Movie Review - Succession: The Complete Series

About the Series

For the first time ever, all episodes from HBO’s award-winning original series are brought together in one set with the release of Succession: The Complete Series. Get ready to binge on all 39 episodes from the series’ four critically acclaimed seasons, along with all the previously released special features. The brilliant high-stakes drama following the Roy Family and their quest for power will be available to own on DVD on September 12, 2023. 

For fans looking to complete their DVD library, Succession: The Complete Fourth & Final Season will also be available to purchase on DVD on September 12. Season 4 episodes are averaging 9.4 million viewers across platforms. 

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

Succession stars Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, Kieran Culkin, Alan Ruck, Matthew Macfadyen, Nicholas Braun, J. Smith-Cameron, Peter Friedman, David Rasche, and Fisher Stevens. 

The series was created by Jesse Armstrong; executive produced by Jesse Armstrong, Adam McKay, Frank Rich, Kevin Messick, Jane Tranter, Mark Mylod, Tony Roche, Scott Ferguson, Jon Brown, Lucy Prebble, Will Tracy, and Will Ferrell. Jesse Armstrong serves as showrunner. 

The first three seasons of Succession have garnered 48 Emmy® nominations and 13 wins, including Outstanding Drama Series, for the second and third seasons. Season three, which premiered October 2021, earned the SAG Award for drama ensemble, and swept at WGA, DGA, and PGA. 

Both titles will be releasing on DVD September 12, 2023. Succession: The Fourth and Final Season will be available to purchase at online retailers and Succession: The Complete Series will be available to purchase online and in-store at major retailers. Pre-order your copy now. 

SYNOPSIS: 

Power, politics, money...it’s all in the family in this provocative, satirical series about a highly dysfunctional dynasty. When the aging patriarch of one of the world’s largest media conglomerates considers retirement, his family members position themselves for a takeover. But tensions rise as corporate battles threaten to turn into a family civil war in this sharp, scathing, binge-worthy series.

 
My Take on the Series
WOW, this is a series that I could not stop watching. I know above it says it is binge-worthy, but that is an understatement. I loved being able to have the complete series in one box set. I do not have HBO at home, so I did not get to watch this before, but this allowed me to watch and binge completely. 

If you have never watched this series but love stories that bring in family drama, corporate battles, an empire to be run with the retirement of a patriarch, and more, get ready, as this is a series that will keep you coming back for more with every episode. 

Filled with a powerhouse cast, you will be drawn into the drama from the first to the last moment in the series. The writing in the series is raw, and the characters are well-defined. In the end, this series is about power, politics, money, and of course family (dysfunctional as it is). 

You do not want to miss this series!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - If I Forget and Other Plays

About the Book

“Steven Levenson’s passionate and provoking If I Forget is a family play… Irritable and animated, the Fischers come vibrantly alive in this young playwright’s funny, bruising, searching voice.” —Alexis Soloski, New York Times

In If I Forget and Other Plays, it is the final months before 9/11, and liberal Jewish studies professor Michael Fischer has reunited with his two sisters to celebrate their father’s 75th birthday. Each deeply invested in their own version of family history, the siblings clash over everything from Michael’s controversial scholarly work to the mounting pressures of caring for an ailing parent. As destructive secrets and long-held resentments bubble to the surface, the three negotiate—with biting humor and razor-sharp insight—how much of the past they’re willing to sacrifice for a chance at a new beginning. If I Forget tells a powerful tale of a family and a culture at odds with itself.


My Take on the Book
In this play you truly find a group of neurotic individuals who, while they complain and gripe a lot, you still find that they truly love each other. The play has a lot of heart and you will find moments that are funny, while others that make you really dig deep in your understanding of family and family values while unpacking family secrets that are unveiled moment-by-moment.


----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Lost Christmas

About the Book

In Dr. Seuss's How the Grinch Lost Christmas, the Grinch is BACK and ready to prove to the residents of Who-ville that he's changed. This heartwarming sequel is written and illustrated in the style of Dr. Seuss's beloved holiday classic How the Grinch Stole Christmas!

