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How to Write a Book Review: The Complete Guide

by Sue Weems | 23 comments

If you've ever loved (or hated) a book, you may have been tempted to review it. Here's a complete guide to how to write a book review, so you can share your literary adventures with other readers more often! 

You finally reach the last page of a book that kept you up all night and close it with the afterglow of satisfaction and a tinge of regret that it’s over. If you enjoyed the book enough to stay up reading it way past your bedtime, consider writing a review. It is one of the best gifts you can give an author.

Regardless of how much you know about how to write a book review, the author will appreciate hearing how their words touched you.

But as you face the five shaded stars and empty box, a blank mind strikes. What do I say? I mean, is this a book really deserving of five stars? How did it compare to Dostoevsky or Angelou or Dickens?

Maybe there’s an easier way to write a book review.

Want to learn how to write a book from start to finish? Check out How to Write a Book: The Complete Guide .

The Fallacy of Book Reviews

Once you’ve decided to give a review, you are faced with the task of deciding how many stars to give a book.

When I first started writing book reviews, I made the mistake of trying to compare a book to ALL BOOKS OF ALL TIME. (Sorry for the all caps, but that’s how it felt, like a James Earl Jones voice was asking me where to put this book in the queue of all books.)

Other readers find themselves comparing new titles to their favorite books. It's a natural comparison. But is it fair?

This is honestly why I didn’t give reviews of books for a long time. How can I compare a modern romance or historical fiction war novel with Dostoevsky? I can’t, and I shouldn’t.

I realized my mistake one day as I was watching (of all things) a dog show. In the final round, they trotted out dogs of all shapes, colors, and sizes. I thought, “How can a Yorkshire Terrier compete with a Basset Hound?” As if he'd read my mind, the announcer explained that each is judged by the standards for its breed.

This was my “Aha!” moment. I have to take a book on its own terms. The question is not, “How does this book compare to all books I’ve read?” but “How well did this book deliver what it promised for the intended audience?”

A review is going to reflect my personal experience with the book, but I can help potential readers by taking a minute to consider what the author intended. Let me explain what I mean. 

How to Write a Book Review: Consider a Book’s Promise

A book makes a promise with its cover, blurb, and first pages. It begins to set expectations the minute a reader views the thumbnail or cover. Those things indicate the genre, tone, and likely the major themes.

If a book cover includes a lip-locked couple in flowing linen on a beach, and I open to the first page to read about a pimpled vampire in a trench coat speaking like Mr. Knightly about his plan for revenge on the entire human race, there’s been a breach of contract before I even get to page two. These are the books we put down immediately (unless a mixed-message beachy cover combined with an Austen vampire story is your thing).

But what if the cover, blurb, and first pages are cohesive and perk our interest enough to keep reading? Then we have to think about what the book has promised us, which revolves around one key idea: What is the core story question and how well is it resolved?

Sometimes genre expectations help us answer this question: a romance will end with a couple who finds their way, a murder mystery ends with a solved case, a thriller’s protagonist beats the clock and saves the country or planet.

The stories we love most do those expected things in a fresh or surprising way with characters we root for from the first page. Even (and especially!) when a book doesn’t fit neatly in a genre category, we need to consider what the book promises on those first pages and decide how well it succeeds on the terms it sets for itself.

When I Don’t Know What to Write

About a month ago, I realized I was overthinking how to write a book review. Here at the Write Practice we have a longstanding tradition of giving critiques using the Oreo method : point out something that was a strength, then something we wondered about or that confused us, followed by another positive.

We can use this same structure to write a simple review when we finish books. Consider this book review format: 

[Book Title] by [book author] is about ___[plot summary in a sentence—no spoilers!]___. I chose this book based on ________. I really enjoyed ________. I wondered how ___________. Anyone who likes ____ will love this book.

Following this basic template can help you write an honest review about most any book, and it will give the author or publisher good information about what worked (and possibly what didn’t). You might write about the characters, the conflict, the setting, or anything else that captured you and kept you reading.

As an added bonus, you will be a stronger reader when you are able to express why you enjoyed parts of a book (just like when you critique!). After you complete a few, you’ll find it gets easier, and you won’t need the template anymore.

What if I Didn’t Like It?

Like professional book reviewers, you will have to make the call about when to leave a negative review. If I can’t give a book at least three stars, I usually don’t review it. Why? If I don’t like a book after a couple chapters, I put it down. I don’t review anything that I haven’t read the entire book.

Also, it may be that I’m not the target audience. The book might be well-written and well-reviewed with a great cover, and it just doesn’t capture me. Or maybe it's a book that just isn't hitting me right now for reasons that have nothing to do with the book and everything to do with my own reading life and needs. Every book is not meant for every reader.

If a book kept me reading all the way to the end and I didn’t like the ending? I would probably still review it, since there had to be enough good things going on to keep me reading to the end. I might mention in my review that the ending was less satisfying than I hoped, but I would still end with a positive.

