My 20 Book Recommendation List

Many people who know me know that I love to read and I am often asked what book am I reading or what book would I recommend others to read. 

Right now we are living in a very stressful and uncertain time and people are coping with their stress in many ways.  Some are cooking and trying new recipes. Some are taking it easy, relaxing and resting.  Some are working more and helping out in their communities.  Some are catching up with tv shows and movies.  Then there are others that are finding a way to travel to a far-away land, meet new people, learn and discover new topics, or they're just finding a path to escape through a book.  I have seen  few people ask for book recommendations and I decided to share my list.  I already gave a small list to a friend, but I wanted to add more books and well blog here.  

My Book List (in no specific order):
 

The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks - Rebecca Skloot

If Beale Street Could Talk - James Baldwin

Not Without Laugher - Langston Hughes

Stay with Me - Ayobami Adebayo

Brown Girl Dreaming - Jacqueline Woodson

The Bluest Eye - Toni Morrison

Well Read Black Girl - Glory Edim

A Lesson Before Dying - Ernest Gaines

The Giver - Lois Lowry

Becoming - Michelle Obama

I'm Still Here - Austin Channing Brown

With Fire on High - Elizabeth Acevedo

Dominicana - Angie Cruz

Behold the Dreamer - Imbolo Mbue

The Street - Ann Petry

Their Eyes are Watching God - Zora Neale Hurston

Just Mercy - Bryan Stevenson

The Forgotten Girl - India Hill Brown

Logan series (Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry) - Mildred Taylor

Manchild in the PromiseLand - Claude Brown

 

Honorable Mentions (these are local authors in my area):

Make Love Your Religion  - David Nazario

Coming of Angels- M.J. Banks
 

 

Authors to Check out besides on this list:

Elizabeth George (Christian author)

Jason Reynolds

Colson Whitehead

Beverly Jenkins

Beverly Lewis (christian Amish author)

Betty Smith

Octavia Butler

Ta-Nehisi Coates

C.S. Lewis 

Angie Thomas

Toni Morrison

Jacquelin Woodson

James Baldwin Elizabeth Acevedo

 

 

This was a long list, but the books and authors listed are worth it.  Which book sounds interesting to you? Which one would you read first?  If you do decide to read any of these books, please let me know your thoughts.  Also, if you have any book recommendations, please let me know.  I love to receive book recommendations. 

 

On that note, God bless you and keep on reading!



Living out Your Dream (With the Fire on High)

With Fire on High buy on Amazon



With the Fire on High by Elizabeth Acevedo
My Ratings: 5 stars
Goodreads rating: 4.3 stars


Inside Cover:
Ever since she got pregnant freshman year, Emoni Santiago's life has been about making the tough decisions, doing what has to be done for her daughter and her abuela. The one place she can let all that go is in the kitchen. There, she lets her hands tell her what to cook, listening to her intuition and adding a little something magical every time, turning her food into straight-up goodness. Even though she's always dreamed of working in a kitchen after she graduates, Emoni knows that it's not worth her time to pursue the impossible. Yet despite the rules she's made for her life - and everyone else's rules, which she refuses to play by - once Emoni starts cooking, her only choice is to let her talent break free. From the author of National Book Award winner The Poet X comes a dazzling story of a girl with talent, pride, and a drive to create that keeps her fire burning bright.

What I like:
I love how the book takes place in Philadelphia, many of the streets and places named in this book are very familiar. Even though this place takes place in "The Badlands" (you don't know where this is google it), it shows the true beauty of the residents that live there.

I love the honest and pure writing of Acevedo. She uses real language of the characters and are clear with her characters.

This story is relatable and you find yourself rooting for Emoni.

What I dislike:
NOTHING!! Such a great read. I would not recommend any changes.

My Review

To be honest, this was one of the best books that I have read this year.  I believe this is one of my top 10 books that I have ever read.  I will not give a summary of the book, check out the summary above or you can click the picture and it will lead you to Amazon. In my own opinion this book was EXCELLENT! This was a page turner for me and I find myself rooting for Emoni throughout the whole story. I found myself a teen mother in my senior year of high school and I was scared as heck because I was in charge of another life. I related to Emoni and the struggles that she has in being a teen mom. Each decision whether big or small has to be made, and they affect not only yourself but others. Life is hard and crap is thrown at you each and everyday, but you can't give up. Emoni is a legend in the kitchen and has a God given gift to cook. Even though she thought she thought she had "mad skills throwing pots together" (great cooking skills) she needed to know that her craft must be developed. Taking the culinary arts class in school would lead her to traveling to Spain, meeting well renowned chefs and cooking for many people. Emoni's future is unknown and hard to imagine due to the struggles that she faces. However, in order to get where she wants to be and do what she enjoys doing, she has to take a leap of faith.

I am 15 years older than the character Emoni and I understand her fear with taking the leap of faith in living out your dreams.  Fear of the unknown has no age limit and affects anyone. Many of us have dreams and goals that we want to obtain, but often we lack confidence in ourselves to reach them. Sometimes it takes others to encourage us to fulfill our dreams, or unplanned events to help keep us disciplined. Take a look at your life, find those cheerleaders who always have an encouraging word for you. Look back over your life and identify events, whether good or bad that helped shaped the person that you have become. After reading, With Fire on High, I have a new determination to go for those dreams that I put on the back burner because of fear.

