Dad of Divas' Reviews: 2024

Monday, October 21, 2024

Bluray Review - The Gilded Age: The Complete Second Season

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, DenĂ©e, 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.


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

Friday, October 18, 2024

Bluray Review - Curb Your Enthusiasm: The Complete Series

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!

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

Bluray Review - Captain Planet: The Complete Franchise

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! 

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

Friday, October 11, 2024

Book Review - Shadow Fox

Shadow Fox



About the Book
In Shadow Fox, Shadow the plucky fox and a girl named Bee might be the only ones who can save a secret magical island in the Great Lakes.

Shadow the fox does not trust humans. Well, except for Nan, who feeds her chunks of fish behind a lakeside motel every night. When Nan goes missing, a man from the mysterious Whistlenorth Island comes ashore to seek the aid of Nan’s granddaughter, Bee, whom he thinks is destined not only to help Nan, but also to save Whistlenorth from the greedy and destructive Night Islanders. The plans go topsy-turvy when it becomes obvious that Bee does not have the magic powers of a chosen one—but Shadow does! Can a fox really rescue an island of people? As Shadow grudgingly comes to trust her new human companions, she and Bee develop a mystical bond, a special connection between human and animal that might be the key to driving the Night Islanders from Whistlenorth for good. This enchanting adventure is narrated by Shadow herself, whose mind is unflinchingly “fox” and whose spirit is charming and bold.

My Take on the Book

Shadow and Bee is a unique, heartwarming adventure where a clever fox and a determined girl team up to save a magical island in the Great Lakes. The story, narrated by Shadow the fox, brings a fresh and witty perspective as she learns to trust humans, reluctantly bonding with Bee in the process.

The book mixes nature’s beauty with a bit of fantasy, as Shadow and Bee work together to fend off the greedy Night Islanders. It’s a fun twist on the classic "chosen one" story—turns out, it’s the fox with the magic powers, not the human!

Filled with humor and a bit of attitude from our prickly narrator, it’s a cool mix of animal magic and a subtle environmental message. If you love tales about friendship, trust, and a sprinkle of woodland magic, this one's for you!


----------------------------------------
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 - What Does Baby See? A High-Contrast Board Book

What Does Baby See? A High-Contrast Board Book



About the Book
Get your little one started on the right track! This Peter Pauper Primer -- featuring bold, high-contrast images -- will introduce your baby or toddler to important first concepts for every growing child.

In this book kids will learn:
  • Image recognition.
  • Word recognition.
  • Speaking skills.
  • Motor skills.
  • Baby-perfect black-and-white illustrations are simple, appealing, and engaging.
  • Basic text is ideal to read and share.
  • Sturdy board book has soft, padded covers.
  • Easy for little hands to grip and hold.
  • Ages 0 +.
  • Board book measures 6-1/2'' square.
  • 20 pages.
My Take on the Book
This book is a perfect first book for infants and toddlers, designed to engage little ones with its bold, high-contrast images and simple text. Ideal for promoting image and word recognition, the book helps develop early speaking and motor skills. The black-and-white illustrations captivate even the youngest of babies, making it a great tool for tummy time or just quiet bonding moments.

Parents love the durability of the sturdy board book, as it's built to withstand the enthusiastic handling of curious little hands. The book’s compact size and padded covers make it easy for babies to grab and explore on their own. While some may need to add sound effects or interactive play to keep older infants engaged, this book offers a solid foundation for nurturing a love of books and learning from the start. Perfect for newborns and early toddlers alike!


----------------------------------------
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 - What Does Baby See? - At The Sea




About the Book
''Toes wiggling. Sand tickling. Baby at the beach! What does Baby see?''

