The Lost Town: Bringing Back Trochenbrod Blurb Blitz by Avrom Bendavid-Val

The Lost Town: Bringing Back Trochenbrod

By Avrom Bendavid-Val

GENRE: YA Nonfiction

Synopsis:

Trochenbrod was a bustling commercial center of more than 5,000 people, all Jews, hidden deep in the forest in Northwest Ukraine. It thrived as a tiny Jewish kingdom unnoticed and unknown to most people, even though it was “the big city” for surrounding Ukrainian and Polish villages. The people of Trochenbrod vanished in the Holocaust, and soon nothing remained of this vibrant 130-year-old town but a mysterious double row of trees and bushes in a clearing in the forest.

In this new book, Avrom Bendavid-Val makes Trochenbrod’s true story accessible, enjoyable, and memorable for young readers. The Lost Town follows his adventures while uncovering the lost history of the magical place where his father was born and raised. An imagined Trochenbrod was the setting for Jonathan Safran Foer’s novel, Everything is Illuminated, and the movie by the same name.

Book Links

Amazon Paperback  *  Amazon ebook  *  Barnes and Nobel paperback  *  Powell’s  *  Goodreads

The Lost Town

http://thelosttownbook.com/TLT/Welcome_to_The_Lost_Town.html

Documentary based on the book – 7th Arts

http://www.7thart.com/films/Lost-Town

Bacon Press Books

http://www.baconpressbooks.com/#/the-lost-town-bringing-back-trochenbrod/

Book Review: Website Directory By Vinayak Patukale

Website Directory

By Vinayak Patukale

Publisher: Tech-Some

Published: Mar. 1, 2015

ASIN: B00U5ONOU4

Amazon Synopsis:

You always browse on internet for various reasons. Sometimes you don't find what you want. Maybe you didn't know on which Website that thing is available. 

Here is The Website Directory with 5000+ websites worldwide.. 
Education, Social Networking, Entertainment, Music, Tools, Science and Technology and 100s of more Categories... 

With Instant Click. Get it right now. And Start browsing.

Book Links

Amazon  *  Goodreads

Book Review: The Jeremiah Project Part 1 - The Scrapbook by A. J. Foltz

The Jeremiah Project Part 1-The Scrapbook

By A. J. Foltz

Publisher: WestBow Press

Published: May 2, 2013

ASIN: B00DCLM8BI

Amazon Synopsis:

Turn off all the noise, and get yourself comfortable. Jeremiah invites you in. The Jeremiah Project Part 1—The Scrapbook has the bones of a study guide but as Scripture is searched and questions are answered the study takes on the form of a novelette. The study begins with Jeremiah’s official appointment. Jeremiah will represent the Lord in a monumental court case that administers justice. This case still affects us today.

The Lord had a legal and binding relationship with Israel. Their relationship is compared to marriage in this study of God’s Word. When God acquired Israel as a vessel-bride, Israel acquired God’s promises, which were outlined in a living and breathing contract. The once gracious contract which united the two parties in holy union has by legal recourse become a beast which, in study, serves to bind the pair in its merciless grip.

The Jeremiah Project Part 1—The Scrapbook is a user-friendly study that you cannot afford to miss. It’s like finding a few more pieces to that big puzzle of life. Some of us have a good start at putting it all together, but the picture of life becomes a little clearer and makes more sense after spending some time with Jeremiah. You will find insightful information as he, by appointment from God, delivers wisdom, comfort, and strength that will get many through the upheaval in our world.

Book Links

Amazon  *  Goodreads

My Thoughts:

The Jeremiah Project (Pt 1) covers the first 10 chapters of the book of Jeremiah. It is a very in depth look at the book of Jeremiah. It covers the book verse by verse. Many references are made to other books and chapters of the bible in order to help the reader understand the location and history of what is being discussed as well as the spiritual meaning of the writing.

Questions are presented for each section for the reader to respond to. Each of these questions helps the reader to understand better what the author is trying to demonstrate to the reader. Sometimes there in only one or two questions. Other times there are quite a few questions.

