The Time Garden: A Magical Journey and Coloring Book by Daria Song

The Time Garden: A Magical Journey and Coloring Book by Daria Song is a beautifully detailed coloring book for made especially for older readers.  These beautiful scenic drawings in of themselves are a work of art.

The beautiful binding and removable jacket can also be colored as well.  This makes a great gift for yourself or a friend.  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 due to the tiny detail. I do not feel a grade school-er 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.  I gave it to my teenager to color and even she was in awe and hesitated telling me she did not want to ruin it. She started the first page then gave it to me to finish.   I could imagine many readers who appreciate art will hesitate before making the first stroke with their pencils as well. One thing to keep in mind is the fine detail and repetition of tiny geometric shapes and designs that are a part of each picture.  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 Potter/TenSpeed/Harmony for the purpose of writing this review.  

Believe Kids' Edition by Randy Frazee

Believe: Think, Act, Be Like Jesus Kids' Edition, edited by Randy Frazee is part of the Believe collection of resources.  This series  includes age level resources for adults, students and younger children as well.  After reviewing the adult, kids' and child resource, I was most impressed with the hard cover, full color children's Believe Storybook.  I was underwhelmed by this Kids' Edition of the Believe resource; the paperback quality reminded me of the dollar store.  I felt the strongest books in  this series was the children's Believe Storybook.

This trade paperback edition gave the impression of a dollar store coloring-book quality with  its illustrations and formatting.  It just did not give the impression of a quality book for the $11.99 retail price.  If it was priced at $2.99 for the mass market, it would be more reasonable.  Although there is a blue spot color throughout and plenty of illustrations, I feel the large chunks of text are still too monotonous.  With the inclusion of scripture texts and commentary, I do not feel that there is enough unique content to a justify purchase of this book in the context of the wide range of children's study bibles available for the school age and pre-teen age group that this book is marketed for.  With the availability of high quality affordable complete NIV youth bibles available today, I do not see how this resource stands out.  This book might be good for those younger readers who might be too over whelmed by a complete bible.  This book covers a good variety of biblical topics as a non denominational version of a "catechism". In general, there are enough people unfamiliar with the bible as it is, that if presented with the Believe series of books, will find themselves confused with these resources that present large portions of the bible, yet are not the actual bible.  As a blogger for Booklook I received a copy of this boo published by Zondervan for the purpose of writing this review.

Giants Legends, Lore & Goliaths by Charles Martin, illustrated by Bill Looney

From the first page of the new book, Giants Legends, Lore & Goliaths by Charles Martin, illustrated by Bill Looney, children, as well as parents, will be impressed by unique, visual features such as flip open pages, inserts, antique styled replicas of small scale books and maps, and a large sized pull out panorama of David and Goliath.   Full color illustrations by Bill Looney bring the myths and history of ancient times to life.  The art captures the realism of these giants.  His detailed art also adds a multicultural element as well in depicting folk lore and world wide giant folklore and stories.

This book is presented as a picture book for elementary and middle school readers.  Nevertheless all ages will enjoy this fun fact filled book as well as the special unexpected surprises on each page.  This book is a mix of biblical faith, sociology and science all rolled into one fun volume!

Scientific support for the the existence of giant beings as well as the flood  from geological evidence and history is presented in a simple, visual method.  Tales and folklore of giants, as well as creation stories presented from around the world give a social and archeological perspective.  The book is presented to allow the readers to investigate the evidence themselves.

Fold out pages open up to give the reader a concept of the massive scale of giants. Vintage styled replicas of "books" and flags and antiqued maps give an element of historical realism as well as mystery.  I have never seen a more complete or more enjoyable presentation of the subject matter of Giants- often overlooked as simply the matter of fairy tales.  The quality of this book makes it a book to keep and treasure.  It is a book to read and reread multiple tomes, because once is not enough to absorb the wealth and varied presentation of this book's message. There is more to the idea of Giants than the popular child hood stereotype of Jack and the Beanstalk.  If you want to go beyond fairytales  and learn about how fact and myths intertwine to create fables- this book is a great case study. As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Master Books, an Imprint of New Leaf Press for the purpose of writing a review.
Giants available @ Masterbooks.com

