Blog Archives
Unspoken Love: An Orphan’s Journey
Unspoken Love: An Orphan’s Journey, by Jack McCabe, offers a heartfelt and inspiring look into the life of a man who overcame significant challenges to become a dedicated math teacher. This autobiography traces Jack’s journey from a tumultuous youth in an orphanage to his eventual success in a 55-year teaching career. Through candid storytelling, Jack reflects on the hurdles he faced, including a lack of guidance during his formative years and a challenging stint in the Air Force.
This book is a testament to the power of resilience and optimism. Jack’s transformation from a young man facing arrest to a respected educator and Air Force veteran is nothing short of remarkable. His narrative, rich in life lessons, is a beacon of hope, demonstrating that one’s past does not dictate their future.
The memoir is presented in straightforward, relatable language, adding to its authenticity. Jack’s willingness to share both the ups and downs of his journey resonates deeply, reminding us of the shared human experience.
While the narrative is engaging, I found myself longing for a more in-depth exploration of certain chapters of Jack’s life, particularly his military and teaching experiences. I believe expanding on these aspects would enrich the reader’s understanding and connection to his story. However, those interested in education, military life, and personal growth narratives will find much to appreciate in this account.
Unspoken Love: An Orphan’s Journey, by Jack McCabe, is a compelling read, offering valuable insights into perseverance and the pursuit of one’s passions. I eagerly anticipate a sequel that delves deeper into the intriguing aspects of Jack’s life, further satisfying the curiosity this memoir has ignited. This book is especially appealing to those interested in mathematics, teaching, or anyone who has navigated the complexities of growing up in an orphanage or serving in the military.
Pages: 97 | ASIN : B0975W4SC1
Amusing ABCs
Amusing ABCs is a delightful ABC picture book meticulously crafted to aid children in their journey of learning and recognizing the fundamental letters of the alphabet. Authored by Craig Undlin, this captivating book seamlessly combines education with entertainment through its ingenious use of humorous illustrations and an engaging narrative.
Undlin’s thoughtful creation serves as a valuable resource for early literacy development, establishing a solid foundation for reading comprehension. Each page of this book acquaints young readers with a distinct letter of the alphabet, while introducing them to an assortment of fascinating animals and objects that resonate with the corresponding letter’s sound. The author effortlessly merges learning objectives with an atmosphere of enjoyment. The vibrant and lively illustrations adorning each page capture the attention of young readers, effectively captivating their imagination and sustaining their interest throughout the entire journey. The deliberate allocation of two dedicated pages to each letter allows ample space for exploration and learning, ensuring a comprehensive grasp of each letter’s distinct characteristics. One particularly commendable aspect is the author’s choice to introduce animals and objects that commence with the sound of the respective letter. For instance, the letter “A” unveils an amusing apple that just wanted to jump on his bed, while “B” introduces a fierce and strong bear that loves to sing. This ingenious approach not only facilitates letter recognition but also expands children’s vocabulary and nurtures their imaginative faculties.
Undlin masterfully weaves a simple narrative into each letter, skillfully transforming the act of reading into an enjoyable experience. By incorporating this early introduction to the concept of reading, the author adeptly imparts the understanding that letters form words and that words carry meaning—a pivotal lesson in a child’s literacy journey.
Amusing ABCs stands as a charming and informative ABC picture book that strikes a perfect balance between learning and fun. With its witty illustrations, introduction to a diverse range of animals and objects, and emphasis on early reading concepts, this book emerges as an indispensable tool in a child’s pursuit of literacy. It is certain to captivate young readers and ignite their curiosity about the alphabet, ultimately setting them on a rewarding path towards successful reading and language skills.
Pages: 58 | ASIN: B0C43MYBM9
An A-Z Guide On What To Do
From High School to Uni: The Essential Student’s Guide to Moving into University is a step-by-step guide to help parents and students navigate the transition from high school to university. Why was this an important book for you to write?
When my first child was graduating from high school and preparing to set off to university, she was excited, nervous, and curious about what university life would be like. We began searching for guidance on how to prepare, both logistically and mentally, for this new adult stage of life, and it made me realize that no practical topics are taught at school, such as how to create and manage a budget, how to plan personal nutrition, how to shop for food and cook, how to sew on a button, iron a shirt, and do laundry—all the things one needs to know when becoming an adult and beginning independence away from home. It made me want to help others, and I wanted to write a book that would offer practical advice, useful tips, and personal insights to help parents and teens prepare for this new adventure and make the most of it.
