Best Article Product Reviews

Shadow of an Indian Star is a 500-page historical fiction set in the early 1800’s. It accurately brings life to a fascinating era of gun slinging
saloon drinking
hard work
rough living and bittersweet romance. The exploits of heroes
villains and those just trying to survive during this tumultuous era are certain to keep readers aching to turn the next page.

A rich family lore
with momentary appearances of well-known historical characters such as Billy the Kid and General Custer
was remembered and passed on to each new generation until Bill Paul and his wife Cindy became curious enough to determine the accuracy of the tales. As it turned out
the stories were true!

Map-lovers will enjoy the insert within the first few pages
which depicts the area that this story takes place in. Three generations of the Paul family history and their bitter feuds are divided into segments
one for each generation. A simple family tree is provided on the last page.

Little known facts of the Native Indian tribe known as the Chickasaw Nation along with the life of early settlers in Oklahoma could be excellent reading for history classes. Readers will witness the Trail of Tears and learn about callous and greedy settlers and a corrupt government. Readers will also see the grace and pride between both peoples in their uninhibited generosity
genuine grief for each other and intense inter-racial romances.

Authors Bill and Cindy Paul are both well educated individuals. Bill holds a degree in animal science
while Cindy has degrees in biology and environmental science. The couple resides in the very same valley and maintains the family graveyard that is written about in their first novel
Shadow of an Indian Star.

I am completely in awe of the authors’ talent and superb story-telling capabilities.
This tale was amazing and I enjoyed the ride immensely. There is no doubt in my mind that this book needs to be seen by movie or TV series producers.

ISBN#: 097559222X
Author: Bill and Cindy Paul
Publisher: Synergy Books

Advertising is telling the world how great you are
while publicity is having others tell the world how great you are. Companies and organizations that understand the importance of publicity are generally more successful than those who use advertising alone to reach their target audiences.

Newspapers
magazines and radio and television news programs are filled with stories about businesses and organizations. Those who know how to present materials professionally to the right people will get media coverage for free
while those who don't understand how publicity works have to rely on large advertising budgets to reach their audiences
usually with less impressive results.

"If you can get a news organization to report about your event or praise something you're doing
you have gained an enormous amount of credibility that simply couldn't be generated through paid advertising
said David Forman, a public relations veteran and author of
Publicity Professor
a workbook that teaches business owners how to get free news coverage.

The first step in reaching out to media professionals is to create an appealing press release. Its main purpose is to get an editor or producer interested in what you have to say or in what you are doing. It should contain enough information, specifics and quotes that a writer can craft a story from it without ever having to call you.

A media alert is another tool for getting press coverage. Its purpose is to give news assignment desks the specifics about an event in a way that entices editors or television news directors to send a reporter or camera crew.

There are dozens of other ways to get news coverage, such as placing feature stories or writing pitch letters offering your expertise in a subject for quotes or on-air interviews.

Forman says you don't have to hire outside help to get publicity.


Nobody knows your business like you do
Forman said.
You simply have to reach the appropriate person with your message
in a format that media professionals expect."

Using real-world examples
Publicity Professor
shows you how to give editors and producers exactly what they're looking for to get your story covered for free.

The guidebook includes easy-to-follow templates of press releases
media alerts
feature stories and pitch letters; suggestions on creating newsworthy special events and awards programs; and resources for contacting local
regional and national media.

In the struggle to lose weight and keep it off
the best advice may come from people who have been there and done that-winners in the battle of the bulge. A new book offers advice and plenty of frontline tips. The book
How to Lose 9,000 Pounds or Less by 516 Dieters Who Did
(Hundreds of Heads
$13.95)
contains hundreds of interviews with real people across America.

This book isn't like so many other diet books that promise a "quick fix" for readers who follow a rigid plan. Instead
it gives hard-won
down-to-earth advice from hundreds of real people who have tried every kind of diet
found what worked for them (and what didn't work)
and lost weight. The tips range from simple adjustments to more elaborate lifestyle changes. For example
one dieter found that she could stop sugar cravings by eating a pickle. Another dieter lost weight by using the trunk of her car as her refrigerator. In winter
she made herself walk outside barefoot every time she wanted something to eat.

The book includes the best tips and secrets on choosing a diet
motivation and avoiding temptation
exercise
keeping weight off
and enlisting the support of family and friends. With real-world stories from successful dieters and expert advice from nutritionist and special editor to the book
Joan Buchbinder
RD
readers can make more informed choices about which diet is best for them and start losing weight.

Carlton Austin has crafted a wonderful piece of work in Second Eden - an action-packed suspense thriller with a little romance and some elements of science fiction. Its beautifully designed cover incorporates gorgeous images depicting scenes within the plot and the book is available in both hard and soft cover. I recommend the hard cover
folks. This book is sure to be one that you keep among your favorite authors on your bookshelves. Second Eden is destined for a talented director to take big screen fans on its roller-coaster ride.

Best of friends
Peter (an intelligence agent) and Bo (an astronaut)
have a bond that even Peter’s affair with Bo’s wife could not break. Bo and some other scientists perish in a mysterious fire just after completing an assignment. The government cover-up pushes Peter to find out what really happened and he becomes torn between patriotism and humanitarianism. He never loved a woman until he met Molly – but can he trust her? In fact
he wonders if he can trust anyone at all.

This is definitely an intelligent read; the author incorporates incredible alien artifacts
mysteries
murders
government espionage and complex cover-ups
cat and mouse chase scenes
archeological finds and ancient societies
deceit and a love story that transcends this life into the next.

Second Eden certainly has a plot that will make its readers think deeply about our world. Carlton shows us the dangers of where our science could lead. His story teaches that there are repercussions for every single choice that we make - both as individuals and as a society. He brings up social issues
like reminding us of the importance of recognizing the value of women who choose to be mothers – as a career
rather than as a side project. He even includes enlightening views of what might happen to a soul when the body can no longer serve it.

I really cannot say enough about Carlton’s novel. Truly
I could barely put it down to go to work or prepare meals! Second Eden will remain on my bookshelf for years to come and will
no doubt
be read many times by my family.

ISBN#: 0595316530 – soft cover 0595663567 – hard cover
Publisher: iuniverse
Inc.
Author: Carlton Austin

To help people better understand themselves as spiritual beings
100
essays from diverse fields have been collected into a volume that shows what we have learned from studying ourselves
our planet and the universe. Critics say "Spiritual Information: 100 Perspectives on Science and Religion
edited by Charles L. Harper Jr. (Templeton Foundation Press, $39.95), conveys the excitement of discovery, the challenge of debate, the diversity of thinking and the excellence of multidisciplinary research.

The essays reflect the motto of Sir John Templeton:
How little we know
how eager to learn." Sir John's vision has inspired people throughout the world to open-mindedly seek new spiritual information that relates to such diverse fields as the physical world
unlimited love
laws of nature
quantum reality
the problem of evil in theology and the ways in which prayer and meditation affect daily lives
among many others. The book is a tribute to his mission.

Themes of the essays incorporate Sir John's principal domains of interest and expertise: spiritual capital and spiritual information.

• The History and Future of the Science-Religion Dialogue

• Cosmology
Physics and Astronomy

• Quantum Mechanics
Mathematics
and Symbolic Logic

• Evolution and Purpose

• Sociology and Ethics

• Religion and Health

• Contemplation and the Virtues

• Theology and Philosophy

• World Religions

In his preface to the book
Dr. Harper notes that Sir John's commitment to expanding the science-religion dialogue has enabled us to edge ever closer to the frontier where knowledge meets wisdom at the threshold of "ultimate reality." The hope
he adds
is that these essays "will inspire others to pursue his quest to discover 'over one hundredfold more spiritual information than humankind has ever possessed before.'"

A lot of people have read Robert Kiyosaki's books (and he has a lot of them)
but this is the one that started them all.

I think what endears people to Rich Dad Poor Dad is the story. It seems to me that whenever a non-fiction book teaches with stories
it does very well. So
if you're going to write a non-fiction book
weave your info into a story.

Rich Dad Poor Dad is the story of Robert learning the habits of the rich from his best friend's dad. Robert's own dad was a highly paid
highly educated government official
but who ended up poor (this is his "poor dad"). His best friend's dad was not highly educated
but he started lots of businesses
bought lots of real estate
and invested in stocks. He is "rich dad".

Some lessons or themes that keep coming up:

*School prepares you for a job while financial education prepares you for better financial habits that lead to a more prosperous life

*The rich invest in ways that the poor and middle class do not

*The rich invest in assets that produce class flow
and then reinvest that cash flow into other assets

*The poor invest in liabilities
or things that take money out of their pockets

*The middle class tend to go to school
get a job
buy everything on credit
get raises
then buy bigger houses and nicer cars
under-save and under-invest
and then retire on less than what they should have.

*There are 3 kinds of income:
-Earned income (what you make when you're there)
-Passive income (money that comes to you when you're not there...that can come through businesses
real estate income
intellectual property
etc)
-Portfolio income (money that also comes when you're not there...but specifically from stocks
mutual funds
and other such paper investments)

As it turns out
Robert didn't go on to become a rich guy too soon into his adult years
like his best buddy did. Robert went into the Navy to learn how to sail ships
then to the Marines to fly helicopters in the Vietnam war. I might have the timeline wrong
but he he was a top-selling Xerox sales rep for several years. And then he went on to start a successful business importing/selling those Velcro nylon surfer wallets from the eighties. Remember those? After a few years
that business went bust.