How to Write a Book Review: Your Turn

As writers, we know how difficult it is to put down the words day after day. We are typically voracious readers. Let’s send some love back out to our fellow writers this week and review the most recent title we enjoyed.

What was the last book you read or reviewed? Do you ever find it hard to review a book? Share in the comments .

Now it's your turn. Think of the last book you read. Then, take fifteen minutes to write a review of it based on the template above. When you're done, share your review in the Pro Practice Workshop . For bonus points, post it on the book's page on Amazon and Goodreads, too!

Don't forget to leave feedback for your fellow writers! What new reads will you discover in the comments?

Sue Weems is a writer, teacher, and traveler with an advanced degree in (mostly fictional) revenge. When she’s not rationalizing her love for parentheses (and dramatic asides), she follows a sailor around the globe with their four children, two dogs, and an impossibly tall stack of books to read. You can read more of her writing tips on her website .

23 Comments

The Ice Dragon by George R.R. Martin is about a girl that shows no emotion befriending a ice dragon.

I chose this book based on the cover that had a little girl riding a ice dragon, and wondered what is about.

I really enjoyed the interaction the little girl had with the dragon.

I wondered how how the girl’s bond with the dragon.

Anyone who likes a coming of age story set in a fantasy will love this book.

Thanks for sharing your practice, Azure!

You’re welcome.

A interesting, at times perplexing, subject! And one on my mind lately,as I’ve agreed to do a few. I do enjoy giving reviews and am delighted when I can say, “This was a great book!” Or even, “I enjoyed this book.” It gets perplexing when I agree to review a book — and simply don’t like it. Then what to say? I hate to disappoint the writer but I’ve promised to give my honest opinion.

I’ve found some books mediocre and yet I see a dozen other reviewers saying “A great story!” Tastes do vary. But when there are obvious flaws I tend to skip all the best-friend-and-cousin reviewers and find the first person who says, “This writer has a problem with…” Usually there’ll be a number of reviewers who spot the same problems I do.

I like upbeat main characters, but not aggressive, belligerent, and/or self-centered ones. I like to meet in a story the kind of people I’d like to meet in real life— not people I’d avoid if possible. I recently read a book where the main character came across as insipid and the story only mildly interesting. Other reviewers said it was great and I know for this specific audience — readers who want a certain slant to a story — it was quite suitable. So I tried to cut the book some slack. Everyone has their limit as to how much blood and gore, smooching and snuggling, they are willing to read about.

Once I agreed to review a book and would have tossed it after the first chapter — for several reasons. A lot of “writer inserting facts for reader’s benefit”; teach/preach paragraphs; excess of description; attitudes of MCs. Once it’s live on seller’s sites like Amazon, what can you say? The one thing good it had going for it was the story line or theme. With a pro editor’s help it could have been a great story.

As for a review, one book I read lately was “A Clue for the Puzzle Lady” by Parnell Hall. It’s one of those “Stayed up half the night to finish it” books; I think anyone who likes a compelling cozy mystery would probably like it. Downside: I didn’t care for the “Puzzle Lady.” She’s a lush, hangs out at the bar getting sloshed. The upside: her sensible niece has a starring role —trying to keep her aunt on the straight-and-narrow and the mystery keeps you guessing until the end.

Christine, Thanks for sharing your insight! It sounds like you are approached often to review new books. It does make it tricky if it’s a request, especially outside your own preferences. Thanks for chiming in about your process, as I’m sure others will appreciate the perspective too. I’ll have to take a look at the Puzzle Lady– I do enjoy cozy mysteries. Sue

Here’s another cozy mystery book review in case you’re interested. I’m not approached by writers that often, but there are the Story Cartel, Book Bub and Goodreads, all sites where authors ask for review volunteers.

Reel Estate Ripoff by Renee Pawlish

The detective Reed Ferguson is a fan of Humphry Bogart, movie memorabilia of that era, and fancies himself a bit of a Sam Slade. Though not your super-sleuth, rather inept at times, he’s a likeable character. Told in first person, the story has a Philip Marlowe tone to it, but much tamer. Dialogue and story line are well done, the story well plotted and believable. I’d gladly read more stories about this particular gumshoe.

If you like cozy mystery books, I’ll send you a list later, Sue. Love them too and I’ve met many authors who write in this genre. Back on topic– you inspire me again to add some reviews to my Blog. I have been reading and writing many middle grade mysteries for a project! My latest favorite: “The World’s Greatest Detective” by Caroline Carson (who I hope to meet tomorrow in Arlington, VA!) My 12 year old grandson borrowed it and finished it before I could. “It’s the best mystery I ever read, Grandma! You’ ll never guess the ending with unpredictable twists!” What better review could we read. The target audience and I both highly recommend this 2017 mystery.