 
The Grinch had been patiently waiting all year,
To celebrate Christmas and bring the Whos cheer,
And to show every Who he was DIFFERENT now.
“I’ve changed!” thought the Grinch,
“And I’ll prove it! But HOW?”

A year has passed since the Grinch stole Christmas from Who-ville. Now eager to prove to the Whos that his heart has grown to LOVE the holiday, the Grinch devises a plan to win Who-ville's Christmas Crown by making the largest, most spectacular Christmas tree the Whos have ever seen!

But when things don't go as planned, the Grinch's heart turns ice cold, and he threatens to leave Who-ville for good...until one small, special Who reminds him that Christmas is NOT about winning.

Grow your heart three sizes MORE with this sequel to the timeless picture book How the Grinch Stole Christmas! Featuring a foil-enhanced jacket and full-color illustrations rendered in the iconic style of the original, this new story makes a splendid gift and a must-have addition to the libraries of Grinch fans of all ages!


My Take on the Book

As someone who grew up on Dr. Seuss, I would not have thought that the original Grinch had another story to tell or even more to learn, but this book proved me wrong! The book, while not written by Dr. Seuss, follows the same Dr. Seuss style, and you definitely are drawn into the story from beginning to end. The illustrations are perfect and bring in the same feel as the original.  This book really does bring back the Grinch in his glory and you will love seeing what lesson he learns next!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Rook

About the Book

In Rook you get a standalone adventure set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Jackaby series brims with humor, heart, and—of course—a hefty dose of supernatural mayhem.

Abigail Rook never intended to be the mortal bridge between the human and supernatural world. But now, the power of the Sight--and all the chaos that comes with seeing the essential truth of everything, every human, fairy, werewolf, enchanted slip of paper, and municipal building, at all times--is hers alone. With this overwhelming new gift, she should be able to solve crimes and help New Fiddleham, New England find calm in its supernatural chaos.

The only problem? She has no idea what she’s doing.

And New Fiddleham isn't waiting for Abigail to be ready. Local witches and other magical beings are going missing, as tensions between human and supernatural residents curdle into a hatred that could tear the city apart. Abigail's fiance, Charlie, works alongside her to unravel the magical disappearances, but as a shapeshifter, he's under threat as well. Then Abigail's parents appear, ready to take her back to England and marry her off to someone she's never met. Abigail has no choice but to follow her Sight, her instincts, and any clues she can find to track a culprit who is trying destroy everything she holds dear.


My Take on the Book

I can say that I have not read the other books in this series, so I had to do a bit of catch-up, but after reading this I can say that I am going back to read the others. The author of this book has done a tremendous job at creating characters you can relate to because of the struggles that they have and how real the struggles are. In this book you find the main character dealing with many of the traditional realities of the day and her parents (mainly her mother) pushing her to conform to a certain mold. Beyond this, you get a mixture of mystery, magic, crime, and more that Abigail needs to solve. The book moves quickly and keeps you on the edge of your seat.  As mentioned, I had not read the books before, but by reading this book I was able to put the pieces together quickly and this book really stood on its' own. That being said, as mentioned, I do plan to go back to enjoy the other stories too! 

Overall, this was a great book that I highly recommend.

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

DVD Review - Rick and Morty: The Complete Seasons 1-6

About the DVD

OOH WEE! Go on an intergalactic adventure across the multi-verse with the epic release of the Rick and Morty: The Complete Seasons 1-6 boxed set on Blu-ray™ and DVD on September 12, 2023. Get Schwifty while you binge on one of cable’s #1 watched comedies that follows the sci-fi misadventures of genius scientist Rick and his family. Rick and Morty: The Complete Seasons 1-6 includes all 61 episodes from six seasons of the award-winning series, copious special features, audio commentary, deleted scenes, “Inside the Episode” segments, numerous featurettes, animatic sketches, and more. For a limited time, fans who purchase the set will also receive an exclusive Rick and Morty poster.

ABOUT RICK AND MORTY:

Rick and Morty is the critically acclaimed, Emmy-award-winning half-hour animated comedy series on Adult Swim that follows a sociopathic genius scientist who drags his inherently timid grandson on insanely dangerous adventures across the universe. Rick Sanchez is living with his daughter Beth’s family and constantly bringing her, his son-in-law Jerry, granddaughter Summer, and grandson Morty into intergalactic escapades.