Eventually he made the jump into buying assets...income producing real estate...and within 8 to 10 years
he and is wife retired. Then six months later he came out of retirement to start his financial education business...which includes his books
board games
tapes
seminars
etc. In reality
it sounds like he's started a whole ton of other businesses too
but that's what I've pieced together from other books of his that I've read. Notice that most of his activities center around passive income?

It's a great and easy read and should shock you out of your usual way of looking at money. Another one of his books that I like a lot is one he didn't even write by himself...aptly named "Success Stories". It's a collection stories by many of Robert's students that have taken his advice and who started businesses or are collecting assets that produce cash flow.

There's so much more that can be said
but it's time for you to start the adventure of reading a new book. Try to think of "Rich Dad Poor Dad" as financial education; it will make the purchase that much easier to justify.

Debra Ulrich has explored a unique way of bringing some light to the journey of a medical patient in this nonfiction fairytale. I have to admit that the first 40 pages were difficult for me to get through - but in the end
the material is definitely worth reading and I recommend this book to anyone involved with heavy medication.

This is a story of a woman (Queen Sara) and her son (Prince Max) who become locked into a medical-go-round due to trusting overzealous doctors who have their hands poised over prescription pads. Queen Sara followed the doctors blindly
as most of Western society is still trained to do. Side effects and reactions to the heavy long-term medication drove these two patients into being misdiagnosed with one disorder after another.

Anyone with a serious health condition is quite familiar with strategically taking multiple prescription drugs throughout the day. However
just as each body can react differently to a disease or disorder – we can also react differently to medication. Every pill
even herbal or over-the-counter medication
can have side effects. Multiple medication can be tricky due to cumulative effects of medication combining in the body – sometimes becoming something else entirely. This makes the physician’s job much more difficult.

Synthetic drugs tend to give immediate results
but generally
they do not cure the disease/disorder. Instead
they mask it - while the cause of the problem still exists. Sara learned that though alternatives to western medicine could be quite helpful
they are not readily embraced by the doctors. She embarked on a long
expensive journey and dedicated herself to a strict health regime for years. Cleansing the body of built up toxins
food allergy tests
hair tests
herbal remedies
muscle tests
gaining nutritional knowledge and emotional work were all components in Sara’s healing process.

The author closes her book with a spreadsheet of the drugs she has experience with
their known reactions and some possible alternatives. The last seven pages list contacts for associations that may prove helpful for those on a medical adventure.

This story is an excellent example of how deficiencies and emotions can play a huge part on our overall health. As a closing
I would like to leave you with quote from Debra’s book "Patients must be treated as equal partners and need to be the ones ultimately responsible for their own health and welfare.

ISBN: 1413728324
Publisher: Publish America
Inc.
Author: Debra Ulrich

Many cookbooks these days are long on dazzle and flash
and short on good recipes that we can instantly trust and love.

New York Times best-selling author Phyllis Pellman Good gives us recipes that include ingredients we already have on hand or can easily buy-recipes that are easy
foolproof and will make our families smile.

Good's series of slow-cooker cookbooks
Fix-It and Forget-It,
sold more than 6 million copies! Now
her new "Fix-It and Enjoy-It! Cookbook" (Good Books
$15.95) offers readers even more tried-and-true
welcome-home recipes for stovetop and oven cooking.

A collection of more than 675 recipes submitted by at-home cooks from around the country
the "Fix-It and Enjoy-It! Cookbook" features mouthwatering favorites such as "10-Minute Meatloaf" and "Frozen Mocha Cheesecake." Each recipe includes its prep and cooking times.

Here's an appetizer recipe taken from the new book:


Cheese and Shrimp Strudel

Makes 16-18 slices


1 half of a 17.25-ounce package (1 sheet) frozen puff pastry
thawed

11/2 cups (6 ounces) shredded Swiss cheese

1/2 cup sour cream

1/4 cup thinly sliced green onion

1 cup (4 ounces) cooked shrimp
chopped
or 4.5 ounces canned shrimp
rinsed
drained and chopped

1 egg
beaten


On a lightly floured surface
roll the thawed puff pastry to a 10" x 18" rectangle.

Place rectangle of pastry on a lightly greased
large baking sheet.

In a medium-sized bowl
stir together cheese
sour cream
onion
shrimp and half the beaten egg (about 2 tablespoons).

Spread the mixture length-wise down half of the rectangle. Brush edges of pastry (using pastry brush) with some of the remaining beaten egg.

Carefully fold dough over the filling and seal edges with the tines of a fork. Brush top and sides of strudel with remaining egg.

Bake at 400 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.

Remove from oven and cool 20 minutes before slicing. With a very sharp knife
slice slightly on the diagonal.

A cookbook with detailed directions
including prep and cooking times
can help even novice cooks navigate the kitchen with confidence.

Reality Checked – Life through Death
is a moving saga about finding meaning in a world of suffering and pointless hate based on the color of skin. Former school teacher and Theologist
Victor Waller has incorporated many of life’s issues through the lives of his characters who were forced to make decisions in hopeless situations. Racism
revenge and hate are rampant in this book. Domestic abuse and the dangers hidden within our society’s foster care system are also addressed.

There is only one main character – Catherine Brown – along with a host of supporting characters. Catherine grows up under the terrible threat of racism - which many use simply as an excuse to harm another human. In fact
her father and uncle were orphaned at a very young age through a racist attack. The fairy-tale romance of her parents slid away as fears of her father’s suspected infidelity enforces her mother’s accusations that she is being poisoned. Never really knowing the truth
Catherine stumbles through her youth and into adulthood.

Unfortunately
a disturbed individual brutally murders her family and Catherine is dragged away by the police and incarcerated for many years. She survived the harsh environment through the friendship of her cellmate – and their hunger for revenge.

As an old woman
Catherine is only free from the bars of her prison. Her body is now her jailer – it is discovered that she inherited her mother’s mysterious illness. Thinking she had no family remaining alive
Catherine is surprised when she is invited to a family reunion. This reunion proves to be one of Catherine’s greatest challenges. As she seeks to repair the family discord
she is contacted by a person from the past and her chance for revenge is handed to her on a silver platter.

Victor Waller has created an important and meaningful story in Reality Checked. In fact
the work is well titled. The novel provokes the reader to question their own choices in life - and possibly
to release some of the pessimistic inner voices which influence their decisions.

I give this 377 page novel the highest of ratings with no hesitation
what-so-ever."


ISBN#: 0976498103
Author: Victor Waller
Publisher: Turn Key Press

A provocative
new book by author and scholar Marc Mourier reveals hidden secrets of the Bible.

In "The Garden of Eden: What Really Happened?" (Index Publishing
$14.95)
Mourier cites Biblical evidence that he believes proves that Eve was cloned from Adam. Mourier feels that Noah's flood was one way that God cleansed the Earth when the "Adam Experiment" went wrong. He also believes that Adam and Eve came after many civilizations
including Darwin's apes.

Mourier says that more than 4
0
years of translations have changed the original meaning of the Bible and that people should be inquisitive and cautious about how the Bible has been relayed. He claims that many religious thinkers and theologians have purposely created a power grid to "cover up" ideas they do not want to openly disclose but "know are true
such as the mission to create Adam and Eve.

Mourier also paints a picture of the Garden of Eden that is very different from what is traditionally taught. He believes that the original Hebrew Bible shows that the Garden of Eden isn't a typical flowery garden that one might picture. Instead, the Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil, the snake, and the apple are symbolic. For example, when Eve is described eating the fruit, Mourier interprets this as acquiring scientific laboratory knowledge on how she was created.

The book also gives Mourier's explanations on:

•
The secret
shocking and hidden revelations" of the Bible

• Where the Bible shows "proof of visitors from outside"

• Religious "cover-ups"

• Who specifically visited the Garden of Eden and created Adam.

"The Garden of Eden: What Really Happened?" has drawn positive reviews from readers who fall on different sides of Mourier's research on Intelligent Design. It comes fully illustrated with what Mourier calls "evidence that the ideas expressed in this book have secretly been known for centuries."

Quest for the Source of Darkness
Patricia Perry’s first novel
has an action fantasy story line with a strong mystery theme and an interesting romantic twist. This is no short novel
at 422 pages you’ll be kept entertained for quite a while.

The main hero character is a strong and gifted woman who is stricken with a form of memory loss. Little flashes of memory come to her
but she is frustrated with not knowing who she is and what her origins are. All she can remember is her name
Ramira.

Baffled in a tumultuous world of elves
dwarves and desert nomads
whose inability to co-exist peacefully could spell doom for all. They are forced to work together to battle the evil Mahn and his minions
a variety of demons from the low demons called Kreetch to the terrifying Vox
who are capable of possessing a body and torturing its soul for centuries.

The Elf Kings
Alyxandyr and Gard
and their royal peers - the Dwarf King
Seven
and the rulers of the Herkahs
Zada and Allad - converge together at the gates of grand city of Bystyn. Together their people find solace in numbers while they prepare to battle the sourcerous evil. Ramira discovers her power and learns that she is not meant to be alone. There is also a powerful seer and the hidden elf magic to aid her – but they all must grow in strength if there is to be any hope at all.

Patricia does not explain things in this novel. Instead
the book expertly unfolds little tantalizing bits to the reader at just the right pace. Quest for the Source of Darkness is a larger-sized book that will take the reader on fantasy adventure for many days.

