Monday, December 30, 2013

Resolving To Read in 2014



Obviously, it is not secret I like to read. I always prefer the printed word but sometimes that is just impossible so, I own a Kindle too.

This past year I challenged myself to read a mere 12 books. I thought I would do good to finish that.  As it turns out, I read that in about...oh...a couple of months. I ended up logging 32. I know I read more than that!

As I am approaching the new year, I am asking myself what do I want to do this coming year to challenge myself. I turned to Goodreads first because that is where I took on the challenge this past year.  My eyes fell upon several people who were offering book challenges. Oh my, what to choose!

I have decided to do this:

1. I have challenged myself to read 52 books. If you have not already figured it out, that is a book a week.
    This can be from any genre I choose.

2. I am going to do a challenge to read 12 children's books written by Latina authors and/or feature Latina
    characters or themes.

3. I am going to do a challenge to read 6 children's books written by African American authors.

4. I am going to do a challenge to read 6 children's books written by Native American authors.

5. I am going to do a challenge to read 6 children's books written about various special needs.

All the books read can be crossed over to my over all 52. In addition, I will review each book as I always do here on my blog as well as crossposted to Goodreads and Amazon.

This should be some fun!  If you wish to join me then great, otherwise, wish me luck!

~Naila Moon



2014 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

Saturday, December 28, 2013

Review of No. 3 World Facts & No. 4 World Facts by The Brothers Publishing

The Brothers Publishing is a two fathers who have come together to produce books that answer the questions of their children. They have written a series of World Fact books that is like none other.

The two books that I have been privileged to read this time are volumes 3 & 4 in the series. Each book is aimed at children 4-10 years of age. The younger child would enjoy the simplified pictures while the older child could read the words.


Book 3 opens with two small girls running a three-legged race.  Each page is filled with a quick question or item and then a "did you know" fact about the subject on the page. All the subjects in this book have to do with the number three that is highlighted on each page.

This is a not so subtle way for children to learn about a number but also to learn about the things and places around them and in the world. Some things in book three could be a little harder to grasp for the young child like the idea of living in a three dimensional world but that does not distract from the book as a whole. In fact, I believe it helps a child to imagine and for the older child a prompt to explore more.


Book 4 like the previous book, fills pages of photos and words together to interest the curious child. This time the book opens with the number four itself and follows each page with something about four.
As with the previous book the pictures will entice a youngster while encourage the older child to read and maybe research more of their curiosity.

The Brothers Publishing has done a great job of researching out facts to go with each book. I enjoyed finding out certain things I did not know. Each fact is clearly written but some of the photos do not point out that clarity.

The only issue I have with the books is that I think the facts in each book are too advanced for young kids to grasp but having the age up to 10 covers that issue as well. These books are great for the curious child of which I would have loved when I was a kid.

Way to go Brothers Publishing. Your books get 4 stars from me.
~Naila Moon

Sunday, December 22, 2013

It's All About A #Blueberry Bubblegum #Giveaway

Blueberry Bubble Gumis an adorable book that has a lesson to be learned. You can read my review HERE What happens when kids lie and don't do as their parents have told them to do? Well, it is possible that they just might be transported to Blueberry Bubblegum World! You say, you don't know where that is? Well, then, I suggest you read the book and find out.

 Get ready for adventure! School’s out, and Max is gearing up for a summer of baseball with his friends. He’s expecting fun in the sun and long, lazy days. But to his surprise, he finds himself transported to a strange and wonderful world after chewing magical blueberry bubble gum—bubble gum his parents warned him not to chew! Join Max in his adventures through Blueberry Bubble Gum World and meet the fascinating creatures who live there—the Blueberry Boy, King Erudition, and the lumpy, moldy green evil Waywards. Will Max learn his lesson and find his way home? Find out in this thrilling journey!

Elfa books is giving away a signed copy of Blueberry Bubble Gum, along with a 18 pack of 5 piece blueberry bubblegum! Doesn't that sound delightfully delicious?!


Enter today because just like bubblegum flavor, it won't last long!

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: This giveaway is being coordinated by Away We Go Media on behalf of Elfa Books. Elfa Books is responsible for prize shipment. Naila Moon of Once Upon A Time was compensated for this post. This giveaway runs from Dec. 22, 2013-Jan. 6, 2014. Winner must respond to an email sent to them within 48 hours or forfeit said prize and another winner will be drawn. This giveaway is not affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest or any other social media outlet. US only.

Review: Four Season of Patrick by Susan Hughes

Blurb:
It's the start of winter, and Patrick is beginning to feel crowded out of his own family. His father's friend, Linda, and her seven-year-old daughter, Claire, are coming for dinner again. By the time spring arrives, not only is Patrick's father planning to marry Linda, but she and Claire will be coming to live with them at the summer's end. That just won’t do. So Patrick comes up with a big idea. He'll build a tree house where he can stretch out his arms and breathe. But wait. Will his father allow it? Where will he find the perfect tree? Who will give him a hand with the construction? And, most importantly, will his own tree house really be the hideaway he hopes for, especially from the irritating Claire?

