Book Review - Hidden Talent: How to Employ Refugees, the Formerly Incarcerated & People With Disabilities

About the Book

Are you tired of looking for productive, loyal employees in an era of chronic talent shortages? Do you want to know how innovative businesses successfully recruit and retain refugees with limited English, the formerly incarcerated, and people with disabilities?

Hidden Talent shows how ten companies, from a global tech firm and a major hospital to a small painting company, effectively invest in this marginalized and routinely overlooked talent-and the practical lessons they have learned on that journey.

Loaded with practical steps and best practices, Hidden Talent shows how to:

• Identify specific opportunities for employing refugees, the formerly incarcerated or people with disabilities.
• Use 5 interviewing tips from a former inmate turned business owner.
• Onboard non-English speaking employees more effectively.
• Successfully employ different levels of talent on the autism spectrum.
• Train supervisors to engage more effectively with marginalized workers.
• Build productive partnerships to create new talent pipelines.

Hidden Talent is packed with useful lessons from businesses that are already profiting from these over looked sources of great employees. If it was easy, every organization would be accessing these labor pools. But it's not. This book shows how innovative leaders tackle the challenges of hiring employees they would have ignored in the past. Learn how investing in marginalized workers can change your company's performance, culture and, perhaps, your life.

My Take on the Book

"Hidden Talent" is a game-changer for any organization grappling with talent shortages. The book combines practical steps with real-world examples from companies that have successfully tapped into marginalized talent pools, such as refugees, the formerly incarcerated, and people with disabilities. What stood out most to me were the actionable tips, like better onboarding strategies for non-English speakers and training supervisors to engage effectively with diverse employees. The stories of businesses transforming their cultures and bottom lines by hiring from these overlooked groups are both inspiring and instructive. It's not just about filling roles; it's about building partnerships, fostering inclusion, and creating pathways for meaningful work. This isn't a surface-level guide; it's a deep dive into innovative hiring practices that any company can implement. If you're ready to rethink how your business accesses untapped talent, this book is an essential read.

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Game Review - Nintendo World Championship NES Edition Deluxe

About the Game

In Nintendo World Championship NES Edition Deluxe put your gaming skills to the test with over 150 thrilling challenges across 13 iconic NES™ games*! Whether you’re competing online against global players**, battling friends on the couch***, or chasing your personal bests, there’s always a new challenge waiting for you.

Feel like a Nintendo World Champion as you tackle challenges big and small. From blazing through the first level of Super Mario Bros.™ to mastering speedy moves in Kirby’s Adventure™, these tasks are designed to welcome newcomers and thrill veterans alike. Progress through multiple difficulty levels, honing your skills to conquer tougher obstacles.

Prepare with helpful video guides, then aim for a high letter ranking as you complete challenges. Beat your own ghost data, earn in-game coins to unlock even more content, and rise to the top of weekly rotating leaderboards.

Ready for the ultimate test? Take on Legend Challenges, like speeding through Super Mario Bros. using Warp Zones or conquering the first dungeon in The Legend of Zelda™. Choose your division—Silver for accessible fun, Gold for intense competition—and race against ghost data from global rivals.

Show off your gaming prowess with customizable profiles, unlockable badges, and unique Hype Tags. Are you ready to prove you’ve got what it takes?

My Take on the Book
The Nintendo World Championship NES Edition Deluxe is a nostalgic gem that packs 150 creative challenges from 13 classic NES games, blending fun and competition for all skill levels. From breezing through Mario levels to tackling Zelda dungeons, this game kept me hooked with its diverse tasks and ranking system. The collector's edition pins are a delightful bonus, adding a tangible piece of retro charm to the experience. While I initially wished for full versions of the included games, I appreciated how the challenges felt like a modern spin on a historic gaming competition. Playing online added an extra layer of excitement, though some leaderboard scores seemed suspiciously unbeatable. Overall, it's a great way to celebrate Nintendo’s legacy, and I’m now crossing my fingers for future SNES or N64 editions to keep this nostalgia train rolling!