Adding it to my stack, Beth. Thanks!

Not wanting to sound life an idiot, but willing to risk it here among friends: What exactly is a cozy mystery?

Glad you asked! It’s a subgenre of mystery. The best examples of cozy mysteries are those by Agatha Christie. They usually avoid profanity, excessive gore/ violence, and sex. They focus more on the puzzle, sleuth, and their smaller world. Hope that helps!

Thanks, Sue.

Wonderful article. The first I have read by you. It especially gets those of us who don’t feel we have the formula down for review writing to be introduced to a form we can build upon with experience. You’ve kept it simple but you have given us the main ingredients needed for a good review. I printed this one off to look at the next few times I write reviews. Thank you.

Glad you found it helpful. Thanks for reading and commenting!

I haven’t gone into all this. It’s a matter of time, Joe. I gad about all over the place, not knowing where I am or where I’m going. Within weeks, I’ll be 87. I’ve books of my own that I’d like to see reviewed. Even sorting them out, however, even finding where any of them are, would be a time burden. You see the fix?

Hi Dave, You aren’t alone in feeling the press of time for getting your stories out into the world. May I gently offer this: start with finding and sorting one. If you can’t find it, write it anew. You’ve probably grown in time and perspective since you wrote the first draft, which will make for a stronger story. Good luck. I’m cheering you on!

This is an article for me, because I am happy to receive a rating. I haven’t sold many books. But, at least some thinks that it was worth the time to read. That was refreshing. And, I think I wrote two reviews, so far. It was on Amazon.com. Thank you.

You’re welcome!

Hi, Sue. Thanks for the helpful advice. I did a review on Amazon for the first of a 7-part thriller titled ‘Mosh Pit (The Rose Garden Incident)’ by Michael Hiebert. [Here it is.]

“5.0 out of 5 stars Advance copy review. By A fellow author on September 18, 2016 Format: Kindle Edition I Recommend This Book Strongly

I enjoyed reading this first part of the thriller. The author’s opening chapter/prologue was fast paced, and set me in the middle of the inciting incident along with two of the main characters. After that thrilling opening, I felt the ensuing chapters moved at a more leisurely pace, and was about to grade them as less praiseworthy when I watched a lecture by Brandon Sanderson on YouTube about building three dimensional characters and realised Michael Hiebert had done exactly that by introducing the reader to the minutiae of other characters who had parts to play in the development of the story. So, instead of cardboard cutouts of bland stock characters, the author shows us real people with real concerns that the reader can relate to.and actually care about. I look forward to reading the rest of this intriguing thriller, and highly recommend it to all lovers of well-written, and well-crafted thrillers.”

I also reviewed Part 2 of the series, but that review is too long to post here.

Footnote: The author, Michael Hiebert, was so pleased with my reviews, he recently asked me to beta-read a short story collection he plans to publish in November.

Great review, John! I like how you shared a bit of your process as a reader too, in recognizing what the writer was doing with their characterization. Thanks!

Thank you, Sue.

Five out of five stars When I picked up a copy of “The Girl with All the Gifts,” by M R Carey, at the used book store, I somehow had it in my head that it was a YA dystopian novel along the lines of “Divergent” or “The Hunger Games.” While I would definitely say that I was not right about that, I wouldn’t say that I was completely wrong. I was, however, completely unprepared for a zombie novel–which is a good thing, cause I wouldn’t have read it, and I’m glad I did. Think “The Walking Dead” meets (why do I want to say ‘The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night”?) “Peter Pan.” I really enjoyed seeing things from, the main character, Melanie’s point of view. Her limited knowledge of her own situation was intriguing, to say the least (and probably why I thought of “The Curious Incident”). I was a bit disappointed when the POV changed to another character’s, but, as the novel progressed, I found myself sympathizing with nearly all the characters–with one exception, and I’ll leave that for you to ponder when you read it. I wondered how much of the science was real, but not enough for me to research it myself. Although, based on other reviews, I guess most of the science about the fungus is real. I also wondered about the fate of the remaining ‘lost boys’ of the cities. If you liked…. well, I don’t know. I’m not typically a fan of things zombie, so I don’t have a comparison, but the book was somewhat similar to “Divergent” and “The Hunger Games” in that the main character goes through a hellluva time and comes out the other side with a plan for her future.

“Tuesdays with Morrie” by Mitch Albom is a true story about how one man found meaning in life when his doctors gave him a death sentence. Morrie was a college professor who passed on his new found wisdom in the last year of his life to a favorite student, the author, who chronicled his professor’s perspectives on death and dying.

I chose this book because of its philosophical topic, and because it is so well written that the words just jump off the page.