As the autumn season arrives, Patrick discovers some surprising answers to these questions – and learns a little about the meaning of family.


My review:
The story starts off as Patrick is running out to play in the first day of snow with his best friend. He is not happy that his father's friend Linda is coming over because her 7 year old, Claire, is nothing but a pest to him. She seems to always get into his things and take precious time from his Dad and brother, Trevor.

Additionally, he does not like Linda because, although he cannot remember times when his mother wasn't sick, he does not want anyone to take her place. He needs room to breathe and have space of his own. 

As the seasons change, Patrick finds out that his best friend is going to have a baby sister or brother soon and  is all too happy to be a big brother. Patrick does not understand this at all. 
His best friend agrees to help him build a treehouse on land that is a neighbors, right as his Father begins to make room for Claire.

Claire and Linda's arrival does not help his feelings on the whole matter and he runs to the treehouse for solace when he can, leaving Claire behind. She begins to change too as they move in with Patrick and his family.

As Winter comes around again, Patrick finds out that maybe he and Claire are not so different after all and that acceptance and love is the answer.

Will Patrick ever allow Claire in the treehouse? Will Patrick be able to have better relationship with his Father post Linda and Claire? Will the seasons change again in better understanding of others?

Ah, well, you know, then you must read the book to find out.
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Four Seasons of Patrick can be easily read within a couple of hours as it is a short novel.
This chapter book aimed at 6-10 year olds is just right for the child who is learning to cope with others being introduced into his/her lives. It is also perfect to help children to understand that they can have their feelings but to try to understand that others may just be having the same feelings. This book points out that talking to someone about how you feel is often better than being destructive or at best using anger to create something positive.

This book also included at the end a question guide that could be used for additional resources. The questions are poignant and of course refer back to the book itself which might be nice for homeschooling parents.

I give this book 4 stars.

Where you can find the author, Susan Hughes:
Amazon



Friday, December 20, 2013

Review of Snowmen At Christmas and Video of Me Reading It



This is a sweet little book about Snowpeople who celebrate Christmas in their own way. They dance, sing and decorate the town's Christmas tree. They even have icy treats. At the end, everyone goes home with their snow hearts filled with joy.

The book is written in the "Night Before Christmas" kind of meter but I do not think that takes away from the book at all. The illustrations are done by the author's husband and are bright and colorful. They enhance the book quite well which adds to the enjoyment of reading it.

This gets 5 stars without a doubt.

I read the book on video below, I still encourage you to buy your own copy if you are inclined to do so.

Disclosure: I purchased a copy of this book. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own.
~Naila Moon


Tuesday, December 17, 2013

#Giveaway: $50 #Paypal and Signed book of #Schism by Michael Phillip Cash

Michael Phillip Cash has done it again with his new Sci-fi book. Have you read it yet? I have and you can find my review HERE. It is incredible!


After the success of his first three books, Brood X, Stillwell, and The Hanging Tree, Michael Phillip Cash is fulfilling his dream of creating his own fantasy world. Introducing his newest book, Schism: The Battle for Darracia (Book 1)

"On the planet Darracia, an ever-widening social gap between its inhabitants is causing turmoil that is fracturing a once peaceful world. Struggling with his identity, nineteen year old Prince V'sair must harness the power of the elusive Fireblade, the secret to a warrior's heart, in order to overcome his uncle Staf Nuen's lust for supremacy. Will the energy of the Elements guide the young prince to his true destiny or will Staf Nuen conquer Darracia?" 

Michael Phillip Cash is celebrating this new release with a giveaway. He is offering $50 Paypal Cash (US and Canada only) and a signed copy of his book. Enter today to find out about the world of Darracia and a chance to win $50 Paypal cash!




Disclosure: This giveaway is sponsored by Michael Phillip Cash and is being coordinated by Away We Go Media. Naila Moon of Once Upon A Time was asked to help promote this giveaway and is not responsible for prize shipment. Winner will be chosen at random by Rafflecopter. Winner has 48 hours to respond to an email sent to them or an alternate winner will be chosen.
Giveaway is open to US and Canada. This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest,YouTube or any other social media site. Giveaway ends January 2, 2014. a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, December 13, 2013

Review: Schism:The Battle for Darracia (Book 1) by Michael Phillip Cash



Blurb:
On the planet Darracia, an ever-widening social gap between its inhabitants is causing turmoil that is fracturing a once peaceful world. Struggling with his identity, nineteen year old Prince V'sair must harness the power of the elusive Fireblade, the secret to a warrior's heart, in order to overcome his uncle Staf Nuen's lust for supremacy. Will the energy of the Elements guide the young prince to his true destiny or will Staf Nuen conquer Darracia? 

