Book Review - That's Not Funny, David!

About the Book

David is back and funnier than ever in That's Not Funny, David! This is a companion to the Caldecott Honor-winning classic No, David! by bestselling picture book creator David Shannon!

David is determined to get laughs out of everyone -- even from those who might not find his antics amusing! From cannonballs into the pool to slurping his spaghetti to telling funny jokes during class, David is a natural comedian. But David learns that not all of his tricks are funny... like sticking things up his nose! Still, this troublemaker will always have the last laugh and, of course, the enduring love of his mom.

Once again, David Shannon entertains us with young David's mischievous shenanigans in this lighthearted story that's sure to leave readers of all ages laughing. With millions of copies in print and five sequels, No, David! hit the ground running in 1998 and was a Caldecott Honor Book, a New York Times Best Illustrated Book, and a classic for over 25 years. Based on a book the author wrote and illustrated when he was five, David captures the timeless no-no's familiar to every child.

My Take on the Book
This is a funny book that young kids will love to read with their parents. The words are short and easy for young readers to understand. Also, kids will definitely relate to the antics off David, and have probably heard their parents say some similar things as it comes to things that they may have done. In the end, the book, while showing the crazy things that David does, it also does show the love of David's mom! This is a wonderful followup to No, David!

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Book Review - Vital Behavior Blueprint: 5 Steps to Embed Mission-Critical Habits Into Your Organization's DNA

About the Book
Vital Behavior Blueprint is a practical five-step guide for embedding mission-critical habits into an organization’s DNA. In this book, you’ll learn how to turn best practices into standard practices—or habits—for a work unit, site, organization, or even for the clients your organization serves. Authors Julie Smith and Lori Ludwig share three pillars for solidifying Vital Behaviors into durable habits and how to advance from traditional top-down management to a robust Ally Network of engaged employees who support each other in forming new habits. They’ll walk you through how to build your own Vital Behavior Blueprint to elevate your organization from achieving success on targeted projects to consistently delivering exceptional performance across the board.

My Take on the Book

Vital Behavior Blueprint by Julie Smith and Lori Ludwig is an invaluable guide for organizations looking to create lasting, impactful change through behavioral transformation. This book goes beyond theory, providing a five-step framework that teaches readers how to identify, instill, and sustain critical habits that drive performance and success. Smith and Ludwig’s approach is based on solid behavioral science, but they simplify complex ideas, making them accessible and actionable for any team.

Through practical examples and real-world case studies, the authors illustrate how shifting from traditional management to a supportive, interconnected "Ally Network" can empower employees and embed vital behaviors into an organization’s core. The book’s emphasis on engagement and supporting employees in developing new habits makes it a standout resource for leaders aiming to foster a high-performing culture. This is a must-read for anyone focused on transforming organizational practices and achieving exceptional, consistent results across the board.

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Book Review - Tiana's Perfect Plan

About the Book

In Tiana's Perfect Plan you get a charming debut picture book from acclaimed actress, singer, and Disney Legend Anika Noni Rose, which shows Princess Tiana on a never-before-seen New Orleans adventure!

After traveling all winter, Tiana and Naveen are back in New Orleans in time for Mardi Gras. Tiana wants everything to be just right, putting the finishing touches on their party favors and parade float.

But then she gets an unexpected letter from Naveen's parents, the king and queen of Maldonia. They've decided to join the celebration!

Determined to make it the best Mardi Gras ever, Tiana sets out on a new adventure with some old friends to find the perfect ingredients for a special addition. But soon she finds that perfect might not be the goal . . . and she may already have all she needs.

My Take on the Book

Anika Noni Rose’s debut picture book offers a delightful new chapter in Princess Tiana's life, perfect for fans of The Princess and the Frog. Set during Mardi Gras, the story follows Tiana as she tries to create the perfect king cake for her royal in-laws’ surprise visit. Determined to impress the king and queen of Maldonia, she sets off on a fun, adventurous journey through the New Orleans bayou to find the unique ingredients she needs.

The book beautifully captures Tiana’s hardworking, spirited personality and highlights her love for her family and friends. As Tiana searches for a “dollop of magic glow” to make her cake extra special, she learns a valuable lesson: perfection isn’t necessary when love is at the heart of her efforts. The lively, colorful illustrations capture the vibrant energy of New Orleans and Mardi Gras, bringing Tiana’s world to life on the page.