In this book:
  • Get your little one started on the right track!
  • This Peter Pauper Primer -- with bold, high-contrast images -- will introduce your baby or toddler to important first concepts for every growing child.
  • Image recognition.
  • Word recognition.
  • Speaking skills.
  • Motor skills.
  • Baby-perfect black-and-white illustrations are simple and appealing.
  • From a pail and shovel, to waves, to sea birds, to a lighthouse beaming at bedtime, high-contrast images will keep Baby engaged.
  • Basic text is ideal to read and share.
  • Sturdy board book has soft, padded covers.
  • Easy for little hands to grip and hold.
  • Ages 0 +.
  • Board book measures 6-1/2'' square.
  • 20 pages.
My Take on the Book
This book introduces your child to a ton of sea related items while helping them to recognize easy to understand words and more. The book is also easy for a young child to hold and turn the pages so they can feel in control of the story itself. The book has great images and will be a book your young child will want you to read 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 - What Does Baby See? - Baby Animals

What Does Baby See? - Baby Animals




About the Book
''Monkey swinging. Sloth climbing! What does Baby see in the jungle?''

In this book:
  • Get your little one started on the right track!
  • This Peter Pauper Primer -- with bold, high-contrast images -- will introduce your baby or toddler to important first concepts for every growing child.
  • Image recognition.
  • Word recognition.
  • Speaking skills.
  • Motor skills.
  • Baby-perfect black-and-white illustrations are simple and appealing.
  • From penguin chicks, to piglets, to puppies, adorable high-contrast images of baby animals will keep Baby engaged.
  • Basic text is ideal to read and share.
  • Sturdy board book has soft, padded covers.
  • Easy for little hands to grip and hold.
  • Ages 0 +.
  • Board book measures 6-1/2'' square.
  • 20 pages.

My Take on the Book
This was a cute board book that lets parents connect with their kids by telling the story of baby animals and seeing what they see. The book also helps kids recognize words through fun images, easy-to-understand words, and 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

Monday, October 7, 2024

Book Review - Big Kids Don't Bite

Big Kids Don't Bite



About the Book
''Sometimes it can be hard to sort our feelings out. We get so sad, we get so mad, we want to bite and shout!''
  • Use this helpful board book to assist your child in dealing with the common urge to bite.
  • Explore alternative options while reinforcing the rule: ''No biting. Biting hurts.''
  • Board book includes a Note to Caregivers with additional guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics and the National Association for the Education of Young Children.
  • Relatable characters and easy-reading rhyming text are combined with simple, full-color illustrations.
  • Sturdy board book has soft, padded covers.
  • Easy for little hands to grip and hold.
  • Ages 0 +.
  • Board book measures 6-1/2'' square.
  • 24 pages. 

My Take on the Book
This was a very cute book that allows for a parent to talk with their kids about why a child should not bite others. The book is easy to read and has great pictures that a young reader will appreciate. The book is soft and allows a young reader to easily hold and feel in control of the story itself!

----------------------------------------
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 - Peek-a-Poo! I Can Potty and So Can You!

Peek-a-Poo! I Can Potty and So Can You!



About the Book
''Big-kid potty and undies too. I can do it, and so can YOU!'' An adorable rhyming book will help toddlers learn all their potty-training essentials!
  • Becoming familiar with their potty seat. Recognizing the urge to go. Telling a grown-up. Flushing the toilet. Washing their hands. And the most important step of all -- success and pride in themselves!
  • Get your little one started on the right track with this helpful, positive, and upbeat book!
  • Engaging, colorful illustrations and fun text to read together!
  • Sturdy board book has soft, padded covers.
  • Easy for little hands to grip and hold!
  • Ages 0+.
  • Board book measures 6-1/2'' square.
  • 20 pages.

My Take on the Book

Big-kid Potty is a delightful and simple introduction to potty training, perfect for toddlers taking their first steps toward independence. With playful rhymes and vibrant illustrations, the book captures the essentials of potty training in an engaging and approachable way. It walks little ones through the process—getting familiar with the potty, recognizing the urge to go, and celebrating their achievements.

