eye chart, look through a fold-out phoropter (that big machine optometrists use), and try on different pairs of glasses ‹ movie star glasses, superhero glasses, mad scientist glasses.

They interact with Arlo as he rediscovers how to be the best ball-catcher in the neighborhood and picks up a new favorite pastime along the way: reading!

More product info at: http://www.workman.com/products/9780761168799/

MY DOG NEEDS GLASSES!" PHOTO CONTEST 
What has four eyes and four legs? Your dog in glasses! Share funny photo of your dog wearing glasses for a chance to win a signed copy of Arlo Needs Glasses by Barney Saltzberg. Be silly, but promise to not put your pup through too much embarrassment.

Enter between June 25 ‹ July 31 by posting your photo on your Pinterest board with the hashtag #ArloNeedsGlasses. Then follow Workman's board: www.pinterest.com/workmanpub. Workman will the photos to the "My Dog Needs Glasses!" board: Pinterest.com/workmanpub/my-dog-needs-glasses.




About the Author
Barney Saltzberg (www.barneysaltzberg.com) is the author-illustrator of Beautiful Oops!, the successful Kisses series, Peekaboo, Crazy Hair Day, and Good Egg, as well as many other beloved children's books. He has received multiple awards for his work, including the Parents Choice Gold Award, an iParenting Media Award, a Virginia Young Readers Medal, and an Oppenheim Award. Also a singer-songwriter, he has written tunes for the PBS show "Arthur" and continues to perform music for children. He lives in Los Angeles with his wife and two dogs.

My Take on the Book
This was a fun book that really brought out a great message about wearing glasses and dealing with the change and what people will say when you have to start wearing them. My daughters loved the story but even more they loved the pop up nature of the book. My youngest could not get enough of the book and kept asking us to read this over and over again. The book was engaging and interactive and allows the child to truly take control of the story. I highly recommend this for any child that may be getting glasses, but also for any child that may interact with other children that might be getting glasses (thus everyone).


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars

About the DVD
A talented young gymnast turns trials into triumphs in the inspiring new feature-length movie, An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars™, coming to Blu-ray™ Combo Pack, DVD, and Digital Download on July 3, 2012, from Universal Studios Home Entertainment. Inspired by the beloved American Girl® line of dolls and featuring the celebrated 2012 Girl of the Year®, the film stars Oscar® nominee Nia Vardalos (My Life In Ruins, My Big Fat Greek Wedding), Jade Pettyjohn (“The United States of Tara”) as McKenna™, Ian Ziering (“Beverly Hills 90210”), Kerris Dorsey (Moneyball, “Brothers & Sisters”) and former Olympic gymnast Cathy Rigby (Broadway’s “Peter Pan”).

A modern and heartwarming original story about a young girl whose dream to compete as a world class gymnast is jeopardized when she begins to have trouble in school, An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars™ helps girls learn to believe not only in their family and friends but also themselves. With more than 139 million books and 21 million dolls sold, American Girl® has earned the loyalty of millions of girls and the praise and trust of parents and educators. Just in time for the Summer Games, this fun family film on Blu-ray™ Combo Pack and DVD is available only at Wal-Mart, American Girl® retail stores and americangirl.com. A must-own addition for American Girl® fans, the film can also be purchased via Digital Download through a variety of online retailers.

The An American Girl: McKenna Shoots for the Stars™ Blu-ray™ Combo Pack delivers the film in perfect hi-def picture and perfect hi-def sound. The Blu-ray™ Combo Pack also includes UltraViolet™, a DVD, and a Digital Copy of the film – so consumers can truly enjoy the movie anytime, anywhere, on the device of their choice! UltraViolet™ is the revolutionary new way for consumers to collect movies and TV shows and put them in the cloud. From there, they can download and stream instantly to computers, tablets and smartphones. In addition, consumers can redeem a Digital Copy of the film from a variety of retail partners, who offer many viewing options including iTunes®, iPad®, iPhone®, iPod™ touch, Android, connected televisions, Blu-ray player apps and more!



Synopsis
Meet McKenna Brooks™, a determined and confident young gymnast, in this all-new modern-day adventure. McKenna™ is on track to make the regional competitive gymnastics team but off-track in school, where she’s suddenly struggling to keep up. When her teacher suggests a tutor, she’s embarrassed and desperate to keep it a secret from her friends. Then a bad fall at the gym sidetracks her from her favorite sport. Will she recover in time to make the team? Can she succeed in school, too? McKenna™ needs to focus on her strengths to overcome her challenges – and, with the help of family and friends, find a way to believe in herself again.