There are many parenting and student forums on the Internet with tons of personal advice from well-meaning people, but there is no one-stop shop giving an A-Z guide on what to do, when, how, and why. I noted every step of my children’s installations in and out of universities in England, France, and Switzerland, made checklists and templates, and built this into a step-by-step guide to help students and parents navigate their own journey.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The ideas I wanted to capture were practical tips that a parent may not think about or have time to teach their teen before they leave home, such as:
- How to manage your finances, pay bills, select utility providers;
- How to pack and set up your dorm or apartment
- How to deal with room-mates and landlords, negotiate a lease/rental agreement, and associated responsibilities;
- How to manage your mental health, studies and social life
- How to shop with a student budget, efficiently store food within student quarters, meal prep, and maintain a balanced diet.
- And laundry—not just HOW to do it, but when (there is a secret to this!).
What is one piece of advice you would want to give parents entering this stage of life before sending their child off into the world?
While From High School to Uni speaks to students, I actually wrote it with parents in mind. Let’s face it, your teen has just gone through an intense period of cramming for exams and is just looking forward to enjoying a summer of freedom before taking up serious studies again and potentially moving to another country or part of the country. They are not thinking about how they will survive and thrive in a new environment. But parents are more inclined to think ahead, so this book is for parents to read too. Forewarned is forearmed, I always say. If you know what to expect, you are better prepared, less stressed, can plan efficiently in advance, spread the cost of buying items for college across several months to help you budget effectively, and ease into the transition serenely.
One piece of advice I would want to give parents entering this stage of life is to trust their children and support them in their choices. Going to university is a big step for both the child and the parent, and it can be hard to let go and let them grow. But it’s also an exciting time for them to discover themselves, learn new things, and pursue their dreams. As a parent, you can help them by being supportive, encouraging, respectful, and understanding. You can also stay in touch with them regularly, but not too much. Give them space and freedom to explore their new environment, but also let them know that you’re always there for them if they need you (and not just when they need a budget top-up!).
What were some goals you set for yourself as a writer in this book?
To be honest, I didn’t expect to write this with a successful publication in mind, so my goals were just to write in a clear, concise, pragmatic, and engaging way that would be appealing to both teenagers and parents. I felt like my anecdotes would be relatable, illustrate my points, and enable readers to connect well. I also have a passion for helping people, and if I have done the work so you don’t have to, why not benefit from my experience?
Author Links: GoodReads | Facebook | Website | Instagram
From High School to Uni is an A-Z guide to help students (and helpful parents) navigate the confusing path to a new life on campus – where to start, how to plan and get organized, what to pack, what NOT to pack, and other advice such as opening a bank account, renting accommodation, shopping and food prep – every aspect of student life is covered in this easy to read guide book.
A Story of Whoa
A Story of Whoa is a remarkable and inspiring children’s book that centers around the poignant relationship between a young boy named Whoa and his father. Whoa’s deep affection for his dad is juxtaposed with the turmoil of intense emotions stirred within him as they watch the nightly news together. Striving to comprehend the injustices and cruelties portrayed in the world, Whoa initiates a profound conversation with his father, igniting his unwavering determination to effect change. Motivated by this newfound resolve, Whoa embarks on a quest to learn karate, envisioning it as a means to combat injustice, tragedy, and cruelty. Accompanied by his father, they embark on a shared mission to make the world a better place. Ultimately, Whoa discovers that the true path to fighting these battles lies not in martial arts but in demonstrating love and kindness towards others.
Author Chris Corbett artfully addresses the challenges faced by children in today’s world, offering a compelling solution through meaningful father-son dialogues. The book fearlessly tackles sensitive subjects such as homelessness, poverty, and bullying, presenting a framework for parents to engage in discussions about these critical issues with their children. Corbett adeptly navigates complex themes, empowering young readers with a positive and constructive approach to overcoming adversity in the world. The author skillfully sidesteps any endorsement of revenge or vigilante-like behavior, ensuring that the story promotes empathy, understanding, and proactive problem-solving instead. This commendable, balanced approach helps young readers develop a sense of responsibility without instilling negative emotions.
In terms of its relevance to today’s society, A Story of Whoa triumphantly addresses the imperative for parents and children to engage in open conversations about real-world challenges. It underscores the significance of imparting essential life lessons such as empathy, persistence, and courage to the next generation while ensuring that these lessons are conveyed in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner.