I recommend this book to any and everyone. This will give you a glimpse of what life is like as a teen mother, a Afro-Latino in the city of Philadelphia, and the struggles that many of our teens face. If you enjoy a sweet story that involves delicious food and recipes, give this book a try.

Just Do it: Stop Living a Life of Fear

Fear. For such a such a small word, it can hold many people captive in their lives.  Take me for example.  I tend to come off as a very confident, strong woman, however I am far from it.  I, am one of those people who allow FEAR to take my life captive. 

For me, fear is like sitting on the porch or stoop of your house, watching life happen right in front of your eyes.  Life seems great, so many great opportunities, great friendships, and relationships, however the world seems so new to you.  The porch or stoop is familiar, your safety net.  The very thing that you know is familiar.  So you don't come off of the steps, you stay put where you are comfortable. 

During this summer, I am vowing to be  done living a life of fear.  It is not due to the fact that I have FOMO (fear of missing out), but it is due to the fact that I am tired of missing out on God given opportunities.  God has been presenting  me with so many things ,that because it does not seem familiar or within my safety net, I refuse to follow them. 

My major fear that I have is fear of failure.  During the past couple of months, I have been writing in my journal.  I have been filling up pages up pages with prayers, short stories, and story ideas.  I continually pray, and ask God to  give me a story idea or something to write about.  Many times He has presented me with some ideas.  However, because of my fear, I don't follow through. 

Dealing with fear is hard.  We love the familiar, the safe areas, and the control. When dealing with your fears, you have to give up on some control, in order to live without worry or anxiety.  There are things that we try to control, however we don't even have the ability or enough power to do it.  It is a losing battle that we try to win day in and day out. 

I am a Christian and I lean on my faith to help me with the fears that I have.  I know that there is an enemy who loves to tell lies that make you believe in your fears.  "You are not smart enough" "you don't have enough money"  "that is a dumb idea"  "no one will like it"  "someone else thought of that"  "no one will buy it"  You know those lies.  I am a word person.  I use words to attack those very lies that the enemy tells me.  I remind myself, "I am loved" " I am smart"  "I have dreams"  "Let God's will be done" "I am unique"  " I have a gift" 

Faith and trust are tools that help fight against fears.  I know that if I put my faith and trust in God and not man, my fears don't have a chance with him.  If I allow myself to know that I am not in this life alone. There are others that God has put in my life to help me, my fears don't have a chance.

So if you are like me, STOP allowing fear dictate your life.  If you want to go back to college, do it.  If you want to have children, do it.  If you want to write a book, do it.  If you want a new job, do it.  Maybe it will work out, maybe not.  Everyday and situation is a lesson, that you will learn from.  Don't allow lies that are not true stop you from living a life that God has designed for you.  I believe that the enemy will try and stop you from living your God designed life, because he knows that he will not profit from it. 

Again, let us not allow lies, fear, and worries dictate our life.  Lets us draw to our faith, trust, in God that He will provide with the strength and wisdom to live out the very thing that God has instilled in us.

For those who will read this and not share the same faith as me.  I am not saying that I am right or wrong.  I am sharing that this is what helps me on a everyday basis dealing with my fear.  I try to live out my life not be my own strength, but through the strength of Christ.

Becoming by Michelle Obama (book review)

"Becoming" by Michelle Obama (Amazon)

 

Goodreads Rating: 4.69 stars

My Rating: 5 stars

Everyone is entitled to and should share their story with others. I love sharing my story with others and enjoy hearing others share their story with me. Don't ask me why I don't read many autobiographies or memoirs.  But after reading this, I will begin to read more.  

I requested this book for Christmas, in hopes to start a new tradition of receiving books as gifts.  I am so grateful that I have received it! It was a great read to start for the new year. 

"Becoming", is not only a snapshot of who Michelle Obama is, but it is a book full of her life stories and lessons she has learned during her lifetime. Her family, her childhood, her educational experiences, the people she met and encountered, the places she has been, and the tasks she wanted to accomplish, helped in her becoming. 

The life lessons that she was taught along her lifetime are ones that we can benefit from.  Lessons that prove that growing up is infinite.  We don't stop becoming!  Lessons that we don't need to prove anything to anyone but ourselves.  Lessons that if we first fix ourselves than we can fix relationships with others. 

 

I understand why this book has been the #1 Bestseller.  The writing is flawless, clear, and easy to understand.  This book was very relatable and you can sense Mrs. Obama is very down to earth. 

 

I would recommend this book to everyone and anyone, despite your political affiliation.  This book does not promote any political side, nor does it share negative thoughts about the current government administration.  If you need a good book that will make you laugh, smile, cry, and feel encouraged, please give this book a chance.  You will not be disappointed.

 

I was not compensated in any way for this review.  This is my honest opinion, nor am I sharing my political views with this review.

New Year, New Goals

I know that the month of January is almost over, and I know that I am late and a dollar short to sharing this post.  But better late than never, right?  Since my last post regarding my fall TBR, I took some time to read and reflect about my reading goals.