Debuting in 112 countries in 38 languages, Rick and Morty has captured substantial international viewership. The series has ranked as one of the top series for Max, both domestically and globally. Lifetime to date, Rick and Morty has been viewed over 10 billion times globally, across linear, digital, and streaming.

 

Rick and Morty: The Complete Seasons 1-6 will be available on Blu-Ray Discs and DVD to purchase online and in-store at major retailers. Pre-order your copy now.

 

Pricing and series information:

Rick and Morty: The Complete Seasons 1-6

Includes 61 episodes from all six seasons, plus all the bonus materials that have been lovingly created over the years, and carefully curated for you now.

My Take on the Series

I’ve gotten a peek at the Blu-Ray release of the complete fifth season of Rick and Morty and it is definitely worth checking out.

This series bluray has a ton of amazing special features. Picking up this set will give you access to 61 episodes and if you are a big Rick and Morty fan, this is a set you will not want to miss! 

I also loved the bonus features on this set and the fact that you DO get all of Season 6 and not just a portion of the season!

This is truly a set for all true fans!!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action

About the Book

In The Performance Paradox: Turning the Power of Mindset into Action discover how to balance learning and performing to bolster personal and team success with this revolutionary guide from a world-renowned expert on growth mindset.

 
“An essential read for fostering learning, performance, and a growth mindset . . . I wholeheartedly recommend it.”—Carol Dweck, bestselling author of Mindset

A Next Big Idea Club Must Read

To succeed in a fast-changing world, individuals and companies know they must create a culture of growth, where experimentation and feedback are encouraged, and learning is integrated into the everyday. Yet we often get stuck in a well-worn pattern of habits that don’t move us forward. Why?

Because many of us get trapped in the Performance Paradox: the counterintuitive phenomenon that if we focus only on performing, our performance suffers.

How can we give ourselves the space to experiment and grow while also delivering high-level results?

Fostering growth mindset to elevate performance is Eduardo Briceño’s specialty. As CEO of Mindset Works and in his work with Fortune 500 companies, he discovered that mastering growth—personal, organizational, and financial—hinges on navigating the crucial balance between learning and performing.

In The Performance Paradox, Briceño reveals how to

• avoid falling into the chronic performance trap that stagnates growth
• identify when and how to unlock the power of mistakes
• integrate learning into daily habits in ways that stick
• lead teams that constantly improve and outperform their targets
• grow your skill level and output simultaneously and for the long term

We can achieve more tomorrow than we do today if we develop the belief that we can change and the competence for how to change. With Briceño’s innovative and refreshing framework of balancing learning and performing, individuals and companies can reach their boldest aspirations.


My Take on the Book
This was a great book that really allows you to rework your own mindset and turn it into a growth mindset. The book provides step-by-step instructions on what you can do to make this switch in your life. The author really knows his stuff and truly has a passion for this topic and wants you to truly learn more so you can become a stronger leader. The information contained in the book is set up so it can be applied immediately. No matter where you are in your career this book will help you to better align your career with the vision that you have for your future. 

----------------------------------------

New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Nothing Interesting Ever Happens to Ethan Fairmont

About the Book

In Nothing Interesting Ever Happens to Ethan Fairmont you get E.T. meets Stranger Things in this middle-grade novel series from author and award-winning filmmaker Nick Brooks. With crossover appeal, this fun, engaging series has plenty of nostalgia nods for adults to appreciate as well as young readers.

Something cool happening in Ferrous City? Not a chance. Until one day . . . when self-proclaimed genius inventor Ethan Fairmont runs into an abandoned car factory to avoid a local bully and accidentally stumbles across his ex–best friend Kareem, new kid Juan Carlos, and an extraterrestrial visitor. Cheese (the alien) is stuck on Earth and in need of some serious repairs, spicy snacks—and absolute, total secrecy. That’s easier said than done when mysterious agents descend on Ferrous City to search for Cheese. With time running out and their family and friends in potential danger, can Ethan, Kareem, and Juan Carlos pull off an intergalactic rescue before they’re all found out?

