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| (Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
I love Han Kang's writing, so I'm excited to read her latest book. It's a nonfiction collection of essays, poems, diaries, and photographs titled, Light And Thread. I love that title, and I love the idea of getting to know her through these personal pieces of writings. How exciting!
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| (Thank you the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book: (summary from Goodreads)
A personal meditation on, examination of, and tribute to Black single motherhood, unapologetically told through poignant essays and candid interviews, by a celebrated cultural critic.Through her signature candid, humorous and yet often biting takes, Lemieux suffers no fools while also courageously revealing the scars of her own parenting journey and search for self-acceptance in a world that doesn’t see the full worth of women like her. With a particular verve and relatability—honed, in part, from her many years among “Black Twitter’s” most prominent voices—Lemieux puts the lived reality of Black single uncertainty, fierceness, and sensuality on full display. Interspersed with beautifully written personal narrative, readers will find cultural and historical analysis, and interviews with single mothers from all walks of life, telling it how it really is. Baby Mamas Day is a bold testament to the multifaceted Black single mother and an invitation to all readers to finally recognize this powerful figure for who she is—not bad, but so, so good.
my thoughts:
Wow. Jamilah Lemieux has written a book that is raw, honest, and brutally real. In Black. Single. Mother.: Real Life Tales of Longing and Belonging, she lets it all out and it is eye-opening and thought-provoking. Talk about reality at its most real.
Lemieux writes about single motherhood in all its beautiful and ugly glory. Her candid confessions can break your heart and make you laugh. She is smart, clever, and transparent. Her writing is tender, hard, and all the feels. She doesn't temper anything and so, you are going to feel the pain, the struggle, the hope and the love. And it is fantastic.
Black. Single. Mother. is a gem of a book. I would most definitely recommend it to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read. You are going to fell in deep with this one. Make sure to grab a copy! Happy reading.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book:
Following the events of Captain America: Civil War, T’Challa returns home to Wakanda to take his place as king. But when two new enemies conspire to destroy the country, the Black Panther must team up with members of the Dora Milaje, Wakanda’s special forces, and CIA agent Everett Ross to protect his home from being dragged into a world war. Go behind the scenes with stunning concept artwork and in-depth analysis from the filmmakers in this collectible volume.
Discover everything you need to know about the making of the movie from all the key players—including Director Ryan Coogler, Executive Producer Nate Moore, Production Designer Hannah Beachler, the talented cast, concept artists, and other talented individuals who worked on the set and behind the scenes to create the art of Marvel Studios’ Black Panther.
my thoughts:
Wakanda Forever, indeed. As a fan of Black Panther, I was thrilled to receive a copy of this beautiful book by Eleni Roussos. It's chock full of art work that depicts the concepts behind the film's scenes and story. There's so much information about the different tribes of Wakanda, which is fascinating. Plus, all of the details about the costumes - so cool to learn about. I couldn't help but geek out over the awesome imagery and commentary included in this book. What a fun and wonderful book!
I would definitely recommend this Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga, Black Panther: The Art of the Movie, to fans of Black Panther and fans of Marvel - you are going to thoroughly enjoy this amazing book. Make sure to check it out ASAP! You are going to love it!
Thank you Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
Wow! What a beautiful and fascinating read! I'm a huge fan of the National Geographic books, so I was thrilled to get my hands on a copy of their awesome book, The Grand Cosmic Story: An Illustrated Timeline 13.8 Billion Years And Beyond by Ethan Siegel, Mark. A Garlick, Jon Lumberg, and William Lidwell. This dynamic group of scientists and artists created a history timeline of our cosmos and it is a fantastic read. I absolutely LOVED it! Flipping through the pages and looking at all the art and illustrations made for such a delightful treat. Plus, learning about the history of our universe was magical. I truly enjoyed spending time with this book and looked forward to reading it bit by bit every day. Oh, what fun!
It's a large book, so it makes for the perfect coffee table book. Anyone interested in astronomy and cosmology will enjoy turning the pages in this hefty tome. However, you don't have to be interested in astrophysics to like this book - I'm serious. This book is for everyone. It's written in such an accessible manner, provides loads of historical information, and is chock full of creative artwork. Whether you just want to look at lovely illustrations, or learn about the Big Bang, this book is for you.