I enjoy reading, however at times I feel pressured to read a lot.  With book blogging, book reviewing, booktube, and other social media outlets that promote reading, I feel obligated to read, and to read certain types of books.  The pressure and guilt that I have felt has made me reevaluate my reading goals.  I don't want to feel pressure to read all the time (even though I do), and I don't want to feel guilty if I am not posting about what books that I am reading.  I would love to keep this blog as a book blog, however I have read several books over the past couple of weeks that have challenged my thinking about the world.  If you can look into my draft folder, I have many posts that I started, but never finished.  Few of them were not book related.  I am done trying to fit in and comparing myself to others.  There is so much that I have to say, whether it is about books or not.  But I want to be an encouragement to others.  If that means to encourage them in life or reading.

With this new year, I am throwing out the thoughts of comparisons and doubt and picking up thoughts of  confidence. 

With the new year, my reading goals are as following:

 

read more diverse books (especially works written by and about African Americans or people of color)

 

read more YA material that I can share with my children

 

read 1 classic a month

 

read 24 books this year (goal to read 2 a month)

 

recap or blog books that have been read

 

 

With the new year, my blogging goals are as following:

 

blog as often and stay consistent

 

throw out the idea to fit in

 

don't be afraid to blog about real life and stay true to myself, values, and morals

I know that the month of January is almost over, but have you made goals for this year?  The can be regarding your personal life, work life, or hobbies?  I pray that whatever goals that you have created for yourself, that you are able to smash them.  If you haven't made any goals, why? Never be afraid to wish for something and work towards it! 

Fall TBR

2 Years ago after our weekly library trip

The air is getting cooler, the leaves are changing color, and the days are getting shorter.  More time is spent inside than outside, so grabbing a good book and a hot drink seems be the "go to" during this new change of weather. 




My children will be the first to say that, I get excited when I see cool and cloudy weather.  Especially when it occurs on the weekend.  I would light a candle or my Scentsy warmer, fill my crock pot with Chili, make a pot of coffee, and lay on the couch with my book. 

Even though the fall season has begun back in September, it is perfect timing to share my fall TBR.  I love to read mysteries during this time, despite celebrating Halloween.  But this TBR is a mix of books that I wanted to read, but never got a chance to read them.


1. The Color Purple by Alice Walker
2. Coming of Angels by M.J. Banks
3. The Good Omens by Neil Gaiman and Terry Pratchett
4. Not Without Laughter by Langston Hughes
5. The First Love by Beverly Lewis
6. The Widows by Jess Montgomery     (this is an ARC)

I will be posting updates with my reviews of these books, and other if I have a chance to finish this small list. 

My question to all.  If you love to read, what season do you enjoy reading?  I love fall because of the cool weather and drinking hot drinks, however the summer season to me is the best.  I love not having a strict schedule and more time to read.  I also love when the kids are in the pool, it is some sort of sensory thing to have feet in sand, book in hand, and the smell of sunscreen.  Do not question my sanity.  I know that I am weird. 

Anyways, there are books to read and coffee to drink!

Happy Reading!

Booktubeathon 2018

The books that I will be reading for Booktubeathon will be:

"Here After" by Kate Brian

"How my Bookclub got arrested"  by Leslie O'Kanen

"Matilda" by Roald Dahl

"The Ear, the Eye, and the Arm" by Nancy Farmer

"Playground" by 50 cent

"The Ditchdigger's Daughters" by Yvonne Thornton

"Dreaming in Cuban" by Cristina Garcia

 So the day has arrived for the start of "Booktube thon 2018".  If you are unaware of what this is, please check out this video. I love the booktube community and I love  what they are doing in the literary world, so I had to join in on the fun this year.  

 

By participating in Booktubeathon, there are 7 challenges to complete in order to receive the accomplished status of Booktubeathon warrior.  Many readers are participating all over the world to read 7 books this week.  Would you like to be one of them?  If so, I will be joining you and others as we tackle this crazy, but exciting week of reading.

 

Here are the challenges!

1. Have a coin toss decide your first read

2. read a book about something you want to do

3. read and watch a book to movie adaptation

4. read a book with green on the cover

5. read a book while wearing the same hat the whole time

6. read a book with a beautiful spine

7. read 7 books! 

 

 

Here are a few of my favorite youtubers with their TBR for the booktubeathon!

 

Booktubeathon 2018

Naya Reads and Smiles

Hailey In Bookland

 

 

 

Please join in the fun and ofcourse, Happy Reading!

 

 



The Road Home review

"The Road Home" by Beverly Lewis
Series: not included in any series
Pages: 316
My Ratings: 3 stars
Goodread ratings: 4.38 stars

Back of the Book:
As the sun began to rise, Lena Rose leaned against the cool pane of the bus window and gazed out at the familiar landscape of her life.  I'm leaving my family and everything I know behind.  She sighed, trying to keep her composure.  Grieving the death of her Amish parents and the separation from her nine close-knit siblings, Lena Rose Schwartz consoles herself that her new life in Lancaster County won't be forever.  Surely someday soon she will return to her beloved Michigan settlement, including her beau.  But even as she holds on to hope for a reunion with those she loves most, she discovers that Lancaster holds charms of its own.  Will she find the courage to open her heart to other possibilities?