Thought-provoking and heartening, A Story of Whoa resonates deeply with both children and parents alike. It serves as an invaluable tool for initiating conversations about the prevalent challenges and injustices within our society, providing a springboard for reflection and understanding. This picture book offers a remarkable opportunity to cultivate dialogue and foster growth, making it a must-read for families seeking to navigate the complexities of our world.
Pages: 40 | ASIN: B0C1VZB28H
Hugh the Hippo Camps Out In My Head
Hugh the Hippo Camps Out In My Head is a delightful and informative picture book that introduces young readers to the vital role that the hippocampus plays in our ability to recall information. Following the young protagonist, Oliver, and his friends, Bella and Beau, on a magical adventure through an enchanted forest, the author, Beverley Reichman, skillfully weaves in important lessons about how the hippocampus helps us remember things. The captivating illustrations are not only amusing but also serve to fully immerse the reader in Oliver’s world.
One of the strengths of the book is the clever way in which the author demonstrates the function of the hippocampus through the characters in the story. The book also showcases Hugh the Hippo as a superhero who saves the day, which makes for a fun and engaging read. Additionally, the author highlights that dogs also have a hippocampus, which we learn through Toby’s Treasures.
At the end of the book, readers are offered a fun and educational activity to test their knowledge of what they’ve just read. Overall, this interactive and enjoyable read is highly recommended for young readers and perfect for teachers to share in their classrooms. Hugh the Hippo Camps Out In My Head is a must-read children’s book that teaches important concepts in a fun and engaging way.
Pages: 54 | ASIN: B0BQNPWFN4
Living Green and the Smoke
A handy and helpful small tree and a smart and intelligent little flower meet up for their daily chat, but there’s something weird in the sky today. There is smoke covering the forest and making plants sick. The duo set out to find the smoke’s source and find it coming out of a mountain. They gather their friends, and together they work to close the hole and fix a problem that was affecting all of them.
This educational picture book takes the serious and complicated subject of climate change and distills it down into a creative adventure that children will be able to understand. This is the perfect book for young readers as the problem is easy to grasp, there’s smoke coming out of the mountain. How do they stop it? They have to work together to solve the problem, and their teamwork is also illustrated in an easy to understand manner. All of this makes this a perfect book for preschool or kindergarten children. This educational children’s book does a fantastic job of establishing this basic understanding in young readers. In many children’s books these ideas are often abstract, but author Florian Bushy is able to mix a serious issue with whimsical characters and create a fun and educational kid’s book.
The artwork throughout the book is colorful. The trees and plants come to life, and I loved seeing Mr. Florian’s cute character in different situations throughout the story.
Living Green and the Smoke is an educational children’s book that conveys an important lesson about air pollution, global warming, and how working as a team is critical to solving a problem that affects us all. I highly recommend this informative picture book to educators and parents who want to introduce their young children to the idea of climate change and teamwork.
Pages: 32 | ASIN: B09R7TNMZ5
The Little Regenerative Farmer and The Dairy Farm
Lina is happily gardening and playing outside when her father tells her some sad news. They’re moving. At their new home, Lina makes a new friend in the old farmer across the road. They share their love of farm animals, educate one another, and help implement a regenerative agricultural practice.
Lina is a hardworking and inquisitive child whose passion for life is evident from the first page of this vibrant children’s book. There is a variety of lessons young readers will pick up throughout the story, but the one that stood out to me the most was Lina’s determination. When Lina hears some disheartening information from her friends at school, she works for months to prove them wrong. There are many children’s books where a lesson is learned quickly, but I appreciated how the lesson learned in this book is achieved over a long period of time, and through the child’s own hard work. This is a fantastic message to send to kids. Young readers will also learn about farming, sharing information with others, and being adaptable.
The artwork by illustrator Yana Gorbatiyk is rich and brilliant and makes each character look adorable. Lina’s chicken was very cute and I loved seeing it on the page every time. Young kids will be drawn to all of the bright imagery in the book.
The Little Regenerative Farmer and The Dairy Farm is an educational picture book that shares several valuable life lessons, some of which are rarely seen in other children’s books. This is a heartwarming story that spreads a positive message that has the potential to improve the world.
Pages: 43 | ASIN: B0BNWHTGTR
LITERARY TITAN 