This story is perfect for young readers, with its blend of adventure, familiar characters, and a heartfelt message about love and effort. It’s an entertaining addition to any Disney collection, especially for those who admire Tiana’s resilience and spirit.

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Book Review - The Firelight Apprentice

About the Book

In The Firelight Apprentice, the bestselling author-illustrator of Garlic and the Vampire, Bree Paulsen, brings her fantastical storytelling and warm, sparkling artwork to this story that celebrates the bond between sisters.

In a city powered by magic and still recovering from a bloody war, Ada is concerned about her younger sister Safi’s developing powers. She understands that Safi could learn how to control her magic under the apprenticeship of a king's magician. But with the memories of war still fresh, Ada is conflicted by this prospect—despite her knowing that she can’t keep Safi safely at home with the threat of deadly, power-thieving liches prowling the kingdom. 

When a traveling group of magicians comes to the city to perform, they immediately recognize Safi’s talents and offer to take her on as an apprentice. Safi is thrilled about her new adventure—even if that means leaving behind Ada and their sickly father. And Ada is right to worry about her sister, for there may be monsters hiding behind friendly faces…

About the Author

Bree Paulsen is a SoCal writer and illustrator who loves spooky monsters, fashion history, and all things autumnal. After graduating from the Laguna College of Art and Design with a BFA in animation, she freelanced on a few independent animation and illustration projects before tuning her focus toward comics. She started her webcomic, Patrik the Vampire, in 2013 and self-publishes its printed volumes. Her first middle grade graphic novel, Garlic and the Vampire, received a starred review from The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, which called it “folkloric…a down comforter of a graphic novel.” Garlic’s adventures continue in Garlic and the Witch. 

My Take on the Book

Bree Paulsen’s Ada and Safi is a captivating fantasy graphic novel that beautifully explores sibling bonds, resilience, and the power of magic. Set in a steampunk-inspired city still healing from a recent war, the story follows two sisters, Ada and Safi. Ada, protective of her younger sister, is torn between wanting to keep Safi safe at home and recognizing her sister’s growing magical potential, especially as mysterious, dangerous liches roam the kingdom.

When a traveling troupe of magicians arrives, Safi’s talents are recognized, and she’s offered the chance to become an apprentice. Thrilled at the prospect of adventure, Safi is ready to leave, but Ada remains wary, suspecting danger lurks behind friendly faces. Paulsen’s warm illustrations and vibrant colors add depth and magic to the sisters’ journey, enhancing the book’s cozy yet suspenseful atmosphere.

Perfect for middle-grade readers and fans of rich, magical worlds, this story balances high-stakes adventure with heartfelt moments, making it a standout addition to any young fantasy lover’s collection.

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Bluray Review - The Gilded Age: The Complete Second Season

About the Series
The American Gilded Age was a period of significant economic change, conflict between old and new systems, and fortunes made and lost. Season two of THE GILDED AGE begins on Easter 1883, with Bertha Russell's bid for a box at the Academy of Music rejected. Over eight episodes, Bertha challenges Mrs. Astor and the old system to gain a foothold in Society. George Russell battles a growing union at his Pittsburgh steel plant. Marian secretly teaches at a girls' school, while Ada starts a new courtship, to Agnes's disapproval. In Brooklyn, the Scott family heals from a shocking discovery, and Peggy becomes an activist through her work at the NY Globe.

Includes all 8 episodes from season 2 plus over 20 pieces of bonus content including:

• Behind the Gilded Curtain Featurette
• Character Featurettes - Agnes, Ada, Bertha, George, Marian, and Peggy
• The Black Elite: Then and Now Featurette
• The Real Gilded Age - Carrie, Cynthia, and Morgan
• Choose Your Side - Carrie, Christine, Cynthia, Denée, Morgan and Julian

My Take on the Series

Season two of The Gilded Age continues to captivate with its rich portrayal of late 19th-century American society, blending history and drama in a visually stunning series. Beginning in Easter 1883, the show explores the ongoing clash between old and new money, with Bertha Russell determined to break into the exclusive high society despite the resistance of Mrs. Astor and her circle. The eight episodes are filled with great moments, from labor unrest at George Russell’s steel plant to Peggy Scott’s evolution into an activist.

The series shines with exceptional performances and impeccable period details. The costumes are dazzling, and the set designs transport viewers back to the Gilded Age. The storytelling remains engaging, with well-paced drama and compelling character development. Each episode leaves you eager for the next, and the season ends on a thrilling cliffhanger that sets up high expectations for season three.