My Thoughts:
Amish fiction is one of my favorite genres to read.  I long to escape the reality of city life at times to find myself in the Amish country life. So accepting to read Beverly Lewis's book was a no brainer.  Despite Amish fiction being a favorite to read, I was slightly disappointed with this read. I enjoy reading many books written by Beverly Lewis, however I felt as though this book and several of her recent books that were written, has been her best.  Even though the storyline was great and encouraging, I had a hard time starting this book.  Honestly, I had to set the book down twice because I felt bored. Even though the story begins with a tragedy, it didn't inspire me to read on.  Maybe it was because of one of my own moods, or a lack of desire to read, however I couldn't get past the first few chapters. 

Even though I had a hard time starting this book, once I got over the hump, I was able to finish the book.  Due to the family in the story having a tragedy, their faith kept them going with life, which held my interest in finding out what will happen at the end of the story.  The message that repeats throughout the story is "to have faith and trust in God".  The main character Lena, goes through a series of friendships and trust issues that stem from the tragedy in her family.  Her feelings about life are relatable and understandable.  The Amish faith and their way of life is often viewed as having it all together and full of faith.  As "Englishers" (what the Amish call us), we look to them as examples of being devoted to their faith.  To see Lena in the story struggle with her faith in the story is an encouragement to those whom may find themselves trying to come to grips with tragedies that happen in their lives. 

Despite the low rating and a slow start to the book, it was an easy and fun read.  There is limited Amish dialect to pronounce in the story and the story is easy to follow.  This book is considered Christian fiction, which includes Bible scriptures, prayers, and Christian views on life.  The is romance among some of the characters in the story, but it is limited to kissing, hand holding, courtships, and dating. 

Would I read another Amish fiction book again? YES!  Would I read another Beverly Lewis book again? YES!! However I prefer her book series since I can understand and follow the characters in the story. 


This review is based on my honest opinion and was not monetary compensated for my review, and because of my hones review I received this book free from Bethany House Publishers. 

The Hate U Give book review

 

Buy it here

 

My rating: 5 stars

Goodreads rating: 4.62 stars

 

 

Inside Cover: Sixteen-Year-Old Starr Carter moves between two worlds: the poor black neighborhood where she lives and the fancy suburban prep school she attends.  The uneasy balance between these worlds is shattered when Starr witnesses the fatal shooting of her childhood best friend, Khalil, at the hands of a police officer.  Khalil was unarmed.  Soon afterward, Khalil's death is a national headline.  Some are calling him a thug, maybe even a drug dealer and a gangbanger.  Starr's best friend at school suggests he may have had it coming.  When it becomes clear the police have little interest in investigating the incident, protestors take to the streets and Starr's neighborhood becomes a war zone.  What everyone wants to know is: What really went down that night?  And the only person alive who can answer that is Starr.  But what Starr does or does not say could destroy her community.  It could also endanger her life. 

 

 

"T-H-U-G L-I-F-E, The Hate U Give Little Infants F*** Everybody, meaning what society gives us as youth, it bites them in the but when we wild out."  Tupac

 

My Thoughts:

WOW!  Imagine a picture of someone with their mouth open wide, well that is my response.  With all the racial tension in this country, this book spelled out true emotions regarding this hard topic.  The main character, Starr Carter is me when I was 16.  I grew up in the city where life was/is hard.  Where violence, drug dealing, gangs, and drama was or is still a problem.  Where children grow up in a lifestyle where it is hard to get out of.  Starr knows what life is like in both worlds and switches her specific persona with each location.  Once both worlds are combined, Starr is unsure how to be herself.  The emotions described from the characters in the books, especially of the main character are pure, honest, and real.  If you have never witnessed a police shooting or someone being killed especially at a young age, the author clearly defines how it can affect you mentally and emotionally. 

 

I recommend everyone to read this book.  White, black. Rich, poor.  City dweller or suburban resident.  Democrat, Republican. EVERYONE!  Our country is plagued by hate and violence therefore talking with those who seem different from us is hard.  We have opinions that we love to share but often lack respect.  This book will put you in perspective of those who are victims of gun violence, police brutality and poverty.  If you need great, urban read with Tupac quotes and young adult slang, this book is for you.  If you are looking for a book that makes you think of other people than yourself, this book is for you.  If you stand against racial discrimination and police brutality, this book is for you. 



Fall TBR 2017

It has been rainy and cool for the past couple of days, so with Labor Day in the rear view mirror, the Fall season seems to have started a few weeks earlier.  I am eager to enjoy the fall season with great books while wrapped up in a blanket and sipping on hot tea or coffee. 

Each month since the beginning of the year, I would create a TBR list of books that I would like to read during the month.  However, I would either forget to read the books or read other books and neglect the books on the list.  So after thinking about how to create my TBR's, I have decided to create seasonal TBR's.  Each season is about 3 months which gives me time to read all of my books and add new ones. 