The sturdy board book format makes it easy for small hands to hold, and its upbeat tone encourages positive reinforcement, helping to make potty time fun rather than a chore. Parents have found this book effective in communicating the process to kids, even for those who may have struggled before. Whether for early learners or those needing a little extra encouragement, Big-kid Potty is a cheerful and supportive guide that can turn potty training into a fun, shared experience.


----------------------------------------
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 - Just One More! - A Bedtime Book


Just One More! - A Bedtime Book



About the Book
''A kiss good night. It's time for bed. It's time to rest your sleepy head.
  • ''It's getting later and later, but little Capy isn't ready for bed just yet.
  • ''One more book, one more song, one more drink . . . please!''
  • And just when Mommy and Daddy think they're finally ready for bed, somebody needs just one more thing . . . but who could that be?
  • Relatable characters and easy rhyming text are combined with cute and colorful illustrations.
  • Sturdy board book has soft, padded covers.
  • Easy for little hands to grip and hold.
  • Ages 0 +.
  • Board book measures 6-1/2'' square.
  • 24 pages.

My Take on the Book
This was a very cute book that allows for a parent to connect with their child and walk through the bedtime routine of Capy. It also is relatable because what parent has not had a child try to extend bedtime. The book is soft and allows a young reader to easily hold and feel in control of the story itself!

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

Tuesday, October 1, 2024

Book Review - Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Wrath of the Triple Goddess


Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Wrath of the Triple Goddess



About the Book
In his continuing quest to earn college recommendation letters from the gods, Percy has to pet sit the goddess Hecate's polecat and giant mastiff during Halloween week. What could go wrong?

Rick Riordan’s newest Percy Jackson adventure, Percy Jackson and the Olympians: Wrath of the Triple Goddess, is full of hilarious set pieces, a diverse cast of gods and monsters, and many other delightful tricks and treats.

Percy Jackson, now a high school senior, needs three recommendation letters from the Greek gods in order to get into New Rome University. He earned his first one by retrieving Ganymede’s chalice. Now the goddess Hecate has offered Percy another “opportunity”—all he has to do is pet sit her polecat, Gale, and mastiff, Hecuba, over Halloween week while she is away. Piece of cake, right?

Percy, Annabeth, and Grover settle into Hecate’s seemingly endless mansion and start getting acquainted with the fussy, terrifying animals. The trio has been warned not to touch anything, but while Percy and Annabeth are out at school, Grover can’t resist drinking a strawberry-flavored potion in the laboratory. It turns him into a giant frenzied goat, and after he rampages through the house, damaging everything in sight, and passes out, Gale and Hecuba escape. Now the friends have to find Hecate’s pets and somehow restore the house, all before Hecate gets back on Saturday. It’s going to take luck, demigod wiles, and some old and new friends to hunt down the animals and set things right again.

My Take on the Book

Rick Riordan delivers another entertaining adventure in his latest Percy Jackson installment. Now a high school senior, Percy faces the challenge of earning college recommendation letters from the gods, and his latest task is anything but simple—pet-sitting the goddess Hecate’s polecat and mastiff over Halloween. Chaos, of course, ensues.

Fans of the original series will love the familiar humor, sharp banter, and thrilling escapades. Percy’s friendship with Annabeth and Grover remains a central, heartwarming dynamic, and the modern references sprinkled throughout add fresh relevance to the tale.

The storyline is filled with delightful surprises, drawing on mythological themes while mixing in fun, contemporary elements. Though there are a few minor typos, they don’t detract from the overall charm. Perfect for both new and returning readers, this book is an enjoyable, lighthearted read that captures the magic of Percy’s world once 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 - Whose Tail?


Whose Tail?




About the Book
''A master of disguise, I am hardly seen -- turning into shades, like purple, blue or green. Who am I?'' ''A chameleon.'' 