This Blu-ray set is packed with extras, making it a must-have for fans of historical dramas.

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Bluray Review - Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Series

About the Book
For the first time ever, all episodes from HBO’s award-winning original series are brought together in one set with the release of Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Series. On October 8, get ready to binge on all 120 episodes from the series’ twelve critically acclaimed seasons, along with all the previously released special features including The Seinfeld Reunion: It Could Only Happen on Curb Your Enthusiasm.

For fans looking to complete their DVD library, Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Twelfth and Final Season will also be available to purchase on DVD on October 8.

Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Twelfth and Final Season and Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Series are available now to purchase Digitally from Amazon Prime Video, AppleTV, Google Play, Vudu and more.

Starring Larry David as an over-the-top version of himself, the iconic Emmy® and Golden Globe®-winning comedy series Curb Your Enthusiasm offers a tongue-in-cheek depiction of the writer/producer/comedian’s fictionalized life. The comedy series continues to prove how seemingly trivial details of one's day-to-day life can precipitate a catastrophic chain of events. The series also stars Jeff Garlin (“The Goldbergs”), Susie Essman (“Broad City”), Cheryl Hines (“Suburgatory”), J.B. Smoove (“Mapleworth Murders”), Richard Lewis (“Anything But Love”), Ted Danson ("The Good Place”), Vince Vaughn ("Wedding Crashers”) and Tracey Ullman ("Tracey Ullman’s Show”).

Curb Your Enthusiasm is created by Larry David; executive producers, Larry David, Jeff Garlin, and Jeff Schaffer; co-executive producers, Laura Streicher and Jennifer Corey.

The show has received critical acclaim and has grown in popularity since its debut, particularly for its writing and the actors’ improvisational comedy, which has amassed a staggering 51 Emmy nominations and two wins; five Golden Globe nominations and one win, as well as multiple nominations and wins across the various guilds, including SAG, DGA, and WGA.

Both titles will be releasing on DVD October 8, 2024. Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Twelfth and Final Season will be available to purchase at online retailers and Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Series will be available to purchase online and in-store at major retailers. Pre-order your copy now.

SEASON 12 SYNOPSIS:

Larry accidentally champions an important political cause, takes part in a country club controversy, and attempts to restore his public image in the 12th and final season of this hit HBO comedy series.

My Take on the Series
This is an amazing series with the wit and humor or Larry David. If you have never watched it, you will find yourself laughing throughout the series, and if you have, you will find this set to be one that will let you go back and relive the entire series in it's full glory. As someone that has loved the series, I was glad to find this full set available, as I wanted to be able to access the episodes whenever I wanted them, and now I can. Get ready to laugh and true love the humor and fun that is Curb your Enthusiasm with this great set!

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Bluray Review - Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise

About the Series
Earth! Fire! Wind! Water! Heart! The beloved educational superhero series created by Ted Turner and Barbara Pyle that began with the Captain Planet and the Planeteers animated series in 1990 leading into The New Adventures of Captain Planet animated series has now come together for the first time ever on DVD with all 113 episodes from the iconic franchise. The series features an all-star voiceover cast including Martin Sheen, Meg Ryan, Whoopi Goldberg and LeVar Burton. The power is yours to own Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise on DVD on October 15 from Warner Bros. Discovery Home Entertainment.

Synopsis:
The Planeteers, five teenagers from different parts of the earth, each receive a ring of elemental power--earth, wind, water, fire or heart--to combat eco-villains everywhere in the world. And when they combine the powers of their rings, a new superhero, Captain Planet, is created, with powers far greater than the sum of the five.

Captain Planet has received a Film Advisory Board Award Of Excellence. The multimedia franchise also spawned into a video game, several toys, comic books, and more!

In addition to the series, Captain Planet continues to inspire and empower young people to be environmental stewards through the Captain Planet Foundation. Established by Ted Turner and Barbara Pyle, the foundation has funded over 3,700 projects worldwide, supporting hands-on environmental education and activism.

My Take on the Series
I grew up with this series. Before kids were really active as eco-agents, this series challenged all kids to do their part to be a planeteer and help the planet to be stronger. That being said I loved seeing the entire series becoming available. I had wished that this series was available when my kids were young. Even though they are older now, I shared some of the episodes with them and while I think they thought that it was a bit young for them, it definitely brought me back. The series is timeless in the message and I love how it gets kids active to make changes in their own communities! 

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