My Fall TBR includes:

1 "The Coldest Winter Ever" - Sister Souljah

2 "The New Jim Crow" - Michelle Alexander

3 "Fatal Trust" -Todd Johnson

4 "The Proving" - Beverly Lewis

5 "Everything, Everything" - Nicola Yoon

6 Black and Blue

7 "Uninvited"-Lysa Terkeurst

8 "Coming of Angels" - MJ Banks

I know there are many great book releases this fall, so I am excited to see which book I grab to read.  If you have a TBR list or a list of books that you would like to read.  Comment and share!! I love to see what others are reading or planning to read. 

"Amish Weddings" Leslie Gould



amazon.com Amish Weddings


My Rating: 3 stars
Goodreads rating: 4.43 stars

Back cover: Gregarious Rose Lehman, who's always the life of the Amish youth singings, is determined  to marry the bishop's son, Ruben Byler - until the handsome Army buddy of her future brother in law shows up in Lancaster County.  In comparison to Trevor, Reuben seems downright boring.  Trevor shares Rose's sense of fun and adventure, and her easygoing disposition.  When her sister Lila is injured in a devastating accident, Rose finds herself with more freedom than she's ever experienced in her life.  Only Reuben seems to notice, but he never voices his concerns.  Part of her relishes the freedom she's found with Trevor, but the other part wishes Reuben would finally express his love and "fight" for her.  Have her choices ruined her best chance at love, or is there another path to happiness she just hasn't seen yet?

Amish Wedding is Book 3 in the Neighbors of Lancaster County and focuses on the younger Lehman sister, Rose.  Rose is a fun character who seems to be the life of the party in her Amish community.  She hopes to marry her bishop's son, Ruben however after meeting Trevor an army friend of her brother to be, she finds herself drawn to his easygoing nature.  Rose finds herself in a tough predicament, since her sisters gets injured in an horrible accident and Rose now has to be the "mom" of the family and finds out some disturbing news.  Rose know has to make tough decisions, those ones that she thought she would never have to make. 

I enjoy reading Amish fiction due to being  an urbanite it helps me escape my fast paced reality and enter into the country life of the Amish.  I think despite that this is a book on the Amish, I feel as women, we might have felt like Rose at one point.  Being with one man, but drawn to another.  Making important decisions that will affect your future.  Being heartbroken and torn.  It was easy to get lost in Rose's world, because she is like that friend that you just want to save and help. 

Since this book  is in a series, I recommend reading the first 2 books before reading this one, since you can learn and follow the characters.  Also, if you are new to Amish fiction, research some of their language, since there are a few Amish words that many might not understand.  My overall rating was a 3 out of 5 stars.  It was a great read and I enjoyed it, however I felt as though the beginning of then book was slow.  Also, the ending was rushed but still left you wondering what the future will be for Rose.  I am hoping to see if Leslie Gould would create a book to finish off the series, since I would love to know what might happen in the future for the Lehman family. 



This review is based solely on my opinion. I was only compensated with a free copy of the book.
 

"The Underground Railroad" book review

 

 

 

 

 

 

"The Negro's story may have started in this country with degradation, but triumph and prosperity will be his one day." Colson Whitehead

 My Ratings: 5 stars
Goodreads Ratings: 4.06 stars

 

"The Underground Railroad" follows a young woman, Cora who is a slave on a cotton plantation in Georgia.  She befriends a man name Caesar who tells her all about the underground railroad, which can lead them to freedom.  Of course, this path to freedom does not come easy and leads Cora into some painful situations.  She faces death, hate, and mistrust on this road.  She grows up and begins to find her true self and strength on this journey.  

We all have heard stories about the underground railroad, read books, saw movies, or was taught about this secret path to freedom.  As I read this novel, I must say this was one of the best accounts of history.  I wondered how old Cora was in this story, but being a slave you didn't have a birthday.  I wondered about her family members, however her family could have been sold off, since as a slave you watched your family get sold to other slave owners. 

Being a slave at that time was horrible.  The living conditions were poor, food was scarce or you were given scraps to eat.  You were raped, beaten, and killed all because you were black.  As a slave or if you were free, you were injected with diseases such as Syphilis to help doctors find cures or medicine to fight those diseases. Or if you were a woman, you forced to sterilization just for being what people thought were "ugly" or "too stupid".   Also, while traveling on the underground railroad, you were reminded that your life is on the line by rows of dead bodies hanging on trees.  I guess reminding those slaves that if you slip up and get caught or make a mistake, you will join those dead bodies. 

As an African American, I could not fathom what my ancestors would have went through.  While reading this book, I had to stop many times because well the same hate described in the book is being displayed within our society.  It seems as though it is easy to hate, judge, or hurt those who are different from you or  hate those you  don't understand. 
One point I learned about this hate was that as an African American you are generationally taught to not trust white Americans.  Cora was taught by her mother and grandmother about the abuse they went through and then Cora witnesses this same abuse and mistrust first hand.  Imagine Cora having a family, she would share the same judgements to her children that what she went through and then it goes on and on.  This applies to many African Americans in our country.  They were told stories, then personally they either were hurt by a white American or witnessed something that confirmed that truth and they go on to teach their children to fear  white Americans and then it gets past on and on.  In order to stop this generational curse or hate, we must identify this hate, and acknowledge that it must not continue. But let's face it, that is unrealistic.  So our job is to respect each other and our differences and understand that it is better to love one another than to live in hate.

