The Boy With The Witch's Nails

The Boy With The Witch's Nails by Shannon Shim
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An enchanting and thrilling adventure...

The Boy With The Witch's Nails by Shannon Shim is an enchanting and thrilling adventure that transports readers to the mysterious town of Montalcino, Italy. Filled with magical elements and captivating twists, this book is perfect for readers who enjoy action, adventure, and the supernatural.

The story revolves around Lucio, a young boy who accidentally acquires a witch's blue nails, triggering the awakening of a 400-year-old witch. As Lucio embarks on a quest to recover the nails, extraordinary battles, and strange occurrences unfold in the town of Montalcino. The author skillfully weaves a tale of suspense and mystery, drawing readers into a world where statues come to life, children mysteriously disappear, and dark alleys hold secrets.

The author's vivid descriptions bring the eerie atmosphere of the witch's castle and the enchanting realm of fantasy to life. From transforming statues to mesmerizing dance competitions, Shim's imaginative storytelling creates a captivating and immersive reading experience. As Lucio faces challenges and loses the witch's nails, readers are taken on a thrilling journey, eagerly turning the pages to see how he overcomes each obstacle.

Shim's novel is a delightful escape into a world of imagination and stories, reminiscent of the post-Harry Potter era. It offers a fresh and captivating adventure that will leave readers eager for more. The Boy With The Witch's Nails is a thrilling and magical journey that will keep readers of all ages spellbound from beginning to end. Highly recommended.

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WWII + VI: A Kid's Memories of War and Postwar

WWII + VI: A Kid's Memories of War and Postwar by Dr Johan Zwaan
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A must-read!

WWII + VI: A Kid's Memories of War and Postwar by Johan Zwaan is a poignant and captivating account that transports readers back to the turbulent times of World War II. Zwaan's personal recollections, shared 75 years after D-day, offer a unique perspective on the monumental events that unfolded during the war. With vivid detail and heartfelt emotion, the author paints a vivid picture of the D-day invasion, highlighting the immense scale and sacrifice involved. The courage displayed by the troops, who faced daunting odds as they stormed the beaches under relentless enemy fire, is portrayed with awe-inspiring clarity. Zwaan's sense of gratefulness and admiration for those brave individuals shines through his words, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.

This is a compelling read that will appeal to both young readers and adults. Johan Zwaan's heartfelt narrative reminds us of the sacrifices made by previous generations and the enduring impact of war on individuals and communities. Through his personal recollections, Zwaan honors the bravery and resilience of those who lived through this tumultuous period in history, ensuring that their stories are not forgotten. Very highly recommended.

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Lineage: A Trail of Shaman

Lineage: A Trail of Shaman by Annie Kochert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A mesmerizing Native American tale...

Lineage I: A Trail of Shaman by Annie Kochert takes readers on a fascinating journey into the Land of the Ancient Humans. The story revolves around Bittoo, a young boy who unwittingly becomes the target of Ceda, a self-serving Deity with malicious intentions. What follows is a captivating tale of survival, self-discovery, and the clash between ancient beliefs and treacherous forces.

The author skillfully weaves in Native American spiritual traditions, drawing upon authentic research to create a mythical realm. The exploration of rituals, the struggle between good and evil, and the themes of self-sacrifice and responsibility add depth to the story, making it relevant and thought-provoking. The characters are compelling and relatable, facing their own fears and inner struggles as they navigate the passage from adolescence to adulthood.

Lineage I: A Trail of Shaman is a captivating and inspiring novel that will appeal to a wide audience. Its blend of adventure, spirituality, and coming-of-age themes makes it a compelling read for both adults and young adults. A great read that comes highly recommended, and gets a well-deserved five stars from me.

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USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society

USING MY WORD POWER: Advocating for a More Civilized Society by Janice S. Ellis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The potency of words as the ultimate tool for change...

Using My Word Power by award-winning author Janice S. Ellis Ph.D. is a thought-provoking and inspiring book that champions the influential role of advocacy journalism in shaping a better society. With a firm belief in the power of words, Ellis asserts that our words and actions hold the key to advancing a more civilized and just world. The book not only provides valuable wisdom for budding journalists but also serves as a guide for individuals seeking to make a meaningful impact in society. Ellis highlights the significance of responsible journalism and the crucial role it plays in upholding democracy. Her skillful blend of passion, objective facts, and persuasive rhetoric underscores the potency of words as the ultimate tool for change.