Weaving issues of racial profiling, community struggles, and everyday life in a fast-paced science fiction adventure, Brooks’s debut middle-grade series is destined to be a favorite out-of-this-world adventure for kids 9–12. A timely—and timeless—sci-fi epic for fans of Tristen Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky and the Artemis Fowl series.


My Take on the Book
This was a fun book that brought together some great characters led by Ethan. What I loved about this book is that you get action, science fiction, and more. The book is really a fast read and by the end of the book, you are asking for more. The author did leave it open for more books in the future and I, for one, am hoping to see more in the future too!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Fat Ham

About the Book

Winner of the 2022 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, James Ijames' Fat Ham reinvents Shakespeare's masterpiece in startling and hilarious ways amidst the backdrop of a family barbecue in the American South.

Juicy—a young, queer, Southern man, who is grappling with questions of identity—is visited by the ghost of his father (Pap) at his mother’s wedding/family barbecue. Pap demands that Juicy avenge his recent murder. How will Juicy, a sensitive and self-aware young Black man, trying to break a cycle of trauma and toxic masculinity, avenge his father’s premature death? Fat Ham reinvents Shakespeare’s masterpiece in startling and hilarious ways amidst the backdrop of a family barbeque in the American South.

My Take on the Book
This was a great write-up of the Pulitzer Prize winner for best drama. As a fan of Shakespeare I loved this retelling of Hamlet. Though this is a retelling, it is completely unique and different. I found the story to be compelling, the characters to very well developed and by the end I wanted to see this in person and you will too! 

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - My Love for You

About the Book
In My Love for You the love between a mother and her offspring knows no bounds in this timeless and beautiful bedtime storybook.

From hippos and tigers, to penguins and people, a universal bedtime ritual is shared

"My love for you is like a stream, flowing wide, and long, and deep. My love for you is just as long. Now hush-a-bye to sleep."

 
It can take more than a few tries, but in the end, with a mother's heartfelt profession of love, little ones are finally eased into their dreams.

My Take on the Book
This was a wonderful book that shows the love of a parent and child. The love is shown page by page through a delightful story but also amazing illustrations. This is a great book for a parent and child to read together and one that can be shared over and over again!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - The Extradimensional Reappearance of Mars Patel

About the Book
In The Extradimensional Reappearance of Mars Patel Mars and his friends have escaped the Martian colony and returned to Earth, to find that all the adults have vanished! A thrilling sci-fi adventure based on Season 3 of the Peabody Award–winning podcast.

After Mars Patel fled the Martian colony and its erupting volcano, he headed for Earth with JP, Toothpick, Aurora, Cupcake (everyone’s favorite two-hundred-pound tardigrade), and genius billionaire Oliver Pruitt. But when they finally arrive, Mars is shocked to find that all the adults on Earth have mysteriously vanished. Aurora, the popular new principal of Pruitt Prep, thinks Earth is better off without the adults, while Mars, who’s now a celebrity, is desperate to find his mom. As tensions rise and new mysteries are revealed—including a secret lab, an impending election, and a wild new discovery on Mars—will Mars and his friends manage to unravel the truth? Or is Oliver Pruitt outplaying them all? A vibrant cast brings to life this tech-rich page-turner, based on the award-winning podcast.


My Take on the Book
This was a great book that brings some amazing kids that have some amazing abilities. The book is fast paced and works to encourage you to read more and more with every page. This was a great book in the series. I will say that you should read the series in order as you will want some of the context from the previous book so this book makes sense as well. The book gives you mystery, adventure and more and continues to build your anticipation page by page to the climax point of the book itself. The book was a fun read and I encourage it and the series to all!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Always, Clementine

About the Book
From the author of I, Cosmo in Always, Clementine comes a humor-filled, heart-tugging tale of a genius mouse, secretly freed from a lab, who’s in search of a real home—and a way to free her old friends. 