My Review:
I recently had the opportunity to read another book by Michael Phillip Cash. I have been rather enthralled with his thriller books and could not wait for his book Schism to come out. 

I was particularly interested in this book because I am somewhat of a Sci-fi buff.  Michael Cash had changed genres with this book to be Sci-fi so, my interest was peaked. A risky venture for Mr. Cash for sure, but I was not disappointed in the least.

The book tells of a world, Darracia that has three levels of distinct social order. The top ruling group literally lives in the clouds and rides great winged horses. They are warriors and use the power of the Fireblade, a multi-glowing sword, as their strength.

Prince V'sair is the next in line for the throne but is frustrated that his parents have not allowed him to have taken on the power of the Fireblade but have favored education instead. On a journey to a lower level of Darracia, with a servant girl, he finds the secrets to the Fireblade as well as love and the strength of family. Additionally, he finds out that not all things or people are what they seem and that working together may just be the key.

These ideals are what his father, the King, has tried to instill in him but he will only begin to learn these things when his Uncle, Staf Nuen, organizes a coup and tries to have him and the King killed. Through his new found identity, the Prince faces warfare and inner conflict.
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I of course cannot give the complete details of this first book in the series away. I can say that the book will keep you on the edge of your seat, only as Michael Phillip Cash can do.
I was happy that this book did not leave me hanging at the end to wait for the next book. I really hate that!
However, there is so much more to know about Darracia, the people, and if  Prince V'sair will be able to lead his people. That I will indeed have to wait until book two.

For now, I recommend you read this first book and be thrilled like I was. You will not be disappointed.

This gets a 4 out of 5 stars!
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I downloaded this book on Kindle and received no compensation for this post.

Thursday, December 12, 2013

Review of The Colourblind Chameleon


I was recently given the chance to read the debut children's book, The Colourblind Chameleon by author, Laura Kantor and illustrator, Sarah Ray.

Blurb:
 This is a colourful and imaginative tale of a chameleon who doesn't fit in with the rest. He realises that it's not just good to be different... it's a lot more fun!

My Review:
This is the story of a chameleon who lives deep in the Amazon among other chameleons. His only problem is he is not like any other chameleons and gets made fun of. When other chameleons have turned green to hide from predators he instead turns purple and yellow. When others have turned black and hiding in the darkness of night, he turns bright colors and is like a beacon. What is he to do?

He decides to set off on a journey and discovers something that has been lost by humans that allows him to be different. In the process of it, he learns to have a good time and his friends learn that it is nice to be different sometimes too!
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This adorable 32 page book is mostly a picture book but can be easily read by the emerging reader.
A few pages are arranged in such a way that early readers may get confused as to where to look next on the page for words. So, I do recommend a parent or other good reader be available for guidance if necessary.
The illustrations are muted in color but are perfect for a different kind of chameleon who is trying hard to fit in.
Recommendations for the book is ages 2-7 years old and this book fits well for that age range.
This book gets 4 stars from me.

About the author and illustrator:


 Laura Kantor up in Coventry, England,  has spent the last few years living overseas in Canada, Australia and now Singapore. In her free time she loves to travel, bake and write (of course). With a job in marketing, project management and a love for writing lists, Laura decided to self publish her own stories, and set up Squidgy Face Books in 2013  teaming up with Sarah Ray who was the perfect illustrator to bring her stories to life.


Sarah Ray grew up in the Herefordshire countryside where she gathered lots of inspiration for her drawings. Animals feature frequently in her work and she enjoys giving them human attributes. This is Sarah’s first children’s book, after working with a variety of clients on commissioned illustration. She also has her own range of award winning greeting cards which she sells across the UK.  



Where to find:
Facebook
Squidgy Face Books
Sarah Ray's Cards


This blog is also part of the Mother, Daughter & Son Book Blast.









#Giveaway: $50 Amazon or Paypal Cash on behalf of author Laura Kantor

Sponsored by author, Laura Kantor

Contest runs: December 12, 2013 to January 10, 11:59 pm, 2014
Open: Internationally
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. A winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If the winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by the author, Laura Kantor and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions - feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

MDBR Book Promotion Services

Disclosure: I received no compensation for this post other than a link on the Rafflecopter.

Monday, December 9, 2013

#Giveaway: $500 #Paypal #Cash...Sponsored by Michael Phillip Cash & Carole P. Roman

Welcome to the $500 Cash Giveaway!



Seriously, who does not need some cash right now during the holidays? I know I do! This is an awesome giveaway team up. Do not hesitate to enter because it is going to be a hot one!

Sponsored by Michael Phillip Cash and Carole P. Roman.Coordinated by Giveaway Promote.
Authors Michael Phillip Cash and Carole P. Roman have teamed up to offer readers everywhere the chance to win a great Christmas gift. One lucky reader will win $500 USD PayPal cash!