Japanese Woodblock Print Workshop by April Vollmer

If you are in the market to purchase a book on a new and exotic craft, Japanese Woodblock Print Workshop by April Vollmer will introduce you to a new genre.  This hardcover book is a blend between a gift book and instructional guide.  This book is just as suitable for those who are interested in gaining a world wide perspective on art as well as hobbyists who want to try an eclectic and new art project.  This minimalist, modern designed book features a color coordinated abstract nature print resembling either trees or flowers.  The interior features full color photographs not only of art samples but also the materials needed and step by step instructional photographs.  The stylized art has a washed out watercolor impression as the colors are often muted- not bold or bright.  In my opinion the most impressive pieces of art were featured on the front and back covers.  The interior art looks like a combination between folk and modern abstract art combined.  I do not believe there is a sufficient number of pieces of art featured to qualify this book as either a gift book or art book.  There is a history of Japanese woodworking included in this book, giving the reader a broad background into this type of art.  A history student of Asian or Japanese studies may find an interest in this book as well as anyone looking for a new idea for a project. It fulfills a niche market of interest, but most likely wont be aesthetically pleasing for those who prefer oil paintings and traditional art.  I could see how some of these ideas might be integrated into modern home decor as part of a DIY project. This book would look sophisticated on anyone's bookshelf although this niche book would not be aimed for the general population. As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Watson-Guptill Publications an imprint of Crown Publishing for the purpose of writing this review.  

Pokergeist by Michael Phillip Cash

"Poker is life.  The hand you're dealt is determined.  It's how you play the cards that counts. Does the circumstances make the person, or does the person make the circumstances." (Cash, 2015, p. 232)

Pokergeist is the newest novel by Michael Phillip Cash.  This fast paced novel combines the paranormal with the Las Vegas casino nightlife.  In this original work, the reader is introduced to a timid man of low self worth named Telly, unemployed  and living out of a cheap motel, quickly losing hope as he makes one last effort to pursue a far fetched dream of winning a poker tournament before resigning himself to a life of disappointment.  Ironically he isn't alone in his quest as he makes an unlikely acquaintance with a dead poker player, once a professional who wanders in a limbo state unable to accept the loss of his final tournament.  Together they form an unlikely bond, complimenting each others' weakness in one final attempt in the pursuit of their dream, and more importantly, spiritual and emotional redemption.

Not simply a ghost story, the characters have real depth- as if Cash has the ability to psychologically analyze the the three dimensional characters he creates.  Telly is in his thirties, lamenting his lost career and lifestyle, a victim of corporate downsizing, he now lives on the brink of poverty. Despite his Masters degree, he must endure the ongoing humiliation of job rejections as he contemplates taking a minimum wage job as a cab driver. He is torn between his pride and his duty to care for his wife who has become the sole breadwinner. Meanwhile, the spirit of Clutch, a hardened and weary soul, is racked with guilt as he powerlessly observes the aftermath of his poor choices on his family as well as his teen-aged daughter and his grieving mistress. He is impotent to protect his family from the unsavory loan sharks he owed money to as his estate is tied up in probate because he did not write a will.  He wonders aimlessly as he watches from the sidelines- until a quirk in the spiritual- space time continuum allows his path to cross with Telly.  This story will leave any reader glued to its pages, rooting for redemption.  In a plot twist, the end is ironic, and unexpected, yet the careful and astute reader might find some clues threaded throughout the novel.  There is more than meets the eye with this complex novel.  Although fast paced with lively dialogue, it is thought provoking as well.  In fact it may even leave the reader to contemplate his or her own life and priorities as well.  Philosophical truth is found in the unlikeliest of places and circumstances.  A lesson from an unlikely ghost from Clutch's own past reveals an important lesson, "Poker is life.  The hand you're dealt is determined.  It's how you play the cards that counts." (Cash, 2015, p. 232) As a blogger I received a copy of this book for the purpose of writing this review. This book is available on Amazon.com and Barnes & Noble.

NIV Bible for Teen Girls: Growing in Faith, Hope, and Love

The newly published Bible for Teen Girls: Growing in Faith, Hope and Love, in the NIV translation

comes packaged with an inviting mat- finish artistic retro cover.  The vintage scroll work and antique styled bird cartoons is reminiscent of a typical teenager's pencil doodle drawing and no doubt will draw in a variety of readers and even young adults. This is the first thing that will jump out when choosing from a variety of bibles. This full sized study bible is perfect for pre teens and teen-aged girls.  The NIV translation is a reliable and trustworthy translation in contrast to other paraphrased translations frequently used for childrens' bibles.  The NIV is not difficult to comprehend for teens and young adults,  in contrast to the Kings James Translation or NKJV,  often used for a children's gift bible.  I imagine that kids' and teens' bibles using difficult to read translations could not possibly be used as a primary bible and are used mostly just for gift giving and sitting on a book shelf or trunk of trinkets.