My Take on the DVD
This was a fun, family oriented film that fits in well with the American Girl series of movies. The movie brings out some salient messages that I love to share with my own girls in relation to friendship, teamwork and perseverance.  What I love most about this movie is that it is the type of movie that you can watch over and over again with your family and it reinforces messages that you want your girls to see and believe in! The acting in the movie was great and my girls just loved the film in its entirety. If you are a fan of American Girl or a fan of great family oriented films that will motivate and inspire your girls to achieve more, you will want to pick up this film today!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Disney/Pixar's BRAVE - "Will O' the Wisps"



Travelers—particularly those who venture out after sunset on unfamiliar pathways—beware of the will o’ the wisps.

It is said—though by whom is a bit of a mystery—that on certain days for certain travelers in certain parts of the world, little lights dance on the horizon, whispering tempting invitations… pledging the answers to lifelong questions, the realization of dreams, a key to secret treasures—a change of fate. Charmed and curious, unsuspecting travelers follow the floating lights, mesmerized by their whispers, their promises. Yet no matter how long or how fervently they follow, they never quite touch the beautiful beacons whose flickering lights eventually fade and disappear… leaving the inquisitors, the dreamers and the treasure seekers lost… and alone.

In “Brave,” Merida spies tiny blue lights after escaping into the forest in search of a change of fate. Forming a path that dares her to follow, the lights lead Merida to a mysterious location that holds the power to change her destiny—just not in the way she imagines.

“The will o’ the wisps are in a lot of Scottish folktales,” says “Brave” director Mark Andrews. “They were said to lead you to treasure or doom—to change your fate—but they’re an actual phenomenon of swamp and bog gas seeping up through the earth and interacting with the natural resources to create the blue flames. People would follow these lights thinking they were little fairies, and basically drown or get sucked down into the bogs.

“We made the wisps like actual little spirits,” Andrews continues. “They’re almost like Marley’s ghost in a way, because Marley’s ghost isn’t an evil spirit—even though he’s frightening, he’s trying to warn Ebenezer to change his ways. That’s what the wisps are doing. There’s a duality to them, because they’re either good or evil—they lead Merida into more and more trouble, but in the end, they’ve led her exactly where she needs to go.”

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Saturday, June 23, 2012

Game Review - Monopoly Zapped ( @familygamenight )

About the Game
MONOPOLY zAPPed Edition is an amazing new game experience from Hasbro. Now you can bring your favorite game to life with loads of awesome mini games on your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch.

Landed in Jail? No problem! Just play the Get out of Jail app mini game...if you can launch Mr MONOPOLY over the prison walls to his getaway car, you’re free!

Plus you can transfer MONOPOLY dollars directly to your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch using your own personal Touch-banking cards! The whole family will love this exciting new way to play MONOPOLY!

Play MONOPOLY and your iPad together!

Bursting with multiplayer mini games, animation and fun audio, MONOPOLY zAPPed is a brand new digitally interactive game experience.

The iconic game board and properties you know and love are still there, but this game is also packed with fantastic app-enhanced features!

Want to buy property, build houses or charge rent? In MONOPOLY zAPPed, the app is your Banker! Press your Touch-banking card to the screen of your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch to transfer your MONOPOLY dollars instantly!

Get hints and tips on how to play a smart game as you go! MONOPOLY zAPPed Edition brings the classic game to life!

Touch-Banking cards transfer MONOPOLY dollars to your iPad!

Play your iPad and game board together for an interactive family experience. Download the free app to play hilarious MONOPOLY mini games and collect virtual Chance and Community Chest cards as you move around the board.

Kids will love having their own Touch-banking cards and transferring their cash to the app instantly when they want to buy property and houses, and charge rent! Play loads of mini games head-to-head when you land on Chance or Community Chest, or get sent to Jail. Surprise your friends and family with MONOPOLY zAPPed Edition! MONOPOLY zAPPed Edition is the classic family board game with unique interactivity and loads of fun app features to play alongside your iPad, iPhone or iPod touch! With Touch-banking cards, fun audio and animated MONOPOLY mini games, it’s a family gaming experience like never before!

