Its Not Greek To Me: 10Lessons in Greek DVD

Its Not Greek To Me: 10Lessons in Greek DVD by Masterbooks

 

 

 

Review under construction......

The idea of learning a new language is nothing new.  Yet, the traditional text book only method is very limiting.  This DVD provides a multimedia experience. This DVD is actually a series of ten lessons in introductory Greek- perfect for kids and even adults can learn from it as well.

 Whether for school or simply to enrich one's life, learning Greek can be very rewarding especially for history enthusiasts and for bible students.

 As a blogger i reviewed this DVD from Masterbooks, a division of New Leaf Publishing for the purpose of writing a review.

 

 

 

New Leaf Publishing Group

Everlasting Hope:Inspirational Messages that Encourage, Motivate and Heal in any Situation

Everlasting Hope:Inspirational Messages that Encourage, Motivate and Heal in any Situation is a newly published compendium of articles written by thirty different contributing authors.  These inspirational writers were selected from the best Charisma House publishers authors in order to create a book of over 40 devotional styled articles. Each article is its own chapter, written by a difféent contributer about a subject of faith and hope.  In the words of Jovan Bolden, Imprint Editor at Charisma House, the purpose of this book is to strengthen "your spiritual muscles" (introduction)

The articles are brief and simple, yet based on scripture- perfect for anyone going through grief, hardship or other life crisis. From the very first articles, I found the messages to be relevant to those going through real life circumstances and disappointment. It was an unexpected surprise to see the relevancy of these brief articles.  This is not prosperity preaching, cliche messages- but true encouragement for those going through hard  times with job loss, lost opportunities and health issues.  For example no one ever considered the story behind the would be apostle that was ultimately rejected as Judas Iscariot's replacement in the book of acts.  But the author offers a new perspective on what many modern day readers would otherwise perceive as the ultimate rejection.  The messages are consistent with scripture. This book is one I will keep and worth re-reading. As a blogger for Booketeria I received a copy of this book published by Charisma House for the purpose of writing this review.

the NIV Fast Facts bible

If you want to purchase a good simply styled bible to distribute as part of an outreach bible, then this plain text NIV Fast facts bible is a good choice.  This is like a simple, bare bones pew bible -a traditional bible, with a few themed into pages for each bible book.  There was nothing special about this bible: no graphics or color whatsoever.  I was very disappointed in the lack of study features or graphics in this monotonous text bible.  I'd expect more for the price.

As far as everyday study and devotions, its an okay choice.  This bible is a good basic text bible but thats about it.  It is a specialty  bible and im sure many customers may purchase this bible expecting more.  The publishers lost an opportunity to create a good, eye catching trivia styled bible.  I think this is just a gimmick and maybe the idea wasnt well thought out.
For anyone looking for a good basic plane text bible, this  bible is possible an okay choice. For the price there are better choices.  As a blogger for booklook bloggers I received this bible for the purpose of writing this review.

Sharing Christ with the Dying: Bringing Hope to Those Near the End of Life by Melody Rossi

Sharing Christ with the Dying: Bringing Hope to Those Near the End of Life by Melody Rossi is a reprint of the book originally published in 2007 under the title, "May 1 Walk You Home".  I believe the name was changed in this 2014 reprint to reflect the Christian perspective of this book for those readers who may unknowingly purchased the book believing it was from a more secular or religiously neutral point of view. This book is a great resource for any pastor, or bible believer who has contact with anyone suffering from a long term or terminal illness. Even though this book focuses on the spiritual side of terminal illness and death, the book also addresses practical issues such as planning, hospice and other end of life concern.  There is even a chapter on important documents an paperwork.  Families who are grief-stricken as well as wearied caregivers  will appreciate having this wealth of information in one simplified resource.  Basically, you can get all the information you need to help your dying loved one in this single volume. 

Social, psychological, spiritual, medical and even legal aspects are covered in a simplified yet relevant way.  Rossi touches upon every imaginable aspect  when facing a terminal illness.  There is even an appendix of additional resourses that families and their terminally ill loved ones can turn to. Most of all the spiritual comfort offered for both the caregiver and the sick loved one will provide spiritual fuel for just the right time.  Bible verses offer hope, encouragement and empowerment in the midst of death and dying.  For those who feel lost at approaching an unsaved loved one facing a terminal illness, Rossi provides unimposing suggestions that are subtle and effective, while teaching the reader to look for subtle readiness cues that may indicate that a loved one may be spiritually ready to hear about Christ.  This is a book to put into practice.  As a blogger I received this book published by Bethany House Publishers for the purpose of writing this review.  

