Friday, December 30, 2011

Review # 90: BATTLEGROUNDS America's War in Education and Finance: A View from the Front Lines by Todney Harris

Description:
     Todney Harris' BATTLEGROUNDS America's War in Education and Finance: A View from the Front Lines is a wake up call for America and its educational system. It discusses the capitalistic economy and its approach to running America's educational facilities, the negative factors that influence America's children, and how these problems can be solved if the parents, schools, and government start communicating with each other and taking social injustices seriously.
Review:

     Even before I read this book, I was very interested in Todney Harris' opinions on education. I have noticed in the past couple years that the American educational system is indeed heading in a downward spiral. More and more kids are falling behind, and many are dropping out because schools aren't the safe, supportive, and stimulating environments they should be. I am glad to hear that someone is so passionate about this topic, especially about the economy's role in it. I enjoyed the detailed history of education in the USA, as well as Todney Harris' views on educational reform, technology, and parental/ media influences. I agree that educators and school leaders are obligated  to care, educate, nurture and protect the school community, but it should be everyone's job (parents, state, government, etc...), not just the teachers and educators. I have great respect for educators and what they have to deal with these days, especially the budget cuts and the dwindling pay. Educators are responsible for molding the minds of our future generations, so why should they be treated with so little respect? Overall, I thought that American War and Education... was very well researched and written. The small but powerful book put the educational system into perspective for me, and, after reading, I did feel inspired. I believe that many people have similar opinions, but are afraid to voice them. Hopefully this book will change that. America is a democracy after all, shouldn't the people's opinions matter? Very interesting and thought-provoking read, recommended to all parents and guardians of future generations.

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Visit  www.todneyharris.com to learn more about Battlegrounds: America’s War in Education and Finance: A View from the Front Lines or visit the Amazon page HERE.

Happy (almost) New Year!!! From The Paperback Pursuer

Hello everyone!

     I know that this time of the year can be hectic, so before I forget, I would like to wish everyone a Happy Pre-New Year 2012!!! 
     2011 has been an amazing year for me: graduating from Salisbury, writing a book, reading over 300+ books- (and reviewing over 100 of them -> more to come), getting a great job, taking some fun classes, meeting lots of awesome people, and participating in many interesting things, (including riding in the front seat of an ambulance, but that's a story for another time...).
     There are several people and institutions that I would like to thank, but I will keep it short and to the point:
  • Salisbury University and Harford Community College for the excellent education I received, and am still receiving.
  • Every book author, editor, publicist, publisher, or blogger that gave me a chance to read and review my heart out since July 2011 ~ (over 600 books/eBooks with more surprises coming everyday)!
  • My fantastic followers on FACEBOOK, TPP-GFC, TWITTER, SHELFARI, GOODREADS, LIBRARYTHING, AMAZON, BARNES & NOBLES, SMASHWORDS, etc... You are all amazing and I hope to share some awesome chats, tours, giveaways, and reviews with you in the future!
  • And to my parents, obviously, for allowing me to turn my room, and part of the basement, into a library, (aka The Book Horde).
     I look forward to 2012 and all that is has to offer! I hope everyone has a great year; stay safe, stay happy, and stay readers!!!

Thanks for the opportunity to read and review!!!
Allizabeth Collins - The Paperback Pursuer 


All the bound books I have been sent to read and  review since July 2011. Reviews are added frequently :)


Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Review # 89: Farsighted by Emlyn Chand


Description: 
    Sightless sixteen year-old Alex Kosmitoras is an outcast, treated by his father and his peers like he doesn't belong -- until the day he meets Simmi, a girl from India that seems genuinely interested in his friendship, (not to mention she smells like a candy bar). So, he thinks maybe Sophomore year won't be so bad -- then the visions start; and these aren't visions of sugar plums, but ghastly premonitions depicting the unimaginable, including Simmi's death. Unsure what to do about his new-found ability, Alex has to decide whether to try and intervene, or let the foretold future run its course. With the help of the new psychic in town, Miss Teak, and her daughter, Shapri, he must learn to control his second-sight and stop what's coming before Simmi, and everything else in his life, become part of the past.
Review: 

     I live for paranormal fiction, especially YA, so when I heard about Farsighted, I had to get a copy! The premise sounded so refreshingly different from what's been floating around the YA publishing pool lately, (vampires, witches, and werewolves- Oh, my!). Not that I mind sparkly supernatural beings, but I am very glad that Emlyn Chand came up with something out-of-the-otherworldly-box. First-off, I loved the cover idea and the way it was designed in monochromatic tones, especially since that is how I envisioned Alex's premonitions. Once I started reading, I couldn't get over how well the characters and their histories were set up and explained. Even if I disliked a character, I still had feelings about them and felt like they could be real four-dimensional people. Alex's character is very well-developed, and I enjoyed witnessing his character grow into the person I saw during the last few chapters. One of my favorite aspects of the book was the use of Alex's point of view through touch, sound, and smell. Even though the people and objects around him were never described through seeing eyes, I could imagine everyone in surprising detail, in part because of all their different personalities. This use of Alex's perspective was integral to the plot, and I must be honest, Emlyn Chand knows how to craft a page-turner. The story has a great flow and is well-thought-out; the twists and turns actually surprised and entertained me. The runes at the beginning of each chapter were really interesting to read about and slightly foreshadowed what was to come, but I was still shocked by certain outcomes, (no spoilers!). The only part I'll complain about is the ending, I really hate cliff-hangers - and not knowing what's going to happen is already driving me crazy. I absolutely cannot wait for Open Heart - Book 2 in the Farsighted Series, slated for release in 2012. Kudos to Emlyn Chand on her amazing debut published novel - the first of many, I am sure!

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Novel Publicity) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Want to learn more about Farsighted author Emlyn Chand? Click here!!!
Want to read Emlyn's Guest Post? Click Here!!!
Want to learn more about the book tour and win awesome prizes? Click here!!!
Want to read an excerpt of Farsighted? Look below!!!