"And American, too is a delusion, the grandest one of all. The white race believes, believes with all its heart that it is their right to take the land.  To kill Indians.  Make war.  Enslave their brothers.  This nation shouldn't exist, if there is any justice in the world, for its foundations are murder, theft, and cruelty.  Yet here we are."

This review was based solely on my opinion and I was not compensated for this review in anyway.

 



Bruised and Broken

"He heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds." Psalm 147:3

 

This weekend was a wild one.  It started off great with a soul food platter for dinner and ended with a trip to the hospital.  My little 3 year old broke his little finger on Friday evening which prompted a change to my weekend plans. 

 

As my little man is resting and recuperating and we are actively praying for his healing.  As my little one is bruised and in pain, I can only have sympathy for him since I know what it is like to feel brokenness. 

 

As a born again Christian, I know what it is like to feel broken.  I know all about the heartache, the pain, the restless nights, the frustration, and loneliness.  I know what it is like to numb the pain that I am feeling with my own remedies such as alcohol, medication, music, or another person.  Or I have tried to stop the pain with many things which actually made the pain worse.  

 

This feeling of brokenness is similar to the pain my little one must have been feeling.  The sadness, the restlessness, the pain, the frustration with might have felt as a never-ending pain, and weakness.  We tried to end the pain by our kisses and hugs, medication, and our own remedies of hand soaking and ice.  Then we tried to numb the pain with distraction of movies, music, and games.  Every option that we tried didn't work.  The pain was still there and I believe our remedies made the situation worse.

We as a fallen world, we try everything to stop the pain we are feeling or attempt to numb the pain.  We try to figure out ways to take the pain away, but with every attempt our pain seems to get worse and worse.  Just like dealing with my little one's pain, the only way to end it is to seek the doctor.  With his expertise and knowledge he can tell us what is going on and what we must do to end the pain and fix the injury. 

 

Our doctor is not the man or woman in the white coat in the office or hospital, but the man who will give us a white robe and that sits with the Father.  This man understands our pain since he felt that very same pain on the cross.  This man has the power to heal every broken bone, heart, and mind.  This man is Jesus. 

 

We were eager to get my son some help and figure out what was going on.  Our guess was right that my son had indeed broken his finger.  Our hearts dropped and we were worried, but the doctor gave us instruction on how to handle the injury. 

 

One great thing about being a Christian is to know that we too, have instruction on dealing with our pain.  We must understand that first we are a sinner in pain, acknowledge our need for a Savior (doctor), repent, and ask for forgivness of trying to heal our pain ourselves.  We must understand that we are not alone in this journey called life and that we should follow the commandments or instructions (Bible).

 

Yes, dealing with pain and brokenness is hard.  To have our doctor or Jesus confirm our brokenness, and confirm that it was brought on by rebellion or in my son's case not listening to the rules about horseplay, is a big pill to swallow.  But please know that once you humble yourself to the doctor, he will take away any pain and replace it with joy. 

 

If by any chance you feel that brokenness described, the only thing I can say to do is pray and surrender to Christ.  He will listen to you and will be there for you.  If you need someone to pray for you, my email is always open. 





"Monster" Book Review

 

 

 

 

"Monster" Walter Dean Myers

 

My rating: 2.5 stars

Goodreads overall rating: 3.69 stars

Inside cover: Sometimes I feel like I have walked into the middle of a movie.  Maybe I can make my own movie.  The film will be the story of my life.  No, not my life, but of this experience.  I’ll call it what the lady who is the prosecutor called me, Monster.  "You think we're going to win?"............. "It probably depends on what you mean by "win" "

The month of February, which many identify as Black History month has ended.  One reading goals that I want to work on this year, is to read more African American books or books written by African American authors.   “Monster” is the first book on my TBR list. 

I had this book for sale in my used bookstore for awhile and I decided to read it.  My first reaction from the cover was that this book was going to get my heart broken for a child who is in prison for a crime that he didn’t commit.  Well, my theory or guess was right.  A teenage boy was wrongly convicted of crime and seemed to be described as one of the situations of wrong place, wrong time; guilty by association. 

The story is in play or script form.  The scenery is created by the narrator of the story, which is the young teen.   He enjoyed drama and media so creating a movie about his experience with the legal system help him stay sane in a dysfunctional situation.  The young man dealt with late night crying in the jail, fighting that lead to physical harm or even death of the inmates and lack of support for those who are trying to fight for him in court.  Many of his so called friends betrayed him and many decided to use this man as a crutch to get out their own prison sentence.  This young man endured trouble after trouble and at times felt alone.  While reading my heart ached and tighten because all I wanted to do was to scream at the judge and lawyers that this boy is innocent.

The story is in play or script form.  The scenery is created by the narrator of the story, which is the young teen. I don’t mind script form writing, however I was unable to connect with the characters.  There should have been better character description with each scene change.  With script form, I wish a character introduction was included in the beginning of the story, to better understand or connect with the characters.