Applicable devotions and commentaries are scattered throughout to help apply bible principals and teachings.  This bible contains character profiles and book introductions as inviting chunks of information to give the reader a background on the bible.  Selected scripture verses are highlighted as well, almost like a highlighter. This includes key memorable verses such as  Acts 16:31. The interior design with pink toned spot color and supplemental material break up the bible text making scripture more inviting and memorable.  Relevant articles on technology, friendship and other teen related issues as well as matters of faith and bible concepts are covered for a well rounded mix. The concordance is extensive making this an actual study bible- not simply a devotional bible.  Even so, there are devotional articles- which will hold the interest of any teenager.  Many teens like reading short personal stories and anecdotes in magazines- this will appeal to those readers as well.   The study bible features are more versatile and more powerful in terms of looking up specific passages and focusing on particular topics of interest.

This is not a bland text only bible.  I have seen many "children's" bibles that have beautiful covers but when you open them up, the interior is simply a standard black text on a white page, in a tiny font, with no embellishment- no different than a standard pew bible.

 If it weren't for the large "teen girls" boldly highlighted on the cover, I'd use this as my own bible. The only change is I feel the "teen girls" label on the cover should be delegated to the bottom corner of this bible in a smaller script font.   This is a bible that will be read- not simply to collect dust on a bookshelf.  As a blogger for BookLook bloggers, I received a copy of this bible published by Zondervan for the purpose of writing this review.

Intersect - Rob Peabody & Cris Rogers

Intersect - where your story and God's story converge by  Rob Peabody & Cris Rogers is a newly published DVD of The Awaken Movement.  This production is a short film that believers may use as a valuable resource in order to introduce friends, family and acquaintances to Christ. How many times have you wondered about how to bring up the message of the Good News of Jesus to friends, family or anyone for that matter? This short film is intended to be part of a five week curriculum to not only introduce Jesus in casual, non religious, non threatening context.  This documentary styled outreach film can is produced so inspire audiences of all ages and religious backgrounds and secular background.  The DVD had a small, full color, glossy study guide pamphlet enclosed in the case.  The guidebook offers suggestions on how to effectively use the film series for the bible study leader, out reach director, teacher or youth group leader.  It guides the user to creating an effective "lesson plan" for use with a small group.  In fact there are mini lesson plans and discussion questions for each of the five topical lessons to be delivered over the course of five weeks.  Therefore even if you never have led a study group before, you can easily lead one with the guidance provided with this DVD.  This DVD is intended for small group leaders, church ministry volunteers, bible study leaders or anyone interested in sharing the good news in a small study group format.  Do you belong to a book club?  Why not present this DVD series as a change of pace.  Do you have a weekly ladies night out, college study group or mom's playdate group?  Why not integrate this resource to deliver the life saving message to friends, family or acquaintances.   Get some popcorn, sodas and candy and your big screen TV and invite some friends over to watch the short films and have a discussion afterwords.  It doesn't need to be a formal even.  No one needs to purchase anything to participate in the group.  Even if you don't have a leadership role in a church or any background in teaching- I challenge you the reader of this blog, or even a fellow book blogger to get a copy of this DVD resource and start sharing the gospel message to all you know.  In the true spirit of the Great Commission of the Gospel this DVD resource shows us where to start in sharing the message if we have no idea where to begin. As a blogger for Litfuse publicity I received a copy of this DVD for the purpose of writing this review.

Glory Days by Max Lucado

Glory Days is the newest book written by one of America's most uplifting authors, Max Lucado. This book specifically helps those who are enduring really difficult times to simply mundane ordinary times, to endure and persevere. The author address real issues- job loss, terminal illness, grief and loss. This book is designed to help those not only those who are suffering from extreme circumstances, but those suffering from apathy, boredom and depression.  By following the Old Testament account of Joshua, this book offers real help by applying what we can learn from the account of Joshua to our modern day problems!  Most of us have our Caanan or trek in the wilderness.  If you feel like your life is stagnating or struggling with self esteem  or striving to achieve a goal- you will get something out of this book.  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 those complaints.  Yet you should read it anyway as it might put your life into a more spiritual perspective.  This book is not a fluffy, superficial, condescending, feel- good, women's devotional book. Max Lucado addresses the real life experiences and heartaches and holds our trials up to the biblical heroes who also suffered but endured with the help of God.  But, if you truly suffer from life's heartaches, or you are striving for something you feel is beyond your reach, then this book will offer the comfort and cheering you need.
This is a book I have read and re read.  Its readily available on my bookshelf when I need to turn to it in a time of need or or a time of change or challenge.  Its simple and to the point, bible truths are communicated in an easy to digest form for those who are too stressed or grief stricken to focus.