Farsighted Excerpt

“Did Dad tell you? A new tenant moved into the old pharmacy next door.”
“Really?” I ask, not letting on I already know. If I feign ignorance, Mom’ll divulge all the details. “What is it?”
“It’s a psychic shop,” Her voice crackles with excitement like a fire that’s just beginning to burn. “The All-Seeing Miss Teak. Isn’t that cute? Miss Teak, Mystic. Ha, I wonder if that’s her real name.”
I laugh. “That is funny. Never had a psychic in town before. What’s she like?”
“Oh, she’s very friendly. Why don’t you go over and say ‘hi.’  I’m sure she’d like to meet you.”
“Okay, I think I will.” I’m incredibly intrigued, because first off, it’s a psychic shop—how weird is that?—and second, its presence made Dad super uncomfortable—also very cool. I waste no time heading next door to check out the scene.
As I step cautiously into the new shop, a recording of soft, instrumental music greets me. I can make out chimes and a string instrument I don’t recognize but for some reason reminds me of snake charmers. The smell of incense fills my nostrils, which explains the burning I detected earlier.
“Hello?” I call out into the otherwise quiet room.
Nobody answers. I walk in deeper, sweeping my cane out in front of me in a metronome fashion. This place is new to me, so I need to be especially careful while moving around.
Thump! Despite my precautions, I stub my toe on something hard, big, and made of wood. Just my luck to stub the same toe twice in one day. I reach down to press my fingers into my throbbing foot to alleviate some of the pain. Something teeters before rolling off of the chest and across the floor; the sound it makes indicates a curved path. Suddenly, the object stops. Somebody’s stopped it.
“Hello?” I call again.
“Hello,” a deep, feminine voice responds, placing more emphasis on the first syllable than the second.
“I- I’m sorry I knocked that thing over. I didn’t mean to…” I hope she’s not angry. Probably not a good idea to get on a psychic’s bad side.
“That wasn’t just a thing, it’s a crystal ball,” she says as she walks over, sending my blood pulsing through my veins. I sense her looking at me for a moment before she places the ball back on top of the chest.
“Can it see the future?” I ask, allowing my curiosity to outweigh my uneasiness.
“No.” After a pause lasting several beats, she continues. “But I can see the future sometimes when I look into it.”
“Oh, okay.” I tighten my hand around my cane and turn to leave. It may not be the most polite thing to do, but all of this hocus-pocus stuff is freaking me out more than I would’ve guessed.
The psychic lady speaks again, stopping me cold. “Don’t run away, Alex Kosmitoras.” She must’ve spoken to Mom earlier today. That must be how she knows my name.
“I’m not running away,” I say meekly. “I’m just going back over to Sweet Blossoms.”
“Don’t run away,” she repeats—this time she speaks louder and with more energy. “Don’t run away from your abilities. They are gifts.”
“What?” I ask in confusion. What abilities is she talking about?
“You already know. Watch. Listen. Be open to your gifts.”
I turn to face Miss Teak, but find she’s already gone, returning to wherever she was before I got there.
Is it safe to leave? I trail my fingers across the wooden box I ran into earlier; a thick coat of dust clings to the tips as I pull away. If this shop just opened, why is it already so dirty? I wipe my hands over my shirt to get the gritty substance off. Shivers rock my whole body. Something about this place is wrong, and I’m not sticking around to figure out what. Tapping my cane along the floor, I’m able to find the exit without knocking into anything else.

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Review # 88: I Love You More... Than Chocolate by Melanie Milburn


Description:
     I Love You More... Than Chocolate is an adorable illustrated children's book about a little girl who wants to know how much her mommy loves her, so her mommy sings her to sleep with "I love you more than _____", a song about how she loves her daughter more than anything.
Review:

     This delightful children's book is so much fun to read! I loved the wording used as well as the rhyming scheme, and so did my friend's daughter. Cindy Coleman's illustrations are beautiful, lively, colorful, and engaging, I liked the color palette as well as her depiction of a "multi-ethnic" mother and daughter. It was easy for my friend's daughter to follow along, and by the third time reading through it, she was pointing at the pictures and telling me what was in them, (chocolate, apple pie, leaves, etc...). I liked to see my her as excited about the pictures as I was. As an added bonus, there was also a music CD included with the song version of I Love You More... Than Chocolate, which got her even more excited. For kids, it's all about getting excited and making the book fun and interactive, and that's what Melanie Milburn has succeeded in doing. I recommend this book to young children and the people that read to them.

Rating: On the Run (4.75/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 87: Crazy In Paradise by Deborah Brown

Description:
     Recently divorced Madison Westin inherits her dead aunt's beachfront motel in sunny Florida, but she also inherits all of the problems that go with it: crazy tenants, angry ex-cons, scheming estate attorneys, conniving hotel managers, a dead body, and a hunky private investigator who creates more problems than he fixes. Can Madison and her gun-slinging bestie get control of the motel and get rid of the ones in charge? Or will they both end up dead in paradise?
Review:

     When I read the blurb for Crazy In Paradise I had high hopes for a no-holds-barred heroine that was ready to kick some butt and take back what was rightfully hers, but unfortunately, I got Madison Westin - a woman who wants to reclaim her life, but is so inexperienced and unsure of her own abilities that she sometimes annoys the reader; I do like her as a character, just not as the main character. Fortunately, the plot made up for Madison's personality. I found the story-line to be fast-paced, full of action, and well-thought-out, but I didn't like how predictable it was. The characters were decent, but they could have been better-developed, and the dialogue was pretty well written besides a few lines that sounded forced and robot-like. Overall, I really did enjoy this book for its quirky plot and the level of action, but there were a couple flaws that I felt took away from the reading experience. This book is full of potential, although unreached, but I am sure that with a little work Deborah Brown's next novel will be even better! I recommend this book for readers looking for a quick quirky mystery/action/romance that will satisfy a chick-lit craving.

Rating: Bounty's Out (3/5)

*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 86: No Innocent Affair- Making Right the Wrong of Adultery by Edward F. Mrkvicka Jr. and Kelly Helen Mrkvicka

Description:
     "Thou shalt not commit adultery" - Exodus 20:14
     No Innocent Affair is about GOD's view of adultery versus society's view of adultery, and it details how the practice of adultery can ruin more than just a marriage. This book leads the reader through GOD's words in the Bible and shows them that with repentance- salvation and forgiveness can be reclaimed after one has committed sins of adultery.
Review:

     I have personally never had an affair, or been cheated on, but I know several people that have, and I have seen how it has torn their families apart. Infidelity is on the rise, there's no debate, but has our society become so accepting of the practice that participants no longer fear the ultimate consequences? That is the question that Edward F. Mrkvicka Jr. aims to tackle in his new book No Innocent Affair. This book is a must read for any Christians that are married or in a serious relationship today, and uses an in-your-face approach to explaining adultery for what it really is, a sin against your partner/family and a sin against GOD. I really liked how the author set a non-judgemental tone for the book, but did not leave any room for excuses; an affair is an affair no matter who it happens with, what causes it, when it happens, where it happens, why it happens, or how it happens, etc. I was impressed by how the author tackled the taboo subject of infidelity, as well as the writing style and wording he used to convey his message. Great book for repentant adulterers and non-adulterers alike; I will definitely be passing this book on to friends.
What the tag-line should read: For this book you should be paying if you have a penchant for straying...