Knowing we are all mortal beings, I especially liked the insights, the tidbits of wisdom imparted by the dying man. Death is a subject that few, if any of us, ever talk about seriously with friends and family. The subject of death is verboten. We deny its existence. And, if we are religious, we pretend we will not really die, but we deceive ourselves and think we will live on in some afterlife existence for all eternity. But the professor, Morrie, learns some valuable life lessons from his impending death, and Mitch Albom was gracious enough to capture them in this short but eminently readable book.

I really liked the book because it is timeless. This true story will impart serious life lessons for all future generations, and will help us gain perspectives on our lives and the relationships with those we love the most.

R. Allan Worrell

Sue, I’ve been meaning to come back since this was first posted to tell you thanks for a great article. I seldom review books for alllllll the reasons you listed. This is a perfect tool and I’ll surely use it. Cathy

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While the book begins with the murder of Professor Johnny Wharton, the murder itself is almost superfluous to this brilliantly written novel of intrigue that is primarily set in the mid-1980s. It explores the lives of five women. Four of the women are connected to Wharton, while the fifth becomes an integral part of the book later in the story. These four women include the following: Wharton's wife, Liz, who is an accountant and who volunteers at a dog rescue; their estranged and troubled daughter, Jenny; his grad student Jane (with whom he’s having an affair); and his closeted lesbian coworker, Maddie, who he holds in disdain, and who is the lover of Roz, the fifth woman. The book takes readers through the lives of these women, from the joy and beauty of existence to the trials and tribulations of daily life. ... (read more)

Elaborate Web

After graduating from high school, seventeen-year-old Thea Irene Kailani Riggs is enjoying a California summer of freedom before starting college in the fall. Her schedule consists of carefree mornings playing cribbage, tutoring calculus, and standing movie nights with her surfer bestie, Fergus Wilde. But a summons from her friend Lise Fenning brings an abrupt end to Thea’s leisurely post-graduation summer vacation. Suddenly, Thea is embroiled in a mystery involving multiple suspicious deaths, a disappearing corpse, and an adult internet game of intrigue that draws her further and further into a sinister world of danger. Uncovering clues while struggling with her sexuality, mixed-race heritage, and unresolved emotional baggage, Thea emerges as a strong, confident young woman secure in her power and ready to take on the evils of the world. ... (read more)

Clear Philosophy

The free will debate has raged for over 2,000 years. Do individuals have control over their own actions and decisions, or are these actions and decisions predetermined by the gods, logic, nature or nurture, or many other forms of determinism? In this new work by Kral, he takes the reader on an intellectual journey that attempts to provide an alternative to the free will question. Upon initial inspection, the question, at its heart, seems to imply either a yes or no with explanations while excluding other answers. However, Kral manages to create a compelling third option, which posits that the question itself is flawed. He argues that “will” cannot be considered free or not free. His reasoning breaks down what the word means in the context of this question, and his results lead him to create an additional theory about the source of human behavior. which he has titled procirclism. ... (read more)

Stand Out Narrative

In 1963, Cathleen returns to British Honduras to pick up her son, Alex. He has been living with Cathleen’s sister since Cathleen fled to England after his birth. Alex was conceived when Victor, her then-stepfather, raped her. Now, back home and with Victor having flown to parts unknown, Cathleen is ready to be seen and heard in her hometown. She has become a beautiful and seductive young woman and has decided that trading sexual favors for gifts and money is good business. However, she also knows that the real money and luxury come from marrying a white British soldier stationed on the island and moving in style to England. ... (read more)

Set against the backdrop of Vladimir Putin’s grab for power in Russia and a rash of global terrorist attacks in the late twentieth century, the novel delves into the complex world of covert counterterrorism. At the age of six, Maxym (Max) Mikhailovich Ivanov suffers an unbearable loss when his parents are killed and ten-year-old sister brutally raped and murdered by religious extremists. Escaping the cruel fate of his family, Max hides in a cupboard. He is rescued by the Russian army after being discovered by a Russian soldier, Leonid. The desire for revenge ignites in young Max after seeing the brutalized bodies of his family. Vowing to his rescuers to kill as many of these terrorists as possible, Max, at the young age of six, begins with those who murdered his family. Praised for his execution of the captured terrorists, Max is admired by the soldiers and given a home with Leonid. ... (read more)

Family Secrets

Allegory, Eastern wisdom, and a gritty fictive reality converge in this rollicking, humorous, yet thought-provoking novel set in the seedier side of Southern California. Landon Briggs is aware of Buddhist philosophy, living as he does amongst a large Asian population, but the Iraq War vet is thoroughly distracted by his propensity for partying, gambling, and the petty crime that often lands him in some exceedingly compromising situations. Divorced, Landon’s wife has taken up with a con artist who also moves in Landon’s world, and his eldest son has perished from a heart condition at just fifteen. Landon struggles to maintain a relationship with his innocent but aware youngest son. The wisdom in the tale ultimately is dispensed not by highborn Tibetan tulkus or Chinese or Japanese sages but from the mouths of ordinary folk like Landon’s wife, his son, his father, his wacky, unreliable friends, and the notorious criminals he sometimes rubs elbows with. ... (read more)

