Wonderland: A Coloring Book Inspired by Alice's Adventures by Amily Shen

Wonderland: A Coloring Book Inspired by Alice's Adventures by Amily Shen is a beautiful new adult coloring book featuring the Wonderland classic theme. This is a beautifully detailed coloring book for made especially for older readers.  These beautiful scenic drawings in of themselves are a work of art. Unlike other adult coloring books filled with impossible to color geometric patters and laborious minuscule detail, this book is actually fun to color with its beautiful and playful illustrations that are not overly detailed with repetitious geometric patterns, but detailed just enough with fantasy images.

The beautiful binding features a removable jacket as well as a cover that can also be colored as well.  This makes a great gift for yourself or a friend or literature enthusiast .  The luxurious quality of this book, thick pages, and elaborate art,  is unexpected considering its affordable retail price.  Its an affordable luxury certain to brighten up anyone's day. Armed with a sharpened set of colored pencils, this book can become a personalized masterpiece to treasure and even pass down.  Although it is marketed for readers of all ages, it is most suitable for teens and older adults due to the  detail. I do not feel a grade schooler would appreciate the fine detail of this book, and it would be a shame to destroy a beautiful book with scribble.  This is a coloring project that takes time, perseverance and patience. For those who persevere and complete this book- it will make a beautiful keepsake volume.

I could imagine many readers who appreciate art will hesitate before making the first stroke with their pencils as well.  Some of these pages can take hours to complete- maybe more than the time allowed in one sitting.  It takes patience.  Be sure to have a pencil sharpener handy when starting this book.  Don't bother with crayons or markers. The story line and theme is like a bedtime story.  I feel as if this would also make a beautiful book if it was full color rather than a coloring book.  I almost would have preferred this to  be a traditional full color story than a  coloring book.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Watson Guptill for the purpose of writing this review.  

Guys Slimline Bible NLT, TuTone

Guys Slimline Bible NLT, TuTone published by Tyndale is the perfect sized bible to take with you or to read while at home.  This slim sized bible features an attractive flexible cover with a bold contrast of black leatherette with a textured blue accent.  While this book is marketed for teen-aged "guys", once you pull of the outer packaging, there is no specific designation or identification on this bible to limit it to either teens or males.  I was pleasantly surprised to see that I, a middle aged adult could actually use this bible for my own personal use- as I found the marketing aimed at young males to be too limiting for this versatile bible.  Even though it features bold colors and silver gilded edges, I feel this bible design is just as suitable for females as well as adults of all ages. This design has universal appeal for a wide contemporary audience with its modern minimalist design.  The text is a standard sized, and the ultra thin pages keep this bible slim and light.  This plain text bible does not feature any extra articles or devotionals- which is fine if you are looking for a light weight bible.  The New Living Translation is a great translation- true and faithful as well as easy to understand. For those who read their bibles a lot- this will be an advantage as it is easy to hold for extended periods of time.  As a blogger I recieved a copy of this bible for the purpose of writing this review.

Home Cooked- Essential Recipes For A New Way To Cook by Anya Fernald

Home Cooked- Essential Recipes For A New Way To Cook by Anya Fernald, Belcampo Founder and CEO with Jessica Battilana is a new niche cook book.  This intriguing cookbook features a retro cover with ithe clothed female figure in her 50s inspired house-dress and apron as she coats a piece of meat in breading.  Ironically, while the cover of this cook book communicates tradition, the sub title focuses on a "New Way to Cook".  One might wonder why in this modern day anyone would purchase an expensive cook book when there are so many free recipes available on the internet.  There are still some people out there who prefer a physical cookbook that they can shelve in their kitchen rather than a collection of printed out recipes.  This book is a beautifully bound hardcover with full color photos of upscale meals with fancy names such as Scaccia Ragusano, Tajarin with Sage & Butter, Rack of Goat, Herbed Lamb Sausage, Grilled Sweetbreads.  It is a zoo of cuisines and awork of art with collages and full color spreads featuring dishes  and their preparation.  This book would make a great gift for an advanced chef or as a housewarming gift. 

As far as recipes- this book is for the  chef who feels at home with trying new meat dishes, and  combinations of seasonings. This book is for daring individuals who want to try new and advanced recipes. This book combines artistry and upscale ingredients with a variety of meat, sides,   and desserts too.  The book goes over the step by step process of the recipes even the history of the recipe as well.  There is a lot of background and supplemental information to make the reader an expert in this cuisine .  This retro styled cookbook will appeal to a new generation of cooks. This nicely bound volume will hold up to years of use and will compliment any cook book collection.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by 10 Speed Press publishers for the purpose of writing this review.