ISBN#: 141377427X
Author: Patricia Perry
Publisher: Publish America

What certainly stood out for me in Barry Southers novel
Queens and Crescents
was his strong and deep feelings for his family that Barry made apparent in the dedication for this book. The love and appreciation he shares here is actually quite touching. The introduction does a good job of setting up the book through a discussion of happiness and success in today’s society.

Readers will find plenty of action and suspense in this murder romance novel. The main character here is Sean Martinez
a 28-year-old divorcee who works a mundane position in a mortgage broker firm. For Sean
life is just one day blending into the next. He just could not get over his wife leaving three years ago with her old lover. If there were a need for an example of a man in dire need of a vacation
Sean would be chosen.

Spurred on by a radio commercial one excruciatingly hot day
Sean’s vacation destination is decided for him. There
he finds true love
fascinating passion and discovers the power of intuition and fate. Cruel crime lords fighting for position
bloodcurdling hired killers and a heavy loss bring Sean back into living life for what it is.

I was impressed with Barry’s writing style because I could really picture the scenes in my head. I felt he delved deeply into the psyche of his characters
making them seem much more real than many authors are able to do. Queens and Crescents may take readers only a day or two to read
but the characters will remain alive in their minds for a number of days.

ISBN#: unknown
Author: Barry Southers
Publisher: Publish America

As the market becomes saturated with young adult fantasy books in the "Harry Potter" mold
how long will it be before the genre loses its magic?

"If
like me
you've noticed that the spell being cast by the latest crop of young adult fantasy novels is becoming less potent
it seems a fair question to ask
said R.J. Nimmo, a young adult novelist and expert on entertainment for children.

Nimmo doesn't dispute the continued popularity of the sword-and-sorcery retreads out there.


Nonetheless
assorted witches
djinn and goblins risk succumbing to that well-known pitfall of every successful celebrity from boy bands to Britney: overexposure
he said.

Nimmo says the genre's rise in popularity was initially due to J.K. Rowling's wildly successful
Harry Potter" series and was further compounded by the success of the "Dark Materials" trilogy by Philip Pullman.

"They are all fantastic books - genuinely fun and original
Nimmo said.
The problem is the market is becoming saturated. One more insipid 'Harry Potter' clone may be one too many."

So how can parents find worthwhile reading choices that their kids - whose appetites for fantasy fiction show no sign of abating - will want to open and read?

"The trick is to find books for children and young adults where the fantasy genre elements are infused as part of historical-inspired stories
thus sharpening the emotional
intellectual and educational edge
Nimmo said.


The Ancient Egyptian Ennead
Nimmo's latest myth-inspired novel set in Egypt in the time of the pharaohs, promises to do just that.


The magic in my books is something readers can identify with: the magic of learning about ancient civilizations
gods
myths and monsters
he said.
It's the way forward for an increasingly lackluster genre. I want to put the magic back in the hands of the reader."

Dawn Josephson
author of 14 books
has written a fantastic author resource with her latest book Putting it on Paper – The ground rules for creating promotional pieces that sell books. This book discusses the development and use of contents within a media kit
and other marketing materials. From cover letters
press releases
book reviews
bios
sell and catalog sheets to articles – Dawn covers it all.

Each chapter concludes with two brief
but very helpful sections. ‘Frequently Asked Questions’ is an essential ingredient to this well-rounded book because it touches on creativity and exceptions to the rule. Her section ‘Key Points’ acts as a summery to the main ideas within the chapter.

There are many excellent samples of actual promotional pieces
which give authors a variety of choices and ideas to use in creating the content for their own marketing materials. The samples are also precluded with notes on the construction of the piece so that the reader can fully understand the purpose of each opening
paragraph or by-line. Dawn shows many ways to tweak text for each piece and then closes with how to present promotional materials to various markets.

I really enjoyed the thought provoking quotes she used throughout the book and felt Putting it on Paper was quite inspirational. As an author who has spent a year of intensive marketing research and hands on application
I can say that several of Dawn’s tips are unique and I cannot wait to try them. The information on multiple press releases
mock book reviews and catalog sheets were particularly helpful for my own applications.

I highly recommend this useful book to any author who is facing book promotion. Putting it on Paper will certainly help authors get noticed.

ISBN#: 0974496618
Publisher: Ground Rules Press
Author: Dawn Josephson

Pumping Your Muse is a 136-page non-fiction
self-help writer’s manual that is conveniently available in both electronic and print format. The hardcopy is coil-bound – perfect for an inviting workbook.

Published just recently in June 2005
this book belongs on every writer’s reference bookshelf. Donna Sundblad’s goal for her manual has certainly been met
as Pumping Your Muse is able to stretch the readers’ creativity beyond their normal limits by developing skills and focusing creative energies in new directions.

The author focuses on the ability to build worlds through a variety of exercises including reflections
perspectives
balance
using multiple sensory tools and expanding thinking patterns. Readers will learn about tracking implements such as cards
journals and maps that help develop a detailed world for the reader and make the book a whole experience.

Following every exercise like a home-school class will take several weeks and will definitely improve creative writing skills. Pumping Your Muse could also be used as a refresher course
a tool during the proofreading processes of a manuscript
or to get past writer’s block.

Donna Sundblad keeps the continuity flowing at an interesting pace and has allowed space for notes at the end of every chapter. Her useful manual also includes a number of excellent writer’s resource websites.

I recommend that readers review the entire manual and then return to chapter one before they actually begin the program. In this way
the reader will be more familiar with the reasons and goals for each exercise. I’ve been anticipating my return to chapter one since I began the reviewing process of this book and have no doubt that my skills will be improved because of the exercises in this manual.

ISBN#: 0970863578
Author: Donna Sundblad
Publisher: ePress-online.com ~ Writopia
Inc.

Author
Beresford McLean brings a new novel to his fans
this one delves into a time when British culture dominates over those within Jamaica. Providence Pond’s 500 pages are divided into four parts; each involves four generations of the King family between 1880-1920. The book closes with an afterword that provides insight into some of the issues in Jamaica over the years. Readers may want to read this section first
as it will definitely enrich the experience.

A mysterious Wiseman suddenly appears to a small group of seven individuals from Providence Pond just when matters were about to get out of hand. Asa
an aged shaman-like character
intends to begin a new branch of his “Family” within their community
and this scares some folks who are intimidated by the persecuting officials. But Asa leaves and does not return until much
much later – bringing Congo King and Miss Hene along with him. There are numerous characters in Beresford’s novel but Congo
the co-leader of the new branch of Asa’s Family
is the leading role.

When I began this project
I was under the mistaken impression that it would be about a cultural clash between two peoples. Instead
the story seems to be more about a small group of people in a rural area who have children and the children have children – the readers witnessing all the drama from adultery
romance
jealousy and greed.

Anticipation of a mistaken impression could have lead to my disappointment with some sections of the book. But the transformation of Detective Graham was something I wouldn’t have wanted to miss and I am glad that I read the book through to the end. I was certainly intrigued by the beliefs
culture and drumming – perhaps due to our home-based business
Drum-it Percussion. Sadly
the story did not delve deeply into these subjects. However
the brief glimpses were certainly bright points for me.

Providence Pond is Mr. McLean’s second novel – the first being Broken Gourds – and is currently working on a third book. He is a generous man
deeply involved in numerous charities. Beresford actually emigrated from Jamaica to the United States roughly 36 years ago
and so writing about his homeland obviously slips easily into his novels.

This book would certainly appeal to readers who enjoy rural romance.

Publisher: Anancy Books
ISBN: 0-9753297-1-5

Proof Evident is a newly released crime fiction novel by lawyer and controversial psychologist
John Dicke. The story line is based around a criminal case for Judge Avery Jackson who coldly murdered Sheriff Hardacre during his speech to 150 city officials. The problem is
Mr. Jackson has no memory of the event at all…

Jack Maine leaves the public service and starts up a private practice with the assistance of his talented wife while taking on this difficult and seemingly doomed case. His dedicated and patient staff includes a master investigator and a phenomenal young novice lawyer – both of whom are fully aware they may not see a paycheck for some time. Jack’s nemesis is the quick-witted and well-financed defense team led by an ambitious attorney that is set on becoming "seen". Death follows this case everywhere. Just when the lawyers feel they are getting somewhere - people start dropping like flies. Soon a CIA scandal is discovered that threatens national security
which powerful people are desperate to cover-up; meanwhile a drug ring threatens to take control of every aspect of the community.

John Dicke addresses the issue of pleading Not Guilty By Reason of Insanity
which is a much larger issue than I had previously been aware of. Even mentioning the plea will turn off a jury
who are hardened by the preconception that the plea is repeatedly used to falsely gain sympathy
and therefore
receive a lighter sentence for a crime they are guilty of committing.

John also shows the intense stress of an exhausting case
which can be exhilarating to intrigued lawyers bored with the mundane courthouse activities
and the temptations that could destroy those that have more desire than sense. Mr. Dicke uses elements of real life
historical events – including the government scandal.

It is my opinion that Proof Evident is a book for deep-thinking individuals who favor courtroom drama - because there is a lot of it. I found myself wanting to skip through those sections
but had I done so the ending would have left me shocked and baffled. I loved the eventful conclusion and was surprised by a few characters as well. Overall
I think John Dicke has created an interesting novel that deserves to be given a chance by readers of this genre.