Dan Randolph and Greg Zhu are a married gay couple thriving in Louisville, Kentucky. Dan, a dedicated Presbyterian minister, and Greg, an accomplished professional violin maker, are navigating the complexities of their lives together. Recently, Dan has felt that he may be inadvertently holding back Greg’s career since Greg has not won any awards since they became a couple. This realization has created some stress for Dan. Greg heads to Anaheim for a convention, and Dan soon joins him. While there, they reconnect with their long-time friend, Bill Sloan. During the visit, Bill discovers that his prized Jackson Stradivarius violin has vanished. Detective Jim Kavanaugh is brought in to lead the investigation and quickly learns that Greg was the last person in Bill's hotel room before the violin went missing. ... (read more)

Worthy Struggles

On paper, Sarah and Adam have the perfect American dream marriage: college sweethearts, married and living with their two children in Sarah’s dream Queen Anne Victorian home. They celebrate holidays with their parents, are active members of the community, take great interest in their sons’ education, and work together to remodel their home. So when Adam comes home inebriated late one night, the last thing Sarah expects him to say is, “I just don’t feel like I love you…” This simple declaration, which Adam goes on to waver about, completely changes the trajectory of Sarah’s carefully planned life. In a way, Adam’s admission—and, as the reader comes to discover, his history of infidelity—actually opens Sarah up to realize how suffocated she feels in this marriage. She now has the chance to find true love of her own in a wholly unexpected circumstance. In the process, she discovers depths of strength and courage within herself that she never knew she had. ... (read more)

Inside View

Grinnell’s collection of twenty-five poems is the perfect read for those who feel that they are being held hostage by Corporate America. Grinnell himself calls the collection a “hate letter to Corporate America.” He explains in his introduction that the poems explore “the complex emotions” he felt while working in a toxic environment, something almost every reader has probably felt before. His prose is reminiscent of the Beat Generation—poetry that rebels against the conventions of mainstream American life. ... (read more)

Unique & Compelling

Kevin Sanders is in a difficult situation. He has been convicted of aiding and abetting an assault on an unarmed fellow inmate. However, Kevin felt he had no choice, as he believed that the other inmate would have killed him if he hadn't participated in the fight. Fortunately, the victim, Steven Tremblay, survived. Kevin is now awaiting his sentencing, and his lawyer, Scott, is working to reduce the sentence. Meanwhile, Kevin is concerned for his safety and is not being taken seriously by prison authorities. His fears come true when another inmate tries to harm him, leading to Kevin being placed in protective custody. Eventually, Kevin receives his sentencing, but Scott hopes to gather evidence for a retrial to support Kevin throughout this challenging journey. ... (read more)

At the foundation of this epic historical novel, which is also the first book of a trilogy, is a captivating love story for the ages. As the story begins, twenty-two-year-old Quentin Norvell, an American of Cajun ancestry from Louisiana, is wounded during a dogfight with a German pilot. A Princeton student with family ties to France, “the Cajun” has recently transferred to the French Air Service from the Foreign Legion. As he socializes with his French relatives and companions, he is introduced to Nadine Desnoyers, a strikingly graceful but married Frenchwoman of aristocratic background who is also a distant cousin of his best friend, Etienne, a French pilot. ... (read more)

Tender Story

In this sweet love story with a surprising twist, Nikki, a high-powered real estate agent and model, meets her match in Jami, a criminal attorney whose initial life dream of becoming a surgeon was cut short by a disease-causing progressive blindness. Their love grows organically. Although Nikki is ready for a relationship from the start, Jami is hesitant given his history of heartbreak and concerns over his developing blindness. Because of this, they keep their connection friendly at first. ... (read more)

Right to Freedom

After escaping the plantation in an act of self-liberation, Parson Sykes makes his way thorough southeastern Virginia to reach a Union contraband camp. Sykes is determined that the best way to secure his freedom, fight against slavery, and become a respected and independent man is to join the Union’s forces and be an active participant in the fight against the Confederacy. Sykes and his brothers join the Union Army as part of the XXV Corps. Sykes must learn how to be a soldier and fight against the often-held belief that Black soldiers are meek and not cut out for fighting. He and other Black soldiers must face many challenges, like being offered inadequate equipment and given the worst assignments. Also, many Confederate soldiers don’t treat captured Black soldiers properly as POWs. Sykes does his best to meet the challenges with dignity and honor and to prove to everyone that he deserves the chance to fight against enslavement and to overcome its monstrous embodiment as equally as any other man. Sykes and the XXV Corps are part of the offensive that eventually takes the Confederate capital of Richmond and brings an end to the Civil War. ... (read more)