If You Were Me and Lived In... Portugal: A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around The World By Carole P. Roman

If You Were Me and Lived In... Portugal: A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around The World By Carole P. Roman is a another  new picture book introducing young readers to a new country. This book is the newest edition in a series of picture books focusing on a particular country.  This book follows a similar format as the books in the series about Mexico, South Korea,  Russia, Turkey and France. Roman  makes  use of a variety of textures and mixed media in producing the illustrations. The water texture, and cloudy sky image  textures of  Libson  as well as an antique castle on the sea, present a unique contrast with the colorful architectures. Most impressive  and unexpected is the two page photographic spread of the Azores with the two cartoon children off to the side. The beautiful sunsets, and authentic textures and textile patterns, adds an authentic appeal and beauty to simplistic scenes.   I am happy to see the direction that Roman is taking with the illustrations in her geography picture books. I believe the "Carlesque" styled mixed media illustrations with the simple line cartoons in her  newest book are  an unexpected treat.  Mixed media illustrations are very popular and appealing for young readers as evidenced by the popularity of Eric Carle's kids' books.  By combining geography with mixed media- I believe that Roman will generate even greater interest and attention for her educational series.

As with the other titles  in this series, This story would also be a good choice for a family that is interested in their ancestry, a family vacation or as part of a social studies lesson. This consistency of these geography books makes this series perfect for children. The predictability of the book's format will also appeal to younger readers who are familiar with the series.  Full color, simply drawn cartoon drawings with the unique  texture accents compliment the text.   The pronunciations at the end of the book introduces the child to the native language.  I would like to see Roman combine all the editions of this series into one larger encyclopedia type of volume in order to create one single comprehensive text.  I would also like to see the illustrations of previous editions revamped and updated in order to incorporate more of the mixed media textures as well. I believe that her loyal readers would be interested in having all these editions in one book.  To do this would be a wonderful educational and entertaining resource.  If you enjoyed the previous titles, you are sure to enjoy learning about Portugal. As a blogger I received this book for the purpose of writing this review

NIV Integrated Study bible

If you want to own one single reference style bible that is good for study in chronological format, then the NIV Integrated Study Bible is the bible you will need.  In contrast to a traditional bible, this bible is rearranged in order based on chronological or historical order.  This is like a hybrid of a history book and bible.  I was disappointed in the lack of study features or graphics in this monotonous text bible. 

As far as everyday study and devotions, this is not a good choice as this bible is not in "order". This bible is a good reference work but thats about it.  It is a specialty  bible and im sure many customers may purchase this bible not realizing that the book order is rearranged.  For this reason i do not use chronological bibles other than for browsing or as an occasional resource.  As  primary bible or for those new to the bible entirely, i believe this bible would cause confusion for the reader.  For history students and educators, this bible is a unique reference that integrates the bible into a timeline that can be matched against world events.
For anyone looking for a good bible that will provide a good historical foundation  and comparative study, this  bible is possible an okay choice. As a blogger for booklook bloggers o received this bible for the purpose of writing this review.

The Flip by Michael Philip Cash

The Flip, is a new ghost story novel by Michael Phillip Cash.  In light of the reality TV shows and quasi- docu- dramas, in the media featuring ghosts, hauntings and possession, Cash's book finds a home in today's occult saturated culture.  And although  the haunting genre is popular and commonly depicted in horror and suspense novels, Cash's talent using the written word is what sets this book above and beyond the competition.  He repackages the ghost story genre in the context of a modern cultural phenomenon known as house flipping.  Combining two entirely different interests, home repair and ghost stories, Cash builds a new market for his books. He adds a wider appeal and credibility to the horror/ ghost story in this book that is by weaving in  history and house renovation.    As a side note, this  book also serves as a lesson in house flipping as the reader follows all the grueling practical and emotional details of home renovation. Enthusiasts will enjoy the mention of architecture, antiques, and art. one can also learn a little about history as well.      

One can say the market is saturated with books on hauntings and the paranormal- the idea of a haunted mansion and an ominous evil presence is nothing new- except for the fact that Cash delivers the story with an element of realism and authenticity.  This book is complex in that there are a number of side plots and narratives written from an omnipotent perspective of both perspectives of the couple as well as the ghostly inhabitants of the house.  Not only is  there a an interaction between the husband and wife, that many readers can relate to in their own marriages, there is also a complex emotional and power struggle between the spirits that inhabit the home.  Cash goes into depth in the inner workings of the spirit world implying an ominous hierarchy that includes powerful "sentinels".  I was almost reminded of the Disney cartoon Mulan, in which there is plenty of intrigue  and a power struggle among the ghostly departed ancestors that guide Mulan on her quest. Cash transports the reader back into the past with glimpses of the spirits during their lifetimes. History enthusiasts will certainly enjoy the authentic  historical details and readers will have additional insight into the mystery behind the ghosts. Cash has done historical research to add authentic historical details to make a richer experience for the reader.  Not too many writers go into the mysterious innerworkings of the ghosts that inhabit or haunt the house in ghost stories.  Cash offers a unique perspective.

This conscientious writer pays attention to the fine details of writing, the sights, sounds and even odors of horror. There is no detail that gets past the eagle eye of this writer- where the written word becomes a form of art.  There are literally no dry areas in this book- either something is always happening or explained.  It has become commonplace for fiction writers to include dry filler to simply fill up pages and empty space.  Michael Cash's novel is full of poignant description, drama or action from the first page to the last. 