Clementine is different from other mice: she can calculate the speed of light and she dreams in Latin. The scientists say she’s a genius and put her through test after test. Clementine is proud of being a good lab mouse, but she’s lonely. Her only snatches of friendship occur during her late-night visits with a chimpanzee named Rosie. When a compassionate lab technician frees Clementine, the mouse discovers an outside world full of wonders: Brussels sprouts, games of speed chess, television fame, and a chance for a real home. But for Clementine, it’s not enough to be free when she knows that Rosie and the other mice are not. This tender, lively adventure story, narrated in letters from a mouse to a chimpanzee, shows us that goodness is something we have to define for ourselves—and that courage and wisdom aren’t proportionate to size.

My Take on the Book
This is a great book that is full of characters that you will love, action, kindness and a ton of heart. I loved that Clementine kept in touch with Rosie through writing letters. The action of being hijacked was exciting and you find yourself reading page by page as you want to find out what happens next. This was a great book that middle school readers will love! 

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - The Middle School Rules of Mike Evans: as told by Sean Jensen

About the Book
In The Middle School Rules of Mike Evans, we learn a ton about of Mike Evans. Before he starred for one of the most dynamic offenses in college and the pros, he had to survive middle school.

Mike Evans is entering his eighth season with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The three-time Pro Bowl selection is one of the NFL's most consistent and feared receivers. He played a key role in helping the Buccaneers win Super Bowl LV, leading his team in every major receiving category during the regular season and catching 11 passes for 204 yards and two touchdowns in the postseason. He and his wife, Ashli, started the Mike Evans Family Foundation in 2017, focusing on empowering youth, encouraging education, and taking a stand against domestic violence.

The Middle School Rules of Mike Evans highlights the adversity Mike had to overcome in his childhood, the impact of growing up in Galveston (an island city on the Gulf Coast of Texas that was greatly affected by Hurricane Ike), and the people who shaped him most—especially after the devastating loss of his father.

My Take on the Book
If you love Mike Evans as an athlete, get ready to be taken into his world, allowing you to learn more about what makes him not only a great football player, but a great person. This is another great addition to the Middle School Rules books that author Sean Jensen continues to share with his readers. What I love about this book is you really get to know Mike Evans as the person and not just the football player which for me, makes him more relatable! 

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - The Secret of Culture Change: How to Build Authentic Stories That Transform Your Organization

About the Book

In The Secret of Culture Change: How to Build Authentic Stories That Transform Your Organization find out how bold actions by visionary leaders can inspire powerful stories that drive culture change.

Data indicates that most strategic efforts to change a company’s culture fail. So how do companies succeed in this endeavor?

A top strategy professor and two highly successful CEOs found that, in companies that had successfully changed their culture, leaders had taken dramatic actions that embodied the new cultural values. These actions inspired stories that became company legends, repeated in every department and handed on to new employees.

Through compiling and analyzing 150 stories from business leaders who have achieved change, they identified 6 attributes that every successful culture change story has in common:

1. The actions that build these stories are authentic
2. These stories "star" the leader
3. They signal a clean break with the past, and a clear path to the future
4. They appeal to employee heads and hearts
5. They’re often theatrical or dramatic
6. They’re told, and re-told, throughout the organization

With extensive and inspiring examples of stories containing these attributes, the authors illustrate how readers can harness the power of stories within their company in order to change or create a winning culture to align with any strategy.

My Take on the Book
What I loved about this book is that it offers anyone in a leadership position within their business clear strategies that you can follow to be able to transform the culture of your company in a way that is scalable in any type of business. The authors use great examples that are easy to understand and follow and they make the steps to follow within your own business transparent. While changing a culture is not always easy, you can follow the steps shared here to be able to have a blueprint in place that you can get you moving in the right direction!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas: Beyond Halloween Town: The Story, the Characters, and the Legacy

About the Book

After 30 years, discover the inspirations behind Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas and its legacy as a certified pop-culture experience in the new book The Nightmare Before Christmas: Beyond Halloween Town: The Story, the Characters, and the Legacy.

What is it about Jack Skellington that is so compelling? Why does the love between Sally and Jack resonate with so many? The feature-length, stop-motion movie about the Pumpkin King of Halloween Town who becomes obsessed with celebrating Christmas is a fascinating musical and love story that has transcended the original film and captivated the world. From the improbable tale to the lovable characters, Tim Burton’s creation has turned into a lifestyle, branching into fashion, video games, card and board games, live-action concerts, themed celebrations at Disneyland, and even cameos in other movies.