The Jeremiah Project (Pt 1) would be suitable to use for a personal study, but probably less so as a group study unless each member was dedicated to doing minimum of at least a half hour of homework before meeting time in order to get through the material and even at that to complete The Jeremiah Project (Pt 1) as a group study it would likely take several months.

I liked that the questions were clear and concise and helped the reader to visualize what is going on in the book of Jeremiah to see how that applies to the Israelites and how it can also be applied to Christians today. Writing the answers down gives a simple and easy document to read as a good reminder of what the Scripture has to say, and not what the author wants us to think about.

Reviewing this book was a catalyst to me being interested again in reading and studying my Bible on a more regular basis. Now I just have to make it happen.

I think The Jeremiah Project (Pt 1) is an excellent way to become familiar with this Old Testament book of the Bible. I would recommend it to anyone who wants to know more about the book of Jeremiah. I gave it 5 stars out of 5.

Thank you to the publishers for providing a copy of the book in exchange for a fair and honest review. A positive opinion was not required. All thoughts are my own.

About the Author:

A.J. Foltz is a career Christian who has undergone a lifetime of training on and off the Christian field. Foltz has been married for 33 years and raised three children.

Author Links

Website  *  Twitter  *  Facebook

Book Review: Made With Dad by Chris Barnardo

Made with Dad: From Wizards’ Wands to Japanese Dolls, Craft Projects to Build, Make, and Do with Your Kids

By Chris Barnardo

Publisher: Skyhorse Publishing

Published: May 5, 2015

ASIN: 9781632207227

Amazon Synopsis:

Releasing in time for Father's Day, Made With Dad features fifty unique, fabulous projects for fathers to make with their children. Projects include everything from samurai swords to pocket-size dolls, wizard wands to paper zoos.

All projects can made from affordable, easy-to-find items—often regular household ones already owned. Full-color photographs, line drawings, and detailed instructions provide an easy, visually lush, and family—friendly manual.

This is a book for fun and bonding, one boys, girls, and adults will enjoy. It will allow families to create objects to play with everyday or display in their rooms, and to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Book Links

Amazon  *  Goodreads

Book Review: 35 Dog Training Mistakes by James Goodman

35 Dog Training Mistakes: Mistakes You Are Probably Doing and How to Avoid Them

By James Goodman

Publisher: James Goodman

Published: Feb. 12, 2015

ASIN: B00T75C4VC

Amazon Synopsis:

Does any of the following sound familiar to you?  

·         You feed your dog from the dinner table?

·         You hug your dog to show it love?

·         You walk your dog around the block a few times per day?

·         You are Reactive, not Proactive?

·         Sometimes your dog isn't listening to you?

·         Your dog only listens to you when you use treats?

·         You don't know how much you can expect from your dog?

·         You don't know the last time you have been to a veterinarian?

·         You are not sure how to react when your dog did something wrong?

Book Review: David and Goliath by Katherine Sully

David and Goliath

By Katherine Sully

Publisher: QEB Publishing

Published: Mar. 25, 2015

ISBN: 9781609922610

Amazon Synopsis:

Can young David win against a giant? Read the story of David, the shepherd boy who fights the mighty giant, Goliath.

Can young David win against a giant? Read the story of David, the shepherd boy who fights the mighty giant, Goliath. These beautifully illustrated classic Bible stories are perfect for reading together as well as reading alone. The most popular stories from the Old Testament are retold in easy-to-read language and provide a perfect introduction into the Bible. The series allows children to become familiar with colorful stories from the Old Testament using the familiar picture story format. Whilst the language is simple and easy to understand, the detailed illustrations support the text and provide ideal opportunities for spotting things and for further discussion.

