Sunday, June 11, 2023

Ask Why and Learn About: Buses - Learn Basic Concepts through the Alphabet

Ask Why and Learn About: Buses - Learn Basic Concepts through the Alphabet (A Fun Read for Curious Kids Ages 3-6)Ask Why and Learn About: Buses - Learn Basic Concepts through the Alphabet by Kim Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An exciting and educational book!

“Ask Why and Learn About: Buses” is an exciting and educational book that will captivate the curiosity of young children. Through its engaging illustrations and easy-to-understand text, this book takes young readers on a delightful journey of discovery. Each page is filled with intriguing questions about buses, such as why we need them, why they have numbers, and why they make funny noises. The book not only provides entertaining answers to these questions but also encourages children to ask more questions about the world they live in.

If you're looking for a book that will engage your child's curiosity and ignite their love for learning, “Ask Why and Learn About: Buses” is a fantastic choice. It's an educational treasure that will inspire young minds and foster a lifelong thirst for knowledge.


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Ask Why and Learn About: Apples - Learn Basic Concepts through the Alphabet

Ask Why and Learn About: Apples - Learn Basic Concepts through the Alphabet (A Fun Read for Curious Kids Ages 3-6)Ask Why and Learn About: Apples - Learn Basic Concepts through the Alphabet by Kim Young
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An ideal book for young readers and early learners...

“Ask Why and Learn About: Apples” by Kim Young is a delightful children's book that combines learning the alphabet with exploring basic concepts through the lens of a captivating theme. Aimed at kids aged 3-6, this book is a perfect choice for young minds eager to discover the world around them.

From the very first page, where A is for Apple, readers are introduced to the wonders of this fruit. But this book goes beyond simply naming the letter and the object. It encourages children to ask questions and seek knowledge. Why are apples red? Why do they fall from trees? And why are they good for you? Through vibrant illustrations and engaging text, the book not only answers these questions but also sparks curiosity, inviting children to explore further.

This book is part of a larger series, and it is evident that the author understands the needs and interests of children in this age group. The combination of the alphabet learning experience and the themed exploration ensures that kids not only learn letters but also gain knowledge across various subjects, including science, technology, zoology, and geography. It's a wonderful way to introduce young readers to a wide range of topics and nurture their inquisitive minds.


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Wednesday, June 7, 2023

TotIs

TotIsTotIs by Joseph Kazden
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

An extraordinary journey that transcends the boundaries of human perception...

In "TotIs" by J. Joseph Kazden, readers embark on a thought-provoking exploration of human perception and consciousness. This captivating book, recipient of the Global Book Awards Gold Medal, delves into the intricate process that grants us, as biological beings, our experience of reality. It poses a profound question: Does this process create an illusion concealing the true nature of reality itself?

Within this ambitious literary endeavor, the author masterfully assembles an exceptional ensemble of characters, featuring luminaries such as Socrates, Leonardo da Vinci, Albert Einstein, and Stephen Hawking. Gathering in a symposium that harkens back to the traditions of ancient Greece, these intellectual giants delve into a captivating dialogue centered around the theory of relativity and the profound notion of time's relativity.

Through the adept utilization of Socratic questioning, Kazden skillfully introduces intricate concepts with a gentle touch, rendering the exploration of subjects like quantum mechanics simultaneously captivating and approachable. In this manner, readers are seamlessly guided through a realm of thought that might otherwise appear daunting, ultimately fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of these complex ideas.

Through an engaging narrative, "TotIs" invites the reader to join Socrates and his friends in a discussion that examines the essence and workings of human perception. By employing the same method of questioning and answering perfected by Socrates in classical Greece, the author guides us through the perplexing realm of modern theoretical physics. At this intersection of relativity, quantum theory, and our role as observers, we confront the notion that our experience of reality is merely an illusion.

Kazden's multidisciplinary background and lifelong pursuit of the nature of perception and reality shine through the pages of "TotIs." Drawing inspiration from Taoist, Buddhist, and Hindu thought, shamanic practices, and the study of physics and cosmology, the author skillfully weaves together a tapestry of knowledge that challenges traditional notions of reality.

J. Joseph Kazden exhibits exceptional finesse in presenting his keen insights in a manner that is accessible to both novices and experts. The book seamlessly intertwines entertainment and profundity, illuminating a hidden truth about the unity of the universe. The revelations within "TotIs" hold immense implications for a wide range of disciplines, from philosophy and cosmology to spirituality and beyond.

In this captivating exploration of perception and consciousness, Kazden unravels the intricate tapestry of our understanding. His clear and comprehensible approach ensures that readers can navigate the intricate landscape of modern physics and philosophical inquiry. "TotIs" offers a transformative reading experience that challenges our preconceived notions and expands our horizons. Very highly recommended.

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Friday, June 2, 2023

“The Snow Queen” by Suzy Davies

The Snow QueenThe Snow Queen by Suzy Davies
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Breathing new life into a timeless tale!

“The Snow Queen” by Suzy Davies is a captivating young adult fairytale that takes readers on an enchanting journey across Ireland, England, and Scandinavia. Drawing inspiration from Hans Christian Andersen's classic tale, this book weaves together elements of romance, magic, rivalry, inheritance, and destiny to create a heart-warming and epic story.