Featuring an original foreword by Tim Burton himself, Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas: Beyond Halloween Town celebrates the film and the culture that has grown around it with exclusive and original interviews from:

• Author and creator, Tim Burton
• Animators, sculptors, and other artists of the film
• Jack Skellington himself, Danny Elfman
• The iconic voice of Sally, Catherine O’Hara
• Musicians on the Nightmare Revisited album

Delve into the magic of Halloween and Christmas in a story told through unlikely heroes that started 30 years ago. This beautifully designed coffee-table book is sure to captivate die-hard and casual fans alike.


My Take on the Book
As a fan of this movie, this book gives you everything you would ever want. The book really allows you to delve beyond the movie into everything about the making of the movie to the actors and characters within it, the people who created it, the branding of items surrounding the movie and more. If you are as much of a fan as I am, this book will be a treasure trove of amazing information for you and your family and it will be a book that you will want to have prominently shared for others to view too! 

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Granny Smith Was Not an Apple

About the Book
''Listen carefully. Do you hear a crunching sound? Peel back England's fog. You'll find Maria Ann Smith. A woman raised tough to the core.''

In the 1800s, a migrant farmer named Maria Ann Smith worked as an apple orchardist. Her discovery of a new type of apple that never turned red, but was always green, tart, sweet, and perfect for a pie, was due in part to a fluke of nature, and in part to Maria's insight and determination. The beloved Granny Smith apple that we know today was named in her honor. Granny Smith Was Not an Apple is her story.

Author Sarah Glenn Fortson has a degree in journalism from the University of Georgia, as well as a Master's in Education. This is her second children's picture book. She lives in Georgia. Illustrator Kris Aro McLeod is a freelance author and artist, and a former elementary school art teacher. She has written and illustrated several children's books and currently lives in Michigan.


My Take on the Book
This was a wonderful book that brings forth a story that I do not believe that many know about (at least I know that I didn't). The story shares the story of Maria Ann Smith and how she developed the Granny Smith Apple. I loved how the book weaved in history, but also facts that educate you about the world that Maria Ann Smith lived within, The illustrations were wonderful and the story is one that will open your eyes and educate you. This was a great story that your kids will love!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Graveyard Girls - Scream for the Camera

About the Book
In Graveyard Girls Scream for the Camera New York Times bestselling authors Lisi Harrison and Daniel Kraus deliver a slightly scary, extremely addictive contemporary middle-grade series—perfect for fans of R.L. Stine’s Goosebumps and Ann M. Martin’s The Babysitters Club.

It’s been a month since the Graveyard Girls—Gemma, Whisper, Sophie, Frannie, and Zuzu—discovered Silas Hoke’s empty grave. A month, and no answers. That changes when messages from the other side start to creep up on the Graveyard Girls. Gemma’s good-luck charm. The skull in Whisper’s spilled milk. Sophie’s vanishing phone. Frannie’s theater curse. And Zuzu’s possessed Jōurnal. Who is trying to reach them . . . and why?

The good news: There might be one person with some answers. The bad news: She’s a mortician . . . with a deadly secret.

Speaking of bad news, straight-A Sophie is quickly sliding down the scale to becoming a B-flat friend. She is spending way more time hanging out with “Danger Me” and way less time with the Graveyard Girls and her schoolwork. Will her scary story be enough to win back her pals, or will her picture-perfect life become the ultimate photo bomb?

My Take on the Book
This is a great addition to the Graveyard Girls series. In this you get a book that really moves and a plot that gives young readers some light scaring while still being surrounded by humor as well, What I loved is that the author does a great job at keeping you guessing while also dealing with some friend drama. All-in-all you get a solid book for the series which leads you at the end to wanting even more! 

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Baby's First Book of Banned Books

About the Book

In the Babys First Book of Banned Books you get an introduction for babies and toddlers to key lessons learned through infamously banned books.

Baby's First Book of Banned Books By Laura Korzon is a unique new board book from Mudpuppy that introduces beloved classics and cherished stories like The Diary Of Anne Frank and To Kill A Mockingbird to little learners.