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 85: Digital Photography- A Basic Manual by Henry Horenstein


Description:
     Digital Photography: A Basic Manual is the camera enthusiast's best friend. It is a full-color guide with textbook quality pages and images that teaches camera usage basics- no matter the type of digital camera owned. There are chapters about each basic camera function including: Digital Capture, Camera Lens, The Shutter, Camera Exposure, Subject Lighting, Scanning, Image Editing, Printing and Other Outputs, which show the reader how to get the most out of their digital camera experience. 
Review:

     When I saw this title up for review I had to give it a try, especially since I just finished taking Intro to Digital Photography. My one qualm about the textbook I used for the class was that it lacked detail and often jumped around from point to point without any real flow. But Henry Horenstein's manual is all-inclusive and full of pictures, diagrams, and tables that aide in the comprehension of the material. The steps and examples are easy to follow and full of tips for both the tech-illiterate and the camera savvy, making this book a must have for any camera owner who wants to make their camera skills sharper and their photos more amazing. I really enjoyed the chapters on lighting and image editing and will definitely be using this book as a reference when I am out and about taking photos. I will recommend this book to my photography professor as well as anyone interested in taking a better pictures or learning about digital photography in general. This book is one of the best camera resources that I have read to date.

Rating: On the Run (4/5)

*** I received this book from Little, Brown and Company (Book Blogs) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 84: True Blue Tucker by Campbell Jefferys

Description:
     Darius and Humphrey are on mission to find the "real" Australia - not just he folklore and the misconceptions; so they embark on a journey across the globe through London, Canada, Munich and Australia itself in order to find what it truely means to be Australian. Then the fun really begins as they open up a "real" Aussie bar in Munich and try to teach their patrons a thing or two about Australia and its history.
Review:

     I wasn't really sure if I liked this book when I first started reading it because it had a very strange opening, but after getting past the first few chapters I actually started to enjoy the funny and quirky story-line and the interesting mix of characters the pair met along the way. True Blue Tucker is a unexpected page-turner that immerses the reader in the world of Darius and Humphrey's "true-blue" Australia, with a level of detail that will have the reader longing to experience Australia's beauty and history first-hand. The characters are easy to listen to and well-developed, often adding to the book's overall charm and humour. I am impressed with the writing style and the plot, which often surprised me with its curves, but the pace and the flow varied - fortunately not enough to deter me from reading further. I recommend True Blue Tucker to adults who want to journey into the unexpected and find the "true blue" behind what we hear and see.

Rating: On the Run (4/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 83: The Little King and His Marshmallow Kingdom by Louis Rotella III

Description:
     The Little King and His Marshmallow Kingdom is a wonderful story about a child with Down Syndrome, Louie IV, who loves to use his imagination to rule over the magical Marshmallow Kingdom where it is always sunny and full of marshmallow-filled desserts. But he also loves to do kid stuff like: play games and sports, help his dad with yard work, listen to music- (and make it), get into mischief, and help his friends! Most of all, he loves his family, and likes to show everyone that it is good to be unique and different, even though unique can mean many different things.

Review:

     The Little King and His Marshmallow Kingdom is an adorable and encouraging book about embracing our differences and celebrating uniqueness! I really love the story of Louie IV and his imaginative adventures as well as his hobbies! The illustrations, by Mark Chickinelli, are colorful and very life-like, entertaining and stimulating the minds of children and adults alike, especially the one on the cover which my nephew seemed to enjoy, (what child doesn't want to use their imagination to be a king or queen?). I also liked the variation in shades from b&w to the colors of the rainbow; great pencil/ink sketches. The message is universal - celebrating and accepting the unique and different, and Louis Rotella III has done an amazing job with this wonderful children's book. Highly recommended for all children, and the people who read to them.  
Rating: Clean Getaway (5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 82: Love and Shame and Love: A Novel by Peter Orner

Description:
     Love and Shame and Love chronicles four generations of the Chicago-based Popper family as they struggle to come to terms with the choices they've made and the repercussions that followed.
Review:

     Peter Orner is a wonderful American writer whose books, Esther Stories and The Second Coming of Mavala Shikongo, blew me away with the quality and realistic styling of a true storyteller; so when I got the chance to read his newest title, Love and Shame and Love, I had to jump on it. As soon as I started reading, I noticed that each section was narrated by a different character, (some in distant decades), and ranged in length between one and twelve pages; an interesting set-up, reminiscent of Faulkner's stream of consciousness in The Sound in the Fury. I liked this set-up and the way each character had their own distinct personality, even though I did get confused a couple of times and had to reread a section or two. The constant point of view and character changes only added to the illusion that the Popper family really existed, and the way that Peter Orner filled each section with descriptive poeticisms kept me inside the Poppers' world. I also appreciated the humor throughout, and how each character was linked in some way besides just being related. The illustrations added an extra layer to this already amazing novel and I was surprised to find out that Peter Orner's brother Eric Orner was the artist behind them. Overall, I enjoyed the choppy flow of this book, just like in real life, time isn't just a straight line but a series of overlapping events that make up a life and a story. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a story with characters that they'll remember for years to come, and a message that rings true for everyone.