With this being a YA (young adult) novel, I was disappointed. I yearned for more description of the characters and description of the prison.  I know that the author was trying to have the reader understand life of an African American teen dealing with the injustice of the judicial system, however I was hoping for more displayed in the book. 

Even with a low rating of this book, it would be a great read for a teenage boy to read to see how being at the wrong place at the wrong time can get you in trouble.  Also it teaches about the injustice that people of color deal with at any given time.  It seems as though time after time we watch the news or read in the paper about the injustices people of color face and sadly some of us might have been in a situation similar to this young man.  Our hearts often break because of the lack of justice there are for people of color and after reading this book, I still feel heartbroken.  The horrible names, nasty attitudes, and the lack of compassion that the prosecutor, judge, and law enforcement displayed in this book, help revealed us to the grim reality that these situations happened daily in the lives of people of color.

 

 

This review is based solely on my opinion and was not compenstated in anyway.

 



Blog Ahead Mini challenge

So today is the end of February, which I am sad since Black History Month is now over. However, I am looking forward to continue with my African American literature.  Which was a goal of mine to read this year. 

Tomorrow is the 1st of March and its a fresh start to create new goals, work on projects, and of course for myself, read more books.  I have been really relaxed with blogging and I want to write more on this little old blog.  So, I am joining Anna Cade at http://theherdpresents.blogspot.com to create some blog posts.  I figured this is a great challenge since the Lent season for Christians will begin tomorrow, March 1st and I would like spend more time reading and writing then scrolling on social media or indulging in crappy tv. 

I have plenty of books that I will be reviewing, some Christian and other fiction and non fiction books.  I will also include some posts regarding my TBR or To Be Read list and some other book lists that can help others find that book they are searching for.  So stay tune for some upcoming posts.

"The Wish" - Beverly Lewis

amazon.com

Rating: 4 out of 5

Back Cover: Leona Speicher got the "sister" she always dreamed of the day Gloria Gingerich and her family move to Lancaster County.  The Arkansas newcomers seem to be the answer to Leona's prayers-until Gloria's father is expelled from their Old Order Amish church for reasons no once will discuss.  Much to Leona's dismay, the Gingeriches suddenly pack up and disappear.  Then, after a silence of several years, Gloria unexpectedly contacts Leona, who makes up her mind to go after her friend.  Yet Leona's fiancé- the deacon's son-is alarmed.  Will Leona's dearest wish lead to her own undoing?

I would first say that I am drawn to the Amish lifestyle and love the writing of Beverly Lewis.  So when her new book was offered to read and review, I was excited to get my hands on it.  Even though, I enjoy books by Beverly Lewis, this was the first book that I had a hard time getting into despite my excitement to read.  It started off slow but once the story evolved, it picked up and I was eager to read to see how it finished.    I felt very drawn to the characters and became the outside friend of Gloria and Leona. 

A while ago, I started asking myself what can I get out of a book, once I am finished reading it.  After I finished this book, I asked that same question and I figured that I learned about friendships.  Gloria and Leona were best friends and connected to each other despite differences in their family and the way that they were raised. Even though both grew up in the Amish church, their family had different ways of living.  Both girls didn't allow their family differences to interfere with their friendship.  I thought about the friendships or lack there of in today's society.  I have noticed that when there is a difference in opinion, religion, color, race, etc, relationships and friendships are destroyed.  I have seen people end life long friendships over this election, and it saddens me. 

When Leona found out the real reason of Gloria's family leaving their church, Leona could have ended their friendship.  Even when she found out that they left the Amish faith and became "English", she could have ended their friendship.  But all in all, Leona prayed earnestly for her friend.  I thought about us as Christians, if we would pray for our friends how our relationships would change. 

Beverly Lewis has a way sharing the gospel without you feeling like you are being preached to.  I enjoyed this book despite that slow beginning and I would recommend this to anyone. 

I received this book from Bethany House publications solely for a honest review of the book.  This review is based solely on my honest opinion and was only compensated with a free copy of the book. 

"Healing Waters" book review

Goodreads.com

"When life seems to conspire against you, how do you find the courage to dive into Healing Waters?".  This quote was what drew me into reading this book.  I guess you can say that was a great one liner! ☺ 

Back Cover Intro:

When Lucia Coffey looks at her reflection, she sees fat and failure.  When she looks at her sister Sonia, she sees svelte and success.  When she looks at God, she sees that divine love can't possibly be doled out equally.  All her life, Lucia has coped by throwing herself into taking care of those who seem more worthy of God's goods, and feeding the dreams she has buried alive. 

But when tragedy strikes Lucia's family, she meets Sullivan Crisp, a decidedly offbeat psychologist who is trying to cope with his own shattered past.  They form an alliance to try to hold her family together and, in the process, both tentatively dip their toes into the waters of healing.  Step by faltering step they wade in, forging an unlikely community and digging deep for the courage to face a lurking danger that could pull them under..... or remind them what it's like to dance on the waves.