Generations

Janek Dabrowski’s devotion to Armia Krajowa —the primary Polish resistance movement—does not go unnoticed by his superiors. Despite his prestige and promotion through the ranks, the darkness of self-hatred that surrounds his heart and his alcohol addiction lead him astray. A Jew, he fights for Poland during the war, but Poland's Russian Bolshevik liberators are as intolerant of Jews as the German fascists. He assumes a Russian identity, Yakov Nowak, and joins the Ministry of Public Security (MBP), the secret police group that purges all anti-communist sentiment from Poland. This includes the persecution of the soldiers of the Armia Krajowa . ... (read more)

Family Complex

A man's personal revelations and observations about a wife whom he loved and a family whose metamorphoses were an education for him are at the center from which the group's "talent show"—within the family and in larger contexts—spin. The narrator's opening lines in the book reveal his difficulty in breaking through his personal reserve, or perhaps his self-protection, and yet he feels that he must tell the story. He does so eloquently. His ability to move and change with the characters connotes true literary skill. He sensibly admits to having different connections to each of his children since each is a different person from the others. Some examples are seen in the conventions of family life (church, school, etc.), Suzy's participation in baking cakes for functions, and many other activities that are seen to take time away from the family instead of bonding it by inclusion. ... (read more)

Finding Softness

In this spirited glimpse into the resolve of the human experience, Shurafa delivers a raw and authentic account of battling not one but two cancer diagnoses and the toll that it takes not only on the physical well-being but also on the mental and emotional. The vulnerability with which her words grace the page endears her to readers, yet the deafening nature of facing such a stark and sobering reality in the prime of one’s life at merely thirty-five pales in comparison to the author’s tenacity to be present for her loved ones. ... (read more)

Thought Exercise

To the individual, things like national and global affairs seem entirely out of the realm of influence and well beyond what can be personally changed, yet choices made on that scale have a profound impact on every individual. This book, establishing a law of triads and a series of seven positive and three negative states of being, relates how the same principles that govern a person’s success and well-being can also be applied to entire nations. By examining a person’s or a state’s intentions, resources, knowledge, conscience, activity, and power, one can determine the focus and ideal growth of any human or group. The conscience lies between intentions and knowledge. The power is made up of the knowledge and resources one has, and intentions and resources drive activity. ... (read more)

True Strength

Poirier focuses on the life and character of Daniel, a prophet whose words and deeds are recorded in the Old Testament of the Holy Bible. Babylon took over Daniel’s nation of Judah. Babylonian King Nebuchadnezzar then placed conquered young men in key positions in order to spread propaganda, extolling his reign. Daniel was among those chosen but refused to act in ungodly ways. He and his close companions rejected the food offered by Nebuchadnezzar and instead ate a diet reflecting their belief system. Daniel revealed himself as stronger than those who had followed the King’s regimen, was promoted, and became a noted seer and prophet, able to explain to Nebuchadnezzar the meaning of his visions and dreams. His success incited jealousy among some of the ruler’s advisors, who plotted to have Danial condemned to the lion's den for continuing to pray to God rather than to idols. ... (read more)

Warrior at Rest

Retired from the military, author Stephens takes on the daunting task of examining the challenges of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and the often extreme difficulties of reintegrating with societal norms after spending time overseas in active war zones. While having garnered many achievements in his armed forces career, Stephens recalls his many struggles to overcome PTSD and become an example to his daughter. ... (read more)

Unconvetionally Enjoyable

Half the fun of reading experimental fiction is figuring out what the author means. The other half is admiring the way she does it. Dart tackles the issue of words themselves—the “language-game” whereby reality is shaped by the words we use. Words seek to bridge the unbridgeable gap between what can be expressed in language and what can only be expressed in nonverbal ways. To help the reader understand, Dart sprinkles Wittgenstein's quotes throughout, using his philosophy as a protective bumper, a soft shield between her experience of a childhood tragedy and her memories of it. Like words, memory can be a tricky tool, and sometimes philosophy, psychoanalysis, and remembrances from other family members are needed to make sense of events and remove doubts. ... (read more)

Manigo has created this impressive guidebook for those seeking to understand the biblical phrase “poor in spirit.” In preparing readers for the three hundred and seventy-six pertinent proofs he offers, he introduces himself and his wife and co-evangelist Patricia, noting that she did the majority of typing to create this far-reaching faith manual. Manigo is deaf and, with his wife, works diligently on behalf of deaf and other handicapped persons to offer the encouragement and sustenance inherent in studying the Holy Bible. Manigo asserts that faith is more to be valued than good works and is found in the precious word of God as purveyed in holy scripture. He, therefore, stresses the importance of reading that scripture in its entirety and considering it a “daily newspaper.” ... (read more)

