A House to Call Home: A Traveler Finds a Haven in North Portugal’s Lost Paradise

A House to Call Home: A Traveler Finds a Haven in North Portugal’s Lost Paradise by Igal Sarna
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

In "A House to Call Home," Igal Sarna shares his poignant memoir of finding solace in an unexpected place after being forced into exile from his homeland. As a celebrated investigative journalist with 35 years of experience, Sarna had to make the difficult decision to leave everything behind and start anew in a foreign land with his partner. The picturesque region of northern Portugal's Alto Minho and its colorful locals soon embrace him and offer him a haven to call his own.

We learn about the history of the historic home and land he calls home by following him around. We discover how writers and poets like Enrique Vila-Matas and Fernando Pessoa shed light on the nation's distinct culture and history as he delves deeper into Portugal's literary heritage. He discovers the past of the people who had resided in a range of deserted structures, from basic houses to opulent palaces.

"A House to Call Home" not only pays homage to Portugal but also tells the story of exile and finding a new home. The author's exquisite language and vivid descriptions do an amazing job of capturing the natural beauty and culture of his chosen nation. This story serves as a moving reminder of the ‘age-old longing for a place to call home.’

Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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The Orphans' Home: Inspiring Stories From Janusz Korczak's Orphanage

The Orphans' Home: Inspiring Stories From Janusz Korczak's Orphanage by Michal Ben Gal
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Michal Ben Gal's "The Orphans' Home: Inspiring Stories From Janusz Korczak's Orphanage" illuminates the extraordinary life and contributions of Janusz Korczak. Set during World War II, the book transports the reader to Warsaw, where a white building provides a haven for Jewish orphan children who have nowhere else to go. In a city that has otherwise been devastated by war, the orphans living there find a sense of safety, a place to call home, and a glimmer of hope under the watchful eye of caregiver Janusz Korczak. Readers are introduced to Korczak's inspirational educational system, which is based on the principles of respect, trust, and cooperation, through 25 endearing stories.

Known as the "Father of Orphans," Janusz Korczak is honored in this beautifully written book. Very highly recommended, and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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The Mother You Knew: A Novel Based on a True Story

The Mother You Knew: A Novel Based on a True Story by Leila Hilkmann
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Leila Hilkmann’s “The Mother You Knew” is a novel that tugs at the heartstrings and explores the depths of a mother's love for her children. The story centers around Tara, a mother who experiences every parent's worst nightmare when her son is taken by someone she trusted to keep him safe. From the moment Tara's daughter returns home without her brother, the reader is taken on an emotional rollercoaster as Tara fights to bring her son back home. The story is a testament to the lengths a mother will go to protect her children and the strength and resilience she possesses in the face of unimaginable adversity.

The fact that "The Mother You Knew" is based on a true story amplifies its power and impact. The author skillfully breathes life into the characters, enabling readers to vividly experience the events that unfold. The well-crafted plot is both engaging and compelling, making it difficult to put the book down.

This heart-wrenching and powerful novel will stay with you long after you've finished reading it. It is a must-read for anyone who values the significance of family bonds and the unbreakable love of a mother. Very highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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The German Dressmaker: A WWII Historical Novel

The German Dressmaker: A WWII Historical Novel by Susan Shalev
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

“The German Dressmaker” by Susan Shalev is a powerful WWII historical novel that explores the enduring power of love and the devastating impact of war. The book tells the story of Lily, a gifted seamstress in 1937 Germany, who falls deeply in love with Heinrich, a handsome and charming officer in Hitler's army. Despite the growing tension and fear of war, the two are swept up in a passionate romance and dream of a future together.

However, their love is threatened by Heinrich's dangerous secret, one that could cost him his life and put Lily in grave danger. As the war rages on and darkness descends, the two are forced apart, and Lily is left alone to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. But with her needle and thread, she finds solace in creating beautiful dresses that help her stay connected to the past and the love she lost.

Susan Shalev's "The German Dressmaker" is a captivating novel that deftly portrays the complexities of love, loss, and resilience amidst the backdrop of World War II. The author's beautiful prose brings to life a poignant love story that is both tender and heartrending. Set against the stark realities of war, the book's unforgettable characters and masterful portrayal of real historical events make it a page-turner that is impossible to put down. With its gripping plot and vivid imagery, this novel is sure to captivate fans of historical fiction and epic romances, leaving them deeply moved and thoroughly satisfied. Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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Quantum Care: A Deep Dive into AI for Health Delivery and Research

Quantum Care: A Deep Dive into AI for Health Delivery and Research by Rohit Mahajan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Transforming the healthcare industry...

AI (artificial intelligence) is transforming the healthcare industry in unprecedented ways. It has the potential to revolutionize health delivery and research by providing better diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of diseases. However, there are also challenges associated with implementing AI in health delivery and research. Ensuring data privacy and security, addressing bias in algorithms, and maintaining ethical standards are all important considerations when developing and deploying AI systems in healthcare.

Quantum Care: A Deep Dive into AI for Health Delivery and Research by Rohit Mahajan takes the reader on a journey, utilizing the author's real-world experiences and thoughtful insights to help us understand how AI is becoming commonplace in our daily lives and how AI and machine learning will change the very nature of the healthcare industry in the very near future. The book also lays out a strategy for investors and businesses looking to capitalize on the exponential growth opportunities presented by AI healthcare solutions, notably in the realms of drug discovery and medical research. Highly recommended.

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How to Survive Ghosts, Debts, and Marionettes: A Delia Sanchez Mystery

How to Survive Ghosts, Debts, and Marionettes: A Delia Sanchez Mystery by Diana K.C. Gill
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An entertaining and enjoyable mystery...

"How to Survive Ghosts, Debts, and Marionettes: A Delia Sanchez Mystery" by Diana K.C. Gill is a delightful and engaging book that captures the essence of what makes cozy mysteries so appealing to readers. The characters in the book are well-developed and relatable, with Delia Sanchez being a particularly endearing protagonist. Her wit and determination make her a joy to follow throughout the story, as she navigates the twists and turns of the investigation. The plot is carefully crafted, with just enough clues and red herrings to keep the reader guessing until the very end. The author does a fantastic job of creating a sense of atmosphere and tension, while still maintaining the cozy, comforting feel that is characteristic of this genre.

"How to Survive Ghosts, Debts, and Marionettes" is a highly enjoyable read that will appeal to fans of the cozy mystery genre, as well as those who are new to it. It is well-written, engaging, and highly entertaining, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in with a good book. Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me.


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Stories and Heart: Unlocking the Power of Personal Stories to Create a Life You Love by Sharon Price John

Stories and Heart: Unlock the Power of Personal Stories to Create a Life You Love by Sharon Price John
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A book that provides useful tools and guidance...

There's something special about a good story. They have the power to transport us to different worlds and make us laugh, cry, and think. They can also inspire us and help us see the world in new ways. When we tell our own stories, we have the opportunity to connect with others, share our unique experiences, and create meaning in our lives.

Stories have the power to heal, connect us to our ancestors and to the future, and help us make sense of our lives. When we open our hearts and share our stories, we can create a life we love.

Personal stories have the power to shape our lives in countless ways. They can help us understand who we are, where we come from, and where we want to go. When we embrace our personal stories and use them as a tool for self-discovery and growth, we can create a life that we love.

By embracing your personal stories, you can create a life that is true to who you are and what you value most. Use your stories as a tool for self-discovery and growth, and you will be amazed at the positive changes you can create in your life. Stories and Heart: Unlocking the Power of Personal Stories to Create a Life You Love by Sharon Price John is a book that provides useful tools and guidance. Highly recommended.

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