In Whose Tail, using only a riddle and a tail, guess the identity of 13 amazing creatures! Each lushly illustrated page features the tip of a creature's tail, along with a fun, rhyming riddle. Can you use these clues to guess what animal each tail belongs to? Lift the flaps to reveal the answers and discover the 13 creatures from tail to top!
  • 32 pages.
  • Full color picture book.
  • Hardcover with dust jacket.
  • Picture book measures 5-5/8'' wide x 11'' high.
An illustrator and publishing packager for 20 years, Agathe Hennig is now the editor and creator of Ah!, an independent children's publisher located in France.

My Take on the Book
This is a short, fun book with colorful, engaging images that challenges the young reader to guess the identity of 13 different creatures. The book keeps the reader guessing and through the flaps, the young reader can identify all of the hidden creatures. This will be a fun book to read and share with your young reader!

----------------------------------------
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 - FRIENDS: The Complete Series


FRIENDS: The Complete Series


About the Book
Oh, My Gawd! In celebration of the 30th anniversary of one of television’s most watched sitcoms, Warner Bros. Discovery Home Entertainment will release FRIENDS: The Complete Series in 4K Ultra HD on September 24, 2024. This ultimate collector’s set for any FRIENDS fan includes over 110 hours of content – including all 236 original broadcast episodes released for the first time in 4K Ultra HD, plus over 20 hours of extra features including all-new bonus content. Pre-order your copy now.

From Warner Bros. Television, FRIENDS follows the lives and loves of a close-knit group of friends living in New York City: siblings Ross (David Schwimmer) and Monica Geller (Courteney Cox), along with friends Chandler Bing (Matthew Perry), Phoebe Buffay (Lisa Kudrow), Joey Tribbiani (Matt LeBlanc) and Rachel Green (Jennifer Aniston).

FRIENDS was created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman and aired on NBC from September 22, 1994 to May 6, 2004. The series was produced by Bright/Kauffman/Crane Productions, in association with Warner Bros. Television. Throughout its run, the show was nominated for 62 Primetime Emmy Awards®, winning six awards including Best Comedy Series in 2002.

FRIENDS maintains its influence among viewers. Since its launch, the series has been watched over 71 billion times in the United States alone, across all linear & SVOD platforms. On an international level, viewers spent a total of more than 1.4 billion hours with FRIENDS in 2023 across linear and SVOD internationally.

As FRIENDS marks its 30th anniversary this year, the beloved TV series continues to hold an enduring place in popular culture and hearts worldwide. With its witty humor, relatable characters, and memorable catchphrases, FRIENDS transcends generations with its universal appeal, making it a classic that continues to bring joy and laughter to fans around the world.

Series information:

FRIENDS: The Complete Series

Includes all 236 original broadcast episodes from the iconic 10 seasons of the beloved series, plus hours of special features which has been created over the years including two hours of all-new bonus content.

My Take on the Book

The Friends: Complete Series set is a must-have for any fan of the iconic sitcom. Celebrating the show, this collection presents all 236 episodes in stunning 4K resolution, making it feel like you're watching the series for the first time. The enhanced visuals are incredibly detailed, bringing new clarity to familiar sets and characters.

In addition to the upgraded quality, the set includes over 20 hours of bonus content, offering fans a deeper dive into the show’s behind-the-scenes magic. While the 4K edition doesn’t include the extended episodes from earlier releases, the crisp visuals and immersive sound more than make up for it.

This collection not only serves as a nostalgic trip for longtime viewers but also introduces new fans to the enduring charm of Friends. It's the perfect way to relive the timeless humor and heartfelt moments that have captivated audiences for decades.


----------------------------------------
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 - The West Wing: The Complete Series

The West Wing: The Complete Series


About the Book
Warner Bros. Discovery Home Entertainment will be releasing The West Wing: The Complete Series for the first time ever on Blu-ray, in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the critically acclaimed series. Get ready to binge all 156 episodes from NBC/WBTV’sEmmy® Award-winning original series, along with hours of special features including over 20 commentaries, behind the scenes featurettes, unaired scenes, gag reels and more. The brilliant political drama, following an extraordinarily intimate look at an American President and the inner workings of the White House, will be available to own on Blu-ray on October 1. Pre-order your copy today.