In true Lucado fashion, Max writes in an animated, easy to understand style that communicates biblical truths to the reader in this book. He bring the lessons of Joshua and its timeless truth to life in an inspirational way that speaks out to the reader. "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 and his conversational tone, make it so that biblical truths are memorable and meaningful to the average modern reader. You need not be educated in an expensive seminary or college to understand Max Lucado's books. 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. If on the other hand you are simply looking for bible based motivation and a relief in a world that takes pride in materialism, selfish ambition and competition, then this book is perfect. If you need a boost for your self esteem, and to understand your purpose or to define your goals this book is a great choice.   As a blogger for Litfuse publicity, I received a copy of this book an ARC copy, published  by Thomas Nelson publishers in exchange for writing an honest review. The opinions expressed are my own. Visit Glory Days on Lifuse Publicity
Glory Days Trailer

Learning to See Creatively by Bryan Peterson

Learning to See Creatively- Design, Color, and Composition in Photography by Bryan Peterson is newly revised in this third edition.  This is the perfect book for beginner and professional photographers to bring new life to their photography.  Not only for photographers, this book will provide insight for anyone who just wants to challenge and refresh their perspective on the world. As one would expect there are a variety of high quality photographs representing various photography styles and themes including action, still life, nature and abstract.  Color, composition and other aspects of photography are addressed making this a good introductory guidebook on the basics of photography.  There is even a chapter on photo-shopping photos for a surreal effect. Whether one prefers traditional photography or has a digital camera or even a camera phone-  this book would make a great gift for anyone who loves photography.

One change that I feel the author should consider is the cover photograph.  It is too abstract and uninspiring. I do not feel the photograph is a good  quality representation to draw in the reader to purchase the book. The abstract image of a street sign and traffic light are reflected by a puddle- yet the image looks grainy and blurred. It makes the book appear dated. Considering this is the cover of a photography book, I was a bit underwhelmed and would have expected a more impressive cover art and design to be depicted. If one takes the time to get past the cover design, then the reader will find this book informative and engaging.  Nevertheless I can not help but feel many possible readers will pass this book up simply because they are not engaged by the cover.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Amphoto books, an imprint of Watson- Guptill Publications,  for the purpose of writing this review.

The Realism Challenge by Mark Crilley

The Realism Challenge by Mark Crilley is a newly published instructional book to show how to create hyperrealistic art.  A newly emerging popular genre of art is hypperrealism- a modern reactionary movement to the cartoonish garbage called art that has become so prevalent.  Many readers may only be familiar with this movement through facebook feature articles which showcase hyperrealistic art through painfully slow slideshows from Huffington Post and other entertainment news forums. Crilly presents step by step illustrations to show how this realistic method of art can be attempted. Strategies utilize color as well as black and white which will make this book appealing to a broad range of artists who use a wide range of mediums.  The ink doodler, pencil artist and water color artist will find themselves just at home with this book as the acrylic and oil painter.  The minimalist design of this full color jacketed soft cover book would make a unique gift for anyone who enjoys drawing or doodling.  Even those readers who are not artists themselves may find this book intriguing. As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Watson-Guptill Publications of crown publishing.

Faithgirls Bible NIV

Faithgirls Bible in the NIV translation comes with a color coordinated purple owl themed magnetic closure cover.  This full sized girls' study bible is perfect for pre-teens and teen-aged girls.  The NIV translation is a reliable and trustworthy translation in contrast to other paraphrased translations frequently used for children's bible.  The NIV is not difficult to comprehend for children unlike when the Kings James Translation or NKJV is used for a children's bible.  I imagine that kids' bibles using difficult to read translations could not possibly be used as a primary bible by children and are used mostly just for gift giving and most likely will not actually be read by a child.  Therefore the NIV makes the perfect choice of a translation for a kids' bible. Purple font is used for the text and two tone graphics are used in the interior.  The purple and pink theme will certainly appeal to many young readers. Applicable devotions and commentaries are scattered throughout to help apply bible principals and teachings.  This is a bible that will be read- not simply to collect dust on a bookshelf.  As a blogger I received a copy of this bible published by Zonderkidz for the purpose of writing this review.

Earth's Catastrophic Past by Andrew A. Snelling

Earth's Catastrophic Past: Geology, Creation & the Flood is a two volume set by Andrew A. Snelling.