ISBN#: 0-9764981-5-4
Author: John Dicke
Publisher: Synergy Books

It is hard to specify exactly what genre Larry Roth’s new book can fall into. Political
frugal living
gay rights
taking care of the body and more are covered in Political Frugality – Guerrilla Economics for the Demonized
Devalued and Disenfranchised.

Larry was a high income-earner who gave it up to be a relaxed gardener; he exercises
eats right and lives frugally. This retired professional walks-the-walk
and raises several interesting points of view on society and communities.

Discussions on how we dictate each other’s belief system to one another without even realizing what we are doing were definitely thought provoking. Larry also brings to light the unrealistic discrimination that still slides in and out of our daily lives - and we find this normal.

I found the author’s ideas on social security just fantastic. When you think about it
where does our money go if we die early and are not married? For that matter
why should the spouse left behind be penalized by receiving only a portion of the mate’s coverage?
The true cost of climbing the social ladder is certainly a point well made by Larry and his thoughts on how consumerism is a vote with the wallet is enlightening. He talks about corporations that build items without replaceable parts or limited availability in order to force more consumer spending. According to Larry
it does not have to be like this.
Although Political Frugality begins a little heavy and political for my tastes
just past these first few pages the real life stories will entertain and shock the reader. Larry’s nightmare situation with the credit bureau is pretty shocking. This is not another "victim of fraud" story folks
but rather a bureaucratic goof taken to an extreme!

Larry also makes some excellent arguments for the benefits of walking. It can be so much more than frugal and responsible transportation
exercise and meditation – it can actually bond communities. How? I can’t tell you here
you’ll have to read the book to find out!
So many beliefs and views on issues were similar to my own that I found myself thinking "Exactly!" repeatedly. Larry certainly brings attention to some very ironic and illogical social issues. Folks that read Political Frugality will learn new ideas on how to live in a more socially and fiscally responsible way.

ISBN#: 0962522848
Author: Larry Roth
Illustrated by: Andy Dandino
Publisher: Living Cheap Press

At a time when new poker books are pouring onto store shelves
Dennis Purdy is the first author to offer a unique approach to learning poker with The Illustrated Guide to Texas Hold’Em. The former gambling pro uses a visual problem-solving approach rather than a textual approach at teaching poker strategy.

The first three chapters of the guide start off very similarly to many beginner books on the poker market
covering the basic rules of how to play Hold’Em
what you might wear to a table
how much you should buy-in for and some rules of good poker etiquette. The fourth chapter presents eight brief rules of ‘good basic poker strategy’ followed by a detailed explanation of actual odds and pot odds. Chapter five is where this book becomes unique as the next 300 pages are filled with 150 different
illustrated Texas Hold’Em poker scenarios
matched with the author’s answer to each of the practice situations! Purdy ends the book with a noteworthy 30 page poker terminology glossary.

The cover indicates that this guide may make a winner out of an advanced player but this book was really designed to captivate those unlikely readers that shy away from the other poker books already published. The introduction warns that this book is not ‘targeted towards sophisticated and knowledgeable players’
and I would agree. Advanced players will find too many examples stating ‘the obvious’ like situation #2: folding 27 offsuit before the flop.

Purdy’s advice is mostly in-line with most other poker authors however there are certainly some debatable answers to a few of his problems (i.e. Problem #46 suggests to cap the betting with 36s pre-flop?). There is often more than one correct way to play any individual poker hand however I sometimes found myself wondering why Purdy would suggest such advanced plays
especially since these situations can be easily misinterpreted by new players. The intention of this guide may have been to give definitive situational advice to poker scenarios
however
I suggest that readers actually place more importance on the general strategy advice given in the answers rather than the specific action to take. It’s really the whole strategic approach you take to the game that will make the most difference in your results.

The visual representation of each of the poker situations is by far this book’s greatest asset. I personally know readers to have picked up this book after ignoring the other acclaimed texts on the premise of its simple and fun-looking learning method. Another quality point is that no commitment is needed as the reader can easily review a couple pages and put the book back down again without losing the value of the material. The teaching pattern also follows through with its ideas
enabling the reader to encounter the same notions and strategies in various problems throughout the book (for example
each of situations #17
#38 & #148 address folding small pocket pairs in early position before the flop).

Due to the popular nature of problem solving game books
this style of teaching poker is expected to appeal to many players and will most likely be adopted in more books to come. Like many books of its nature
The Illustrated guide to Texas Hold’Em is not recommended as the only book to teach you sound poker strategy
but as a visual practice supplement for those players not interested in studying the more technical texts. Readers that insist on keeping the fun and excitement first and foremost in their poker education will appreciate this chance to learn without being bogged down with abstract concepts or complicated terminology.

Search engine optimization
or SEO
is a field overshadowed by sensational claims and sometimes dubious practices. If your business has a website
you naturally want it to obtain high rankings in the major search engines so that potential customers can find you. Yet you might be suspicious of companies that promise to catapult your website to #1 ranking in almost no time ot announce that they will submit your site to thousands of search engines and web directories.

Peter Kent's book in the For Dummies series offers a useful introduction to search engine optimization. He starts out by surveying the various search sites and search systems and explains who gets results from whom. He then suggests how yo give your website a quick makeover to give it greater visibility.

Throughout the book
Kent repeatedly emphasiszes functionality over slick web technologies that might actually hinder search engines in finding your site. His second emphasis is on content as a lure for search engines.

Kent uses a fictitious website on "rodent racing" to give the reader very specific advice on picking the right keywords
getting into search engines
optimizing code
finding specialized directories
and much more. With over 350 pages (and a detailed index)
this book offers you a wealth of suggestions and useful advice
whether you want to improve your website's ranking by yourself or hire a SEO firm to do it.

While the "For Dummies" series of books varies quite a bit in quality
this volume can be recommended. What is particularly useful is the associated website that contains all the links mentioned in the book.

Pariah
written by muti-talented artist and author Timothy Goodwin
is a science fiction
fantasy novel that incorporates some very clear ideas to what is wrong with today’s world. The characters are colorfully portrayed and the battles were very well written.

Eric
the main character
is a victim of an abusive father and endures extreme poverty as a young adult. He is eventually diagnosed with bi-polar disorder and grows into what could be called a normal life. He meets and marries a wonderful woman and her son embraces Eric as his father. Eric loves his life despite the difficulties in finding a good job and unfulfilled dreams to relocate his family to a place where his wife would not suffer from allergies so badly.

Eric becomes involved in a motor vehicle accident and wakes up in a wildly different place called the Itarri. He is later told that this is a space ship and he is light years - and possibly another dimension - from the life he once knew. Everyone on board expects Eric to become someone else when he regains his senses. Seemingly on the brink of insanity
he experiences "fragmentation" – when memories of other lives collide - but eventually works his way back to sanity only to discover that he is actually a clone.

In a desperate attempt to do whatever it takes to return to a time and a life he cherished so dearly
Eric undergoes intensive training. The reader is taken on fantastic space travel and time travel adventures
battles with foes
scenes with gods
demi-gods and an old flame that is incredibly vindictive are good spices for a great read.

At times I found myself confused
but I know from experience that books I have reread many times are those that challenge the mind and intrigue the reader to return. The ending has an interesting twist
which I think readers may suspect early on
but the work is written so well that it will leave them guessing.

ISBN#:1413713025
Publisher: Publish America
Inc.
Author: Timothy Goodwin

Within the first few pages
I was engrossed and deeply moved by Apina Hrbek’s eloquent writing skills. Tears of compassion were in my eyes at several points in this moving story of survival.

The main character
Edita
was raised by a heartless mother who became twisted after helplessly watching the communist government steal her family’s vast fortune. Her nonconformist father was her only source of comfort and it was from him that she learned about these forbidden things called "choice" and "freedom".

The setting is a land under strict Soviet rule where people are in a constant state of fright and can not afford to trust anyone – not even their own kin. To trust was an invitation for disaster.

The story of their escape to a land of freedom was wrought with circumstances going wrong – and yet it all worked out in the end. Resettling in a place where they must learn new customs
new languages and find employment to support their small family was no easy task for Edita and her husband. Through poverty and displacement
the family struggled to find their dreams and learn how to deal with this new idea - the freedom to make choices.

Pandemonium is certainly an educational book that may be beneficial for children and grand children of immigrants who wish to understand what it was like. It also could serve as a useful reminder to appreciate
protect and expand upon the rights of all mankind.

Publisher: Publish America
Inc.
ISBN#: 1413756670
Author: Apina Hrbek

Over the past 20 years
the personal computer has evolved from a high-tech toy for brainiacs with pocket protectors
into a vital part of virtually every American home and business. And with the help of the Internet and the latest software
PCs can be used for everything from communication and productivity to entertainment and leisurely pursuits.

Unfortunately for the new or inexperienced PC user
there's no techie boot camp or PC driver's license to ensure a core competency in personal computing
and it's easy to get confused or overlook critical details in a new computer system.

However
help is on the way. Wiley Publishing
the premier personal technology publisher
has created a new series of computer books in conjunction with Geeks On Call-America's premier provider of on-site computer services. Together
they are rolling out four titles that will help home and small-business users with everything from tuning up and maintaining a Windows XP system to installing and securing a wireless network.