• Early Learning – Provide young children with a captivating and engaging way to learn key lessons from infamous classic banned books.
• Bright and Bold Artwork – Simple yet bright and bold illustrations with simple yet powerful messages, the book contains a glossary and explanation of each book featured. 
• Perfect Size - Small 7” x 7” board book with 30 pages is just the size for little hands.

My Take on the Book
This was a great book that allows you to subtly introduce your baby to concepts that are introduced in many banned books. On every page you not only get a concept introduced, but you also get a corresponding book that you can refer too. The book is subtle and as your child gets older, as a parent you will have to do more to explore the topics, but for a baby this is a great way to start this journey!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - On the Tip of a Wave: How Ai Weiwei's Art Is Changing the Tide

About the Book

In On the Tip of a Wave you get New York Times bestselling author of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, Joanna Ho, and critically acclaimed illustrator, Cátia Chien sharing a moving, powerful picture book about the life and work of activist and artist, Ai Weiwei.

He [Ai Weiwei] felt the life jackets and an idea curled and crested through his fingertips. The way it always did.

Told in Joanna Ho’s signature lyrical writing, this is the story that shines a light on Ai Weiwei and his journey, specifically how the Life Jackets exhibit at Konzerthaus Berlin came to be. As conditions for refugees worsened, Ai Weiwei was inspired by the discarded life jackets on the shores of Lesbos to create a bold installation that would grab the attention of the world. Cátia Chien masterfully portrays the intricate life of Ai Weiwei with inspirations from woodblock printing and a special emphasis on the color orange, the same color of the life jackets that became a beacon of hope. Through Cátia’s dynamic and stunning illustrations, we see how Ai Weiwei became the activist and artist he is today while proving the power of art within humanity.


My Take on the Book
What I loved about this book is that I did not know much about Ai Weiwei and this book really allowed me to better understand the author but also it allowed me to see how his art was also activism and how he truly became seen as someone that was a pillar of hope for his fans and the broader art world.

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Sometimes I Kaploom

About the Book

In Sometimes I Kaploom you get another heartfelt and tender story about dealing with BIG feelings from the bestselling author of Sometimes I'm Bombaloo and Sometimes I Grumblesquinch, Rachel Vail. 

Katie Honors is a really brave kid. She can go to bed with just one small night light. She can hold her tears in when it’s time to say goodbye to her mom at school. But sometimes Katie isn’t ready to say goodbye and doesn’t feel brave at all. When this happens, she Kaplooms! She refuses to let go of her mom, and everything is flurried as she begins to cry. Her emotions feel frightening. It’s not the Katie Honors she wants to be. But her mother assures Katie that she can be both brave and sad, brave and crying, brave and scared.

Sometimes I Kaploom masterfully explores how hard it can be for children when they’re nervous or scared and have to transition to new places and faces when they just don’t feel quite ready. In another poignant, honest, and insightful story, readers learn along with Katie that bravery and fear are not mutually exclusive.

My Take on the Book
This was a great book for parents and kids to share especially if your child is dealing with emotions, separation anxiety and more. The book speaks in a way that kids can understand and at the same time allows parents to better explain how emotion can impact a child but also how kids can deal with their emotions too. 

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Kimberly Akimbo

About the Book
Theatre Communications Group (TCG) is pleased to announce the publication of Kimberly Akimbo: A New Musical, book and lyrics by David Lindsay-Abaire, music by Jeanine Tesori. This musical had its world premiere at Atlantic Theater Company in 2021. It transferred to the Booth Theatre on Broadway in 2022.

“Kimberly Akimbo is already the rare example of a good play that has become an even better musical…It embraces the ability of song, even in tragicomedy, to extend emotion into bigger realms…It is profoundly funny and heartbreaking…The season’s most moving new musical.” —Jesse Green, New York Times

New Jersey, 1999. Kimberly is about to turn sixteen and has recently moved with her family to a new town in suburban New Jersey. Suffering from a disease that causes her to age four and a half times faster than her high school peers, surrounded by a dysfunctional family (and possible felony charges), Kimberly is also navigating her first teenage crush. Ever the optimist, Kimberly is determined to find happiness against all odds and embark on a great adventure.