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Book Blogs) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 81: The Pony Principles: Lessons in Optimism Because of Adversity by Keith Elkins

Description:
     The Pony Principles: Lessons in Optimism Because of Adversity by Keith Elkins is a self-help book focusing on personal growth based on four main principles:
    1. See the Pony- Overcoming limiting beliefs, focusing on specifics...
    2. Feed the Pony- Nurturing mind, body, and spirit with life experiences and lifetime learning...
    3. Train the Pony- Work to change your life...
    4. Ride the Pony- Pursuing your passion and kick-starting your life...
Review:

     The "pony" metaphor may not be new, but Keith Elkins' thirty-eight chapter self-help guide puts a refreshing spin on the use of optimism to restart and refuel your life. There are many encouraging quotes and stories/lessons, followed by mini assignments that aide in comprehension and retention of the material. The book is well-written, understandable and quick-to-read, (158 pages), and his down-to-earth motivational style is very helpful and conducive to actually following through with each step in the process. I did find some of the material very close to other optimism-based self-help guides, there wasn't anything startlingly new, but his methods are still very practical and very helpful. I recommend this book to anyone wanting a fresh take on optimism and its overall effects on life and success, especially teens.

Rating: Bounty's Out (3.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 80: I Want To Know My Future by Linda Dipman

Description:
     Elizabeth is a mother of three going through a painful divorce from her minister husband, but when custody of her children is given to her abusive ex, she must flee with her kids to ensure their safety. Unfortunately, she is caught, jailed, and subsequently persecuted by everyone she once knew: family, friends, congregants, etc. While fighting for the return of her children, she is berated by her ex and finds that she has been essentially "excommunicated" from her old life. Her only true friend is Tori, and while trying to put her own life back together, she begins to have deep feelings for her that go against everything she's been brought up to believe- not only is she fighting the community, but also her own feelings. So Elizabeth gets out the Bible and starts reaffirming her faith, uses GOD's word to prove to herself that GOD accepts her relationship, and realizes that GOD never gives us more than we can handle- even though it sometimes seems like too much for us. Faith always prevails.
Review:

     Let me start off by saying that I have always been a supporter of the Gay and Lesbian community as well as a Christian, so when I heard about this book and its controversial topics, I knew that I had to read it. I Want To Know My Future is a heart-breaking story of persecution at the hands of a group of so-called Christians; and after going to church for many years, I can tell you that even though someone goes to church every Sunday and calls themselves a devoted christian, it doesn't mean that they actually practice GOD's teachings. As with any place of worship, there is always room for gossip - leading to more twists in the truth and misguided opinions about someone/something, so I understand where the author was coming from when she wrote I Want To Know My Future, and its heartbreaking plot-line. I found the book to be an amazing story of unwavering faith and love in GOD during terrible persecution and abuse from the religious community. The plot was well-written with an emotional, yet easy to read, style; and the characters were well-developed and believable, particularly Elizabeth's character and the many trials and tribulations that she went through. There were a few grammatical errors and a couple places where the words didn't flow as well as they could have, but that didn't deter from the text or the messages that I got from it. Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book and recommend it to all Christians and those who believe that GOD loves everyone, no matter what race, color, creed, sex, or orientation. This would be a good book for a church book club, although controversial.

Rating: Bounty's Out (3.5/5)


*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review

Review # 79: The Sacred Sphere by Paul D. Burley

Description:
     The Sacred Sphere documents the historical importance of sacred spherical symbols used by civilizations for the last ~2 million years. The book delves into world mythologies, philosophies, ethnographies, and geometries in relation to the circular patterns and symbols representing both ancient and current sacred relationships and rituals. 
Review:
    
     Being no stranger to scientific papers and college textbooks, I gladly accepted the challenge of reading Paul D. Burley's The Sacred Sphere- Exploring sacred concepts and cosmic consciousness through universal symbolism; although, I admit the ~500 page length was intimidating at first glance. Fortunately, the author did not write this book like a textbook, but as an easy to read/ understand guidebook, full of enjoyable myths and stories as well as b&w and color photos. I have taken anthropology classes, so I know firsthand what the textbooks are like, long-winded, detail-filled, and sleep-inducing, but this book wasn't like that. I actually learned more about specific cultures and their use of symbolism from reading The Sacred Sphere than I did in a fifteen-week semester of anthropology. If my professor had included this book in the curriculum, some of the concepts and depictions would have definitely been easier to comprehend, which is what I told my professor. I especially liked the sections on "Pillars of Ancient Egypt", "The Mechanics of Space" and "Time: Temporal yet Eternal, Linear or Circular?" which sparked a lot of my interest. The book is very well-researched and written, with a well-thought-out order and progression of the "timeline" it followed. The pictures, diagrams, and tables were wonderful aides in understanding and visualizing the material presented, and I found Paul D. Burley's conclusions quite fascinating. There were a few words/phrases that I had to look-up, as well as a couple of myths that I wanted a more in-depth look at, but that is expected with any scientific or historical book of this length. Overall, I felt that the book was very enjoyable and thorough, and I would recommend it to anyone interested in anthropology, archaeology, sociology, or symbolism, or those taking a class like I did.


Rating: On the Run (4/5)


*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Wednesday, December 14, 2011

Book Tour: Scorpio Rising & The Sting of the Scorpio by Monique Domovitch

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

 *** I received this eBook from the author (Novel Publicity) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 77: Night of the Living Dead Christian by Matt Mikalatos

Description:
     It's a dark October night, and you are patrolling the streets as a neighborhood watchman, when all of a sudden you come upon a startling scene - a mad scientist and his franken-robot messing with a strange machine attached to the streetlights! So what do you do? Well, that's the question Matt asks himself when he finds the pair tinkering with the neighborhood power supply. Unfortunately, he isn't able to stop the mad doctor before he turns on a device that will supposedly call all of the local "werewolves" out of hiding; but when he sees the onslaught of zombies, he knows they were somehow telling the truth, especially when a friend turns out to be a vampire. Now that Matt is in the middle of all this unbelievable chaos, what will he do, who will he trust, and will he survive the Night of the Living Dead Christian?
Review:

     I don't think that I have ever read a Christian book that has made me laugh as much as Night of the Living Dead Christian. Matt Mikalatos' metaphor-laden spiritual allegory is a mix between classic Hollywood horror movies and Monty Python-like humor. Every chapter went deeper and deeper into the question of transformation - whether spiritual or supernatural - and described the monstrosity that levels of belief can become; (zombies surrender their minds, have no original thoughts, and are motivated by their own desires, vampires steal the life force of others and are notoriously selfish, werewolves are animalistic, carnal, and uncontrollable, etc...). I found the characters to be well-developed and very funny, especially the zombies and Luther the werewolf, and the plot was constructed nicely and well-executed. I think that the author did a wonderful job tackling the misconceptions about being a Christian, and what it means to be a true Christian. After reading the book, I have actually started relating some of the people in my life to the "monsters" I read about - particularly some of the people I see in church from time to time. I will definitely recommend this book to the teen confirmation class at my church, because there's actually a terrifying amount of truth behind all the metaphor. Overall, this book, although quite a laugh-out-loud riot, was surprisingly full of hope and optimism, and it is definitely a page-turner that readers will enjoy, especially teens and young adults.