Includes: MONOPOLY Game Board, 4 MONOPOLY Touch-banking Cards, Rubber Pads, 6 Tokens, 28 Property Cards, 32 Green Houses, 12 Red Hotels, 2 Dice, and Game Guide. Features:

  • Play your game board and iPod, iPhone or iPod touch together.
  • Touch-banking cards transfer MONOPOLY dollars to your iPod, iPhone or iPod touch.
  • Play mini games when you land on Chance or Community Chest, or need to bust out of Jail.
  • No more adding up – the app announces the winner!
  • Includes hints and tips for a smart game! Ages 8 and up. Players: 2-4 players


My Take on the Game
This was a games that was a ton of fun and brought together my family from the beginning to the end. I loved the connection between using technology with this game that I have been using for years. I have an IPod Touch, so for me I was able to use this with the game but I can see how this would be so much more fun on the IPad because of the additional size and visual display. I also enjoyed the mini games that the app offers and the ease in which you can bank in this game as well. The only thing that is a bit disappointing though is that you don't have to count out your money to your fellow players when you land on their properties so you do not get to practice your math skills because it is taken care of electronically now instead. Overall though the game was fun and was something that my entire family enjoyed!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Friday, June 22, 2012

Book Review - The Band Plays On: Going Home for a Music Man's Encore

About the Book
Celebrating the soul of America's heartland, The Band Plays On is Rick Niece's heartfelt tribute to friendship, community, and, most importantly, his father, Lewis Niece. When DeGraff, Ohio's beloved band teacher is invited to direct an encore performance, Lewis' Alumni Band gathers to celebrate with gusto. As the band practices for its final parade, Rick, his baritone in tow, reflects on treasured memories, relationships, and the legacy of a small town with indomitable spirit. The second volume in the delightful Fanfare for a Hometown series, The Band Plays On provides an entertaining, inspirational glimpse into lives richly lived...and shared.



My Take on the Book 
I love band and I loved my experience in band and I have to say that I have completely appreciated the passion and commitment of my past band instructor and this book captures this completely. The book is a well written book that was so inspirational to read. On top of this, I loved the characters and the vivid imagery that the author presents, but most of all I loved the story itself. Why did I love it, it drew me in and let me relive experiences that I had as a kid myself. If you have ever had a treasured band experience, this book will transport you as well!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The City Brigade & Remember the Music

About the Book 
Science is urgently challenging all humanity to change, to shift our thinking and our way of being in the world; to co-create a new, sustainable future or become extinct. Scripture's greatest message-to love and live in unity and peace (co-create a loving and sustainable world of cooperation and mutual aid) is embedded in cosmic urgency: change the heart or perish. Change begins with each individual. To effectively change the self, each person needs to know how he or she participates in aspects of the human condition that bind us to outdated patterns and beliefs that hurt-not help- us as a species, as a planet. Each person is being called to "step outside the box" beyond dogma and the shadows ofScience is urgently challenging all humanity to change, to shift our thinking and our way of being in the world; to co-create a new, sustainable future or become extinct. Scripture's greatest message-to love and live in unity and peace (co-create a loving and sustainable world of cooperation and mutual aid) is embedded in cosmic urgency: change the heart or perish. Change begins with each individual. To effectively change the self, each person needs to know how he or she participates in aspects of the human condition that bind us to outdated patterns and beliefs that hurt-not help- us as a species, as a planet. Each person is being called to "step outside the box" beyond dogma and the shadows of life, to discover the profound as it emerges through the mundane of our everyday lives. In The Essential Code, Arvetta Souza creates a foundational, step-by-step process to stretch the mind, educate the conscience, and cultivate the soul. When each of us dares to let go of who we are to become the potential we were born to be, we birth a new species in harmony with the planetary shift, and the essential, sacred energies flowing from the cosmos. This book is a developmental tool for those awakening to the transformation already

My Take on the Book
This was a fast paced, action packed journey that the author takes you on that will excite any young reader. Whether they can appreciate all of the nuances to Irish history and culture or not, that will still appreciate the well written prose and the characters that the author presents. I particularly enjoyed the tale of friendship that was shared in this book as it is something that I want my own children to know and to read about as they get older. This was a book that will touch your heart and your mind and I encourage all to read and enjoy!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Faith and Other Flat Tires: Searching for God on the Rough Road of Doubt

About the Book 
At age twenty-one, Andrea Palpant Dilley stripped the Christian fish decal off her car bumper in a symbolic act of departure from her religious childhood. At twenty-three, she left the church and went searching for refuge in the company of men who left her lonely and friends who pushed the boundaries of what she once held sacred. In this deeply personal memoir, Andrea navigates the doubts that plague believers and skeptics alike: Why does a good God allow suffering? Why is God so silent, distant, and uninvolved? And why does the church seem so dysfunctional? Yet amid her skepticism, she begins to ask new questions: Could doubting be a form of faith? Might our doubts be a longing for God that leads to a faith we can ultimately live with?