“Kimberly Akimbo is the sort of refreshingly unexpected musical that makes an exhilarating case for the vibrancy and potential of the form. It asks big questions about family and mortality. It’s unabashedly heartfelt and irresistibly funny. Like life, it’s inherently sad and a little absurd, and like its subject, Kimberly Akimbo is exceedingly rare and almost impossible not to love.”
– Naveen Kumar, Variety

David Lindsay-Abaire is a Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright, screenwriter, lyricist, and librettist. His works for theater include Rabbit Hole, Good People, Shrek The Musical (Jeanine Tesori, composer), Ripcord, Fuddy Meers, Wonder of the World, and A Devil Inside, among others.

Jeanine Tesori, the most honored female composer in Broadway history, has written works for theater, opera, and film. Her works include Fun Home (Tony Award for Best Score); Soft Power; Shrek The Musical; Caroline, or Change; Thoroughly Modern Millie; and Violet. She was named a Pulitzer Prize finalist twice for Fun Home and Soft Power.

My Take on the Book
I saw this musical on broadway and it was so amazing. That being said, when I saw that they had the musical book and lyrics I had to have it. The book was amazing and not only gave you everything that the actors shared in the musical, but you also get to learn a lot more about what brought the musical to broadway. The book is definitely something that I would recommend to anyone that is a fan of the musical. You will love having this in your collection, I know I do!

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - All The Mammals in the World

About the Book
In All The Mammals in the World, from tiny mice to huge blue whales, from dolphins to groundhogs, from gorillas to people, explore the vast world of mammals! A beautiful and informative picture book from acclaimed author and illustrator David Opie.

Ages 3 to 8.
Full color picture book.
Hardcover with dust jacket.
Picture book measures 8-3/4'' wide x 11-1/4'' high.
36 pages.

David Opie holds a BFA and MFA in Illustration, and lives with his wife in Connecticut. His previous books, All the Birds in the World and All the Fish in the World have received multiple starred reviews.


My Take on the Book
This was a wonderful book that is filled with beautiful images of so many mammals. A young reader will learn so much about these animals, and it whets your appetite to learn more about all of these animals. Highly recommend this for all!


----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com

Book Review - Compassionate Accountability: How Leaders Build Connection and Get Results

About the Book
Leaders don't have to choose between relationships and results!

 
Sadly, compassion and accountability are too often in tension —leaders feel they have to pick one or the other. But solely prioritizing accountability can create toxic work environments that drive away good talent. On the other end of the spectrum, being too nice can compromise performance and productivity.

Finding harmony between compassion and accountability is the ultimate catalyst for improved results and a thriving workplace.

 
In Compassionate Accountability: How Leaders Build Connection and Get Results you are given a solution that recognizes that compassion and accountability are not opposites. In fact, accountability is an element of compassion. Compassionate Accountability is the process of building connection while getting results. This book shows how this foundational mindset, philosophy, and way of living can lead to a thriving organizational culture. It covers such topics as:

• Why you can't practice compassion without accountability.
• How to turn on the three "switches" of the Compassion Mindset—and the predictable damaging consequences when they're turned off.
• The key role Compassionate Accountability plays in a healthy leadership culture.
• Six areas to focus on to start building your culture of Compassionate Accountability
• Five common barriers to compassion for leaders—and how to overcome them

Plus, real case examples of how organizations have adopted Compassionate Accountability, along with quizzes and self-assessments to help readers learn and apply the concepts.

Leaders seeking a renewed sense of fulfillment in their roles and increased leadership impact will find inspiration, guidance, and a roadmap for cultural transformation.

My Take on the Book
Being compassionate while still leading can sometimes be difficult, but in this book the author truly provides leaders with a path to take in being able to lead with compassion without this being in conflict. The book is full of practical advise and examples that are ones that I resonated with and could really use as I thought of my own team. The thing that I loved for this book was that I really could take the information and use it right away! 

----------------------------------------
New to the Divadom or to Dad of Divas Reviews?
Please Subscribe to my RSS Feed! Subscribe in a reader
Questions? Drop me a line at dadofdivas@gmail.com