Book Links

Amazon  *  B&N  *  Book Depository  *  Goodreads

What Every 6th Grader Needs to Know Cover Reveal and Giveaway with Rachelle Christensen and Connie Sokol

 

  What Every 6th Grader Needs to Know 

by Connie Sokol & Rachelle Christensen 

 Is your daughter asking questions about friends, peer pressure, school, and even her weight? As a mom, are you wondering how to answer them? Welcome to the club. But you can relax. Because we’ve asked real sixth-grade girls to dish on their top secret questions. And, we’ve provided time-tested real-life answers that work. Add to that an enjoyable format. The “Just for Girls” section speaks right to your daughter in words and ways she understands. The “Just for Moms” section talks straight to moms, giving you information, resources, and easy-to-share answers. We include tips for how to start, handle, and enjoy the conversations no matter the situation. Create connected conversations with your daughter as you explore these life questions together. Get plain facts and jumpstart questions. Discuss the provided scenarios so she can practice responses to use in real-time. Download decorative cards with positive statements and fun fill-in sentences. Use What Every Girl Needs to Know About 6th Grade to make it happen. Together, answer questions and create connection. You got this.

Enter the Goodreads 3 Book Giveaway

Book Review: I Will Never Forget by Elaine Pereria

I Will Never Forget: A Daughter's Story of Her Mother's Arduous and Humorous Journey through Dementia

By Elaine Pereira

Publisher: JACE Woods Press

Published: Dec, 29, 2014

ISBN: 978-1936840762

Amazon Synopsis:

IT IS PAINFULLY DIFFICULT to watch loved ones decline as dementia ravages their mind, destroying memories, rational thinking, and judgment. In her touching memoir, I Will Never Forget, Elaine Pereira shares the heartbreaking and humorous story of her mother’s incredible journey through dementia. 

Pereira begins with entertaining glimpses into her own childhood and feisty teenage years, demonstrating her mother’s strength of character. Years later, as Betty Ward started to exhibit bizarre behaviors and paranoia, Pereira was mystified by her mom’s amazing ability to mask the truth. 

Not until a revealing incident over an innocuous drapery rod did Pereira recognize the extent of her mother’s Alzheimer’s. As their roles shifted and a new paradigm emerged, Pereira transformed into a caregiver, blindly navigating dementia’s unpredictable haze. 
But before Betty’s passing, she orchestrated a stunning rally to control her own destiny via a masterful, Houdini-like escape. 

I Will Never Forget is a powerful heartwarming story that helps others know that they are not alone in their journey. “Poignant, shocking, and honest … far more than just words on paper. If you or someone you know is living through the hell of dementia, you need this book!” –Ionia Martin, developer of Readful Things Reviews and Alzheimer’s caregiver.

Book Links

Amazon  *  Goodreads

Book Review: Favorite Raw Food Recipes

Favorite Raw Food Recipes

Publisher: Mountain Light Sage Publishing

Published: March 11, 2014

ASIN: B00J1WF50I

Amazon Synopsis:

Favorite raw food recipes that are easy to prepare, your body will thank you! A collection of easy to prepare recipes. 

~Unlock potential~ 
Stay positive! Happy. Drink fresh raw fruits and juices, it's what the body craves. 

~When the coconuts crack, who will be there to save them?~ 

Book Blast and Giveaway: The Predatory Lies of Anorexia

Title: The Predator Lies of Anorexia:  A Survivor’s Story

Genre: Memoir/Self Help

About The Book

Paperback: 196 pages

Publisher: Bettie Youngs Book Publishers (March 17, 2014)

ISBN-10: 1940784174

ISBN-13: 978-1940784175

About The Book

I want. I want you to want me. I want you to think I am the smartest, the thinnest, the most beautiful. I want you to want to be me. I want to be enviable. I want to be impervious. I want to need nothing. I want you to know that I am strong. I want to think I am better than everyone else. I want.

I’m willing to give up everything. I will give up mind and future. I will give up health, happiness 

Book Review: The Digital Eye by Norm Hamilton

Today's review has been done by guest reviewer Eric Svendsen. Eric is a teacher, author and photographer.To find out more about Eric, visit his website at http://ericspix.com

The Digital Eye

By Norm Hamilton

Publisher: Meldrum House Publishing

Published: Nov. 19, 2013

ASIN: B00AVPW04S

Amazon Synopsis:

Learn From A Professional Photographer

Digital photography explained in simple, understandable terms.