I would happily recommend The Grand Cosmic Story to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read. Make sure to grab a copy and check it out - you are going to LOVE it to bits!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book: (summary from Goodreads)
Get an exclusive look at the art and designs behind the Mighty Avenger's newest film in this latest installment of the popular ART OF series of movie tie-in books!
A new all-powerful being threatens the destruction of Asgard, but Thor is trapped on the other side of the universe and must race against time to save his civilization. Go behind the scenes with exclusive concept artwork and in-depth analysis from the filmmakers in this keepsake volume! Continuing their popular Art Of series of movie tie-in books, Marvel presents its latest blockbuster achievement! Featuring exclusive concept artwork, behind-the-scenes photographs, production stills, and in-depth interviews with the cast and crew, this deluxe volume provides insider details about the making of the highly anticipated film.
my thoughts:
Wow! What a fun and fascinating book. I absolutely LOVED flipping through Eleni Roussos' new book, Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga - Thor: Ragnarok - The Art of the Movie - it was such a treat! I found myself dipping in and out of this book every day for over a week, because I wanted to savor the fun.
So, what's in the book? Photographs depicting behind the scenes moments, along with stills from the movie itself. Loads of artwork - showcasing concept and production ideas. And we get to read interviews from both cast and crew- everyone involved with the making of this film. There are just so many cool tidbits about the costumes - from the comics to the actual creation of them for the movie. I loved learning about it all and seeing the art involved. This book was truly a delight to read. Talk about an exciting reading experience for fans of the Marvel universe.
I would happily recommend this book to anyone and everyone who loves movies, especially Marvel Studios fans. You are going to LOVE this one to bits! Make sure to check it out ASAP!
Thank you Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
Wow! What an awesome book! The Photographs: Iconic Images From National Geographic is AMAZING! It's truly a wonderful read chock full of gorgeous, jaw-dropping images taken by the most talented and gifted photographers in the world. There are over two hundred and fifty photographs to peruse and believe you me, you are going to take your time turning the pages in this marvelous tome. It is an absolute treat of a book. Talk about the perfect Christmas gift for anyone and everyone on your list. They will fall in love with this book - who wouldn't? Or they will love to have it on display on their coffee table, so that anyone who visits can have the opportunity to check it out. I mean it, this book is a must-have and must-read.
The Photographs is a history book- showcasing the scope of National Geographic's coverage, topics, and reach all over the world. There are quotes, interviews and biographies throughout the book, which provide fascinating details and facts. And the stunning photographs themselves evoke a sense of wonder as you gaze at them one by one. This is a mesmerizing and unforgettable read. I absolutely LOVED it. I found myself dipping in and out of every day, sometimes three to five times a day. I couldn't help myself. I loved looking at these iconic images that reflect our world, our society, and our cultures. The Photographs is such a beautiful book. Make sure to grab a copy for yourself and a loved one. You most definitely won't want to miss out on this fantastic book!
Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book) |
Wow - what a beautiful book! 100 Train Journeys Of A Lifetime: The World's Ultimate Rides by Everett Potter is a must-read for railfans. Chock full of gorgeous photographs depicting the beauty of riding the rails, this is THE perfect book to flip through for inspiration when planning a train trip. Especially, as it's filled with ALL the travel info you'll need/want about the 100 ultimate rides. Journeys to South Africa, India, Italy, and The Grand Canyon - reading about these exciting and amazing adventures will spark the wanderlust gene in us all. You'll fall in love with so many far-flung places that you'll fill up a notebook trying to figure out where you want to go and when. Potter provides the inside scoop on the trains themselves, along with intel about which ones have the most comfortable seats and delicious meals. His writing is informative and exciting - you can't help but get lost in his vivid and detailed descriptions of the train stations, the towns you'll stop at, and the adventures you'll have along the way. It's truly an inspiring book. Talk about top notch armchair travel.
I would happily recommend this book to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read, or looking for a wonderful holiday gift - 100 Train Journeys Of A Lifetime is a terrific travel guide and gorgeous coffee table book. Make sure to check it out! You'll have fun just flipping through all of the awesome rail trips Potter writes about in his book - they are unforgettable! I know I loved spending time with this book and dreaming about all the places I want to go. In fact, I'm pretty sure I heard the book shouting, "All Aboard!" at me, as I turned its pages :)
Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!