Carole P. Roman

Named to Kirkus Reviews' Best of 2012 for her first book, award winning author Carole P. Roman started writing as a dare from one of her sons. Using an imaginary game she played with her grandson as a base, Captain No Beard was born.
"Captain No Beard - An Imaginary Tale of a Pirate's Life" has not only been named to Kirkus Best of 2012, it received the Star of Remarkable Merit, and won the Pinnacle Award for 2012. "Pepper Parrot's Problem with Patience" Book 2 in the series, received 5 Stars from The ForeWord Review The Clarion Review. It has followed with six more books to the series. Motivated by her love of yoga, Roman has written a book that not only teaches four poses, but shows how easy and accessible yoga can be.
Her new non fiction series, "If You Were Me and Lived in..." combines her teaching past with her love of exploration and interest in the world around us. The debut book in the series, "If You Were Me and Lived in...Mexico" has won the Pinnacle Award for Best in Children's Non Fiction 2012. France, South Korea, Norway, Kenya and Turkey. They will be followed with India and Australia.
She plans to do Portugal, Greece, and Argentina next year. Writing for children has opened up a whole second act for her. While she is still working in her family business, this has enabled her to share her sense of humor as well as love for history and culture with the audience she adores. Roman lives on Long Island with her husband and near her children.

Michael Phillip Cash

Michael Phillip Cash's first book "Brood X - A Firsthand Account of the Great Cicada Invasion" is presently under consideration for a film adaptation. His well received second novel, "Stillwell - A Haunting on Long Island", has stayed on the top of Amazon's "100 Best Seller" in it's genre since its release earlier this year.
He recently released "The Hanging Tree", his first novella. Michael is currently working on a new book, Schism, which will be available soon on Amazon. Michael lives on Long Island with his wife and children.

We wish our readers Happy Holidays and warm wishes.
Good luck to all and to all a good night!


Enter to win $500 Cash via PayPal

Complete the tasks below to earn entries into this giveaway.
Refer your friends using your unique link at the top of the Rafflecopter for even more chances to win.
One winner will be chosen at random from all valid entries.
Open Worldwide.
Ends at 11:59pm EST on December 22nd, 2013.
a Rafflecopter giveaway Disclosure: I was given links on the Rafflecopter for this post.

Review of Alexis Tappendorf And The Search For Beale's Treasure



Blurb:

Alexis Tappendorf is about to be abandoned in Virginia for the summer by her parens, George and Jenny. They're leaving for a mysterious job they can't tell anyone about. What is even worst is that they are dropping Alexis off with Great Aunt Mae, a woman in her 70's that Alexis has never met!


Upon arriving in Virginia, Alexis discovers that for the last hundred years the townspeople of Summervale and Bedford County have been searching for a lost treasure buried somewhere in the area by a man named Thomas J. Beale. The only clues to finding the fortune are in the form of cryptograms, codes that, when properly translated, tell the exact location of the treasure.

Their biggest problem...the Woodmores!

My review:

Great Aunt Mae receives Alexis with open arms in to her quirky home and is a comfort and stability Alexis needs in her life. She gently encourages Alexis to use her own curiosity to solve something that seems totally improbable.

Alexis is joined by her new found friend Olivia on a journey that will not only seal their friendship forever but also change their families lives permanently.  Alexis and Olivia use the "Command Center" also known as Alexis' bedroom to figure out clues left by Thomas Beale.

Olivia's father, a treasure hunter in his own right, will also be a key to helping the two young treasure seekers.

Working together they begin to find the cryptograms and piece together the mystery. Their biggest issue is the Woodmores who have for years laid claim to the treasure. They will stop at nothing to find the treasure, even so far as falsely putting Alexis and Olivia in jail and more!

Whoa!

Will Alexis and Olivia manage to find the treasure before the Woodmores or will the treasure be lost forever?   Will their families be spared the hardships they are currently enduring? What about Alexis' parents and their mysterious trip?

All these questions and more  are answered in this book.
--------------

Author Becca Smith, brilliantly weaves quite a tale of mystery and intrigue. She layers the book in such a way that the reader does not even want to put the book down and simply gets engrossed in the accounts. 
All of the characters are believable and readers cannot help but get caught up in their personalities.

Who does not want to have a Great Aunt Mae?

This middle grade book is everything budding curiosity seekers are looking for. As an adult, I could read this book over and over again. 

This book is a hands down win and deserves 5 stars!




About the author:

Becca C. Smith received her Film degree from Full Sail University and has worked in the Film and Television industry for most of her adult life. In 2010 Becca published her first novel, Riser followed by the sequel, Reaper, in 2011, and the finale, Ripper in 2013. In 2012 Becca wrote the children's novel Alexis Tappendorf and the Search for Beale's Treasure. She is also the co-author of the teen graphic novel Ghost Whisperer: The Haunted. Becca currently lives in Los Angeles, CA with her husband, Stephan and their two cats Jack and Duke.