Rating: On the Run (4/5)

*** I received this book from Tyndale Blog Network in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

  • For more information on Night of the Living Dead Christian or Matt Mikalatos' other projects, visit: http://mattmikalatos.com or www.tyndale.com
  • Want to win a copy?! Fill out the Rafflecopter form below the author video
Night of the Living Dead Christian: Author Video

Review # 76: In Leah's Wake by Terri Giuliano Long

Description:
     Will and Zoe Tyler have been blessed with a beautiful home, successful careers, a loving relationship, and two talented daughters on their way to leading wonderful and fulfilled lives. Leah, 16, is a model student and soccer star in line for an Ivy League education; and Justine, 12, follows in her sister's footsteps with high marks in school, aspirations of becoming a doctor, and an unshakable faith. It seems that this family is as close as it can get to perfection, until Will's work begins causing problems and Leah starts dating Todd, a drug dealer and high-school dropout. Unfortunately, Leah's infatuation with her new boyfriend introduces her to drugs, theft, sex, and underage drinking, and by the time her parents find out, (and freak out), she has already chosen to side with Todd. Now everything her parents and sister say to her pushes her further away from them and deeper into her teenage cycle of rebellion, leading to her expulsion from the soccer team and the loss of her scholarship. After several failed attempts to bring their daughter back, Will and Zoe are at their breaking points, and so is their once happy marriage, but the trouble is just beginning. Justine feels that Leah is getting all of the family's attention and that she is being ignored; so she begins to act out like Leah, and eventually starts to question the goals and beliefs she once held so dear. Can the Tyler family somehow stay together and find a way to bring their daughters back to them?
Review:
     Being a fan of real-life family dramas, I immediately signed up to read and review this book, and I am  glad that I did. In Leah's Wake is the story of a once happy family and the decisions that lead them into chaos. The characters are very life-like and multidimensional, often bringing a whole new level of reality to the text. Leah's struggle with family versus love / Justine's battle with being seen and with her faith are detailed and full of raw emotion. The dialogue was well-written, but I did get confused a couple times when the chapters shifted to another speaker unexpectedly. I don't know what it was, but this book was frustrating in some respect; I constantly wanted to grab the characters and tell them what to do, because they seemed oblivious and unable to make the right decisions, especially Will and Zoe, but I think that the author wanted to get that response from the reader. The plot was alright, but I didn't see as much progression as I would have liked, and the ending left me wondering what would become of the Tyler family. Just like in real life, you never know what's to come, and that's one of the messages I got from In Leah's Wake. The book was a  frightening yet hopeful look into teen rebellion that made me think about family and the choices a person makes in life that can effect it. I recommend this book to teens and their parents, and those who like a good family drama. I will be eagerly waiting for Terri Giuliano Long's next book, Nowhere to Run.

Rating: Bounty's Out (3.75/5)

*** I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.




Read the Chapter excerpt BELOW!




Chapter Excerpt

Leah’s head felt like a beach ball. She’d stay in bed all day if she could, cocooned in the blankets and sheets, but she had to pee. She dragged herself up, shivering as she threw off the covers. She’d never been this sick in her life. She probably had cancer. Oh God, she was going to barf. She dropped her head between her knees, staying put until her stomach had settled, and dragged herself to the bathroom.
She could hear her father in the kitchen, fixing breakfast. The odor of maple bacon drifted upstairs, making her gag. In a minute, he would be up here, ordering her downstairs to eat. Her team had a game this morning, at ten, which meant she had to be on the field—she checked her alarm clock—in an hour. She flopped back onto her bed, and pulled the covers defiantly over her head. No way was she playing soccer today. Not after last night, after her father freaked out.
She turned onto her side, burying her face in her pillow. Around midnight last night, Todd had retrieved a blanket from his truck, and spread it over a pillow of pine needles and leaves. She pictured him on his elbows, staring down at her, the planes of his face accentuated by the shadows. He pushed her hair away from her face.
His hand slid from her shoulder to her hips.
Todd, she whispered. Todd.
Her shades snapped up, startling her. In the harsh light, Todd’s face vanished. Hearing her name—Todd?—she rolled onto her back.
When she looked up, her father was standing over her bed.
“Time to get up, Leah. The Harvard coach is coming today.”
The nerve of that man.
She curled into a ball, pulling the covers over her head. Her father’s hand slid under the covers, and he wiggled her big toe, the way he used to when she was little. She yanked her foot back.
“Come on, kiddo,” he coaxed. “You have to get up.” He’d made blueberry pancakes. As if his stupid pancakes made up for last night.
“Go away,” she spat, her words garbled by the mountain of blankets and sheets.
“Leah, your team is—”
Who cares if you’re tired? She heard in her head. The competition is practicing, even when you’re not . . . “depending on you, Leah.” . . . dedication is what counts . . . “talk to you, honey.” . . . suck it up . . . get up, get up . . . do it . . . time to get up . . . time for soccer . . . time . . . practice . . . do it . . . just do it . . . Just do it.
Leah clapped her hands over her ears. “Go away,” she cried. “Get out. Get away from me.”
Why did her father do this to her? Why couldn’t he let her be?
“I’d like to talk to you, Leah. Please.”
“I’m not playing.” She threw off the covers. “And you can’t make me.”
The toilet flushed in the bathroom between her room and Justine’s. The faucet sputtered, and water splashed into the sink. Leah’s sister was washing her hands. Now she was brushing her teeth. Perfect little angel, never in trouble. Perfect little dork. Leah hated her sister. She hated them all—her mother, her father, Justine. Her parents didn’t care about her. They cared about controlling her. They expected perfection, wanted perfect robots for kids. Well, guess what? She wasn’t a robot. They’d have to be satisfied with just one.
“Fine.” Her father, sighing, sat on her bed. “Stay home, if that’s what you want.” He leaned forward, dropping his hands between his knees. “I blew it, baby,” he said, staring at the floor. “I’m sorry.”
Good. She had him right where she wanted him. Leah pulled the covers over her head, and raised her elbows, creating an air tunnel so she could breathe. She’d forgive her father. Eventually. First, she planned to make him suffer.
Her father’s weight shifted. She felt the spring of the mattress.
No. This wasn’t the way it went. Her father wasn’t supposed to give up. He never gave up. They talked until they’d worked things out. “Dad?” Leah shot of bed and darted out to the landing.
“Dad,” she called, leaning over the railing. “Daddy?”