Inspiring & Infectious

Mia is a joyful, intelligent, inquisitive young girl who loves to dance and learn new things. One day, while playing in her backyard, she encounters three cute little mice. Mia befriends them and names them Squeaky, Nibbles, and Speedy based on their unique personalities and habits. Mia and her new friends adore one another. They spend the day singing, dancing, and enjoying each other’s company. But Mia has difficulty remembering to refer to her new group of friends collectively as mice, not mouses. She seeks out the help of her smart teacher, Miss Jess, who gives Mia a thorough lesson in plural nouns. Always eager to learn, Mia is thrilled with this new information. She practices the rules of plural nouns while dancing and twirling. She then shares all that she has learned with giggling Squeaky, Nibbles, and Speedy. ... (read more)

Imaginative

When the asteroid Polo grows weary of his monotonous life, he leaves his fellow asteroid friends behind to travel the solar system. Inspired by an encounter with a comet, Polo sets out on an adventure of exploration and meets the Sun, its orbiting planets, the planets’ moons, and a few dwarf planets. The Sun is isolated because his intense heat prevents proximity to other celestial bodies. Mercury thrives on competition, while Venus sees the beauty in everything. Earth’s water and atmosphere make her a unique planet capable of sustaining life. Saturn possesses a sense of humor that keeps Polo laughing but isn’t appreciated by all his moons. Courteous Jupiter is surrounded by over ninety moons with diverse personalities and varying degrees of amiability. Polo is determined to make new friends, but he soon realizes that not everyone deserves his friendship. For example, Mars is an aggressive bully orbited by traumatized moons, and Uranus is a bad-tempered planet surrounded by equally bad-tempered moons. Antisocial Neptune has no interest in making friends, and Pluto is disgruntled by his new classification as a dwarf planet. ... (read more)

This vivid and, at times, harrowing account of events tells about when Cecilia was brutally beaten, and her husband, King, rushed to her side, beginning a saga of pain, doubt, and overarching faith. As a nurse, Cecilia was told to assist a mentally ill patient who emanated a sense of danger as he approached her. Her fears were justified as the tall, powerful man began to beat her mercilessly. She managed to hide her bleeding head, screamed for help, and was finally rescued by fellow staff. Thus began a chronicle that lasted several years, depicted through her tortured memories and those of her dedicated spouse as they endured dread and doubt at her ever-changing physical and mental agonies. ... (read more)

On the cusp of beginning a new church branch in New York, a sudden diagnosis of ALS changes one woman’s journey but not her destination in this poignant memoir and collection of sermons. Preparing to embark on a journey of faith with her husband, a prophecy of a challenge ahead turns true when the author receives the news that she has amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. With her faculties weakening, leaving her unable to move or speak over time, her commitment to her faith keeps her going, and she continues to find ways to share her beliefs. The sermons that she wrote and delivered at first over the internet before simply providing them to her husband as pastor to share with the congregation are included, giving readers a glimpse at the incredible courage and determination exemplified by the author’s continued work in her church community. ... (read more)

Indelible Footprint

Olivia lived with her family in a boxcar encampment outside Aurora, Illinois. The encampment consisted of many Mexican families that had left Mexico in the early 1900s. Olivia’s parents had fled as religious persecution was rampant, and the country was headed towards a civil war. As Olivia became acquainted with her neighbors, she learned that their new lives in the United States would bring opportunity but also discrimination. Olivia’s formative years would be spent in the enclave where she made friends while also learning about other cultures. Olivia possessed ambition, and when the opportunity arose to go to college and achieve her dreams, she didn’t hesitate. However, Olivia never forgot her life in the boxcar camp and sought to improve the lives of her students and other fellow Mexicans. ... (read more)

Author Robertshaw applies rational thought and emotive memories to the exploration of divine mysteries in this far-ranging treatise. While acknowledging that scripture and logic do not always lead to the answers one is seeking, the author asserts that the life of Jesus is proof that one can rise from humble origins to be the purveyor of a transformative message, one that still resonates even in these troubled times. ... (read more)

Readers get to step behind the badge in this collection of recollections and memories of a career in Tennessee law enforcement that spans over three decades. The author introduces real cases, real officers, and real thrills in this memoir that highlights the dangerous, rewarding, and challenging day-to-day experience of upholding the law. Beginning with the author’s job as a jailer and going all the way to his role as chief of detectives, each of his stories has the opportunity to be a cherished humorous bit of camaraderie or a traumatic and scarring memory. The decades-long span of time these memories are recalled from is complemented nicely by the various roles and positions held by Matthews in his career, creating a varied and dynamic range that stays fresh and interesting. ... (read more)