Where to find the author:

Amazon
Facebook
Goodreads

This review is also part of:
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Tuesday, November 12, 2013

Review of The Christmas Owl by Angela Muse


The Christmas Owl  is a sweet picture book that tells the story of an owl that has fallen out of his perch.
He is hurt and cannot fly so he seeks out refuge in other animals homes.

Each animal is leery of this owl but eventually allows him to come in and shares their meal. The owl stays the night but moves on until he is eventually healed and can return home.

On Christmas Eve as he returns home he stops at each of his new found friends and returns with gifts of gratitude.
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The illustrations by Helen H. Wu were phenomenal. The looked like each had been painted and came straight out of a Saturday Evening Post Card from Hallmark. Each intricately portraying the animal's home being told.

The story is written in rhyme and has an even flow to it. Angela Muse tells the story of each flawlessly. She manages to get the point across to the reader that kindness goes a long way and gratitude is key to happiness.

I loved this story book. It gets 5 stars.
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I received a Kindle version of this book for my open and honest opinion. The views expressed here are 100% my own. This review was also part of the Mother Daughter & Son book tour.
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Where to find Angela Muse:

Amazon
Goodreads



Saturday, November 9, 2013

Review of There Once Was A Man From the USA-50 State Limericks by Joshua Kraushar



Today I received the book There Once Was A Man From the USA to read and review.
Since it was a short book, I thought I would just go ahead and review it today as well.

I am a history buff by nature and thought this book would be interesting in that it was reviewing all 50 states in rhyme and tell a little about each one. After all, the author is a now retired high school social studies teacher and should know what he is talking about. Right? At least, that is what I thought.

The fact is, I was far from what I thought. In fact, this book was indeed about all 50 states but other than the name of the state, that is where it begins and ends. The author, Joshua Kraushar, introduced each state and then made up a limerick for each one. Most of the time the limerick has absolutely nothing to do with the state itself.

Disappointment number one!

To make matters worse, the very first state that was in the book had the 'character' killing someone. The book just went downhill from there.

Disappointment number two!

If this book was meant to be for children to remember states then Mr. Kraushar missed the mark. This book should not be read by young children at all as some of the wording and subject matter is very adult and could only be understood by an older student or adult. One could certainly not memorize states this way.

Disappointment number three!

In essence, I wasted the whole five minutes of my time it took me to read this book. Obviously, I do not recommend this book at all. I am generously giving this book 2 stars only because the limericks did rhyme.

~Naila Moon




Friday, November 8, 2013

Review of An Ordinary Toad's Extraordinary Night by Joanne McGonagle



I am really happy that I was asked to read and review An Ordinary Toad's Extraordinary Night by Joanne McGonagle. I want to discuss the illustrations before I get into the meat of the book.

Her illustrator, Rachael Mahaffey, took Ms. McGonagle's words and turned them into a life of her own. The animals in the story and the surroundings of the toad's journey were brought to life as if the reader was right there on the paths journey. Rachael Mahaffey also managed to highlight  Joanne McGonagle's words through the use of scrolls placed in locations that seems natural for the illustrated surroundings. Amazing!

Moving on now to the actual read of the book. This is the story of Andrew, an ordinary toad with a not so ordinary name, who thinks his life would be better if he had been a frog.

He takes his first lone journey to visit his grandpa. Along the way he meets animal characters that show him why he is lucky to be who he is and yet, has some of those same traits as his close relatives of  the amphibian nature.

Throughout the book the author portrays the different animals with the natural elements they would have in real life and gives homage to the concept of preserving all creatures for the greater good.  This is all due to the fact that Joanne McGonagle has a love of nature and has a Masters in Zoology which is evident in her writing. It adds to the flavor of this book.

Coupled with Rachael Mahaffey's illustrations and the writing of Joanne McGonagle this book is appropriate for ages 3 plus. Younger children will love the pictures while the older child will love to read the book.
This book is a double whammy win and deserves the 5 stars it is receiving from me!


Where to find the author and illustrator:
Joanne McGonagle  
Amazon
Facebook
Goodreads

Rachael Mahaffey
Facebook
Amazon

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Review of Differential Equations by Julian Iragorri and Lou Aronica



BLURB:
This evocative, moving, and gorgeously detailed novel is the story of Alex Soberano, a contemporary man in crisis. A tremendously successful New York businessman, Alex finds it difficult to embrace joy and accept love. When his life threatens to boil over, he escapes for a brief respite on the West Coast. What waits for him there is something he never could have imagined.

MY REVIEW:

When I first received the copy of Differential Equations, I was intrigued right off the bat with just the book cover. Here is a man at the edge of a mountain looking out over New York. His appearance at first thought is desperation. Or is it a breath of fresh air with his arms outstretched.