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Game Review - Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake

About the Game

• DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake is a stunning reimagining of the beloved masterpiece and narrative beginning to The Erdrick Trilogy – the first three games of the mainline DRAGON QUEST series. Featuring vibrant HD-2D graphics, new and modernized features, and a refined narrative, players are invited to set out on an epic fantasy adventure to save the world from a dark evil.
• A fully modernized remake of the original: Stunning HD-2D visuals fuse pixel art with 3D graphics, bringing players into the world of DRAGON QUEST III like never before, along with an improved and modernized UI, and other quality of life improvements.
• Traditional DRAGON QUEST style battles: A refined take on the classic turn-based battle system, featuring new animations, additional improvements such as an adjustable battle speed, an auto-battle setting, and more.
• Immersive world: Deep exploration of a vast world map with an abundance of rich and captivating locations to discover, challenging players to overcome many unexpected encounters during the journey.
• Experience a timeless musical score: An immersive, authentic, and diverse musical composition that captures the timeless essence and magic of the DRAGON QUEST universe.  

My Take on the Book

The DRAGON QUEST III HD-2D Remake is everything I hoped it would be—a perfect blend of nostalgia and modern updates. From the gorgeous HD-2D art style to the streamlined gameplay features, it’s a joy to dive back into this classic RPG. The vibrant visuals breathe new life into the familiar world, and the music feels richer than ever, pulling me into the adventure.

The new features are a game-changer. Adjustable battle speed and the auto-battle setting make grinding a breeze, while the revamped UI and ability to save at churches simplify the journey. The additional side content and reworked mechanics, like equipping two accessories, add a fresh layer of depth.

Exploration feels rewarding, too, with hidden treasures and hints tucked away in unexpected places. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the series, this remake is a must-play—it captures the heart of the original while making it even better.

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Game Review - Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection: Arcade Classics

About the Game

• Experience your Favorite MARVEL vs. CAPCOM classics All in One – Enjoy 7 of your favorite classic titles that helped shaped the MARVEL vs. CAPCOM universe both single player and online.
• Enjoy Enhanced Features Added to the Classic Collection – To enhance your playability experience, we incorporated the favorite added features from Capcom Fighting Collection including gallery mode, quick save, training mode for all fighting titles, and the high score challenge. Beginners and first timers into the franchise are also welcome to play through adjusted settings and execution of one-button specials!
• Play with Friends Worldwide through Online Compatibility – This collection also includes rollback net code for a smooth and enjoyable experience online. Play casually or competitively through casual, ranked, or custom matches using rules of your choosing!
• Preorder and receive a new 32 page Marvel vs. Capcom physical comic book.
• Comic is packed in with game.
• Size is Approx. 4”x5” (to fit into SW package)  

My Take on the Game

The Marvel vs. Capcom Fighting Collection is a nostalgic gem that pulls together seven iconic titles, plus The Punisher beat-'em-up, into one solid package for the Nintendo Switch. The gameplay is smooth, with no noticeable lag or graphical hiccups, making it feel like you’re back at the arcade. What stood out to me was the range of accessibility—beginners can enjoy simplified controls, while veterans can crank up the challenge.

The bonus content, like the gallery and jukebox, adds a nice touch for fans wanting more than just the games. While the included comic is small and nothing groundbreaking, it’s a fun little collectible. I also loved the quick-save feature, which saved me during intense matches.

Whether you’re battling friends online or reliving childhood memories solo, this collection is a blast. It’s a must-have for Marvel or Capcom fans and anyone who loves retro fighting games!

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Book Review - Ruby Bridges: A Talk with My Teacher

About the Book
Acclaimed civil rights icon, Ruby Bridges, shares the touching tale of reuniting with the first-grade teacher who changed her life, Mrs. Henry.

Once again, you have shown me that you never get too old to learn. Teaching really is the noblest of professions.

When Ruby Bridges was only six years old, she made history by being the first Black child to integrate William Frantz Elementary School. She became best friends with her teacher, Mrs. Henry. Excited to come back for her second year, Ruby is soon devastated to learn that Mrs. Henry isn’t her second-grade teacher. Where did Mrs. Henry go? Can Ruby ever reconnect with her favorite teacher?