About thher own journey and how it ree Author
Andrea Palpant Dilley grew up in Kenya as the daughter of Quaker missionaries and spent the rest of her childhood in the Pacific Northwest. She studied English literature and writing at Whitworth University. Her work as a writer has appeared in Rock and Sling, Geez, and Utne Reader, as well as the anthology Jesus Girls: True Tales of Growing Up Female and Evangelical. Her work as a documentary producer has aired nationally on American Public Television. She lives with her husband and daughter in Austin, Texas.

My Take on the Book
This was a well written book that looks at one woman's journey into the unknown realm of her own spirituality. What I loved about the book was the way in which she makes you ask yourself the same questions that she struggled with, making you start your own journey as you read about her own. The book was honest, funny and offers a straight forward appraisal of her own journey and how others can learn from her own struggles. The book also allows you to (as I mentioned) examine your own spirituality without being preachy, and writes in a way that allows any and all to understand and comprehend the message that is being shared. Overall, this was a great story that I would share with anyone, no matter where they are in their own journey.


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Thursday, June 21, 2012

Product Review - Duracell Powermat

About the Product 
Imagine daily life without ever needing to worry where you will get your next smartphone 'power fix.' Would it change how you live, work and play with your phone if you knew that the blinking red battery light is a thing of the past? Duracell Powermat is leading the charge toward a wirelessly powered world and, for the millions of smartphone users in NYC, the wireless power future launches today!


The new Duracell Powermat 24-Hour Power System contains three products that together give you everything you need to enjoy your smartphone at home or on-the-go without worrying about the life of your battery, while the brand's Wireless Power Nation - an integrated plan of strategic lifestyle and retail partnerships - will bring a system of fast and convenient built-in wireless 'hot spots' or charging locations to several places and settings frequented by consumers throughout their day. The idea is to enable the consumer to benefit from wireless charging in all areas and aspects of their lives -- whether they're shopping, eating, traveling, etc. we'll be right there with a public charging 'hot spot.' The brand is the first to create a wireless power network designed to offer the ability to charge wirelessly to the masses.


The Wireless Power Nation begins first in New York City today. The Duracell Powermat 24-Hour Power System is available for $99 today at major New York City retailers and online at www.DuracellPowermat.com, with full nationwide retail distribution following this fall. Additional Powermats and wireless cases in a variety of colors, can be purchased online.

My Take on the Product
I was lucky enough to try out the Duracell Powermat. With the number of the electronic devices that we have, the idea of having something that will allow me to simply set them on this pad without worry of having cords is a great principle and overall idea as sometimes I simply forget my charger, and this helps to take care of this for me. The Powermat was easy to use and worked with a number of the electronic devices. I also found that the mat itself did a great job at charging (much better than I would have first thought). All-in-all, I loved this product and if you are using technology as many of us are, you should definitely look into this for the ease of overall use and the ease of charging (which I am always looking for).

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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DVD Review - Scandal Season 1




About the DVD
From the creator of Grey's Anatomy and Private Practice comes a captivating saga of illicit relationships, unchecked power, and shocking political intrigue. Go behind the closed doors of Washington D.C.'s elite and watch as the plot unfolds in Scandal: The Complete First Season. When trouble rears its ugly head - headline-making, life-ruining trouble - there's only one person to call: the legendary Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington). With her steadfast rule of always trusting her gut, Olivia leads an expert team of crisis management consultants skilled at making even the most sordid, salacious scandals disappear. But as these self-proclaimed "gladiators in suits" begin to reveal the cracks in their armor, will the masters of damage control be able to control the damage in their own personal lives? Relive every episode of this exciting political thriller, plus exclusive, never-before-seen bonus features, and get your fix of the ultimate "fixer."