The text formatting of the book presents some issues, I  have a personal preference for even paragraph  justification on both sides of the text, which I feel gives a more professional appearance.    The final page of each chapter looks awkward withthe text centered in the middle of the page. Nevertheless this is another fast paced Michael Phillip Cash horror- drama novel.  This entertaining novel is perfect for those short on time who want a fast paced book. This paperback novel belongs on the checkout racks of with other top selling novels.  It has all  the elements of a popular novel, simple to understand plot, the paranormal as well as the population home renovation theme all in one.   As a blogger I received a copy of this book  for the purpose of writing this review.

If You Were Me And Lived In Russia by Carole P Roman

If You Were Me and Lived In... Russia: A Child's Introduction to Cultures Around The World By Carole P. Roman is a new picture book introducing young readers to a new country. This book is the newest edition in a series of picture books focusing on a particular country.  This book follows a similar format as the first books in the series about Mexico, South Korea,  and France. Yet in this newest edition, the author makes greater use of a variety of textures and mixed media in producing the illustrations. The water texture, and cloudy sky image  textures of Moscow add a unique contrast with the colorful architectures. The dusky red sunset serves as the backdrop against the illustration  of a simple yet distorted line cartoons of children playing superimposed on a background of grass makes for a beautiful and unexpected presentation.  The beautiful sunsets, and authentic textures and textile patterns, adds an authentic appeal and beauty to simplistic scenes.   I am happy to see the direction that Roman is taking with the illustrations in her geography picture books. I believe the "Carlesque" styled mixed media illustrations with the simple line cartoons in her  newest book are  an unexpected treat.  Mixed media illustrations are very popular and appealing for young readers as evidenced by the popularity of Eric Carle's kids' books.  By combining geography with mixed media- I believe that Roman will generate even greater interest and attention for her educational series. This book contains a great amount of information and more text. This particular edition is suitable for older elementary grades.  The second person point of view narrative draws in the audience and makes the child a participant of the story.  this point of view is not common in children's books, and makes the information learned more memorable.

This story would also be a good choice for a family that is interested in their ancestry, a family vacation or even appropriate for pre school children as part of a social studies lesson. This consistency of these geography books makes this series perfect for the school setting. An educator can count on the fact that young children will be introduced to the basics.  The predictability of the book's format will also appeal to younger readers who are familiar with the series.  In this addition to the series, the  child will learn about the geographical location of Russia and will be  introduced to its climate, tourist attractions- and the impressive local foods,  nesting dolls, sports and other social norms. Full color, simply drawn cartoon drawings with the unique  texture accents compliment the text.   The pronunciations at the end of the book introduces the child to the native language but it would be better to have the equivalent English words listed as well and definitions to reinforce the material learned in the book.  I would like to see Roman combine all the editions of this series into one larger encyclopedia type of volume in order to create one single comprehensive text.  I would also like to see the illustrations of previous editions revamped and updated in order to incorporate more of the mixed media textures as well. I believe that her loyal readers would be interested in having all these editions in one book.  To do this would be a wonderful educational and entertaining resource.  This would also make the book more accessible and convenient to educators and schools in the  public and  private sectors as well as  home schoolers.  I am curious to know how Roman determines which countries to feature and whether she will eventually cover the majority of countries around the globe.  As a blogger I received this book for the purpose of writing this review. 

The Crew Goes Coconuts!- A Captain No Beard by Carole P Roman

The Crew Goes Coconuts!- A Captain No Beard by Carole P Roman is the newest edition to an emerging  new, vibrantly illustrated children's book based on the popular pirate theme.  Watercolor styled art perfectly accompanies the nautical pirate action. The detailed cartoon art is fast paced like the untamed adventurous seas where the stories take place. This story includes Captain No Beard and the other familiar heroes introduced in the series, including Mongo the monkey, and Cayla as well as Hallie.     During the story children will learn an important message about kindness and compassion.  Anti bullying messages are becoming more important in school curriculums.  This story addresses the difficult topics of teasing and bullies.  This book reinforces important moral lessons- repackaging them in the context of a fictional pirate story.  The surprise ending involving coconuts is unexpected and entertaining as it is not the typical outcome that one might expect.  Not only that, the lesson reinforces ingenuity and problem solving.  Roman has mastered the plot twist adding an element of surprise that even parents will appreciate as they read this story to their children.

      This inviting new book series introduces  children to the friendly pirate named Captain No Beard, and his frigate as well as the host of friendly talking animals.   This is the  perfect introduction to pirate literature - like pirate literature 101 complete with the typical pirate talk and pirate cliches.  There is a pirate reference on every page of these books such as the Jolly Roger, crossbones flag, pirate slang and nautical terminology . The consistency of this series will appeal to young children.  The surprise ending will capture the readers attention and encourage their imaginations. This book encourages role playing- where one's bedroom can become a new world, and blankets can become an ocean.   Parents and children alike will be entertained by the  pirate slang, vibrant pirate themed illustrations as well as the inviting bold text.  The books of this series belong on the bookshelf of every pirate enthusiast.  As a blogger I received this book from the author for the purpose of writing this review. This is the sixth book in the series.  I'd like the author to consider compiling all these stories into one larger, hardcover  pirate treasury.