The "Geeks On Call 5-Minute Fixes" series aims to clearly explain the most commonly diagnosed issues troubling PC users and save them both money and time on service calls or telephone tech support. The first four titles in the series include "Security and Privacy

Windows XP

PCs" and "Wireless Networking." With these books-which list at $14.99 each-readers learn straightforward ways to have a better and more secure personal computing experience.

Geeks On Call is the leading independent provider of on-site computer services. Its certified
trained and tested technicians provide expert computer installation and networking services
on-site repairs
security solutions and system upgrades for residential and commercial customers alike.

A new book points out that many scientists and clinicians are concentrating their energies on umbilical cord-derived stem cells from healthy babies. Recent research shows human umbilical cord stem cell therapy (hUCSCT) can help many conditions.

"Umbilical Cord Stem Cell Therapy: The Gift of Healing from Healthy Newborns" by David Steenblock
M.S.
D.O
and Anthony G. Payne
Ph.D. (Basic Health Publications
$24.95) explores this medical frontier
including current research
descriptions of how various conditions respond and the personal stories of many patients. The Steenblock Research Institute is at the forefront of the groundbreaking umbilical cord stem therapy research. Researchers indicate improvements with:

• Cerebral palsy

• Traumatic brain injury

• Diabetic retinopathy and neuropathy and other eye conditions

• Stroke and other circulatory problems

• Multiple sclerosis

• Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS).

In the book
Drs. Steenblock and Payne describe how scientists retrieve stem cells
expand their numbers and apply them to patients. The doctors explain what happens after a stem-cell treatment and what makes treatments more effective.

A question-and-answer section tackles such frequently asked questions as: is the treatment safe
how quick are the results
what is the cost
what are the pre- and post-treatments
does insurance cover the costs
what are side effects
what is the current status of FDA approval for stem cell treatments and why is this type of therapy permitted in some countries but not others.

There is increasing evidence
the authors report
that relates aging and disease to lack of normal stem cell growth and repair. A new area of study
they explain
is dedicated to exploring the ability to mobilize one's own stem cells to help a body repair itself. Additionally
there are scientifically validated ways of ensuring that stem cells are not compromised in terms of function or ability to mobilize in response to injury or disease.

In a year marked by war and natural disasters
there is good news: Americans are committed to service
charitable giving and volunteering.

For example
charities and philanthropic organizations are thriving-even after a period filled with an unusually high number of natural disasters. According to The Chronicle of Philanthropy
Many of the nation's biggest charities are raising as much or more than they did in the late 1990s, when the strong economy and booming stock market boosted charitable donations a startling 50 percent.


In addition to record monetary contributions
volunteerism in certain population segments is booming
too. It's estimated that more than 64 million Americans annually volunteer their time
talent and energy to make a difference in their community and in the lives of those around them.

Some say that commitment to service is one of the more enduring legacies of President George H.W. Bush's presidency.

A new book
Points of Light: A Celebration of the American Spirit of Giving by Robert Goodwin and Thomas Kinkade
with a foreword by former President Bush ($19.95
Center Street)
tells the story of this rise in philanthropy and volunteerism.

Each of the 12 chapters presents a different story of people making a real difference
from Timothy Miller
who organized the Texas EquuSearch Mounted Search and Recovery Team after the abduction and murder of his daughter
to Lt. Jim Mayer
who lost his arm in Vietnam but not his spirit to serve. Mayer dedicates his life to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and spends his spare time as a volunteer amputee peer adviser at Walter Reed Army Hospital.

The Points of Light Foundation & Volunteer Center National Network engages and mobilizes millions of volunteers who are helping to solve serious social problems in thousands of communities.

Robert Goodwin has served as president and CEO of the Points of Light Foundation since July 1
1995
as a "painter of light
Thomas Kinkade is said to be America's most collected living artist, according to CBS News.

Bright colored sheets just inside the sturdy book cover certainly set the mood for this excellent book geared for children between the ages of 4 and 8.

The main character is a young boy who is desperately fretting over the class reaction to his strange family. He dreads the day the children in his classroom are due to present their portrayals of their families. Much to his delight
he realizes his family is not so strange after all. Parents and teachers will certainly find the yoga-loving dad with orange polka-dotted socks is sure to get the giggles rolling. The impressive illustrations hold attention to the page.

As youth
we are often fascinated by other family’s doors and what lays beyond them. When we discover that all the quirks and differences reside in everyone’s family
it makes it easier to accept our families and our place in them. This is a valuable life skill that would certainly help to ground little people at this age.

Educators and caretakers may find this book useful in social and family studies.
Children are encouraged to personalize the book on the first page and create a list of their family and their personality traits on the last page – thus making this book more interactive."

ISBN#: 0974430722
Author: Kristin Joy Humes
Illustrations: Loel Barr
Publisher: Merry Lane Press

There's helpful news -and possibly inspiration-available to women who are trying to juggle the roles of individual
wife and mother.

A new book
described as a household handbook like no other
is said to offer a blend of encouraging chats and step-by-step game plans that address everything from phasing out clutter to revitalizing a marriage.

The book
Woman First, Family Always
by Kathryn Sansone (Meredith Books
$24.95)
is built on the principle that no woman can care for her family unless she cares for herself.

"You are important as a woman and an individual
not simply as a mother and wife. During 18 years of marriage
with children
I've learned that if a woman gives up an aspect of herself-either the woman in her
the mother or the wife-the other two facets will suffer
said Sansone.

In each section, she provides gentle reflections and eye-opening techniques for keeping the peace, maintaining order, and bringing more fun into a family's routine.

The book also offers tips on coping and thriving within three roles:

• Self. Sansone, a mother of 10, describes ways to hibernate for a few hours, exercise regularly, delegate tasks, ask for plenty of help, and even develop a personal style and beauty regimen.

• Wife. Financial pressures, disagreements over how to handle the kids, and the aging process itself can all contribute to stress in a marriage. Readers will find rejuvenating ideas for creating a true partnership in marriage, no matter how much is going on in their lives. She even offers tips for making the bedroom a sanctuary.

• Mother. A child is subject to more outside influences than ever before. Fortunately, the author provides parents with ways to be heard over peer pressure, media personalities and seductive advertising. From resolving sibling squabbles to navigating a school system, fighting childhood obesity and nurturing a genuine spirit of love and happiness at home, her advice for raising well-grounded, well-mannered children is intended to reassure and inspire.

Kathryn Sansone was recently recruited by America Online to serve as a real-life Chief of Everything Officer (CEO) for the company's Life Management program. She has also been featured in a range of media outlets including O Magazine and Inside Edition, and has appeared on Oprah. Sansone, her husband, Jim, and their 10 children live in St. Louis, Missouri.

Moon Child by Simone Maroney is a larger sized adventure
fantasy novel with 55 chapters. The story line involves complex relationships between six main characters
which are delicately balanced leaving room for intrigue.

Hanna
the chief character
was selected from birth by the Goddess
given special training and endowed with ‘gifts’ the elders call the ‘Memories’. As Hanna goes through many travelling adventures
she becomes respected and known as the ‘One’ a ‘Reader’ and a ‘Healer’.

Her father
a priest and a shaman in the village tries to protect her while making Hanna learn to stand on her own. Manon
a dear friend and fellow ‘Healer’
helps Hanna find a position in the same village that tried to kill her. Raer
her childhood friend
whose brain was inadvertently injured during play
becomes a valuable aid to Hanna and her adopted village. Janna
Hanna’s archenemy
keeps people at attention with her evil and treacherous behavior. A little romance is thrown in with Jio
also known as ‘Maih’
who is actually Janna’s brother.

So much is going on in the book that readers may find themselves stopping to retrace a few pages. I enjoyed reading this novel and found that it reminded me a little of Clan of the Cave Bear – because of the tribal differences
traveling and ‘gifts’ the chief character endures. Sometimes being selected by the Gods brings a tumultuous life!

ISBN#: 1933157046
Author: Simone Maroney
Publisher: Draumr Publishing

Action
thriller and humor – this book has it all! Men of Extreme Action by Joseph Kochanoff is one of the better books I have reviewed this year
despite its obvious need of editing. Based in the action movie making industry
Joseph incorporates murder
excellent fight scenes and sabotage.

The two main characters are action movie stars that have difficult personal issues keeping them from doing their best. Wolfe Neilson is an aging man who is losing the battle both in his career and with alcohol. Steele Taylor is an older egomaniac who has become ruthlessly rude and demanding. These two actors are forced to make one last stab at reviving their dying careers (and personalities) by making an action movie together. Neither is used to sharing the ‘lime light’ and the antagonism between these two ancient enemies is quite entertaining. Steele and Wolfe are constantly trading insulting wisecracks that had me guffawing aloud – yet in the end they will depend on each other to live through another day.

Colorful characters such as Mr. Pang
the torture-trainer who forces Wolfe and Steele to cooperate
and Tina
the agent who mediates many antagonistic situations
brighten the story line. The rival -the most popular action movie star of the day - Blaze Vansome
is easy to hate.

Steele and Wolfe are soon living as if inside one of their movies. Who can they trust? Where do they go for help? How does one fight a well-connected crime organization on their own?

In their desperate efforts to solve the mystery of who is trying to sabotage their movie
Wolfe and Steele stumble into one hilarious situation into another. Their banter keeps the mood light and the action is so fast paced you will not want to put the book down.

I highly recommend this book."


ISBN#: 1413735398
Author: Joseph Kochanoff
Publisher: Publish America
Inc.

