Review: Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect

Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect by Ben Jackson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A home run for young readers!

Pitch Perfect by Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence is the second installment in the Softball Strikeout series that delivers an engaging blend of sports action and coming-of-age challenges. Following Olivia's journey as she balances her passion for softball with new friendships and an entrepreneurial venture will keep younger readers turning the pages. Jackson and Lawrence authentically capture the pressures facing young athletes without sacrificing the fun and friendship that make middle-grade sports fiction so appealing.

The authors excel at portraying the delicate juggling act of adolescence while trying to maintain athletic excellence, navigating social dynamics, and pursuing new interests. Olivia's determination to succeed on all fronts resonates as both admirable and relatable. Young readers, especially sports fans, will find inspiration in this well-paced story about perseverance, teamwork, and finding balance in a busy life. A must-read that comes highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

View all my reviews

Silkfoot by Kent Zimmerman

Silkfoot by Kent Zimmerman
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Silken Thread Through Life's Metamorphosis...

Kent Zimmerman's Silkfoot is a meticulously composed poetry anthology that leads readers through a contemplative examination of life's fleeting changes, articulated in both succinct and richly expressive language. Zimmerman skillfully explores themes of transformation, particularly in the radiant “Chrysalis,” where vulnerability and rebirth intersect, from the captivating rhythm of the titular poem to the poignant reflection in “Love’s Song.” His technical versatility—oscillating between organized lyricism and free-form reverie—establishes a hypnotic cadence, interspersed with instances of surprising closeness that resemble whispered confessions.

Zimmerman’s unwavering examination of the riddles of human existence enhances Silkfoot. The compelling poem “Free” encapsulates the essence of existence in a singular, impactful truth: “we are / bound / To be free / In the end.” The interaction between freedom and limitation permeates the book, prompting readers to reflect on their own dynamic identities and the delicate nature of transience. Zimmerman's voice embodies both philosophical insight and intimate companionship, harmonizing intellectual profundity with raw emotion.

Silkfoot exemplifies contemporary poetry, existing in the transitional realms of certainty and ambiguity, and providing a radiant contemplation on the essence of evolution. Zimmerman’s work is a remarkable literary treasure for those who desire poetry that combines intellectual depth with emotional richness, offering new insights and marvels at each reading. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

View all my reviews

Review: Return to Vietnam-The Memories: Facing my Demons and Coming to Terms with Them

Return to Vietnam-The Memories: Facing my Demons and Coming to Terms with Them by Stan Bain
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Finding Peace in Unexpected Places: A Veteran's Memoir...

Stan Bain's Return to Vietnam - The Memories: Facing My Demons and Coming to Terms with Them poignantly explores war's psychological scars and the difficult path to healing. Bain's return to Vietnam decades after his military service is a moving, hopeful journey that reveals his PTSD and relentless pursuit of peace.

Bain's introspective narrative transcends memoir with visceral prose that transports readers to his past battlegrounds. His unwavering vulnerability turns wartime memories into a universal meditation on trauma, inviting readers to witness the fragile but transformative journey toward self-forgiveness.

This book's haunting firsthand account of combat and quiet wisdom about reconciliation elevate it. Bain's fortitude in confronting buried anguish makes the book a must-read for veterans, military families, and anybody suffering struggle. This is a resilience lesson, not a war story, demonstrating how compassion can heal decades-old scars.

Bain's experience tells us that salvation comes from confronting our anxieties, not ignoring them. After the final page, its message remains: healing begins when we stop avoiding our ghosts and let them speak. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

View all my reviews

Amongst the Stars

Amongst the Stars by Jim Alexander
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Mind-Bending Cosmic Journey...

Jim Alexander, Mike Perkins, and Will Pickering deliver a thought-provoking graphic novel that explores the consequences of interspecies telepathic contact. The story brilliantly portrays an advanced alien civilization attempting mental communication with Earth, only to find themselves unexpectedly compromised by the experience. What begins as curiosity transforms into existential crisis as these beings confront the primitive yet powerful human consciousness. The artwork perfectly complements the narrative, with excellent illustrations that capture both cosmic vastness and intimate human moments.

"Amongst the Stars" raises fascinating questions about consciousness, communication, and evolutionary development. Are humans truly unaware of this psychic connection, or do our dreams and inspirations hint at something more? This work stands apart in the sci-fi graphic novel landscape by offering cerebral exploration alongside visual splendor. Perfect for readers who appreciate science fiction that challenges perceptions while delivering a captivating visual experience. Highly recommended. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

View all my reviews

The Storm Within

 

The Storm Within by Gill D. Anderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A Gripping Maritime Murder Mystery....

The Mediterranean cruise ship Ocean Breeze becomes a simmering cauldron of secrets and hidden motives in Gill D. Anderson's "The Storm Within". A luxurious retreat gradually becomes a claustrophobic psychological web where every smile hides a motive, and every whisper could ruin a life. The charismatic cruise director, Jake Bateman, is at the center of it all until a horrific murder plunges him into a world of suspicion. Jake's profession, his complex connection with Claire, and his fragile alliances with passengers and crew—including the cunning Vincent, who wants his position—are threatened as the probe intensifies.

Anderson expertly peels down her characters' ambition, fear, and desire to show how even the slightest actions can lead to disaster. Sun-drenched Mediterranean ports with blue waters and whitewashed villages increase tension onboard, where trust evaporates like sea mist and suspicion grows. This narrative is about duplicity, envy, and the quiet, desperate humanity beneath.

"The Storm Within" is a suspenseful mystery thriller with undertone in every interaction and a gut-punch ending. This page-turner is perfect for thriller fans who enjoy intricate characters and plenty of mystery. I devoured it in one sitting—you could too. Brilliant, haunting five-star voyage. Highly recommended.

View all my reviews

Hercules (Greek Mythology for Kids! The Hero's Journey Book 3)

Hercules by Eric Z
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An Action-Packed Journey Through Greek Mythology!

Eric Z's "Hercules" is a fun book for kids that vividly brings the story of the famous hero's Twelve Labors to life. Hercules' experiences against mythical beasts, outsmarting smart creatures, and learning important lessons about being brave and using his strength for goodwill captivate young readers. This book is great for mythology fans ages 8 to 12 because it has discussion questions, engaging parts, and extra information. Highly recommended for adventure stories at bedtime, in school, or at any time!


View all my reviews

Theseus and the Minotaur (Greek Mythology for Kids! The Hero's Journey Book 2) by Eric Z

Theseus and the Minotaur by Eric Z
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An Interactive Mythological Adventure!

"Theseus and the Minotaur" is an exciting interactive retelling of the classic Greek myth for ages 8-12. The young reader follows brave Prince Theseus as he challenges the fierce Minotaur and navigates the treacherous Labyrinth to end King Minos' cruel tribute. This engaging tale explores heroism, friendship, and the consequences of our choices while sparking a love of mythology and imparting lessons about courage and responsibility. Highly recommended.

View all my reviews