Written in a fun easy way for the beginner photographer to the advance amateur.

There's no better way to learn photography.

·         Learn How To Use Composition

·         Create Tack Sharp Images

·         Exposure Explained

·         Creative Depth of Field

·         Flash Photography

·         Learn Digital Photography Resolution

·         Artistic B&W Photography

·         Make Beautiful Portraits

Book Review:NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S WHO’S WHO IN THE BIBLE: Unforgettable People and Timeless Stories from Genesis to Revelation

NATIONAL GEOGRAPHIC’S WHO’S WHO IN THE BIBLE:

 Unforgettable People and Timeless Stories from Genesis to Revelation

By  Jean-Pierre Isbouts

Publisher: National Geographic

Published: Nov. 5, 2013

ISBN: 9781426211591

Amazon Synopsis:

From the author of In the Footsteps of Jesus and The Biblical World comes a vibrant family reference that brings to life the fascinating characters of the Old and New Testatments of the Bible. From the fall of Adam and Eve to Judas' betrayal of Jesus, the key events of the Bible are expressed through the lives of hundreds of people. Told through exquisite art 

Book Review Blog Tour and Giveaway: A Light in Dark Places by Jennifer Graves and Emily Clawson

Tour Schedule

A Light in Dark Places

By Jennifer Graves and Emily Clawson

Publisher: Jennifer Graves

Published: June 21, 2013

ISBN: 9781490426112

A Light in Dark Places In December, 2009, Susan Cox Powell was reported missing from her home in West Valley City, Utah. As law enforcement tried to piece together what had happened to Susan, her husband, Josh Powell, became the only person of interest in the case. For Jennifer Graves, Josh’s sister, the nightmare started long before Susan’s disappearance. From her experiences growing up in the Powell family to the terrifying moment when she first started to believe her brother was a killer, she relied on her faith to stay strong. She devoted herself to the safety of Susan’s boys, Charlie and Braden, whom she hoped to be able to raise as her own. When the boys were murdered by their father in February, 2012, Jennifer was more than devastated, but she had to believe there was a reason for it all—including the deaths of her beloved nephews. In A Light In Dark Places, Jennifer shares her struggles and her triumphs. In coming to terms with such tragedy she finally was able to embrace the truth that we all have the power to choose our own path—and there is always hope, no matter how dark things may seem.

Website * Amazon * Barnes & Noble

Praise for A Light in Dark Places I just finished reading "A Light in Dark Places" By Jennifer Graves and Emily Gray Clawson. I was impressed with how well written the book was. The descriptions are such that I felt I was part of the story. I was grateful that the message was one of hope and peace in tragedy. The book does tell the tale of Susan Powell, her boys and their demise but doesn't dwell on it. It was nice to see inside the life experiences of someone so close to them and to see things from Jennifer's perspective 

Book Review: When God Intervenes

When God Intervenes 

By Dabney Hedegard

Publisher: Tyndale House Publishers

Publishing Date: June 21, 2013

ISBN: 9781414376820

Amazon Synopsis:

“She’ll never make it through the night”

When Dabney Hedegard was six weeks pregnant, doctors discovered an eight-inch tumor embedded in her chest. She was diagnosed with cancer and opted to postpone treatment until further along in her pregnancy. This marked the beginning of a ten-year battle against cancer, cardiomyopathy, mitral valve prolapse, pulmonary embolism, acute pneumonia, kidney failure, respiratory failure, and heart failure. In each instance, Dabney was given less than a 30 percent chance of surviving, and twice doctors told her husband, “She’ll never make it through the night.” But each time the doctors had given up hope, God intervened, miraculously rescuing Dabney from death’s doorstep. Part medical drama, part account of divine intervention, Dabney’s extraordinary story is a fast-paced, emotional roller-coaster ride that will have you crying one moment and cheering the next. Dabney’s journey is an indisputable testament to the undeniable power of prayer.