Don't you love it when a book stays with you long after you've turned the final page? I do. Reminds me that the written word is powerful and meaningful. Especially, when it resonates so deeply. I loved reading Cleo Wade's book, Remember Love: Words For Tender Times in 2023 - her poetry and prose were thoughtful, inspiring, and unforgettable. I found myself dipping in and out of the book for days - I just loved it so much. So, I was thrilled to be gifted a copy of the new paperback edition - available today!
Once again I found myself dipping in and out of this beautiful book, savoring each poem and passage. I marveled at Wade's writing; which is chock full of wisdom, warmth, and insight. I loved reading her personal annotations printed in her own handwriting - something new in this edition. And, the cover's facelift was the perfect addition - the simplicity of it, along with the color palette combined to provide a fresh new look. Remember Love felt like a whole new book this time round and I loved that. I found myself lingering over the lines of her poetry, and reflecting on my own life as I immersed myself in her prose. Reading this book felt special and helpful all at once. As someone who struggles with anxiety and depression, reading is a balm for me, and this book was a balm. I cried and smiled as I read this book; it filled me to the brim with emotions. I absolutely loved Wade's 'words for tender times.' Talk about a poetic classic.
I would happily recommend Remember Love to everyone - it's a definite must-read! Make sure to grab a copy ASAP and dive right in. You are going to fall in deep.
Thank you to Harmony Books for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book:
Fresh off the heels of his first adventure with the Avengers in Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Civil War, Peter Parker is back in action! With a mentor like Tony Stark—a.k.a. Iron Man—it looks like Spider-Man’s about to hit the big time. But New York’s newest villain has other plans. Go behind the scenes in this keepsake volume continuing the Marvel Infinity Saga series! Discover exclusive concept art, production stills and commentary from cast and crew as Marvel Studios brings Spider-Man into the ever-expanding Marvel Cinematic Universe!
Discover everything you need to know about the making of the movie from all the key players—including Director Jon Watts, Head of Visual Development Ryan Meinerding, Producer and Marvel Studios President Kevin Feige, and the talented cast, concept illustrators, costume designers, and other talented individuals who worked on the set and behind the scenes to create the art of Marvel Studios’ Spider-Man: Homecoming.
my thoughts:
Wow! I am in awe of the amazing artwork included in this awesome new book by Eleni Roussos, Marvel Studios' The Infinity Saga Spider-Man: Homecoming - The Art of the Movie. If you are fan of Marvel or Spider-Man then this book is most definitely for you. I'm a huge fan of both, so I was thrilled to get my hands on a copy of this cool new book. A behind-the-scenes look at one of my favorite superhero films - how fun does that sound?! My favorite superheroes are Wonder Woman, Batman, Superman, Wolverine, and Spider-Man. I really enjoyed the last few Spider-man films - they felt fresh and exciting, and made me want to rewatch the whole slew of them all over again. So, I'm really looking forward to the new one that they are currently filming. It'll be fun to see what happens to Peter next.
As for this fantastic book - whoa! I am in love with it. I am truly enjoying flipping through and marveling over the artwork - ha ha, pun intended. Although, I am marveling over it - how could I not? Plus, I am loving the yearbook layout - makes for a fun and creative way to check out the details and plans for this epic story. What a gorgeous book!
I would happily recommend this lovely tome to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read, however I'd especially urge fans of Marvel and Spider-Man to grab a copy ASAP - you won't want to mis out on this awesome book!
Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with this book!
Wishing you all a lovely week! Happy reading!
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| (Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
Wow! What a beauty! This large coffee table book will be released from Titan Books on September 2nd and it is the absolute BEST read about one of America's favorite summertime films: Jaws. Plus, it is the 50th anniversary of the movie - how cool is that?!
Memories compiles their photos and stories for the 1st time into a unique compendium. Movie buffs, SFX enthusiasts, and fans of Jaws will thrill in this definitive volume’s special features:
• Updated edition includes +100 new photos, most previously unseen and many in colour, new interview material with local cast and crew, and an Afterword by Wendy Benchley, wife of Jaws author Peter Benchley.