By the time Zoe reached the office park, she’d worked herself into a funk. She parked her Volvo by the service entrance behind the building, in a spot reserved for tenants. Normally, she walked to her second floor office, a penitent’s offering to the exercise god she’d forsaken. This morning, anxiety fueling her fatigue, she waited for the elevator.
She’d worked for Cortland Child Services for eight years. She used to love this job. Physicians trusted her, and rewarded her with a constant flow of referrals. Too popular for a while, she’d been temporarily forced to close her practice to new patients. Now she dreaded coming to work.
Five years ago, patients treated her with respect; they’d listened eagerly and followed her advice. Today, everybody knew everything. Parents, armed with information from the Web, came to her seeking validation, letters attributing their child’s misbehavior to brilliance, drugs to give their child an edge. Zoe’s education and experience meant nothing. She was a service provider. She was tired of that game.
If she and Will could afford it, she’d leave the counseling center, build her seminars and branch out, write a book, go on the lecture circuit, where she could help thousands of people. But that was a pipedream.
She accidentally pressed “Down,” forcing her to ride to the basement and back up.
The stress at home had ratcheted her anxiety, adding to her unease. The small things she used to let slide had begun to get her: a missed appointment, a defiant gesture, an insolent remark. Doing a half-assed job made her feel crappy; these days, she felt like crap most of the time.
Zoe’s mood lifted as she opened her office door. This office, with its soft coral walls, was her sanctuary. Sunlight filtered through the blinds on the picture window, the flecks of sand in the carpet around the turtle-shaped sandbox glittering. Zoe’s grad school books lined the top shelf of a wall-to-wall bookcase. On the lower shelves were toys for the kids: cars and trucks, picture books, puzzles, stuffed animals, dolls.
From her iPod, she selected a soothing Thai instrumental piece, and logged onto her antiquated desktop computer. Her refusal to upgrade to a laptop was a running joke in the office. Zoe still handwrote her notes and transcribed them at the end of each day, the inconvenience a small price to pay for the ability to give her patients her undivided attention.
In no time, she’d printed and scanned her notes.
With ten minutes to spare before her first appointment, she decided to run check on the Corbett boy. (Last night, in her drunken stupor, Leah had blurted his name.) Zoe typed Corbett’s name in the Google dialogue box; feeling guilty, she immediately back-spaced. A Google search felt invasive, like reading her child’s diary or listening to a phone conversation. Yet how else was she to obtain information? She could hardly rely on Leah to fill her in. Other parents Googled their kids’ friends. “I do all the time,” Sheila Li, a colleague, had confided one day. “Can’t be too careful these days.” Corbett had gotten her daughter drunk and driven her home at three a.m. That revoked any right to privacy.
She tapped her desk, impatient for the page to populate.
On the first page she spotted an entry, dated July 10, 1998, the keywords Corbett and Massachusetts emboldened. Something about a drug arrest. The URL linked to an article on the Dallas Star website. Dallas? Drugs? Had to be a mistake, a misnamed file, an erroneous entry.
She hit the link, her pulse racing as she scrolled down the page.


MASSACHUSETTS MAN ARRESTED IN TEXAS DRUG BUST


EL PASO, Texas – A Massachusetts man was arrested early this morning outside the Roadhouse restaurant in downtown El Paso on suspicion of drug possession and trafficking. Todd Corbett, 21, from Massachusetts, works as a sound technician for the alternative rock band, Cobra. Jeff Jones, the band’s manager, was arrested on similar charges in November.


Insufficient evidence in the Jones case forced the district attorney’s office in El Paso to drop the charges. “We expect to hand down an indictment later today,” said Assistant District Attorney Len Ahearn. Ahearn declined further comment regarding the details of Corbett’s arrest, citing a judge’s gag order. If prosecuted, Corbett faces a sentence of up to twenty years in prison and a $10,000 fine.


A later article reported that the charges had been dismissed.
Zoe had expected to find something—a DUI, a petty theft, a drunk and disorderly—nothing like this. Leah pushed boundaries. She’d been drinking last night; she’d come in at three a.m. No way was she was mixed up with a drug dealer. She was a good kid, a talented athlete, with a bright future in front of her. She was too smart to throw it all away.
Zoe clicked back to the first article, reread it, and logged on to boston.com, the website for the Globe. In the “Metro” section of the July 11 edition, she found a single paragraph that began:
“Todd Corbett of Cortland, Massachusetts, was arrested. . .”
Reeling, she logged off. This was impossible. Zoe was a therapist. She worked with teenagers. If her daughter were involved with drugs, she would know. She’d recognize the signs. Moods? What sixteen-year-old girl wasn’t moody? Slipping grades? In high school, Zoe and Will had both flunked biology; maybe Leah had inherited the gene. Leah had missed her curfew a few times, until last night never by more than ten minutes. Granted, Leah had lied about being with Cissy. Yes, Cissy’s being MIA this last month was certainly strange. But girls fight. Junior year, Zoe’s best friend had dumped her cold, all because the girl’s crush had called Zoe “pretty.” Normal teenage behavior—all of this.
Zoe’s stomach went hollow.