A delicious and nutritious way to add zinc
iron and protein-zip to a salad is to add some beef tenderloin. Not only is beef tenderloin an excellent or good source of nine essential nutrients
but it is also one of 29 lean cuts of beef.

Nutrient-rich lean beef is a complete recipe for better health
with essential vitamins and minerals and great taste.

To help you prepare delicious lean beef
The Healthy Beef Cookbook
(Wiley
$21.95) is now available wherever books are sold and on www.amazon.com and www.BeefItsWhatsForDinner.com.

The cookbook is a collection of more than 130 lean beef recipes
nutrition tips and culinary techniques. The delicious recipes are satisfying for people watching their weight and contain many essential nutrients in fewer calories. In fact
nearly 75 percent have less than 400 calories per serving and more than 50 percent incorporate all food groups.


Tenderloin Cranberry and Pear Salad with Honey

Mustard Dressing

Prep Time: 25 mins
Serves 4


4 beef tenderloin steaks
cut 3/4 inch thick (4 ounces each)

1/2 teaspoon coarse grind black pepper

1 package (5 ounces) mixed baby salad greens

1 medium red or green pear
cored
cut into 16 wedges

1/4 cup dried cranberries

Salt

1/4 cup coarsely chopped pecans
toasted

1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (optional)


Honey Mustard Dressing

1/2 cup prepared honey mustard

2 to 3 tablespoons water

11/2 teaspoons olive oil

1 teaspoon white wine vinegar

1/4 teaspoon coarse grind black pepper

1/8 teaspoon salt

1. Season beef steaks with 1/2 teaspoon pepper. Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Place steaks in skillet; cook 7 to 9 minutes for medium rare to medium doneness
turning occasionally.

2. Meanwhile
whisk Honey Mustard Dressing ingredients in small bowl until well-blended. Set aside. Divide greens evenly among 4 plates. Top evenly with pear wedges and dried cranberries.

3. Carve steaks into thin slices; season with salt as desired. Divide steak slices evenly over salads. Top each salad evenly with dressing
pecans and goat cheese
if desired.

Nutrition information per serving: 321 calories; 14 g fat (3 g saturated fat; 7 g monounsaturated fat); 67 mg cholesterol; 434 mg sodium; 21 g carbohydrate; 3.3 g fiber; 26 g protein; 7.6 mg niacin; 0.6 mg vitamin B6; 1.4 mcg vitamin B12; 2.4 mg iron; 30.0 mcg selenium; 5.1 mg zinc.

This recipe is an excellent source of protein
niacin
vitamin B6
vitamin B12
selenium and zinc
and a good source of fiber and iron.

A stimulating adventure! Sabine Muir has written a wonderful children’s story that can be read many
many times. This is a time-travel
Christian fantasy novel that reminds me a little bit of one of my favorite childhood books
‘The Lion
the Witch and the Wardrobe’.

Here
the main character
Mathew
is a young boy growing up under difficulties that are quite uncommon from his piers. Mathew’s father is missing
his mother has begun a new romance and bullying at school weighs heavily upon his young shoulders. Mathew thought he could escape it all during his stay at his Aunt and Uncle’s tranquil family farm. Unexpectedly
Mathew and his cousins are thrown into an adventure when they accidentally enter a mystery gateway into to a world of Kings
Queens
Castles and ghosts.

Sabine Muir’s use of factual
historical legendary characters brought the Canmore Dynasty to life - an era that is quickly fading from all memory. The author’s research and understanding of the historical era is evident in this excellent piece of work. Her fascination with this particular section in time has produced several works of fiction.

‘Mathew and the Highland Rescue’ is only the first in a series of adventure books. A delightful light read for the adventurous and young-of-heart. I look forward to reading her next published work."

Publisher: Publish America
Inc.
ISBN#: 1413759165
Author: Sabine Muir

Asking most kids to pick up a book during July or August is like asking them to clean their room or eat their Brussels sprouts. Fortunately
there's a simple solution to the quandary of summer reading lists: Stock them with titles that are fun and challenging and encourage kids to look beyond a book's covers.

"A Treasure's Trove" (Treasure Trove
Inc.) by Michael Stadther is one such book to consider. A beautifully illustrated fairy tale suitable for children of all ages
it became a New York Times best-seller
captured the hearts and imaginations of children and families and
through clues hidden in its pages
inspired a nationwide treasure hunt. At the request of teachers and librarians
the author has read it to children at hundreds of schools throughout North America and at the annual White House Easter Egg Roll.

The story
which appeals to both boys and girls
takes place in the Great Forest and tells a sweet (and sometimes sad) tale of friendship and greed
good and dark fairies and how love can overcome fear. There is plenty of action and suspense
plus beautiful fairies and romance. The book is all about family values
love and cooperation
loyalty and friendship. It teaches children the importance of saving the forests
about working together to accomplish their goals and that they need not be afraid of the dark.

"This book's value is truly in the words and excitement on the kids' faces
said Katie Mullins, a 3rd grade teacher at Degan Elementary School in Lewisville, Texas.

Now Available:

Free Teachers' Guide & Books

Because children quickly and easily gravitate to the book's characters and themes, teachers asked the author if he could provide additional
Treasure Trove" material for classroom use. In response
A Treasure's Trove Teachers' Guide,
developed in conjunction with a panel of leading educational advisors in the U.S.
is now available for download at www.atreasurestrove.com/schools.

Intended as an enrichment tool
it is chock-full of puzzles and activities in such subject areas as reading comprehension
poetry
music composition
map reading and drawing
problem solving and critical thinking. The first 1
0
educators to register online for the new guide will receive a free copy of "A Treasure's Trove

A Puzzle Book Companion" and the "Official Solution Book to A Treasure's Trove."

In September 2006
the book's sequel
Secrets of the Alchemist Dar,
will be released-this time accompanied by a worldwide treasure hunt. Once again
Stadther will visit schools to read the book to students in grades 3 and up. Teachers and principals interested in having the author visit their schools should sign up early by visiting www.atreasurestrove.com/schools.

"A Treasure's Trove" is available in hard- and softcover at major bookstores and Amazon.com.

Lucian’s Place - Book Review

Lucian’s Place is a tale of far-fetched proportions
yet so close to the possibilities of our own present technologies that it is quite believable.

The idea of three people and their immediate surroundings (a high-tech self-sustained ranch) being thrown back in time might seem a trifle wild
yet the author gives it all a sense of normalcy that distracts you from that. As the characters discover they are defending their very lives from strange creatures from another time
the dangers never relent. With the help of an aware computer that thinks acts and feels like a human
the battle to simply survive is eased somewhat
however the question of returning to their proper time is inherent.

Belle Smith gives us a great science fiction read without the typical concoction of space travel and high-tech aliens. Instead
she keeps us on Earth with a taste of what computers
combined with nano-technology and human creativity
may achieve for us in the not too distant future… or should I say past? Her unique vision of how civilization might be rebuilt from scratch with minimal impact on the environment makes for an inspiring read.

Lucian’s Place is a definite page-turner and a book I found very hard to put down. Guaranteed to make you think differently before cursing your home computer!


ISBN#: 1-4137-6963-2
Author: Belle Smith
Publisher: Publish America
Pages: 364

Author: Ashra Enchantments
Love spells
magic spells and witch craft spells are real easy to shy away from on your spiritual journey
but modern medicine has yet to account for the direct relationship between positive thoughts
spirituality and kindred spirits! Our thoughts have a direct chemical reaction within our spiritual health. Alternative medicine has proven spiritual healing. As a spell caster and professional psychic advisor
I have consulting many seeking spirituality and health. New age remedies are on the rise!

Attract a new love? Find your soul mate? Bring back a former love? Return a former lover? Mystical powers and voodoo spells have nothing to do with it! Powerful love spells are about authentic spell
energy influence for results that work. I have studied Egyptian Love Spells and Egyptian Witch craft for many years. If you know “how to” manifest powerful love spells
you can learn any book of spells! Revenge spells
binding spells or money spells – the full moon is the limits! Free beginner spells for those who prefer candles and Safire dust are available in e-books online.

True love spells MUST manifest from an authentic spell caster that cares! The problem with magick spells and potions failing is directly related to poor technique because the “how to cast spells” is not present
or the spell caster forget the binding
or they are a learning spell caster wanting to cast a spell. Please seek experienced
accurate spell casters for powerful love spells
magic spells and voodoo spells! Always ask questions prior to requesting the casting of spells. Real love and money spells will need a waxing moon / full moon to bring back a lover or attract new love. This is because the binding process takes that moon energy forging it with Egyptian Love Spell materials to have a full manifest gain that has guaranteed results. Traditional witchcraft is the roots for love spells and I wouldn’t have it any other way. The great pyramid of Giza had the first shadow book of spells.

Companionship is one of the greatest love gifts in life! I guaranteed you that you don’t want to take it for granted. Real love is a blessing that has no boundaries and does no physical harm. On this spiritual journey through life
we must acknowledge the positive and learn from the negatives. Your enlightenment awaits you!

ฉ Spell Enchantments 2006.

