Cover L♡ver Book Review

This is the second book I’ve read by Katherine Reay. What a talented storyteller! She has a unique voice and sets a scene that is so easy to sink into. A Portrait of Emily Price takes place in both Georgia and Italy. Being from the south, and having visited Italy twice, I was able to visualize every scene, taste every dish, and breath in the fragrant baked breads. The story begins in Atlanta, but came alive for me once it moved on to Italy. Thought the town is a work of fiction, it fits so well with the Italy I’ve come to know—the people, the insane driving, walled cities, and narrow passageways. It was that, that drive to fix what was broken, that resonated with me. ~excerpt Just as in Ms. Reay’s first book, Dear Mr. Knightley , these characters are fleshed out nicely. Even though there are different families, cultures, etc. I was never confused as to who was who, or who was where. And the artwork that is described is incredible. I know little about art and painting,

This little book holds powerful Bible verses that encourage and comfort us when we are discouraged or going through tough times. It also provides guidance to in helping others who may be struggling as well. I love that each of the verse/devotion pair covers a single page. It only takes a few moments to read, and can make such a huge impact on your day. The devotions are easy to read and use simple language, without being ‘preachy’ or directive. The passages are smooth and gentle, but enough to put pep in your step and genuineness to your smile. The 100 Most Encouraging Verses of the Bible is a lovely, succinct book providing encouragement, inspiration, and peace to its readers.   It includes a helpful scripture list in the back of the book for quick reference. 4 Stars Cover:  Okay Title:  Okay Publisher: Bethany House Pages:  112 ISBN: 978-0764217609 I received a complimentary copy from the publisher.

I love books that take place in the south, and enjoyed the Appalachian setting in this story. Although I didn’t experience the hardships that Edie Wadsworth faced, I see similarities in a dear friend’s life. I’ve seen how not having a strong male figure in the family can damage a young girl’s self-esteem and heighten the need for approval and acceptance. Even if you didn’t have a difficult childhood, it is easy to empathize and relate. I really had no idea what this story was going to be about, and wasn’t aware it was a memoir, but in a way that made it all the more intriguing. My heart went out to young Edie and the things she overcame, such as an alcoholic parent, adult responsibilities as a child, etc, but I also admire her inner strength and desire to be something bigger than her upbringing. Although this isn’t the type of story I normally read, I enjoyed learning of Edie’s life. There are heartbreaking parts that were difficult for me to read (and imagine) but none of

God’s Gift, by Lee Ann Mancini, is the latest book in the Adventures of the Sea Kids series. As in the previous books of the series, the adorable sea creature kids learn important Christian lessons. The story takes place in the coralhood (a sea kid neighborhood) where the town is decorating the outside of their caves for the upcoming holidays. Christian and his sister Mary are excited about Christmas and all the gifts they’ll receive. Jacob and his little brother Jeremiah are eager to receive gifts on Hanukkah. The sea kids brag about their holidays and disagree on who will get more gifts. “It’s about the gift from God of His one and only Son, Jesus Christ, our Messiah.” When the parents hear about the disagreement and how their children are solely focused on the presents they’ll get, they decide to teach them the true meaning of Christmas and Hanukkah. The importance lies in the gifts that God gave long ago—the Messiah to Christians, and the miracle of Light to

What an adorable book! The voice is unique, the message is powerful, and the main character is fun and genuine. Laney Grafton is a roughneck ten-year-old with a hard life, and the narrator of this story. This book is her own first-person storytelling after learning the ins and outs of writing a book from her teacher. The chapter titles explain the various parts of storytelling, such as Character, Setting, Conflict, etc, all while revealing what happens when a new student joins Laney’s classroom. Lara Phelps is a large girl. She fills up the doorway, tires easily, and has a special desk brought in because of her size. Laney and her classmates have never seen anyone so heavy, not their age anyway, and some give her the nickname Larger-Than-Life Lara. Laney walks the reader through the class play, rehearsals, and horrible bullying that takes place. The mean kids are relentless with their hateful remarks and mocking. What surprises Laney the most is how Lara smiles through