Getting into the book the reader is introduced to Alex, a 21st century, hard core business man who has made his mark not only from his great intelligence but his uncanny ability to read people. The story opens just as he has backed out on a business deal, argued with an ex-wife, has disappointed a current girlfriend and decides to go visit an ashram. This is all just in a few short pages.

As you continue to read on in chapters you are introduced to three other people in different time periods.

There is Vidente, a mysterious but well respected woman of her community who can read people through visualization of color. She learns of a trip that she must take that will alter her existences forever.

Then there is Khaled, a man who leaves his country for a better life for his family. He is hard working and establishes his own. However, tragedy seems to befall him but life smiles on him too.

Finally, there is Dro. A young man who arrives in the U.S. in order to start his life as a student at M.I.T. He is extremely intelligent in mathematics and economics. His story is complex and at times heart breaking but his tenacity and hard work always move him forward. Or does it?

At first when I started reading, Differential Equations I was confused as to what these other characters in years gone by had to do anything with Alex. It really made absolutely no sense but I kept reading! 

The way the stories flowed, I could not help but get immersed in these characters. As I went on, I came to understand exactly what they had to do with each other. That very immersion happens when Alex goes to the ashram. What he thinks is going to be just a relaxing time, turns out to be oh so much more. For me, it was a mind bender.

I wish that I could indulge this book to you, my readers, but to do so, would give away the interesting plots and intrigue this book brings.

If you want to read an excellent fictional book, then this one is the one for you. It was for me as I read it in one day.

This book is 5 stars, hands down!
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I was give a copy of this book for my open and honest opinion. All opinions expressed here are 100% my own. This review was also part of the Providence Book Promotions Tour.
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Where to find Julian Iragorri and Lou Aronica.
Amazon
Lou's Facebook




Monday, November 4, 2013

Giveaway: $50 Amazon or Paypal Cash on behalf of author, Angela Muse

This is a shared giveaway of which I have a link it on behalf of author, Angela Muse. My review of her book, The Christmas Owl is forthcoming. Stay tuned! a Rafflecopter giveaway

Saturday, October 26, 2013

Review of Floppy The Mystery Dog and The New Kid by Denise A. Bloomfield and Diana R. Starr


In a classic tale of the new kid on the block, Floppy The Mystery Dog and The New Kid  introduces Tommy. Tommy has come to a new town and new school far away from his friends because his Dad found new employment.

Being stuck at home on a rainy day, Tommy finds himself being bored out of his mind. All of a sudden the rains turn interesting and a wonderful dog appears. This dog, named Floppy, practically adopts himself into Tommy's new family.

Floppy is a special kind of dog that helps Tommy in very unique ways to adjust to his new life and maybe meet a friend along the way.
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This sweet little chapter book is the first in hopefully a series for Denise A. Bloomfield and Diana R. Starr. It is not for the emergent reader but ones who can comprehend words pretty well. In the back of the book are reader discussion questions that would make it perfect for the traditional or homeschool class rooms.

This is a must read and gets 5 stars.
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book for my open and honest review. The views expressed here are 100% my own.
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Where to find the authors:
Amazon
Denise A. Bloomfield 
Diana R. Starr 






Friday, October 25, 2013

Review of Chasing Butterflies by Harry Toews



Chasing Butterflies by author, Harry Toews  is a cute and short children's book that follows Sophia and Matteo who are enjoying playing in the backyard garden of their Grandma's house. They have gone to visit her for the Summer like they do every year.

Things are always fascinating at their Grandma's house, whom they call Abuela. Grandma always has a little lesson to teach them, although they really are not aware of that. This year, it is about magic.

As Sophia and Matteo explore they discover things that seem ugly and out of place which includes an ugly green worm. They capture this worm and forget it about it. However, they soon find out that not everything is as it appears. They also learn the lesson that  judging something or someone that looks different before knowing is not the answer and within that is...magic.

Harry Toews along with his  illustrator Viser has managed to create the simplest of lessons visually appealing but yet interesting enough for the emergent reader. The lessons are understood quickly and without a lot of babble.  The illustrations vibrant and not overly done.

I am sure that any kid would love these series of books.

This book gets 4 stars from me.
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I received a Kindle version of this book for my open and honest review. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own.
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Where to find Harry Toews:
Facebook
Goodreads
Website



Thursday, October 24, 2013

Review of Children of the Knight by Michael J. Bowler


Blurb:

According to legend, King Arthur is supposed to return when Britain needs him most. So why does a man claiming to be the once and future king suddenly appear in Los Angeles?

This charismatic young Arthur creates a new Camelot within the City of Angels to lead a crusade of unwanted kids against an adult society that discards and ignores them. Under his banner of equality, every needy child is welcome, regardless of race, creed, sexual orientation, or gang affiliation.