My little Bible by Mary Hollingsworth

My Little Bible - Stories Retold by Mary Hollingsworth and illustrated by Diane LeFeyer is a tiny hand sized bible for preschoolers to carry around.  The most notable feature of this bible is its small size.  This hardcover book is 86 pages of selected shortened snippets of stories from both the old and new testaments.  Well known stories are condensed to 3- 5 sentences a story.  Each two page spread is dedicated to a story and a full color cartoon illustration.  These simplified stories are perfect for very young children.  I think preschoolers will enjoy carrying around their own little book of bible stories even if they can't read it on there own. The novelty of this small scale book will appeal to children. It has a padded hardcover, but the pages are think, and most likely won't hold up to heavy use.  This book is a reprint from the 1993 edition.  As a blogger for Booklook I received a copy of this bible published by Tommy Nelson for the purpose of writing this review.

Restore My Soul: A Coloring Book Devotional Journey by Ann-Margret Hovsepian

Restore My Soul: A Coloring Book Devotional Journey by Ann-Margret Hovsepian is a new niche adult coloring book featuring beautiful geometric patterns and illustrations with spiritual devotions. Its hard to  put this book in a category as it is equally a devotional book as well as a coloring book.  With full pages of bible based devotions- each side by side with an detailed illustration, anyone can find time to relax and regenerate with this unique coloring book.  Some of the coloring pages are geometric designs or repetitive patterns, while others are elaborate illustrations of flowers, plants and hearts.  The art styles will appeal to a broad range of readers.  Some of the pages are more of a time consuming challenge, while other coloring pages can be completed rather quickly.  In the end, this book will make a nice keapsake for anyone to keep once it is completed in full color. Even after everypage is colored, the reader can return to it for its devotions.  There are a few blank pages in the back for either your own art or journaling.  The free space is an extra touch to allow personalization.   This book would make a great inspirational book for anyone sick, and recovering from a prolonged illness who is need of an activity.  Perfect as a gift or even for yourself- this is a memorable book.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Tyndale Momentum for the purpose of writing this review.

The Wurst of Lucky Peach by Chris Ying and the Editors of Lucky Peach  is a new niche cook book based on the recipes of the Lucky Peach.  Even those readers who have never heard of Lucky Peach will be certain to enjoy this cookbook all about sausage.   One might wonder why in this modern day anyone would purchase an expensive cook book when there are so many free recipes available on the internet.  There are still some people out there who prefer a physical cookbook that they can shelve in their kitchen rather than a collection of printed out recipes.  This book is a beautifully bound hardcover with full color photos of sausage meals.  It is a work of art with collages and full color spreads featuring meat and various cultures.  This book would make a great gift for a chef or as a housewarming gift.

As far as recipes- this book is for the  chef who feels at home with meat, and sausage in particular.  T This book is for daring individuals who love meat. This book combines artistry and upscale ingredients with a variety of meat and ingredients from cultures such as Mexico, Italy and Germany. Each recipe features a little bit of background.  The book goes over the step by step process of the recipes even the history of the recipe as well.  There is a lot of background and supplemental information to make the reader an expert in this cuisine .  This retro styled cookbook will appeal to a new generation of cooks. As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Potter publishers for the purpose of writing this review.

The Gift For All People by Max Lucado

The Gift For All People is a small compendium by Max Lucado, author of You'll Get through This and many other books.  Lucado is among the most uplifting authors. His books will never disappoint when you are expecting encouragement in times of severe distress or looking for motivation. This book is an ideal gift those who are enduring  difficult times, to endure and persevere. It is also a nice little book to introduce someone you care about to faith.

This book is for those who need to be convinced on the effectiveness and importance of prayer. Max Lucado address real issues- job loss, terminal illness, grief and loss. This book is designed to help those who are suffering from extreme circumstances as well as every day circumstances.   If you are bellyaching because you burned your husband's dinner, or the grass stain won't come out of the soccer uniform, or if missed an appointment for your pedicure, or your favorite coach bag sold out before you reached the mall, then this book isn't for you.  What you need is a fluffy, superficial, condescending, feel- good, women's devotional book with an image of a $6 cappuccino or a photo of a quaint Martha Stuartesque vase of garden blooms.  But, if you truly suffer from life's heartaches, if you truly need to depend on prayer as if it is your lifeline, then this book  will offer the comfort and help you need.

The cover is peaceful, serene and typical of devotional and Christian self- help books.  The small gift box image makes this book seem like an outreach pamphlet. But don't let the mainstream cover deceive you.  This book preaches faith and the practical and miraculous power of prayer. Even the most apathetic of reader will be moved to prayer and with great faith to boot.

In true Lucado fashion, Max writes in an animated, easy to understand style that communicates biblical truths to the reader. His books bring bible stories and biblical truth to life in an inspirational way that speaks out to the reader.  He talks about real personalities and heroes from the bible and applies them to the modern day.

Lucado speaks truth to those in desperate need using poignant yet practical advice -which addresses the distress can drain our emotional, physical and spiritual resources.  Even the most discouraged and distraught reader will respond! He breaks down prayer, simplifies it and dissects it, without taking away its truth and meaning.  Lucado has an amazing way of taking something and redefining it for the modern reader without detracting from truth.  This book dissects line by line a simple prayer, "the pocket prayer", dedicating one chapter to each line starting with "Father..." and ending with "Amen".  He breathes new life into overused words that may have become devoid of meaning.