• Foreword by Steven Spielberg.
• 100s of previously unpublished photos taken by local participants and bystanders, and a detailed account of how the filmmakers chose Martha’s Vineyard as their shooting location.
• Recollections of local crew and cast, including Lee Fierro (Mrs. Kintner), Chris Crawford, real-life captain of the Orca, and Craig Kingsbury, the inspiration for Robert Shaw’s portrayal of maniacal shark hunter Quint.
• Newly illustrated schematics by Jaws Production Designer Joe Alves, explaining the intricacies of the revolutionary sea sled fin mechanism, and his original 1974 storyboards.
• Insight on adapting Jaws from page to screen from Screenwriter Carl Gottlieb, Location Casting Director Shari Rhodes, and more.
How awesome does that sound? A beautiful coffee-table sized book chock full of amazing photographs, personal anecdotes from cast and crew, behind the scenes details about shooting the movie, fascinating information about the famous shark fin, and so much more - who wouldn't want to read about the creation of one of America's favorite summertime films? I know that I really enjoyed flipping through this book and reading all about Jaws. It was such a thrilling treat. After all, Jaws is a must-see film, which makes this book a definite must-read. So, make sure to check it out!
Thank you to Titan Books for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
From debut author Ashley Cullins, the definitive story of the Scream movie franchise, with dozens of exclusive interviews from key players and an in-depth exploration of the creation and legacy of the iconic films that rebooted a dying genre.
Its been nearly three decades since Drew Barrymore's iconic scream first pierced through the night, popcorn burning abandoned on the stove, blood soaking her beige sweater and blonde bob, but Scream is as popular today as ever before.
In Your Favorite Scary Movie, journalist Ashley Cullins examines the history and making of the Scream films with behind-the-scenes insight from the movies' cast and creators (including gleeful descriptions of the backstage summer camp-like atmosphere, and producers threatening to pull the film's funding because early footage wasn't scary.... at all) and sharp analysis on how the movies' special blend of gruesome violence and humorous self-awareness completely rewrote the horror movie playbook.
Perfect for fans of Scream, horror movies, and general film buffs, this is the story of how a little movie about a ghost-faced killer terrorizing highschoolers overcame countless obstacles to become a historic success that still has audiences screaming over twenty-five years later.
my thoughts:
I loved Scream - it was such a fun horror film. And, I enjoy watching all of the sequels that followed. Yes, the films became more and more ridiculous, but I still couldn't help but enjoy them. They were a fun treat to watch - scary, but not really scary. Also, I love how they seem to make fun of themselves and somehow still add a freshness to the horror genre. The Scream films are definitely must-watch. So, when I was offered the chance to read Ashley Cullins new book, Your Favorite Scary Movie: How The Scream Films Rewrote The Rules Of Horror - I knew I had to say yes! A book about Scream - a definite must-read! And let me just say, I was right! This book is awesome! Chock full of movie quotes, behind the scenes details, and cast stories - this book is a love letter to the film and horror movies. It is the ultimate deep dive into the Scream franchise - a must-have for fans of the films. I loved it! And, I can't wait to send my cousin a copy of the book - she loves horror movies more than I do, so I just know she is going to gobble this book right up. Make sure to grab a copy of Your Favorite Scary Movie - you are going to LOVE this book to bits!
Thank you to Plume and Dutton Marketing for my copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to Plough Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book: (from Goodreads)
Between Two Sounds follows the life of world-famous composer Arvo Pärt from his birth in Estonia in 1935 through 1980, when the Soviets forced him to emigrate because of the nonconformist and religious nature of his music.
Based on years of research and close collaboration with Arvo Pärt himself, Joonas Sildre paints an atmospheric portrait of a restless artist who does not shy away from confronting state control or his own internal contradictions.
Arvo Pärt stormed Soviet-occupied Estonia's music scene in the 1960s as a brash young man pushing the limits of avant-garde modernism. Then he fell silent, no longer able to express what he felt through the musical language he had inherited. When he reemerged a decade later, he had found, in that silence between sounds, a new musical language inspired by ancient sacred music, the basis of his distinctive tintinnabuli technique. This graphic novel will appeal not just to fans of Arvo Pärt’s music but to anyone who has known the struggle to remain true to oneself whatever the cost.
my thoughts:
My knowledge about composers and Estonia are both nil, which is rather disappointing considering this wonderful book I had the privilege of reading. I was given an early copy of Between Two Sounds: Arvo Pärt's Journey To His Musical Language by Joonas Sildre and translated by Adam Cullen. Then again, my ignorance turned out to be for the best, because I was able to learn so much about a talented composer and his life's story, which made for an exciting reading adventure.