Throughout the book, Ellis demonstrates her mastery of advocacy journalism, employing a balanced approach that encourages critical thinking and meaningful dialogue. By emphasizing the enduring value of words, she invites readers to consider their own capacity for making a positive difference. Whether you aspire to become an advocate journalist or simply seek inspiration to contribute meaningfully to the world, this book is a must-read that will leave you informed, enlightened, and motivated to effect positive change through your own words and actions. Highly recommended.

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Foolproof Hiring: Powerful, Proven Keys to Hiring HIGH Performers

Foolproof Hiring: Powerful, Proven Keys to Hiring HIGH Performers by Brad Smart
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A valuable resource...

Foolproof Hiring by Brad Smart and Chris Mursau is an exceptional guidebook that equips hiring managers with powerful strategies to attract and retain top talent. Drawing from their extensive experience and expertise in the field, Smart and Mursau introduce readers to the time-tested Topgrading methodology—a systematic and comprehensive approach to hiring that has consistently delivered A players for businesses over the past three decades.

The authors skillfully distill the core principles of Topgrading into accessible insights, addressing common hiring challenges and providing practical solutions. By combining narrative storytelling, real-life scenarios, and compelling third-party research, Smart and Mursau bring the hiring process into sharp focus. Readers are presented with a clear roadmap to identify, attract, and select high performers who will have a significant impact on their organizations. Highly recommended.

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C’mon Funk Move Your Ass: How a Demure Little Wife Made Her Husband a Big City Mayor

C’mon Funk Move Your Ass: How a Demure Little Wife Made Her Husband a Big City Mayor by Gloria Squitiro
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A spirited and captivating memoir...

C’mon Funk Move Your Ass by Gloria Squitiro is a spirited and captivating memoir that takes readers on a wild ride through the world of grassroots political campaigns. As Funk, the unassuming and principled auditor of Kansas City, decides to run for mayor against a deeply entrenched political regime, his wife Gloria puts her own ambitions on hold to become the driving force behind his campaign.

This true story of democracy in action unfolds with remarkable candor and humor. Squitiro's vibrant and lively storytelling brings to life a cast of unforgettable characters, from Dottie and Slick to the passionate and extravagantly Italian-American Gloria herself. Through colorful language and her unique perspective, Squitiro invites readers to become fully invested in the people and events she describes.

The book showcases the challenges faced by the couple as they navigate a rented, broken-down trailer for campaign headquarters, financial instability, and the constant fear of failure. Squitiro's determination and chutzpah shine through as she fearlessly takes on the KC political old boys' network, proving that resilience and unwavering determination can conquer any obstacle.

As readers accompany Squitiro on this rollercoaster ride, they are treated to moments of laughter, surprise, and heartfelt emotion. Her sharp wit and keen observations make the book an incredibly fascinating and enjoyable read from beginning to end. Through Squitiro's storytelling, readers gain a first-hand understanding of the trials and tribulations of a grassroots political campaign, and the power of chutzpah and determination in achieving victory.

"C’mon Funk Move Your Ass" is a must-read for anyone interested in the intricacies of politics, the triumph of the underdog, and the indomitable spirit of individuals fighting for change. Squitiro's memoir is an inspiring testament to the power of grassroots activism and the unwavering belief that ordinary people can make a difference. Highly recommended.

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Essential Life Skills for Teen Girls: A Guide to Managing Your Home, Health, Money, and Routine for an Independent Life

Essential Life Skills for Teen Girls: A Guide to Managing Your Home, Health, Money, and Routine for an Independent Life by Dani Silas
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Valuable and down-to-earth guidance for young girls...

Dani Silas and Made Easy Press have created an invaluable resource that not only educates but also empowers teenage girls. The book serves as a reliable companion, providing guidance on everything from basic household tasks to financial management, social media safety, and personal development.

With its wide-ranging approach and user-friendly format, the bite-sized segments make it easy to absorb information, while the inclusion of diagrams and charts enhances understanding. The author has thoughtfully compiled relevant topics to empower teenage girls with the necessary skills and knowledge to tackle real-life situations.

Whether gifted to a teenage girl or acquired for personal use, Essential Life Skills for Teen Girls is a must-have guide. It equips young women with the tools they need to navigate the exciting journey of adolescence and emerge as confident, capable, and independent individuals ready to take on the challenges of adulthood. Highly recommended, and a well-deserved five stars. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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