Encouragement

Andy is a fifth grader anxiously anticipating his tenth birthday. He is entirely too excited about his swim party plans to focus on mundane matters such as Mrs. Thompson’s math class and lessons on long division. No, Andy’s thoughts are full of water slides, fun pool activities, and hanging with his friends. The promise of ice cream, cake, and pizza also makes for a tantalizing distraction. Andy’s birthday plans are all he can talk about in the weeks leading up to his epic party. But a note from a so-called secret admirer deflates Andy’s dreams of an awesome birthday, leaving him reluctant to discuss his party plans. When Andy’s mother discovers the note, she takes it to the school principal, who is determined to find the source of this act of cruelty. The principal, faculty, and student body of Andy’s elementary school band together to surprise Andy with a birthday celebration that exceeds his expectations and makes his dream of an epic party come true. ... (read more)

Sunday School Addition

When the hillside coney colony became overcrowded, Papa and Mama Coney relocated their growing family to the far side of Prayer Mountain. They chose to build their new home on a firm rock bed with a charming lake view and an abundant supply of berries and clovers. A skillful builder, Papa Coney made short work of constructing a dwelling for himself, his wife, and their children—Bruddy and Sissy. As their parents worked diligently to prepare their new home, the children embarked on an adventure that included building a great, big, secret sand house. Exhausted by their efforts and hours of play, Bruddy and Sissy settled down for a nap in the cozy comfort of their sand house. But a rapidly building thunderstorm with torrential rains and hammering winds caused the secret sand house to collapse, leaving the siblings drenched and frightened. After the children were safely reunited with their parents, Papa Coney explained why conies always build their homes in and on rocks—for safety, protection, and stability.... (read more)

In this poetry collection, readers discover poems about faith and politics. Jesus stands as the speaker’s focal point in many of the pieces. The book encourages readers to look to God for answers during difficult situations. Some poems even read as prayers and devotions. Eventually, the tone becomes political. These pieces encourage readers to think differently and challenge the status quo. Throughout the collection, the incorporation of photographs provides a visual representation of the poems. These photographs add even more personality to this book. As the work concludes, readers discover verses dedicated to nature, poetry, and everyday life. These particular poems encourage readers to find balance in the hectic, busy world, which frequently dictates each action and every thought an individual makes or has throughout the day. ... (read more)

Gentle & Charming

This absolutely delightful children's book was written after a child asked the author why God had made people different colors. In the story, the child who asks that question is asked what he thinks the answer is. The child explains that God made the flowers different colors but kept each color separate until the fields were full of groups of fragrant blooms in orange, red, white, purple, etc. Happy with his creation and loving the flowers' beauty, God was presented with a bouquet of all the flowers in a multi-colored arrangement. Seeing how beautiful the arrangement was—even more so together than separate—God decided that he would make his people different colors, as well. ... (read more)

Family Dynamics

Karen and Ben live together with their two daughters, Cari and Megan. Cari is the oldest, and Megan is the youngest. Karen and Ben experienced several miscarriages before finally being gifted with children. When Cari came into their lives, Karen felt truly blessed to have her. However, when her second daughter, Megan, came along, Karen was less enthusiastic about this newest addition to the family as the pregnancy was unplanned and unwanted. As a result, Karen does not show as much affection for Megan as for Cari. Ironically, Cari is not even biologically related to Karen and Ben; they found her as a baby and have kept that a secret ever since. Ben has been urging Karen to tell Cari the truth, but Karen keeps postponing the conversation for fear of jeopardizing her ideal relationship with her favorite daughter. ... (read more)

Loving Portrait

A “gentling soul” is “a truly genuine and humble person who fully lives in his or her soul… within an impaired body,” someone with a neurogenetic disorder who has chosen to embody a physical space to bring a message to earth. This story is told from the perspective of one such soul named Asina. The reader is brought through her soul’s memory to a time when she met with an assembly of souls and the Divine Mother in heaven, and where she was given the decision to inhabit an earthly body in order to “infuse the earth with innocent goodness.” ... (read more)

Biblical Truths

Author Coy purposefully explores well-known scenarios from the Holy Bible, giving each a new voice to especially appeal to young readers. Bedtime stories include the earliest portion of the Book of Genesis, in which God’s original humans, Adam and Eve, yield to temptation. Together, they disobey God’s command and are banished from the paradise of Eden. However, they acknowledge their sin and accept God’s continuing oversight. As with each of Coy’s well-told offerings, this segment ends with an exhortation to readers to feel comforted by God’s care. Other segments concern Cain and Abel, Noah’s faith and survival of the great flood, the unfair treatment of Joseph by his brothers, and Lot’s bold escape from Sodom and Gomorrah. ... (read more)

A native of Wales, Cornfield catches the travel bug early via a school exchange trip to France. She continues to journey through life, countries, and careers, always the curious explorer seeking to manifest her dreams. Early jobs include a campsite courier in France, a British Air hostess, and a hotel receptionist. Then, coeliac (celiac) disease strikes, and she resolves to “never stop looking for the root cause of illness.” Unfortunately, it’s a bumpy process. ... (read more)

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