So, why did I fall in love with this book? Well, first off, I loved the title of the book - it immediately intrigued me. Secondly, the books' cover - oh, my! I loved it! It had me wanting to grab a copy of the book straightaway. And, third, it was a graphic novel - I love graphic novels! How could I resist reading this book, right? Plus, it was about a new-to-me topic, the composer, Arvo Pärt. I love learning new things and learning about a composer sounded like fun. It really did, especially given that it would be in graphic novel form - anything with illustrations will make learning a thrill. Suffice it to say, I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book - it was eye-opening and fascinating. Learning about Arvo Pärt's journey is amazing - you can't help but get carried away in his story and the history - plus, the visuals add a layer of depth. Oh, and his music - what he composed was just brilliant! I found myself looking it up and listening to it as I read his story. Talk about an excellent soundtrack!
All in all, Between Two Sounds is a definite must- read! I enjoyed every second I spent with this book and would definitely recommend it to everyone - make sure to check it out!
Thank you to Plough Publishing for providing me with a copy of this book!
My mental health needed this. I just found out about this book and had to have it. I love frogs and I love self-care, so it was a win-win for me. Have any of you picked up this cute little tome. It has a lot of great affirmations that are hitting the spot with me right now. And, the illustrations are the best. I'm loving this book!
Hope you are having a wonderful May 1st! Happy reading!
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| (Thank you to Algonquin Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
Wow! What an excellent read! I absolutely LOVED Slow Noodles: A Cambodian Memoir Of Love, Loss, And Family Recipes by Chantha Nguon - it was amazing! A definite must-read for everyone! This is one book you won't want to miss out on.
So, what is Slow Noodles about? (summary from NetGalley)
A haunting and beautiful memoir from a Cambodian refugee who lost her country and her family during Pol Pot's genocide in the 1970s but who finds hope by reclaiming the recipes she tasted in her mother's kitchen.How fascinating does that sound? You get politics, history, food, and all the feels rolled into one awesome book. Getting to know Chantha through her life story, you find yourself in awe of this resilient, remarkable woman. She has experienced way too much for anyone to ever have to experience in a lifetime, and yet she persevered and kept on going when so many others would have just given up. Her strength is inspiring. And the way she includes food with her memories of the family she loves and lost is so special. Food helped her to heal and to connect with her country. Slow Noodles is truly a gem of a book. The writing is just so powerful and thoughtful. I highly recommend you get your hands on a copy ASAP!
Thank you to Algonquin Books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book: (summary from Goodreads)
Path of the Panther is a story of new hope for the recovery of an iconic endangered species and its Everglades home – and a global example of how protecting wildlife corridors can sustain balance for nature and people.
The panther is the state animal of Florida, the last big cat surviving east of the Mississippi River, and an emblem of the Endangered Species Act. It was driven to extinction in the eastern United States, except for a small remnant population that persisted in Florida’s Everglades. Panther numbers had dwindled to fewer than 20 individuals by the 1980s, but heroic conservation efforts have helped panthers come back to nearly 200 today. The biggest obstacle for the panther’s continued recovery is access to enough of its historic territory throughout Florida and beyond.
The tale of the Florida panther has grown from the unlikely survival of a rare cat to a story of hope for all of wild Florida. Path of the Panther in now a call to action to recognize and protect the Florida Wildlife Corridor – a network of public and private land that connects the panther’s current range in south Florida to suitable habitat throughout the state of Florida and adjoining states.
The Florida Wildlife Corridor is the panther’s path to recovery and a western-scale conservation opportunity that remains largely hidden in the east. It is now as a Last Wild Places partnership with the National Geographic Society. With 27 percent of Florida already protected as public land, this project aims to inspire the additional one million acres of conservation needed over the next decade so that Florida can be a leader in the goal of protecting 30 percent of the plane by 2030.