My Thoughts:

This was an amazing book about an amazing journey. Imagine finding out when you are six weeks pregnant that you have an eight-inch tumour (Hodgekins lymphoma) inside your chest. You have to make a decision about whether to abort the child and begin treatment right away, or wait until the baby is born. In the meantime, the tumour could kill you. That was the choice given to Dabney Hedegard.

This book was a well-written chronicle of the ten-year long journey that God took Dabney on. She should have died 4 times. But God intervened and did what man could not do. He kept her alive. She has had so many miracles in her life, including each of her children. After the chemotherapy for the lymphoma, Dabney was found to be sterile from the damage of the medications. But she got pregnant again, and more than once (each time with the doctors declaring that it was not possible) – proving that God does intervene in our lives.

Her story is one of encouragement, faith, hope and healing. God’s hand in Dabney’s life is evident. It would be hard to argue His existence after reading this book. This is one of those books where the author is able to make you feel as though you are right there with alongside them. This is one of the best autobiographies I have ever read!

I give this book 5 stars! 

 Disclaimer: I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. A free product does not influence my review. All thoughts are my own.

Book Review: Wisdom For Everyday Living

Wisdom for Everyday Living

By Steve M. Woods

Publisher: HCI Books

Date Pubished: Oct. 1, 2013

ISBN: 9780757317545

Amazon Synopsis:

Wisdom for Everyday Living is a 365-daily devotional to deepen your faith and buoy your spirit, sharing favorite Scriptures and reflections from 100 diverse and respected thought leaders of prominent Christian churches, colleges, and organizations.

A fitting inspiration for Bible study groups, alone time, or family fellowship, Wisdom for Everyday Living explores a wide range of topics, including:

·         enduring through hard times, sorrow, or depression 

·         struggling to break an addiction 

·         forgiving others and yourself 

·         having a thankful attitude 

·         giving up the need to control the outcome 

·         the importance of God's word and fellowship with other Christians 

·         being courageous 

·         finding your God-given purpose 

·         learning to wait on God 

·         the power of humility.

For anyone who wants to walk with Christ, they will find themselves in good company with daily wisdom from Judy Douglass, author, Campus Crusade for Christ; Anne Graham Lotz, founder and president of AnGel Ministries and the daughter of Dr. and Mrs. Billy Graham; Bob Coy, senior pastor at Calvary Chapel in Fort Lauderdale; Dan Carroll, senior pastor, Water of Life Community Church; Brandon Cox, senior pastor Grace Hills Church; Chuck Booher, senior pastor at Crossroads Christian Church; David S. Dockery, president of Union University--and many, many more.

My Thoughts:

This devotional book is easy to read. Contributions were made by over 100 different Christian authors and leaders providing different viewpoints and opinions. Written for all ages, this devotional book could be used for family devotions or personal devotions.

The contributors help to relate the Scripture to our everyday lives in a variety of different areas. Each devotion provides a practical application for living the Christian life today.

I gave this book 4 stars.

Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for my fair and honest review. A free product does not influence my opinion. All thoughts are my own.

Book Review: The Celiac Cookbook: Wonderful Wheat-Free Recipes for the Whole Family

The Celiac Cookbook: Wonderful Wheat-Free Recipes 

for the Whole Family

Blue Star Books

Publishing Date:  April 30th 2013

ISBN: 9781938568336

Amazon Synopsis:

Designed with the family in mind after years of perseverance in the kitchen, this collection of over 300 recipes offers delicious gluten-free foods without sacrificing flavor.
‘The Celiac Cookbook’ uses simple recipes with common ingredients for both special occasions and everyday cooking. Variations on classic recipes—as well as traditional dishes—abound, giving those with gluten intolerance choices suited to the tastes of even the most discernible palates. 
This cookbook presents dishes inspired by Asian, Italian, and Mexican cuisine like frittatas, orange beef stir-fry, black bean enchiladas, and pizza, with desserts like apple pie, homemade ice cream, mints and much, much more, all without wheat!
With ‘The Celiac Cookbook,’ discover alternative grains that offer better nutritional content and added health benefits, gluten-free cooking tips, and baking aids. In addition, you’ll find helpful information about celiac disease and resources for the gluten intolerant.