A love letter to teachers who hold the power to change lives, Ruby Bridges: A Talk with My Teacher illuminates the lasting impact that the best of teachers can have on the lives of their students. Trudy Tran's emotive rendering of Ruby Bridges from childhood to adulthood brings new life to this heartwarming story of a reunion between two long lost best friends.

My Take on the Book

Reading Ruby Bridges: A Talk with My Teacher felt like reconnecting with an old friend. Ruby Bridges shares an incredibly moving story of courage, resilience, and the enduring bond she formed with her first-grade teacher, Mrs. Henry. As the first Black child to integrate William Frantz Elementary School, Ruby faced unimaginable challenges, but Mrs. Henry’s unwavering support became a beacon of light in her life.

This book beautifully illustrates the power of teachers to transform lives. Ruby’s reunion with Mrs. Henry years later brought tears to my eyes—it’s a testament to how deeply relationships forged in classrooms can resonate throughout a lifetime.

The illustrations by Trudy Tran add richness to the narrative, capturing both the struggles and the warmth of Ruby’s journey. This is more than a history lesson; it’s a heartfelt tribute to the teachers who shape us and the connections that transcend time.

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Book Review - Ghost-Spider's Unbreakable Mission

About the Book
In Ghost-Spider's Unbreakable Mission, Gwen Stacy tries to balance her homework with her responsibility as Ghost-Spider in this original Marvel chapter book with black-and-white illustrations throughout!

Gwen Stacy has homework over the weekend: she has to carry a chicken egg everywhere she goes without breaking it. It should be easy enough for the average student, but Gwen is Ghost-Spider, with a duty to swing in and save the day whenever she sees a need.

So when a winged villain comes onto the scene, can Ghost-Spider stop him mid-flight without sabotaging Gwen’s chance for an egg-cellent grade?

Find out in this chapter book that’s perfect for Marvel fans beginning to read on their own or for reading aloud!


My Take on the Book
This was a fun story about Gwen Stacy, the Ghost Spider. What I loved about the book was that it showed Gwen Stacy as both a teen, making her way in school and in life as well as a superhero working to save the day for a special new winged friend that she meets. Along the way she learns some valuable lessons in responsibility too!

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Book Review - On the Road Less Traveled: An Unlikely Journey from the Orphanage to the Boardroom

About the Book
A powerful story touched with family trauma, deprivation, and adversity balanced by a life of hard work and philanthropy!

On the Road Less Traveled is the inspirational story of Edmund A. Hajim, an American financier and philanthropist who rises from dire childhood circumstances to achieve professional success and personal fulfillment. At age three, Hajim is kidnapped by his father, driven from St. Louis to Los Angeles, and told that his mother is dead. His father soon abandons him in order to seek employment—mostly in vain—leaving his son behind in a string of foster homes and orphanages. This establishes a pattern of neglect and desertion that continues for Hajim’s entire childhood, forever leaving its mark. From one home to another, the lonely boy learns the value of self-reliance and perseverance despite his financial deprivation and the trauma of being an orphan.

As time passes, Hajim displays a powerful instinct for survival and a burning drive to excel. A highly motivated student and athlete, he earns an NROTC college scholarship to the University of Rochester; serves in the United States Navy; works as an application research engineer; then attends Harvard Business School, where he finds that the financial industry is his true calling. So begins his rapid ascent in the corporate world, which includes senior executive positions at E. F. Hutton, Lehman Brothers, and fourteen years as CEO of Furman Selz, growing the company more than tenfold. He also creates a happy and abundant family life, though he never forgets what it means to struggle. At age sixty, he is reminded of his painful past when a family secret emerges that brings the story full circle.

My Take on the Book

When I picked up On the Road Less Traveled: An Unlikely Journey from the Orphanage to the Boardroom, I expected an inspiring rags-to-riches story. What I didn’t anticipate was the depth of vulnerability and life lessons Edmund Hajim would share so openly. This isn’t just a memoir of a man who overcame incredible odds—it’s a roadmap for anyone seeking to navigate their own challenges with resilience, integrity, and purpose.