Sunday, December 4, 2011

Review # 75: The Gaia Wars & Battle for Cascadia by Kenneth G. Bennett

Description:
     13 year-old Warren Wilkes has messed up - big time, and now he's running through the Cascade mountains dodging the roar of oncoming dogs and ATVs. Until, that is, he sees the long-lost skeleton of a Native American poking out of the eroded soil, and his child-like curiosity gets the best of him. Here he finds an ancient spear point as well as a mysterious gold medallion which holds a circle of obsidian. Unfortunately, his pursuers are unrelenting, so he grabs the medallion and continues his escapist trek. Little does he know, that the strange artifact he's discovered is about to awaken, not only a hidden side of himself, but an ancient and unearthly evil that threatens to destroy everything he holds dear.
Review:

     Wow! I definitely didn't expect this book to be so amazing! I have always been a fan of young adult and teen fiction, especially those books that transport the reader into another plain of imagination, and boy, is this one of them; Hello Harry Potter, Twilight, and Lord Of The Rings, meet The Gaia Wars, the next epic teen adventure.Where do I begin? Well, the title, The Gaia Wars, which I thought was catchy, and made me want to jump into some serious science fiction. But it wasn't just science fiction, and it wasn't on some otherworldly planet, but here - on planet Earth; and what a spectacular Earth Kenneth G. Bennett describes. Besides the story, the imagery and detail were one of my favorite aspects of the book. I could see the vastness of the Cascades, the people who once called them home, and the incredible power and fury of our planet - the one that does exist. The fact that there were extraterrestrial beings didn't take anything away from the beautiful reality I absorbed from each page. Those are some landscapes I'd love to see, even though they are now well-toured in my mind. The characters were well-developed and very realistic. Even though Warren was a teenage boy, I found myself relating to him, and I didn't feel like I was reading a book designed just for young adults, but for every age group. From page one I was hooked, like Todd was to the pier. The chapters were the perfect length, the dialogue and the story-line flowed easily, and the pace was quick and full of action and surprise. Without a doubt, this book is going on my top ten list for 2011, and may just be one of my new favorite teen reads. Can't wait for the sequel, Battle for Cascadia, and I am kind of hoping that a possible film version may be in the not-to-distant Earth future!

Rating: Clean Getaway (5/5)

 *** I received this eBook from Novel Publicity and the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
 ____________________________________________

Description:
     Continuing from where The Gaia Wars left off, Battle for Cascadia chronicles the lengths Warren and his allies must go to in order to stop the ancient, evil Uhlgoth and his horde from capturing and enslaving the spirit of planet Earth.
Review:

     As if the first book wasn't awesome enough, the second book in The Gaia Wars series, Battle for Cascadia, came along and assaulted my imagination with a whole new level of discovery. In line with the first book, the characters were just as dynamic, if not more so; Warren has definitely grown, and with that comes a whole new dimension of his character. Another character that I enjoyed reading about was Thaddeus, but I was really held captive by Kenneth G. Bennett's depiction of Uhlgoth and his otherworldly army. I wasn't expecting to be that unsettled by a set of characters, but I definitely felt their imposing effects. Also, just like in the first book, the descriptions of the Cascade region were breathtaking, and the details were artfully captured on each page. Even as I was reading about the battle, I was marveling at the pictures being painted in my mind. The story-line was even more intricate than the first book, but it was in no way difficult to understand or enjoy, although, I was shocked by some of the plot twists. Battle for Cascadia is a fast-paced page turner that took my emotions and imagination on one heck of a ride. As for the ending, I will eagerly be awaiting the last book in the trilogy because I hate not knowing what's going to happen next, especially since... (sorry, no spoilers)! Still waiting for word on a film version...

Rating: Clean Getaway (5/5)

*** I received these eBooks from Novel Publicity and the author in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.


Read the Chapter 3 excerpt BELOW!


Sneak Peak of The Gaia Wars Chapter 3!!!

Chapter 3

The ground climbed steadily and Warren slowed but didn’t stop. He knew how to pace himself, and ran lightly over the soft earth, weaving between the pines.
A plan formed in Warren’s mind. He would make for Pipestone Canyon, roughly two miles distant. He and his uncle had hiked, skied and snowshoed there dozens of times, and he knew it well. Perhaps he could hide among the canyon’s crags, cliffs and massive boulders. Perhaps.
Warren topped a low ridge, entered a clearing, and heard the sudden rush of brawling Nine Mile Creek, two hundred yards ahead. Born in the snowy Cascades, the sparkling stream clattered across the meadow. It was roughly fifteen feet wide here, but shallow, gravel-bottomed and easy to cross.
Now that he was out of the trees, Warren heard other sounds, too: the unmistakable baying of dogs, surprisingly close, and the low, steady whine of ATVs. The Finleys were after him, all right, and they were getting closer.
For the first time, Warren felt truly afraid. He remembered the rage on Mr. Finley’s face. Who could guess what the big brute might do? Or maybe Finley Sr. would simply turn a blind eye as Finley Jr. pulverized him. Junior was a good thirty pounds heavier than Warren, after all.
Wild thoughts flooded Warren’s mind. Maybe the Finleys would tie him up and drag him behind their ATVs, or let their dogs tear him to pieces. He couldn’t guess, and he didn’t want to find out.
Warren had an idea. Instead of running straight across the creek, he would run in it for a while. His shoes and socks would get soaked, but perhaps the ploy would confuse the dogs—at least temporarily. It was a trick he’d read about in numerous adventure stories. Maybe it would help.
He leapt into the clear, frigid water. It was only about a foot deep here, where it crossed the flat, open meadow, but shockingly cold. He sprinted upstream.
Though June meant summer in other parts of the country, it was still early spring here in the higher elevations of the Clement Valley. It had snowed heavily all winter, and the meadows only recently had become snow-free. It had just rained, too, so everything had a fresh, new quality and the air was crisp and clean. Wildflowers carpeted the creek banks.
Warren splashed on—the gravel stream bottom giving a bit under each sloshing footfall. He saw now that the snowmelt and recent rain had caused the clay soil of the stream’s banks to fracture. Here and there great slabs of creek edge had fallen into the water. In some spots, sections of bank teetered, like new islands breaking apart from the mainland after a catastrophic quake. Ahead, the creek jogged sharply to the right.
Warren scanned the meadow. In another hundred feet or so, he’d climb out of the water and run uphill, toward Pipestone Canyon. He sprinted, following the sharp bend in the stream.
That’s when he saw the skeleton.
It was a human skeleton, no doubt about that, lying face up on the soft earth. Warren could see at once what had happened: the skeleton had been buried in the reddish-brown clay of the bank, but a section of creek edge had fractured and fallen away, freeing the skeleton from its tomb. It lay there in broad daylight, as neatly and cleanly as if it had just rolled out of a crypt. Warren stepped forward cautiously and gazed at the remains in silent wonder.
He would have forgotten about the Finleys, his prank and everything else—only now that he’d stopped moving he heard the dogs and whining ATVs once more. Even over the joyful clatter of the creek, the sounds were unmistakable. The Finleys were coming through the forest, within a minute or two of the meadow.
Warren stared at the skeleton. He’d been to enough museums and read enough books to know that it was very old. The bones were light brown and smooth, like aged ivory. It occurred to Warren they might even be fossilized.
The skull, arm and leg bones were large, and the hips narrow, so he guessed he was looking at the remains of a man. The lower jawbone was missing, as were the bones of the right foot. Otherwise, the skeleton appeared intact. Warren leaned closer to the skull, but the empty eye sockets gazing skyward gave him a queer feeling.
He took one last look and …
There was something protruding from the dirt, near the skeleton’s right hip. Warren peered closely.
The “something,” whatever it was, was encrusted with soft clay. It blended with the surrounding soil, and was nearly invisible.
Warren gently traced the object with his fingers, pried some of the clay away, and understood. It was a pouch: leather, bound at the top with a fragment of cord.
Warren teased more soil from the object, marveling that the leather was still supple and intact. Even the design on the face of the pouch—a fine red spiral—had somehow been preserved inside the clay tomb of the creek bank.
Carefully, painstakingly, Warren lifted the pouch free from the soil, loosened the cord, and spilled the contents out.
The first artifact to tumble onto the creek bank—into the sunlight—was a stone spear point. It was about five inches long, brownish-yellow and lovingly crafted. It was still razor sharp, by the look of it.
The spear point made Warren gasp. But the object that thudded onto the bank after it stopped his heart.
It was a heavy, flat medallion of gleaming, hammered gold, inset with sparkling blue gems.
Dazzlingly beautiful, the medallion (medallion was the first word that came to Warren’s mind) could easily have been the centerpiece of a great king’s crown, or of a royal necklace. The object had seven equal sides.
A heptagon, Warren thought. It was a term he’d learned in last semester’s math.
Warren’s hand shook as he traced the perimeter of the heptagon with one finger. The object was about four inches across, and twice as thick as the old silver dollars in his uncle’s coin collection.
In the center of the heptagon was set a perfect circle of highly polished obsidian. The dazzling blue gems—there were seven of them, as well—were embedded in the gold and placed evenly about the obsidian circle. Warren turned the medallion over and saw that the back consisted of gleaming, hammered gold only.
He lifted the object slowly, reverently. It fit neatly in the palm of his hand and was so bright that it flashed in the warm morning light. It was beautiful. It was mesmerizing. It was …
Warren heard sudden, frenzied barking from the forest below and jumped to his feet. How had they scaled the hill so fast? How long had he been kneeling beside the skeleton? With a leap up the bank, he was off once more, bounding across the meadow and toward the sheltering forest beyond.
Warren had run perhaps fifteen feet when he realized he’d left the spear point with the skeleton. No time to retrieve it now. By the sound of it, the Finleys’ dogs would burst into the clearing at any moment. He had to make it to the trees—had to disappear into the forest—if he was to have any hope of escaping.