My Take on the DVD
I never was able to watch this series last season, so getting the opportunity to review this was great as it brought the whole season together for me in one place. After watching this I have to say that I wish that I had watched it last season as it was filled with amazing writing and political intrigue that I love to watch! One of the things that I love best about the series are the twists and turns that the writers provide you as they keep you in suspense throughout the season. Your mouth will hit the ground at least a few times as you watch what the President does and what people around him must do to deal with the aftermath. A great series for anyone who love political suspense and intrigue!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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DVD Review - Missing Season 1




About the DVD
How far would you go to save the person you love most in the world? Emmy Award nominee* Ashley Judd stars in Missing, ABC's riveting new series, bursting with international intrigue and thrilling twists and turns. Becca Winstone (Ashley Judd) learns that her son, Michael, has disappeared while studying abroad, and it's a race against time when she travels to Europe to track him down. It soon becomes clear that Becca is no ordinary woman, but a former CIA agent deactivated after the devastating death of her husband, Paul Winstone (Sean Bean). If she wants to find her son alive, Becca will have to rely on old friends, as well as old enemies, ex-lovers, and spies, and will be forced to reopen old wounds. Her resourcefulness, skill, and determination will be put to the test - but a mother's love knows no limits. ABC's action-packed drama grabs you from the very first minute and never lets go. Relive Becca's search through the streets of Europe, complete with exclusive bonus features that take you even deeper into her journey.

My Take on the Series
This was a great series this past season. Full of intrigue and suspense, I found the show keeping me on the edge of my seat and this DVD set did the same. I saw a number of the episodes this season but missed some too, so it was good to dimply sit down and watch the season again from the beginning. I felt that the series offered great acting as well as writing and I for one am hoping that the network reconsiders the cancellation of this series for another season this fall as if they don't we will be missing out on another great series that has disappeared too soon! If you have never seen this series, pick up this DVD set today!

 All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Superhero : Everyone Needs A Hero

About the Book
Author Don M. Winn says that everyone needs a hero. In an interview with Focus Magazine, he said, “‘When I was growing up, we had heroes to look up to like the Lone Ranger and Roy Rogers, real people who were champions because they did the right thing.”

His children’s book, Superhero: Everyone Needs a Hero, is centered on that very premise. At night, the young boy dreams of being a superhero, defeating foes of all sizes and facing off against evil monsters; “It matters not a hero’s size, with super strength and x-ray eyes, for crooks will soon meet their demise. A Superhero, I!” As it turns out, even superheroes need a hero once in awhile. When the young superhero finds himself afraid, he is need of a hero; however, the hero on which he calls does not have any superpowers; he is just an ordinary father. “For in defeat I will not fall, when there’s a hero I can call, the greatest hero of them all, it is my Dad, not I!”

Although children think of superheroes as people with special powers, Winn shows his young readers that everyone can be a hero. He redefines the commonly held conception of a superhero, “… in actuality, a true hero is someone with ordinary abilities doing ordinary things but doing so under extraordinary circumstances. Most of the time, it’s these very ordinary people with ordinary abilities that have the greatest impact on our lives.”

Superhero: Everyone Needs a Hero is a great reminder for children that even the most heroic among us also needs a hero once in awhile, and that heroes can come in all different shapes and sizes, even without extraordinary or supernatural powers. Winn will win over his young readers with his Cardboard Box Adventure series, which includes this and other stories of heroism, determination and doing the right thing.

About the Author
Don Winn is the author and creator of the Cardboard Box Adventures series of interactive children’s books. Winn was inspired to write children’s stories by the warm bond that it creates between children and those with whom they are reading. Some of his titles include: Twitch the Squirrel and the Forbidden Bridge, The Higgledy-Piggledy Pigeon and The Tortoise and the Hairpiece. He has also released two installments in his Sir Kaye series of chapter books. Winn conducts school visits that include reading with projected pictures, Q and A sessions, book signings and workshops for both students and parents.

For more information about Cardboard Box Adventures, visit www.donwinn.com.
Find him on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/pages/Don-Winns-Cardboard-Box-Adventures/129282040468009?v=app_4949752878.
Follow him on Twitter at https://twitter.com/#!/don_winn.
View his YouTube channel at http://www.youtube.com/user/cbaadmindon/videos.
Read his blog at http://cardboardboxadventures.wordpress.com/.

My Take on the Book
This was a fun book with a great message that I enjoyed sharing with my kids! The illustrations jump off the page and the idea of being and having a hero resonated with my girls! After reading this book my girls and I had a good conversation about what it means to be a hero and who can be a hero and even how they themselves can be one! It was a great conversation and one that I think every family should have with their kids! This was a fun loving family story that all should enjoy!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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