Created by Aaron Sorkin who executive produced with Thomas Schlamme and John Wells, The West Wing stars Rob Lowe , Dulé Hill, Allison Janney, Janel Moloney, Richard Schiff, John Spencer, Bradley Whitford, and Martin Sheen. The series was produced by John Wells Productions in association with Warner Bros. Television.

The West Wing, which originally aired on NBC from 1999 to 2006, garnered widespread acclaim with three Golden Globe Awards, two Peabody Awards, and 26 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Drama Series for four consecutive seasons (2000-2003). This year, the groundbreaking series celebrates its 25th anniversary.

SYNOPSIS:

Widely considered one of the best series of all time, The West Wing remains a landmark achievement in television, earning 26 Emmys, including four for Outstanding Drama Series. With its sharp writing and memorable ensemble cast, the show continues to inspire audiences with its intimate look at the triumphs, sacrifices and inner politics of the White House.

Series information:

The West Wing: The Complete Series

Includes all 156 episodes from all seven seasons on 28 discs, plus over 20 commentaries, behind the scenes featurettes, unaired scenes, gag reels and more

My Take on the Book
This is an amazing set with all of the episodes from this series. You get to relive all of the political drama in its' fullest and relive all of the characters and plot lines and twists that I know that I came to love throughout the entire West Wing series. Beyond this though, as a fan of the series, all of the special features added a ton to your knowledge of the series and you leave feeling a lot more informed on the overall series as a whole! If you are a fan of the series, this is a must have!

----------------------------------------
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 - London: A History


London: A History




About the Book
In London: A History you get an idiosyncratic, comprehensive, and impeccably researched, this master work by a revered artist unveils one of the world’s most famous cities from pre-history to the present, in all its epic glory.

Imagine a kaleidoscopic view of a storied city—from the remote past to today—brought to life in magnificent illustrations. Laura Carlin’s breathtaking artwork animates thousands of years of London history, beginning long before there were cities—when dinosaurs roamed the Earth—and ending with the 2022 death of a beloved monarch. Teeming panoramic spreads track the Ice, Stone, and Bronze Ages; waves of Romans, Anglo Saxons, Vikings, and Normans; and witch hunts and wars both civil and global. From the Plague and the Great Fire of the 1600s to the world wars of the twentieth century, from the lives of the royals to those of housemaids and factory workers, this loving tribute to London through the ages thoughtfully curates passages from historical accounts, poems, and the private diaries of luminaries like Samuel Pepys, Queen Victoria, Charles Dickens, and Virginia Woolf, allowing the city to speak through its famous denizens. An exquisite gift book for art lovers, history buffs, and world travelers of all ages, this rich compendium is for anyone who has fallen—or has yet to fall—under the spell of one of the world’s most bewitching cities.

My Take on the Book

Laura Carlin’s richly illustrated book offers an immersive journey through the fascinating history of London, from its prehistoric roots to modern times. Her artistic depictions, rendered in watercolor, ink, and pastels, capture the essence of the city's evolving landscape with a subtle and evocative touch.

The panoramic illustrations bring to life key moments, from the Plague and the Great Fire to the Industrial Revolution and world wars. With excerpts from historical writings and diaries by figures like Samuel Pepys and Queen Victoria, the narrative intertwines personal stories with major events, giving readers a deeply human perspective on the city’s past.

The book’s muted tones create a gentle, contemplative atmosphere, much like strolling through a beautifully curated museum. Ideal for history enthusiasts, art lovers, and London admirers, this visually captivating work presents the city’s rich history in a way that’s both informative and enchanting.


----------------------------------------
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 - Doctor Fairytale


Doctor Fairytale



About the Book
Join Doctor Fairy Tale and her canine sidekick as they visit ailing storybook characters in this sweet story proving that one good turn deserves another.