Ashra: Renown psychic advisor
spell caster and Akychi Master. She specializes in paranormal expert
metaphysical and Egyptian witchcraft! Turning dreams into reality. Owner of Spell Enchantments a spiritual source
successor in future predictions and love spells has earned place rank of eBay's #1 Psychic (2005-2006) and published recognition worldwide.
Website: FreeLoveSpells.ca

Synopsis

Looking Glass is set in the not too distant future
in a gritty
unrefined
shattered North America. Hackers and IT security technicians fight a different kind of war in cyberspace. A serial killer has found a way to use the network to reach inside his victims brains
and use these brains as his weapon. Shroud is a security network team leader for a large retail company. In the realm of cyberspace
inside a sensory deprivation tank and jacked in to the network
she is fast
nimble
and ruthless. She is just beginning her shift when the killer strikes for the first time. She survives
but her entire team is dead or missing. She is exiled from her corporate resources
and her search for the killer is fraught with peril and overwhelming odds.

Review

As a fan and reader of the cyberpunk genre
I strongly recommend Looking Glass. I won't go into a plot synopsis
as others already have. The writing style is tight
and focused through the window of Shroud's perception and life experiences
and her shift into an increasingly uncomfortable and dangerous situation
both mentally and physically. It is this revelation of her inner life
with its defensive limitations and powerful motivations that keeps the focus on the human
despite the seeming technological focus of the plot.

The dystopic setting of the splintered second world North America is revealed as is needed by the narrative. The technology is speculative
but much more soundly grounded in current technologies that give a sense of competence to the characters actions
and satisfaction to the reader familiar with the topics.

In the end
to me
Science Fiction is a human story. It asks what will we do
what will we become
when technology has changed our society
our horizons
our bodies and challanged the limits of what is possible. Looking Glass does this
with a good touch for personal tension
evolving character awareness
and human weakness.

The plot is well thought-out
and the pacing is fast without being frenetic. There's little
if any
plot telegraphing or foreshadowing. The setting is future
yet the reference points are tantalizingly close to our present - again
enough to keep me invested (Shame about Reno
though). And while "cyberpunk" applies in general genre terms
the author isn't trying to be William Gibson or anyone else
which is a refreshing change! But if you like that style
then you'll definitely want to give this book a try. One day
one of those hackers turns out to be a serial killer
and uses the fact that people are jacked in to the Internet to use the Internet as a way to kill. Her corporation
Omni-Mart
in standard shortsighted corporate cover-up style
gets in the way of her investigation
while the killer pursues her every move in a world that is so completely connected to the Net that movement without observation is just about impossible.

Dr. Farro
or "Shroud" as she is known
is one of the most dynamic characters in fiction. She wrestles with inner demons as well as the muck that is the Internet of tomorrow. She doesn't necessarily deal with these demons very well. In a job that requires a certain level of paranoid schizophrenia to perform well
she is good at her work.

However
when the reader gets inside her head
we wee that this perfect employee of the future is far from a perfect human being
a metaphor
I think
for the futureshock and information overload that we experience every day. Strickland shows us that all the great technology that makes our civilization work so well may not be good for our mental health. It's a powerful message
yet there is no moralizing that gets in the way of a truly exciting thriller.

All in all
it was a great read
and I'll be back for the next instalment.

Whether you are working through a problem with a friend or trying to stay calm about world events
there is a new book to help you understand and work with the world around you.

"When I meet new people in new places
in my mind there is no barrier
no curtain
said the Dalai Lama in
Kindness
Clarity
and Insight" (Snow Lion
$19.95). "In my mind
as human beings you are my brothers and sisters; there is no difference in substance."

For 25 years
the Dalai Lama has shared his philosophy with people in North America. As a religious leader
he has worked toward peace and tolerance in his own and other countries.

As a pop culture icon
he has influenced thousands to reassess the minor and major frustrations in life
to take stock of themselves and to find a centered
peaceful inner self.

As his good friend and the book's translator
Jeffrey Hopkins
said
His Holiness is calling on all humanity to appreciate the social value of kindness and compassion; kindness and compassion are the fabric that make society possible.


"No matter whom I meet and where I go
I always give advice to be altruistic
to have a good heart
said the Dalai Lama.
This is the essence of religion; this is the essence of the Buddhist teaching."

This celebratory new edition of the very first book of the Dalai Lama's teachings in the English-speaking world is a testament to the kindness
clarity and insight of the material within it.

Twenty-five years after its original publication it remains one of the most readable and wide ranging of his books.

The book's 20 chapters are deftly arranged in a developmental sequence so that readers easily understand the background needed to appreciate more complex topics later in the text.

Taken as a whole
the teachings in this book provide an accessible map of Tibetan spiritual culture. It has been described as both an excellent introduction to Tibetan Buddhism and a clear picture of the Dalai Lama.

Award winning author John Roynesdal
is a retired English teacher who has written for more than 15 years and produced 3 books for his Phillip Michael Carnegie Mystery series. Throughout the series
John focuses on issues that prevail on mankind: greed
prejudice
poverty
dysfunctional families and the conflict between traditional and modern societies. Living in Darkness
a 265-page mystery novel
is the third book in this series.

Here
we have a serial killer at large. Detective Carnegie and his coworkers Paul and Nick are out to solve the case. Clues point to many possibilities and keep the team working hard. Is it the work of a homophobe? Or a case of mad revenge? Or pointless youth rage? Juliana
their insightful and caring friend has often aided in cases in the past – and this one is no different. Inspired by the work of another man
Juliana is attempting to open a safe house for runaway gay children but she is obstructed by zealous religious leaders.

The boss
Fats
wants to see the serial killer case closed and it seems that it should be – but Detective Carnegie feels something is not quite right. He continues the investigation without consent and stumbles on some clues that change everything.

This book promotes freedom and a willingness to live and let live regarding sexuality. Good points were made about prohibition making various sexual urges into something secretive and devious. I felt that John did a wonderful job depicting the stresses of the homosexual. Readers are shown the stigma that is placed on them as soon as they are known as "gay". The reaction of employers and family was interesting and the prejudice homosexuals endure was enlightening. The story line definitely brings awareness to the hateful and disgusting crime of gay-bashing.

ISBN#: 1411626702
Author: John A. Roynesdal
Publisher: Lulu Press

Is your life full of chaos?

Challenges such as stress
anxiety
illness and depression all contribute to a chaotic life. So how do you rid your life of the obstacles to your happiness and change it for the better?

Yehuda Berg says the answer lies within a group of sacred letters from the biblical story of Moses and the Red Sea. In his book "The 72 Names of God
Berg says that through 72 three-letter combinations taken from three biblical verses, you can find the strength to eliminate negative forces that keep you from living a fulfilling life.

The book explains that the 72 names are not
names" in the literal sense
but visual mantras that are activated spiritually rather than vocally. These spiritual tools come from a tradition called Kabbalah
which is today the fastest-growing global spiritual movement. Contrary to popular belief
Kabbalah is not a religion and you do not have to be Jewish to study it.

According to the teachings of Kabbalah
everything
including our destiny
begins and ends with our own individual behavior. The apparent randomness that we encounter in life is actually a system of cause and effect. Furthermore
the ability to overcome challenges lies in the power of mind over matter.

"The 72 Names of God" encourages readers to meditate on the names and follow through with a physical action to implement positive change in their lives.

Here are a few of the names and their applications:

* Healing: Think about others who also need healing. Be accountable. Blaming someone or something else absolves us of responsibility. Accepting 100 percent responsibility brings about the energy of healing.

* Unconditional Love: You should offer unconditional love to others if you want to have peace and serenity in your life. Love has the power to eradicate all forms of darkness. When you offer love to your enemies
you destroy their darkness and hatred.

* Eliminating Negative Thoughts: When negative thoughts - worry
anxiety
fear
pessimism
uncertainty - invade your mind
focus on thoughts that move you forward
not backward.

* Letting Go: Human nature is to hang on to past regrets and earlier traumas. But you cannot live a fulfilling future if you are hanging on to an unhappy and cynical past. This name gives you the courage to let go.

The Little Mornings
by C M Albrecht is a murder mystery with 262 absolutely absorbing pages. We have three main characters here – the grandfather
an alcoholic of questionable character
a slightly off balance woman (Angie) and an impressionable young man (Darcy) who becomes mixed up in a whirlwind of events. Murder
thievery and lies keep the unsteady relationship between Darcy and Angie on edge. Keeping a secret is no easy task
especially when someone else pops into the scene with inside knowledge to the truth. Darcy
unable to control the events
becomes another person entirely from the one we knew in the first few pages of the book.

Perhaps because I am a writer
and this book has to do with the publishing industry
I am partial to the theme. Grandfather’s description of a writer’s methods to reach their creative dreams had me laughing out loud – because it was so true. As were the frustrated
aspiring writers and the over worked publishers. I felt the book was very realistic in this regard.

I loved the first few paragraphs – they really pulled me in. I kept hearing Humphry Bogart’s voice in my head narrating the story as I read along. I sat on the edge of an uncomfortable plastic chair 2 days ago and opened the first page to begin reviewing The Little Mornings. I meant to take only a ten-minute break from my day to enjoy the sunshine. The next thing I knew
my leg and butt-cheek were both completely numb and lifeless… and I was on page 50! So be warned
readers
this book may very well take you out of commission for a few days. I could not wait to get back to it every minute I had to spare!

ISBN#: 1894942434
Author: C M Albrecht
Publisher: Zumaya Publications.

Joyce Meyers has been inspiring Christians for decades with the pearls of inspirational wisdom which she has faithfully shared via her radio program and books. Now
her husband Dave shares a powerful devotional crafted from a strong
personal walk with the Lord. Let's take a look at the book that will certainly capture the attention of those drawn to Christian devotionals.