This extensive resource is a scholarly work that delves into extensive scientific evidence about the origins of the Earth.  In light of bible evidence, the author presents facts and evidence that will stand even to the greatest scientific scrutiny.  This is the perfect reference book for any student who wishes to investigate evolution with an objective eye.  This is not simply an introductory survey of biblical creation but an advanced body of research.  This is not a coffee table book depicting creation in pictures and photos- but rather a highly detailed academic work that challenges any reader.  This is not a casual book to read in one sitting while in a favorite armchair.  Prepare to dedicate time and mental effort into following the evidences provided by Snelling in these two volumes.  So far in all my research I have not read a more extensive and thorough book on Earth's history in light of scripture.  This is a valuable resource for any student- and an essential component in any science library.  It arms the student with a strong basis in bridging the bible with science. As a graduate with my BS, I was impressed by this set.  As far as grade level, it could be used by high school students up to college level in a geology or physical science course. This book is also perfect for the advanced biblical creation enthusiast who wants to know more than just the basics. This book goes into extensive detail not only with theology but with geology, archaeology and physical science. While this book is formatted as a reference volume with no graphics or photographs within the text, there is a section in the back of each volume with helpful supplemental graphs, charts and figures.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Master Books, a division of New Leaf Publishing Group for the purpose of writing this review.

Available at Master Books

Just As Special by 3Evoke, LLC

Just As Special by 3Evoke, LLC illustrated by Colette Robbins is a picture book for young children that addresses the issue of being raised by single parents.  In this story, Mason feels left out because he doesn't have a dad around.  While the story does not focus on the particular circumstances of  why Mason does not have contact with his father- the lesson that there are other loving family members and trusted adults that care for Mason can apply to any child who feels alone.

Nevertheless as a parent, I am left to wonder why Mason apparently does not know anything about his dad when he asks his mom why he does not have a dad to play with.  Cryptically, the mom responds early in in the story,  "You do have a dad and he loves you.  Sometimes for many different reasons, dads aren't around, instead they send great people in their place to watch over you."  This answer seems to imply that either his dad has passed away, or perhaps is unavailable in some way such as in the military, incarnation  or committed in a mental institution- to explain the fact that his son knows nothing about him. If Mason was from a divorced home, he would at least have visitation with his father.  As a reader, I am wondering what happened to the dad and why he is not in the picture, even though his mom states his dad loves him. I just can't get past that aspect of the story.  As a reader, I was hoping the authors would add an explanation such as a divorce or death or military service to explain the dad's absence.    Mason's mother answers with a gentle, yet vague response- which can apply to many different situations that young children may experience when they are separated from their fathers through divorce, death, military or even incarceration.   Expressive illustrations bring this story to life.  The narrative in the present tense is unique and adds realism as if this story is directed at the reader.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by Dog Ear Publishing for the purpose of writing this review.

The Hostess Twinkies Cookbook by 10 Speed Press

The Hostess Twinkies Cookbook by 10 Speed Press is an eccentric new pocket sized cookbook that brings a 
plot twist to the beloved snack cake. Meshing together a lively narrative and eccentric dessert recipes using twinkies, this book is a hybrid between a specialty niche cook book and a coffee table book.  Filled with high quality,  full color photographs, colorful retro graphics, this book contains simple desserts using twinkies- including twinkies shakes, twinkies bacon and even a twinkies burger in which the twinkies replaces the bun.  These recipes are only for the adventurous as some of the combinations of meat and sugary cake are not traditional complimentary food combinations.  This niche book would make a great gift for anyone who is fond of Twinkies, or as a souvenir to reminisce of one's childhood days.  As a blogger I received a copy of this cook book published by  10 speed press.

Big Gay Ice Cream by Bryan Petroff and Douglas Quint

Big Gay Ice Cream by Bryan Petroff and Douglas Quint is an eccentric new gift book that brings a
plot twist to the beloved frozen summertime treat. Meshing together an alternative lifestyle, eccentric narrative and unique ice cream dessert recipes, this book is a hybrid between a cook book and a coffee table book.  Filled with high quality,  full color photographs, colorful retro graphics and a variety of real life people from all walks of life- not phony models, this book will appeal to a broad readership.  No one is excluded in this book as it depicts people of all shapes, sizes, ages, ethnicity and lifestyle choices- this book bridges the gap in the traditional black and white gender roles, redefining gender as a broad spectrum with no clear distinction.  This unique book integrates the theme of a high school yearbook to classify the ice cream recipes as easy- as in the Freshman section with Ice Cream 101 up to the advances senior level options.  For anyone who likes alternative culture and eccentric gifts, this is a good choice.  For those who are easily offended or have a traditional or old fashioned  mindset- the meaning of this book will not be appreciated and will be met with confusion or with bias.  As a blogger I received a copy of this book published by 10 Speed Press.