I enjoyed reading this book, since I felt like the main character, Lucia at one time.  Low self esteem, lack of self confidence, and often second guessing the power that God possess.  I think many women may have felt similar to this at one point in their lives. Lucia, in the story surrounds herself around positive people who helps her on her journey toward healing. I have learned first hand how those who we keep around can  affect our well being. This could be a spouse, family member, friends, coworkers, etc. Despite what Lucia feels about her past and her  present situation in the story, she finds out there is hope for her future. 

If you are struggling with your own demons, which everyone is, this is a great read to help bring peace, hope, and a breath of fresh air.  This book is a Christian novel and the author includes biblical scripture within the story, but again if you are not a Christian or you don't consider yourself as a religious person, you will still enjoy this story despite the Christian under tones. 

This review was based solely my opinion.  I was not compensated at anytime for this review.

#READINGneedsreading

When I created this hashtag, I never knew where it would take me.  This summer, I decided to venture out into my small bookstore business, and this hashtag was push to keep this business going.

During the summer, my time was devoted to networking, working this business, and taking this business out into my local farmer's market.  When I would set up my stand at the market, I would write in chalk all around the market my hashtag, #READINGneedsreading. 

Many people questioned me, the meaning and what it said.  I reminded them that our city needs to read. 

My heart has been to bring back the joy of reading back into our society, especially the city that I live in.  I live in the city that was named at one time the poorest city of the U.S., one that is poverty stricken, one where many would call it a place where there isn't any hope.  With all the negativity that may come from this city, I want to bring some positive changes even though, to me it may be small. 

The benefits of reading that many people have forgotten are learning new ideas, relaxing, broadening horizons and learning about places that many may not be able to visit.  With the increase of literate people, there will be an increase in moralty.  Understanding and learning about others will come while reading books. 

I am determined to bring back the joy of reading, even if I impact just one person.  Reading is my passion and my God's given gift.  If there is anything that I can do to inspire you, that would be to buy a book, find a book, go to your local library, and read!

Beverly Lewis "The Atonement" book review

Amazon.com

Our past sins or choices often haunt our present, which affects our relationships with others and our daily life.  Beverly Lewis' character, Lucy Flaud understands this very well. 

Lucy has made some unwise choices in her past, which affected her and her family.  She loses the trust of her family, the inability to love, and lost faith in God.  Within the story, Lucy befriends several people who help shape and restore her faith and bring her to repentance. 

We all have made some bad or unwise choices in our past.  Those same choices that we made still affect us to this very day.  They affect how we live, how we love, who we are around, and our relationships, especially with God.  We must understand that "our burdens are too heavy to carry, and he alone is faithful to cover our sins". 

This book was a great read, not only for enjoyment, but to help guide you toward your true repentance of sins that are holding you hostage.  This is a Christian book and applies some Amish beliefs.  Regardless being an Amish book, anyone who is struggling with anything will be convicted to repent and will bring upon you a peace that you will not be to describe.


This review is based solely on my opinion.  I received this book from Bethany Books to read and give my honest review.  If you are an author, writer, publisher, or editor looking for an honest review, please contact me at jbjari123@yahoo.com.

"Out of Sorts" Sarah Bessey

Sarahbessey.com
 

Rate: ♥ ♥ ♥ / ♥♥♥♥♥
            3 1/2 out of 5 hearts

   Out of Sorts - a state of being in one's heart, mind, or body.  (describes sense of self, things to figure out, and / or coping with change)

Sarah Bessey best explains in her book, "Out of Sorts", how to gain peace in our faith.  This book of course is a Christian or religious book, so the topics that are covered in the book relate to the Christian life. 

I really enjoyed reading this book.  Bessey blends her life stories with biblical scripture to share her thoughts on sorting out our lives.  Bessey states, "Whether its in our relationship with God, or with our own families, at some point we find that it is time to sort."  Sarah uses the analogy of a rummage sale and our faith.  We as Christians, especially women, have so much baggage and stuff that we hold on to despite any real use and despite any negative memories or feelings that are attached with it.  With all the "stuff" that we have, we must come to realize that we need to sort out our lives. The things that we hold on to that has no real meaning, we must throw it out.

The book has many topics that we must sort out in order to gain peace, that include: our faith, our church, our relationships, and ourselves.  We as people and Christians are a hot mess.  We struggle daily (some hourly) with sin.  With the being said, we require a Savior who can pull us out of our mess and help clean it up. 

Sarah Bessey's writing is theology based.  She uses Biblical scripture to back up her points, which I LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!! Many Christian writers lack biblical insight. 

Her love for God, people, her family, church, and of course the Charismatic denomination, drawn me to read her book.  She is not that Christian writer that uses big words, stuck up, or holier than thou.  She but is a writer who is full of grace, truth, and her readers can relate to her.  She writes the things that we think but to afraid to speak on. 

If you are looking for a great book for group studies, there are discussions questions included.  If you are not, but just looking for a book with truth, please check this book out.   I would recommend this book to anyone and I am looking forward to reading anymore of her books as well.


This review is based solely on my opinion.  I didn't receive any monetary reimbursement, books, or any other products for this review.  If you are an author, writer, publisher, or editor looking for an honest review, please contact me at jbjari123@yahoo.com.