My name is Doctor Fairy Tale, I'm always super busy.
My list of patients is so long, it sometimes makes me dizzy!


One character’s head is throbbing after her long, flowing locks were used as a ladder. Another has splinters in her bottom after sitting on a certain bear’s too-small chair. Then there’s the girl with blistered toes after hobbling home from the ball in just one shoe! Luckily, in this magical make-believe land, Doctor Fairy Tale and her dog are on the case, traveling far and wide to help injured and ailing fairy-tale friends. No matter what sort of bump or bruise—and no matter how mischievous the patient!—this kind doctor is happy to lend a hand, inspiring little readers to do the same. With warm, lively watercolor illustrations rich in humor and imagination, this story’s buoyant rhymes will have children happily guessing the fairy tales behind them.

My Take on the Book
Doctor Fairytale is a delightful and imaginative story that brings classic fairy-tale characters into a new, lighthearted context. Doctor Fairy Tale, along with her trusty canine sidekick, helps familiar figures like Rapunzel and Cinderella with their peculiar ailments, turning beloved stories on their heads in a fun, inventive way.

The rhyming text flows smoothly, making it enjoyable to read aloud, while the playful illustrations enhance the magic of the story. The watercolor artwork adds warmth and humor, blending framed vignettes with sweeping, two-page scenes that transport readers into the whimsical world of fairy-tale medicine.

Perfect for young readers, this charming tale teaches kindness and empathy through its caring protagonist. With its creative twists on well-known stories and its upbeat, rhyming narrative, Doctor Fairy Tale is sure to inspire giggles and spark the imaginations of children who love classic fairy tales with a fresh twist.


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

Saturday, September 28, 2024

Book Review - The Fairy Tale Fan Club: Legendary Letters collected by C.C. Cecily

The Fairy Tale Fan Club: Legendary Letters collected by C.C. Cecily


About the Book
In The Fairy Tale Fan Club: Legendary Letters collected by C.C. Cecily, what if you could send fan mail to your fairy tale idols? And what if they wrote back? “Happily ever after” takes on a new meaning in this book from actor-comedian-author Richard Ayoade and best-selling illustrator David Roberts.

It’s once upon a time . . . as only the irreverently witty Richard Ayoade can tell it. In this series of letters organized by C. C. Cecily, Senior Secretary of the Fairy Tale Fan Club, the fairest of them all (and a few bitter foes) correspond with curious—and opinionated—fans. So if you’ve ever wondered how a less-than-genius (and less-than-clothed) emperor fell for a certain con, how the Big Bad Wolf is handling meatless Mondays, or whether Rapunzel recommends going for the big chop, no need to look far, far away. Multihyphenate Richard Ayoade, author of The Book That No One Wanted to Read, hilariously imagines what questions modern children would have for characters such as Sleeping Beauty, Prince Charming, and Little Red Riding Hood—and what they might have to say in return. Complete with clever, spoof-gothic illustrations from David Roberts, this wry storybook may have even the Brothers Grimm cackling in their graves.


My Take on the Book
The Fairy Tale Fan Club by Richard Ayoade offers a fresh and humorous take on classic fairy tales through a series of playful letters between fans and their favorite characters. The witty correspondence, masterfully organized by C.C. Cecily, explores modern-day questions for iconic figures like the Big Bad Wolf and Sleeping Beauty. Ayoade’s clever, comedic voice shines in every interaction, making these well-known characters feel both familiar and delightfully new.

The illustrations by David Roberts perfectly complement the text, with intricate and quirky details that add to the book’s charm. This playful format makes the stories engaging for both children and adults alike, offering plenty of laughs and imaginative twists.

Whether you’re a fairy tale enthusiast or just love a good laugh, this book offers a witty, inventive journey that breathes new life into old tales. It’s a must-read for anyone who enjoys a blend of humor and nostalgia.



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