At the center of the narrative is Bryony, a young girl with a special destiny foretold in The Book of The Ancients. With her sights set on Sean, a charming Roma boy, and adorned with a gypsy crown, Bryony must face a formidable battle against the Snow Queen's web of evil. Alongside her, readers will follow her quest to rescue Adam and thwart the wizard's dark sorcery.

The stakes are high, for if Bryony fails, a maleficent shadow of doom will loom over the world, enslaving all children until the end of time. As the narrative unfolds, Suzy Davies skillfully combines elements of adventure, romance, and destiny to create an immersive and magical reading experience.

Set against a backdrop of beautiful landscapes and infused with folklore and mythology, “The Snow Queen” offers a fresh and compelling retelling of a beloved fairytale. Suzy's storytelling transports readers to a world where love, bravery, and determination collide, leaving them eagerly turning the pages to discover Bryony's ultimate fate.

Whether you're a fan of fairytales or simply love a captivating young adult adventure, “The Snow Queen” is a must-read. Suzy Davies' imaginative storytelling and her ability to breathe new life into a timeless tale make this book an enchanting addition to any reader's collection. Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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Tuesday, May 30, 2023

The Adventures of Bonny Hood in the Urban Desert: a Novel

The Adventures of Bonny Hood in the Urban Desert: a NovelThe Adventures of Bonny Hood in the Urban Desert: a Novel by Yossi Ovadia
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A unique, atmospheric, and compelling read...

In summarizing Yossi Ovadia’s “The Adventures of Bonny Hood in the Urban Desert” we are introduced to protagonist-narrator Bonny Hood who spends his days traveling between his desert hometown and The Big City, chasing females, and getting into trouble with all of the wrong people. However, in his head, he is a hero, a defender, and a Prince Charming straight out of a fairy tale. Bonny's travels illustrate the need to re-establish a connection with oneself, moving on from one's past experiences, and following one's aspirations, regardless of where they may ultimately take us.

The Adventures of Bonny Hood is a humorous coming-of-age story with a character that dreams of the wider world and whether he has a place in it. The author creates a distinctive, atmospheric but witty narrative throughout. It’s a towering work, painted from a spectrum of emotions and intuitions, which cannot be adequately described in words. Highly recommended and a well-deserved five stars from me. I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

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How to Draw Christmas Things: Easy and Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing Festive Christmas Things for Beginners - the Perfect Christmas or Birthday Gift

How to Draw Christmas Things: Easy and Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing Festive Christmas Things for Beginners - the Perfect Christmas or Birthday Gift (My First Drawing Book for Kids 2)How to Draw Christmas Things: Easy and Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Drawing Festive Christmas Things for Beginners - the Perfect Christmas or Birthday Gift by Made Easy Press
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Turning your kids' creativity into artistic confidence!

This children’s drawing book includes examples of things to draw that are related to Christmas. Every single quick sketching lesson is broken down into simple step-by-step directions that are easy to follow, so that even the most inexperienced of aspiring painters may produce a work of art!

Ideal holiday entertainment for when you need to keep the young ones and the older ones occupied. Anyone who gets a book by Made Easy Press is left with the impression that they are talented and successful. Everyone, from kids to adults, may get together to draw and learn! The ideal Christmas present for those with creative minds. Highly recommended.

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Impossible To Be Human

Impossible To Be HumanImpossible To Be Human by Robert Kalich
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A thought-provoking, humorous, and reflective novel...

IMPOSSIBLE TO BE HUMAN by Robert Kalich tells the story of David Lazar who is baffled by his clandestine meetings in his NYC penthouse with Duck, the US president. The two of them mirror all that is opposed in American society and echo the doubt about whether these divisions can be bridged. Can we accept irreconcilable contradictions? Can people change? And what does it mean to be human?

In summarizing the synopsis we find David Lazar analyzing his achievements by examining his life and character. Were inconsistencies acceptable? Changeable? What's human? Lazar is slowly confronting the dispassionate, heartless individual he was before norms and domestication. He wonders whether his wife has redeemed him. Can a motivated sports handicapper who ascended "Mt. Gamble" become a loving, caring spouse and father? Can writing his life narrative heal him? … Lazar's covert encounters with Duck, the US president, add to life's paradoxes. They go back a very long time, to the days when David was Duck's object of admiration. Lazar opposes Duck's bigotry, selfishness, and callousness. They reflect everything that divides American culture and the uncertainty that these divisions can be addressed. Lazar detests these secret encounters, but he's becoming Duck's confidant while knowing he's betraying those he loves… Covid-19 spreads the fragility of existence. Death is palpable. Counting his blessings only increases his dread of loss. Lazar tries to aid the poor, but his own limits plague him. What's the significance of it all? … David did everything wrong, but he got fortunate in old age, says Lazar's twin.

IMPOSSIBLE TO BE HUMAN is an incredibly well-written novel. Few writers have the unique ability to create a striking contrast between the tone of their writing and the subject matter they cover. Kalich gives his sentences the same level of consideration as he does with his plot, and he is able to modify or consolidate meaning with the use of a single word. His writing is impeccable, and it is full of juxtapositions and qualifications that help to create what could be described as an allegory about fears and anxiety, about the place of the sensitive person, the thinker, and the human, within modern society's current social order, in a world in which human beings are the only animals who despair of their lives.

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

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