With the help of his amazing First Knight, homeless fourteen-year-old Lance, Arthur transforms this ragtag band of rejected children and teens into a well-trained army—the Children of the Knight. Through his intervention, they win the hearts and minds of the populace at large, and gain a truer understanding of themselves and their worth to society. But seeking more rights for kids pits Arthur and the children squarely against the rich, the influential, and the self-satisfied politicians who want nothing more than to maintain the status quo.

Can right truly overcome might? Arthur’s hopeful young knights are about to find out, and the City of Angels will never be the same.
 
My Review:

When I first heard about this book I thought it had to be absolutely cool because it was about King Arthur coming back to modern times and having his knights of the round table.

In actuality, I was right and oh so wrong! The book is about King Arthur coming back to modern times but that is pretty much where it begins and ends. Having the round table as we know it from history is nothing like I had ever read.
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The story opens with a gang war about to happen in one of the barrios of Los Angeles due to a  large A with a cross in the middle that has been posted over the top of other gang tagging. Each gang thinking the other had done it.

The story moves along to find King Arthur fully awake in this new place with a mission he must do. He is seen coming to the rescue of a 14 year old street kid named, Lance, who will eventually become his First Knight and significant throughout the entire book.

With Lance's help and guidance through this strange new era, King Arthur recruits other children of the streets from the drug dealers, to the homosexuals, to the abused and neglected. All come to stay with Arthur and Lance and are trained to be honorable and forthright. All are accepted for who they are, girls and boys alike, one thousand strong, will all come to be known as King Arthur's Knights.

Led by the King they will begin to clean up the areas and streets they once formerly ran. The children will fight for the right to be heard as children. For their right to be protected by the very adults who should have protected them. They will learn to live and respect each other as 'brothers' and 'sisters' not as enemies who have claimed an area of the city. The children will set an example for other adults but will also struggle with the demons that have lived with for so long.

King Arthur stands up for these disenfranchised children but will also learn from mistakes of his past and his present. Oh yes, there is the story of love and love lost in here too. There is the story of hurt, betrayal and denial all wrapped in these pages. There is also loss so deep that the reader wants to cry along with the characters.

To find out what happens to Sir Lance, King Arthur and the other Knights of the Round Table, you must read this book. It is worth it!
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Author Michael Bowler did an excellent job of twisting a real historical character in to a modern day twist. He brought to light an age old problem of child neglect in many forms and also the way we humans treat each other.

It would serve us well, to read this book not once but maybe even several times until we learn that our future counts on us and that we need to stand up for them and treat them with the respect they deserve. We need to be the King Arthurs for our children because the cause is not finished. It has only begun.

This book deserves the 5 stars and then some.
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I was given a free Kindle version of this book for my open and honest opinion. The views expressed here are 100% my own.
This review is also part of the Innovative Online blog tour.

About the author:

Michael J Bowler is an award-winning author of two novels with a third soon to be published. His second book, "A Matter of Time," is a 2012 Silver Medal Winner from Reader's Favorite. He grew up in San Rafael, California. He majored in English and Theatre in college and got a master's in film production. He was producer, writer, and/or director on several films, most notably "Fatal Images," "Dead Girls," "Club Dead," "Things" and "Things II."
He has also been a volunteer Big Brother to seven different boys for 29 years with the Big Brothers Big Sisters program and a volunteer within the juvenile justice system in Los Angeles for 28 years. He is a passionate advocate for the fair treatment of children and teens in California.
His newest novel, "Children of the Knight," reflects his many years of experience working with marginalized and disenfranchised youth in California and promotes the premise that reform in all areas that serve our young people is desperately needed, but not desired by the powers-that-be.



Where you can find Michael J. Bowler

Amazon
Facebook
Goodreads


I.O. Book Tours

$50 Amazon or Paypal Cash Giveaway for Michael Phillip Cash



Author, Michael Phillip Cash is introducing arrival of his new novella, The Hanging Tree with a new giveaway just in time for Halloween.  I have already reviewed his book and I can tell you, it is fantastic. Needless to say, I am more than excited to bring this giveaway to you, my readers.


Seventeen year old Arielle is at a crossroads in her life. Disenchanted with her father, she is testing the boundaries of his trust by dating someone he does not approve. Under the moonlit sky in Long Island, Arielle and her boyfriend meet beneath the infamous hanging tree. The couple's destiny is rooted to the five spirits in the tree whose lives and deaths are determined by an ancient curse. Will her future be determined by the past or will Arielle's choices alter the course of her life?


Along with a copy of his book, he is giving away a $50 Amazon card or Paypal cash!  Enter below for your chance to win, if you dare.

Facebook


Disclosure: Author, Michael Phillip Cash is sponsoring this giveaway. Naila Moon/Once Upon A Time and the blogs co-hosting are not responsible for prize shipment.
This giveaway is in no way affiliated with Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google or and other social media outlet.
Giveaway is open World Wide.
Giveaway ends: Nov. 8, 2013 at 12 AM MST
Winner has 48 hours to respond after notification via e-mail or  forfeit prize and another winner will be drawn.
 