My Thoughts:

Brownie Bites

This is a cookbook for those who are on gluten-free diets. It begins with a wealth of information on facts, symptoms, associated conditions, and common misdiagnoses related to Celiac disease. Resources to support groups and organizations that can provide more information are included. To complete the information on Celiac disease is a thorough section on gluten-free grains and flour mixes with recipes for the mixes.

Lemon Bars

Also included are a variety of dairy-free and dairy-and-egg-free recipes for those who are unable to eat dairy and/or egg.

There are recipes in this cookbook for just about every category you can think of. Each of these recipes contains only ingredients that are commonly found in most kitchens. I liked this because it means no special trips to the grocery store for specialty ingredients. The recipes are simple and easy to prepare.

Savoury Sausage and Squash Soup
 and Chili Lime Chicken

I love cookbooks. One of the things I love the most are the pictures that attract the cook to try the recipe. Sadly, there were no pictures in this cookbook but I have included a few pictures of the recipes that I tested.

In reviewing this cookbook, I felt that it was important to test out at least a few of them. I found the recipes to be tasty and easy to prepare. The only issue I had with the recipes was that the ingredients were not listed in any particular order. This made it easy to miss an item when adding them to the recipe. The instructions for preparation of the foods were easy to follow.

Overall, I think this was an excellent cookbook. I would highly recommend this cookbook for everyone whether they require a gluten-free diet or not.

I gave this book a rating of 4.

I received this book from Book Hub Inc. in exchange for a fair and honest review. A free product does not influence my review. All thoughts are my own.

Book Review: Day of the Elephants

Day of the Elephants

Ron Swager & Ed Chinn

Smith Publicity -- Reel Marketing Systems, LLCPub Date   Jul 10 2013

ISBN 9780615827773

Amazon Synopsis:

Try to imagine that you are an eight-year-old boy living a village life of peace, safety, and familial love. But, suddenly, you are caught in the explosion of death. In an instant, everything familiar is destroyed. You leave your childhood forever. For the next twenty years, you see the darkest possibilities of humanity. And then, you touch the majestic beauty and grace that triumph over the darkness. This is a story you won't forget.

My Thoughts:

The Day of the Elephants has nothing to do with the large animal with four legs and a trunk. The elephant is a metaphor for terrorists, whether they be those who bring about terror and death to a nation, or a more “civilized” form of terrorist – physical, financial, relational, vocational or other issue which attempts to devastate an individual. From the outset of the book Swager and Chinn make it clear that the story of Roland Deah is a parallel for each of us as we face our own issues that knock us down. As Roland never gave up, so we must never give up. Swager and Chinn use Scripture throughout the book to help illustrate their thoughts.

Swager and Chinn do a reasonable job of narrating Roland’s story, one of brutality and horror without going into too much detail. They tell of child soldiers as young as 3 years old and the horrific acts used to recruit them. They tell Roland’s story as he travels through Liberia, across the Cavalla River into the Ivory Coast to a makeshift refugee camp at Guiglo.

In the middle of Roland’s story, Swager takes a detour and tells of his heart attack. He compares this “elephant” to Roland’s “elephant”. He then carries on to the conclusion of Roland’s story telling how Roland came to live in in the United States.

I found this story to be very educational about what goes on in other countries. I can’t say that I “enjoyed” this book, as the topic is not “enjoyable”. It is a story that needs to be read because we need to know what happens elsewhere in our world so that we can do something about it.

I found that Swager’s telling of his heart attack as a parallel “elephant” was just not on the same level as Roland Deah’s experience. It was trivial by comparison. However, I understand why he included it. This book was intended to tell Roland’s story and to remind each of us that we can overcome whatever we have to face.

I gave this book 3 stars

Disclaimer: I received a free review copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.