Review # 74: Just Like You by Robert Kroupa

Description:
     Boris the spider and Henry the mouse are best friends and outcasts of the Piney Forest. They do not talk or walk like the other animals, because Henry is deaf and Boris only has seven legs, so they are always treated like they don't belong. But when the forest and all of its inhabitants are in danger, Boris and Henry warn all of the creatures who have mistreated them, and lead them to safety. Proving that Boris and Henry are part of the group, just like everyone else. Finally, differences don't matter anymore and the pair is accepted.
Review:

     The illustrations in this book are amazing! I found myself mesmerized by the colors as well as Hannah E. Harrison's beautifully crafted and detailed paintings. The story itself is adorable and full of life! Kids will love the characters, the illustrations, and the heart-felt story of two friends embracing and accepting differences while defying the odds placed against them. I also loved the fact that all proceeds from this book go into the Just Like You Foundation and its charitable organizations which help child victims of bullying, abuse, disability, and disease; to learn more please visit: http://www.justlikeyoufoundation.org/ . I would, and will, recommend this book to all parents of young children, as well as illustration enthusiasts.

Rating: Clean Getaway (5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 73: Kathryn the Grape's Colorful Adventure (Kathryn the Grape Series) by Kathryn Cloward

Description:
     Kathryn feels like her parents ignore her and love her brothers more. So, after she yells at her parents and runs into her bedroom one night, her best friend, a magical butterfly named Maggie, takes her on a colorful adventure. Maggie gives her a colorful charm bracelet that transports Kathryn to a magical place where she learns that she is very colorful, and very loved; just like the reader!
Review:
     
      This book is beautifully written and illustrated, and full of color and imagination! I love the story and I think that kids will do the same. The book is not only colorful, but manages to successfully tackle a difficult topic: feelings. It is an inspirational adventure and the perfect book for any child, but especially little girls, who always need a lesson in self-esteem. Highly recommended and enjoyed!

Rating: On the Run (4.5/5)

*** I received this book from the author (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.

Review # 72: Mad Ball- The Bartman Play by Walter J. Yurkanin, R. Thomas Hoffman

Description:
     Mad Ball: The Bartman Play recounts the madness that was unleashed upon Wrigley Field during the 2003 MLB Playoffs after Chicago Cub's fan, Steve Bartman, deflected a foul ball and prevented the Cub's outfielder, Moises Alou, from catching it. The book is based on the Yurkanin-Hoffman Commision Report on the Bartman Play.
Review:

     First, I must admit that I am not a baseball fan in the least. I only decided to review this book because I recalled hearing about the famed Bartman Play and wanted to know what really transpired. I was surprised to find that the book was really easy to get into, fun, and full of quirky facts. Even though some of the terms were lost on me, I still picked up on the major points of discussion, and also learned quite a lot about baseball. Who knew the Cubs hadn't won a playoff series since 1908? Well, I didn't. The quotes, facts, and story-quality writing style made this book feel more like a overview than an analysis at some points. That was really appreciated, because, as I stated, the facts of baseball aren't my strong suit, so I didn't want to have to muddle through statistical mumbo-jumbo for 225 pages. Overall, I found the book enjoyable, but it wasn't really my cup of tea. I recommend this book to sports fans, especially fans of the Chicago Cubs, or anyone interested in baseball and it's associated topics.

Rating: Bounty's Out (3/5)

*** I received this book from the authors (Bostick Communications) in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.