Photographer Carlton Ward helped put the Florida Wildlife Corridor on the map by trekking from the Everglades to Georgia in 2012 and from the Everglades Headwaters around the Gulf of Mexico to Alabama in 2015. Through these National Geographic–supported expeditions, he and his team have witnessed that a path for the panther’s recovery still exists. But with 1,000 new residents moving to Florida every day, and more than 100,000 acres of habitat lost to development each year, to window to save it is closing quickly. Through Ward's intimate photographs, expert essays and compelling maps, the Path of the Panther book, combined with a National Geographic magazine article, National Geographic Society Last Wild Places campaign, and feature documentary film, is poised to awaken people to wild Florida and inspire them to save it.
my thoughts:
Wow! What a beautiful and fascinating book. As a Floridian, I absolutely LOVED reading Path Of The Panther: New Hope For Wild Florida by Carlton Ward Jr. - it was such a special book to get lost in. I really enjoyed learning so much about my state - history, nature, the panther, the Everglades, and the hopes/plans for the future of wild Florida. Oh, and did I mention that this is a National Geographic book? Well it is, and that means top notch quality. The kind of book that will inspire and that you will eagerly set out on your coffee table or bookshelf. Yep, a definite must-read!
Ward has created a wonderful book chock full of informative essays, gorgeous photographs, amazing maps, and so much more. This book has it all! I mean it, this book makes for a compelling and motivating read - the information regarding conservation and recovery is just awe-inspiring. And learning about the history of the panther and its home in Florida is fascinating. I really enjoyed my reading experience with this book. I just loved getting to know so much about the state I call home.
I would happily recommend Path Of The Panther to anyone and everyone looking for their next nonfiction read - you are going to fall in LOVE with this book! Make sure to get your hands on a copy and check it out!
Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book: (summary from Goodreads)
A moving, heartbreaking, and inspiring true story of the author’s escape from an apocalyptic cult—and the deep understanding of the natural world that helped her find freedom.
My family prepared me for the end of the world, but I know how to survive on what the earth yields.
Michelle Dowd grew up on a mountain in the Angeles National Forest, born into an ultra-religious cult—the Field, as members called it—run by her grandfather, who believed that his chosen followers must prepare themselves to survive doomsday. Bound by the group’s patriarchal rules and literal interpretation of the Bible, Michelle and her siblings lived a life of deprivation, isolated from Outsiders and starved for both love and food. She was forced to learn the skills necessary to battle hunger, thirst, and cold; she learned to trust animals more than humans; and most important, she learned how to survive by foraging for what she needed. And as Michelle got older, she realized she had the strength to break free. Focus on what will sustain, not satiate you, she would tell herself. Use everything. Waste nothing. Get to know the intricacies of the land like the intricacies of your body. And so she did.
With haunting and stark language, and illustrations of edible plants and their uses opening each chapter, Forager is a fierce and empowering coming-of-age story and a timely meditation on the ways in which harnessing nature’s gifts can lead to our freedom.
my thoughts:
Wow! What a fascinating read. Michelle Dowd's memoir about growing up in The Field doomsday cult is personal, eye-opening, and thoughtful. She starts each chapter with an edible plant and how to use it, which related to the education she received from The Field. Nature was integral to her survival within the cult and as a means for her to find the courage to leave it. Forager: Field Notes for Surviving a Family Cult is a slow-burn chock full of memories about Michelle's relationship with her mother, the lack of love she was shown, the lessons she received on how to be a survivalist, and the various abuses she endured. It is an emotional and introspective book.
I found myself caught up in Michelle's recollections and thinking about her life and how young she was at the time. Her life was so cut off from the rest of the world and the loneliness she must have felt, especially when she began questioning it all. And, the way nature impacted her life - learning to live off the land, the dangers and beauties of nature, and the vastness of it all. She's a strong woman who experienced so much so young and was able to find a way out of a living nightmare. Talk about the epitome of brave.
I would definitely recommend, Forager, to anyone and everyone - you are going to fall in deep with this book. Make sure to get your hands on a copy ASAP!
Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book: (summary from Goodreads)
"A deeply inspiring, must-read memoir about the transformative power of books to heal and unite us."—Gabrielle UnionProfoundly moving, exquisitely rendered and ultimately uplifting, The Love You Save is a story about hidden strength, perseverance against unimaginable odds, the beauty and pain of girlhood, and the power of the written word.
my thoughts:
Wow. Just, wow. The Love You Save: A Memoir by Goldie Taylor is a beautifully written book that is brutally honest and intensely authentic. This is a story about a young girl who endured horrors in her childhood and still managed to find hope for her self and her life. In fact, she wound up becoming an acclaimed journalist and activist. She is the epitome of the magic of hope, strength, faith, and determination.
Taylor has written the story of her childhood in an honest and unflinching tone. She shares and shares, and the more she shares, the more your heart breaks for this little girl. We read about rape, abuse, and violence. And we read about books, the written word, talent, friendship, and hope. We read about a young girl who discovers her voice and finds a way to use it to create a better future for herself. Talk about a heartrending read.
The Love You Save is an important story. It's a thought-provoking, eye-opening, and powerful read. It's the kind of book that reminds you that no matter what, "hope is the thing with feathers."
I would definitely recommend this book to anyone and everyone - make sure you get your hands on a copy! Make time to read this must-read story.
Thank you the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!
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| (Thank you to the publisher and TLC Book Tours for providing me with a copy of this book!) |
about book: (summary from Goodreads)
Best-selling Blue Zones Kitchen author Dan Buettner spent years uncovering the Blue Zones--the five places around the world where people consistently live to or past, 100--and sharing lifestyle tips and recipes gleaned from these places. Now, creating your own Blue Zone at home is easier than ever, thanks to plant-forward recipes in this inspiring book--all developed right in our own backyard.
In Blue Zones American Kitchen, Buettner uncovers the traditional roots of plant-forward cuisine in the United States. Following the acumen of heritage cooks who have passed their recipes from generation to generation, Buettner uncovers the regions and cultures that have shaped America’s healthiest food landscapes, from Hmong elders living in Minnesota to Quakers in New England. Along the way, he illuminates both traditional and revolutionary ideas in vegetarian food with recipes from chefs like executive chef James Wayman, “the Gullah chef” Bill Green, and “the Cod Chef” Dave Smoke-McCluskey.
With wisdom from more than 50 food experts, chefs, and cooks around the country, Buettner’s road trip across America sheds light on some of its most under-recognized plant-forward communities as Buettner shares the ingredients, recipes, and lifestyle tips that will make living to 100 both delicious and easy. And the proof is in the pudding: 49 Blue Zones Project Cities have demonstrated that eating the Blue Zones way can alleviate obesity, heart disease, diabetes, and more.
Filled with 100 tasty recipes, from Pennsylvania Dutch apple dumplings to Southern Hoppin’ John, Blue Zones American Kitchen will change your diet--and your life.
my thoughts:
A cookbook based on the Blue Zones in the United Sates - how could I not want to read this book!?! Especially, when the books is published by the National Geographic Society. I was in from the start. And, let me just say, how happy I was to read this wonderful cookbook. It was chock full of delicious plant-based recipes, beautiful photographs, and fascinating stories about the blue zones right here in America - how awesome is that?! I absolutely LOVED flipping through and reading about Latin American and Native American cuisine. This was truly a gem of a book.
So, what exactly are the "blue zones"? Well, they are the regions in the world where people are known to live the longest. You know, the places you hear about where the residents are well into their early 100s. Yep, this book is devoted to recipes inspired by the "blue zones" within America and the different cultures that created such tasty and healthy recipes. We get tips, recipes, stories, and so much more in this book - all of which help in teaching us about the foods we need to be eating if we want to live to 100. After all, the goal is to live a long and healthy life, right? Well, this book will have you excited to think about the foods you eat and the life you want to live. I know that I can't wait to try out some of these yummy looking recipes and, I'm also more interested in trying to learn more about the way food impacts our health and how we can use it to our benefit (inflammation, mental health, etc.). I would happily recommend The Blue Zones American Kitchen to anyone and everyone looking for their next great read - you won't want to miss out on this fantastic book!!
I would happily recommend this book to anyone and everyone looking for a new and great read in 2023 - make sure to check it out!
Thank you to TLC Book Tours and the publisher for providing me with a copy of this book!