Dave Meyers is one of those rare men who works quietly in the shadow of their wife's ministry. Joyce Meyers
who has been inspiring and motivating Christians for decades is a strong inspirational and motivational speaker in her own right. Still
Joyce credits the quiet
strong leadership of her husband in keeping her ministry on track as well as debt free. In reading Life Lines you will fully appreciate the saying
still waters run deep
and quickly understand that Dave's relationship with his Savior is a strong one.

Life Lines is only 126 pages in length
but each page is a separate devotional that stands by itself. On any given page the first thing that you will read is a Biblically based saying followed by the chapter and verse that the saying is based upon. The body of the devotional is a 1-2 paragraph exposition of the text full of wisdom and laced with nuggets of truth. Indeed
on page 98 Meyers states: God is more interested in your stability than your tranquility. He then references Psalm 1:2-3 for supporting text and sums up how "a life rooted in God and His Word is like a tree rooted in the eternal stream."

The devotional is composed of five chapters featuring five separate themes:

Faith

Grace and Forgiveness

Character

Life in Christ

Secrets of Daily Living

I personally like to read devotionals from varying themes on one day or several devotionals from the same theme on another day. You may find yourself cracking open the Word and reading the supporting chapter to glean the most out of every devotional. Truly
Meyer's book exhorts believers to seek God's will for every aspect of their lives. In that
this book is a real gem.

Life Lines is published by Warner Faith
New York
2004
and is available at Christian bookstores everywhere or through Joyce Meyers Ministries.

Letter to Maya Angelou is a book that is intended to entice the reader’s attention and provoke them to delve into deep thought on environmental and society issues.

One hundred breath-taking
intimate photographs of nature scenes have been included in this book. Beautiful shots of flocks of birds just taking off in flight
enchanting forests
stunning autumn color and incredible sunsets were enough to make me a fan of the book.

The photos are accompanied with poetic verses
which
unfortunately
did not strike a cord in me. Honestly
I did not even understand many of the verses. Overall
though
it was clear that the author’s intent was to encourage openness to adventure
the opportunity for growth and participation in issues that matter. I really liked a few statements in particular
Let your heart be your guide, and the brain a tool
and "It’s always a holiday when you love".

Oluwadahusi is a man who has been juggling many hats for some time - from being a lawyer
author and poet
to the more rewarding efforts as a teacher and father. He warns his readers that "any apparent disorder in any of the text
lack of punctuation" was done with the intent to provoke the reader to fill in the blanks for themselves.

ISBN#: 1420820486
Author: Oluwadahunsi
Photographs provided by: US Fish & Wildlife Service
Publisher: Author House

This has to be one of the best detective novels I have read in some time – right up there with Lawrence Sanders! P.J. Lawton is far from new to the world of writing and he displays excellent story-writing skills in Lethal Option. He shares much of the same history as his main character
giving the detective more depth than could be achieved otherwise.

I think I would classify this book as a ‘thriller-mystery’. The reader is taken on a roller-coaster ride from one seemingly unconnected crime into another. The main character is a Private Investigator who has a loyal heart and honestly tries to make wrongs right whenever he can. Along with his military history and police experiences
the PI was aware of and listened to his sixth sense
which allowed him to detect when things were not quite right – a lethal combination. In his private life his heart is beginning to awaken after many years of slumber and he is faced with a decision that he is not sure he is ready to make. Eventually the PI encounters something so great that it changes his destiny
and possibly his character
forever.

I sincerely enjoyed reading and reviewing this book. Honestly
I could not put it down and I have already begun a second read – this time for pleasure. I will be found pacing the floors until I can get my hands on book #2 to see what happens next! I give this book the highest rating possible and recommend it highly to readers who love a book that makes you think."

ISBN#:1413779301
Publisher: Publish America
Author: P.J. Lawton

What three things do the world's most successful people share in common? They have their own definition of success
they know the personality qualities that drive them
and they've seized their defining moments.

That's the idea in a new book that examines the personality traits of successful people across the globe. The book's authors say the lessons learned can help people succeed in their careers and in life.

Written by Herb Greenberg and Patrick Sweeney-who have advised more than 25
0
companies in the areas of hiring
employee development
team building and organizational development-"Succeed on Your Own Terms" (McGraw-Hill
$21.95) offers readers practical tips and advice.

The book provides an in-depth look at more than four dozen talented individuals who have made their marks in business
politics
sports
the arts and global affairs. It also offers readers the chance to complete a free
in-depth personality profile (worth over $200) to help focus their energies on specific fields or goals. According to the book
successful people know that:

• Real success comes from recognizing
understanding
developing and concentrating on one's strengths. According to Paul Schulte
the youngest U.S. Olympic wheelchair basketball player at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney
that means "focussing on what you have
rather than what you don't have."

• Being self-aware means not letting the outside world define you and knowing what motivates you. For instance
Rebecca Stephens
the first British woman to climb Mount Everest
says
Success is the achievement of whatever it is that you set out to do. And it's up to you to decide what that is. It can't be determined by anyone else.


• Being willing to risk means being all right with the possibilities. Senator Barbara Boxer says she doesn't always succeed if that only means accomplishing what she wants. "I can feel successful just moving my agenda forward
she explains.

• When you love what you do, people can sense it in your presence.

Reading the book's success stories will help people gain a new perspective-one that can be useful when striving for success in their own lives.

The first thing that stood out for me about Michael Putegnat’s novel
Laguna
was the author’s excellent writing skills. He has the ability to create a vision in the readers mind and employs a clever use of humor. Attractive hooks at the ending of most chapters kept me unable to resist reading at least the first paragraph or two of the next one.

Laguna opens with Octavio Paredes
the missing fisherman
and his wife Anajita. This interesting inter-racial marriage gives glimpses of underlying racism in their families. From there we are introduced to Jason
a sergeant at a police station
and his brother Jack
who is depressed and out-of-work. The hands of fate drag these two brothers into the case of the missing fisherman. Intriguing threads lead back to Jack’s old job and his only refuge is his sailboat. However the unexpected romance with Angela brings a ray of relief to Jack’s battered life.

Sweet Angela
the green-eyed daughter of Sophia Poole
is more than she seems. She gets that from her mother. Sophia
no ordinary elderly lady
holds an emotional secret.

John Mange
his wife and two sons are facing financial loss on a grand scale. But nothing small in this family has been done in more than four generations. Greed runs deep in John’s genes and like his forefathers
he stoops to unspeakable levels to get what he desires most.

Enter Fester Stubb
a former IRS tax fraud specialist is employed by John Mange. John doesn’t yet know it
but he has just made his biggest mistake.

As you can probably tell by the list of characters
the back cover statement accurately describes the setting for Laguna as a place where “power and greed are the new religion and love is an accident”.

This book invokes political scams and rich men’s schemes
harbored loves and dedications that control women’s lives - and my favorite of all themes – the love and desire to protect the environment. I love the good verses evil scenario set out from the start. Here we have greed working against vengeance with the backdrop of romance and the need to do what is right. I was stunned to discover this is this author’s very first book. It is of excellent quality with writing skills I have seldom seen.

The characters are made to appear so real. No one in particular is a “hero”
yet they all play a heroic part in some way – each without knowledge of what any of the others were doing. It was a great example of what each of us can do by playing an active role.

In his real life
author Michael Putegnat is familiar with the political arenas and enjoys sailing. He also comes from a long line of Texans; his family has lived in the state for 5 generations or so. Because of this
his book comes alive for the reader with seemingly little effort on his part.

Kitty Fantastic in Manroe’s Art Adventure is a 40-page children’s book written by the accomplished and award-winning illustrator Pamela Key. Her intent in writing this book is clear in this passage from the book:

"If a kid does any kind of art at least three hours a day
three days a week
for a year he or she is four times more likely to win an award for writing or be recognized for academic achievement and three times more likely to be elected to class office or win an award for school attendance."

There is no doubt that this is an excellent book and could easily be one of the best I have seen. The art is amazing - especially the backgrounds
which are full of colorful textures and blends. Another noticeable feature was the bright
almost realistic eyes of Pamela’s characters.

Monroe
a curious little boy filled with questions
has a conversation with his artistically inclined mother about the many various forms of art. Everything from writing
music
pottery and painting are covered in their discussion. A lovable egomaniac cat is Monroe’s best friend and he appears on each scene with cunning comments. Fun activity sheets (four in total) mentally stimulate children and help develop the ability to focus on details.

The way the book is illustrated and written allows for plenty of dialogue between the reader and children. They can seek out images together and discuss what is happening. Also every-other page has a small box with extra historical facts. Such as: science-fiction author Jules Verne writing about air and water travel 100 years before it was possible; and the adventure of Dolly Madison who risked her life to safe important national treasures.

Kitty Fantastic in Manroe’s Art is a fun and stimulating book for learning historical lessons and as an introduction to art – and as such
the book would be ideal for groups of children at schools
libraries and even daycare centers. Children are not the only people that can be enlightened by this book - my husband and myself were both educated about "surrealism" and more. I was also particularly partial to the author making sure it is understood that each person has their own art and express thoughts and emotions through it in their own unique way.

I heartily recommend this book!

ISBN#: 0-9771971-1-5
Authored and Illustrated by: Pamela Key
Publisher: A Better Be Write Publisher