His animated language is known to draw in the reader who needs a quick burst of thought.  From other works- "Catch God in a bad mood? Won't happen. Fear exhausting his grace? A sardine will swallow the Atlantic first. Think he's given up on you?" ..... Lucado's use of colorful language in this book and his conversational tone, make it so that biblical truths are memorable and meaningful to the average modern reader. This inspirational book will be certain to leave the reader with a lasting impression. In today's self centered society, without offense Max Lucado illustrates the importance of living life based on biblical principles. After reading this book, and really meditating on the biblical truths communicated via Max Lucado, one can feel a renewed sense of empowerment to live a selfless life style. Max makes use of personal anecdotes as well as bible stories to illustrate the importance of depending on God rather than on the material things of this world .He talks about divorce, stillbirth, incarceration, cancer, job loss and any other tragedy you might experience.  I am sure any reader can relate to at least one of the anecdotes of dire straits that Lucado shares.  If you are  looking for an apologetic defense on the purpose of defending God in the face of general evil then this book isn't for you. But, if on the other hand you are looking for bible based motivation and a relief while enduring extreme dire circumstances in a heartless world that centers in  materialism, selfish ambition and competition, then this book is perfect.

This book is the perfect spiritual salve for those experiencing intense pain and grief!!!  This is a quick little compendium book that can be read in one or two sitting. It contains material from Lucado's other works so if you already have a collection of Lucado books, this will be redundant.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Multnomah publishers  exchange for writing an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own.

Night Night, Mommy By Amy Parker

Night Night, Mommy By Amy Parker is a quick to read bedtime board book perfect for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers.  This short story features a little otter and his otter mom.  The special bond between mom and child is reinforced throughout.  The story line is simple, and prose  will hold the attention of young children.  The cartoon illustrations capture the familiar nightime of many young children: bedtime, storytime, mealtime. The storyline may seem formulaic- the typical nightime routine in a boardbook.  Nevertheless, this repetitious theme is familiar for young children and aids in memory and in establishing bedtime routines.  This is a good book for new parents and seasoned parents alike. The board book is sturdy and will hold up well with heavy use. As soon as my toddler saw this book, she wanted me to read it again and again.  This is the perfect book to read over and over.  As a blogger for booklook I received a copy of this book published by Tommy Nelson published for the purpose of writing this review. There is also a counterpart book available featuring dads so that father's will not feel left out.

Can a Princess Be a Firefighter? by Carole P. Roman

My favorite children's author, Carole P. Roman has introduced her newest story book, Can a Princess Be a Firefighter? This new picture book, illustrated by Mateya Arkova, follows the story of a young girl as she considers her future possibilities that she can be whatever she wants.  This story is told in a unique point of view in which the young child is addressed when the story opens up with its first line, " 'Can a princess be a firefighter?' you ask....", (Roman, 2016).  This story addresses the young child directly making her a part of the story.  The story explores the endless possibilities: firefighter, dentist, nurse, doctor, lawyer, construction worker, farmer, astronaut and even a cowpoke.  The book dispels the gender boundaries that often persist and shows the young girl that anything is

possible and there are no limitations based on gender.  This book not only glorifies traditional career choices but also a variety of options including the military, politician, fashion model, circus performer and a chef.  This book encourages imagination and goals as well to show the young child that there are no limits. All the while, the author shows that girls do not have to give up their special identities when pursing their dreams and that they can always keep their fairy wings.  This book makes a perfect story for toddler and preschool girls- and also school aged girls as well.  I think it would also make a cute nostalgic gift for
a highschool or even college graduation gift for a young woman as well.  The peaceful nostalgic art perfectly accompanies the text.  This book is available online at Amazon and also Barnes and Noble.

Rocket- Bye by Carole P. Roman

The beloved children's author of the well known Captain
No Beard series and the If You Were Me and Lived in ....., geography series has come out with a new picture book that everyone will love.  Rocket- Bye by Carole P. Roman, illustrated by Mateya Arkova is a new picture book featuring a lyrical astronomy theme with dreamy watercolor styled art. Children of all ages will love this space themed story featuring two kids on a surreal journey through space.  They travel through the stars and see the milky war, the stars and the planets.  Roman identifies the sights by name: the Milky way, the planets: Venus, Saturn, Mars, constellations such as Leo the lion as well as stars- Polaris and Rigel.  This is a wonderful experience for children of all ages.  The details add to the richness of this story.  Parents and children alike will enjoy this book as well as educators.  This is the perfect picture book to integrate into the classroom.
Roman is among the top children's writers on the

market, showing her talent and versatility with turning a variety of experiences and disciplines into entertaining as well as educational stories for children. The first day I got this book, I've already read it to my children a number of times. This book is available online on Amazon as well as Barnes and Noble.