Hajim’s childhood reads like a Dickensian tale: kidnapped by his father, abandoned repeatedly, and shuffled between orphanages and foster homes. Yet, it’s in these dark beginnings that he develops a fierce self-reliance and determination. As Hajim details his rise from an impoverished boy to a successful financier and philanthropist, I was struck by how he transforms each hardship into a stepping stone. His story isn’t sugarcoated—he reflects honestly on his struggles with family, loyalty, and forgiveness, and this rawness makes his triumphs all the more compelling.

What truly sets this book apart is Hajim’s unwavering humanity. Through his journey, he demonstrates that success is about more than ambition; it’s about compassion, mentorship, and giving back. His four principles for life—embracing challenges, valuing relationships, staying adaptable, and giving generously—resonate deeply and are woven throughout the narrative like a masterclass in living a meaningful life.

Hajim also doesn’t shy away from his imperfections, which makes his story relatable and profoundly inspiring. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a student, or someone seeking direction in life, this book is filled with wisdom that feels like a gift.

By the time I turned the last page, I didn’t just admire Ed Hajim; I felt empowered by his story. On the Road Less Traveled is more than a memoir—it’s a testament to the transformative power of perseverance, kindness, and vision.

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Book Review - The Inscrutable Doctor Baer and the Case of the Two-Faced Statue

About the Book
In The Inscrutable Doctor Baer and the Case of the Two-Faced Statue the Inscrutable Dr. Baer is at your service!

While he's much too busy to embark on any adventures himself, Dr. Baer is here to help with yours. Are you burdened with an unwanted magical object? Gorgon's head? Monkey's paw? Flaming sword?! Sell it to Dr. Baer; he'll tame its spirit, carefully catalog its origin, and keep it safe and orderly within the walls of the spookiest house you're ever likely to find.

But when novice explorers Taft the Tortoise and Pickles the Pig accidentally enable the theft of Baer's most powerful artifact by the nefarious sorcerer Gallus Lugubrious, the good doctor is forced out of his house to reclaim it. The only problem is, for everything he knows about magic, he knows nothing about adventuring, and he'll have to figure this one out as he goes, far from the comforting safety of home.

In over his head, along with his equally inexperienced new allies, Dr. Baer sets out on a dangerous quest through a world of monsters and magic to set things right . . . and to find his next chapter.


My Take on the Book
I can’t stop smiling when I think about The Inscrutable Doctor Baer and the Case of the Two-Faced Statue. From the moment I opened the book, I was pulled into a world full of quirky characters, magical chaos, and an adventure that felt both timeless and fresh.

Dr. Baer, a fastidious caretaker of magical artifacts, is hilariously out of his depth when forced to leave his comfort zone to retrieve a stolen relic. I loved watching him bumble his way through a quest with the help of Taft the Tortoise and Pickles the Pig. Speaking of Pickles—what an absolute delight! Her unshakeable optimism and her “Hug Magic” moment completely won me over. She’s the kind of character you want as a best friend—full of energy and heart without ever feeling over the top.

The story had me laughing, gasping, and even reflecting. There’s a surprising depth to it, especially in how it explores the ethics of collecting magical (and cultural) artifacts. It made me think about how history is shaped by those who control these objects and how important it is to respect their origins. It’s not heavy-handed, but it’s there if you’re paying attention, which I really appreciated.

The illustrations are stunning. I found myself pausing to soak in the details of every page—there’s so much life in the art that it felt like I was watching an animated show instead of reading. The twist at the climax caught me off guard in the best way, keeping the story from feeling predictable.

By the end, I didn’t want to leave this world. The adventure is self-contained, but I really hope we get more stories with Dr. Baer and his crew. This is a book I’d recommend to anyone who loves whimsical tales with heart, humor, and a bit of magic.

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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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Book Review - 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!

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Book Review - 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!

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