 
 


Sunday, October 20, 2013

Review of The Wacky World of Wendy White:A Whopper of a Tale by Barbara Ann Bonilla



First time author, Barbara Bonilla, pens the very cute book of The Wacky World of Wendy White.
The book is divided into three distinct chapters and is written in prose. The book opens with Wendy just turning 12 years old.

Wendy lives in White Castle with only her father for company. She is truly bored and wishes to break out and explore the world. For her birthday she decides to venture out and find some excitement.

Using familiar social media, she looks up a friend that she met at church to see if she could find where she lives.  Along the way she meets some very interesting people with very interesting and quite familiar names.

She encounters a bully who ends up shoving her in a box with the twin of her friend Eventually escaping she meets up with her friend, Denny and large family. Wendy is enticed with such a large family and especially the cook of the family. Her adventures continues with this family and their friends and ends in a heart warming wrap up.

The Wacky World of Wendy White is chock-full of food references, restaurants, treats and candy. If you are someone who loves food, or is a self proclaimed food junky, as the author suggests she is, then you will love this book.

The only real issues I have with this book is that some words are misspelled in order to keep the prose going. This could be an issue for kids, especially for those who already having spelling problems. Ms. Bonilla also did her own illustrations which were ok but really did not lend much to her completed book over all.

However, the writer's writing style is fun and when reading the book you cannot wait to see what food comes up next or how she will incorporate it into the story. Her character, Wendy is precocious and the friends she meets are just the ones a reader would want to have.
The best part of course is the ending chapter which I will of course not reveal because after all, you my readers need to read the book yourself.



I truly like this book and it gets a 4 1/2 star review from me.

Disclosure: I received this book for my open and honest review. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own.
~Naila Moon
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Where to find Barbara Ann Bonilla:
Amazon
Goodreads
Facebook

Tuesday, October 15, 2013

Review of T-Bone The Flying Horse



In her first debut book, Janice Virant writes about a horse named T-Bone. Although, T-Bone is based on her real life horse, this story is anything but real.

The story begins rather sadly as T-Bone dreams of being a racehorse but cannot because he is too slow and because there is no one to love him.

Later on he gets his wish to be loved and is adopted by a young girl, who just happens to be sad and lonely too. Together they go on magical adventurers when T-Bone grows wings! They become good friends and are not lonely any longer.
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I wish that I could say I liked this book better but I don't.

I actually had issue with the fact that the book starts out so sad. It takes a few pages for things to get happy. Also, I felt the illustrations were somewhat cheesy as they look like they could have been done by a kid.

The best thing about this book was written in poetic rhyme and is really the main emphasis of the book.

I do wish Janice Virant well and hope she keeps writing but unfortunately, I can only give this book 2 stars.
~Naila Moon

Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book for free for my open and honest opinion. The opinion expressed here are 100% my own.

Review of The Shadow of Atlantis by Wendy Leighton-Porter


Blurb:
"Ten year old twins, Joe and Jemima Lancelot have no idea why their parents have disappeared, but a mysterious old book which had belonged to their mother and father holds the answer...and so begins an unusual quest to discover the truth."

My Review:

The book opens with Joe and Jemima's beloved cat, Max, watching curiously as some strange event is unfolding in the attic. This event culminates in the twin's parents disappearing.

The children go to live with their Uncle Richard and his housekeeper Mrs. Garland. They befriend the next door neighbor boy, Charlie.
The trio soon finds the mysterious and old dusty book that belongs to the Lancelot twin's parents.

With a little 10 year old ingenuity, they manage to open the book and discover one of its secrets...getting swept back in time to Atlantis! There they meet Varda and are able to speak her language in yet another secret of the book. It turns out, so can Max! Varda takes the trio to meet her parents and family whom they end up staying with.

The adventure continues as Joe, Jemima, Charlie and Max along with Varda's help, explore this ancient and mythical city. Of course with every good story they run into some major trouble, especially when they try to warn the city people about impending danger.

Will they be able to warn the inhabitants in time? Will the manage to find their way out of trouble and return home? Will they find their parents? That is up to you to find out when you read the book.
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This chapter book by author, Wendy Leighton-Porter is certainly for the adventure seeking kid. This is her first in a series and really does not disappoint.

Even though I am much older than the 8 year old up that would be recommended age group to read this, I found myself engrossed in this book.

It had everything the young adventurer wants, fun characters who are relatable, mystery and a little mayhem too.

This book is a must read and gets 5 stars!
~Naila Moon

Where to find Wendy Leighton-Porter:
Amazon
Goodreads
Facebook

Disclosure: I received a free copy of this book for my open and honest opinion. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own.

This review is also part of this blog tour: