Do you ever stop and ask yourself why you do the things you do? What motivates you? Our human nature makes us prone to believe that if we do everything right, life will happen the way we plan. And when it doesn't, we get depressed or upset. Raymie Nightingale by the Kate DiCamillo is a book about disappointment, love, and friendship. It's a story that depicts the concept of good intentions and plans. As we experience life through Raymie, we learn that sometimes the best thin

Kids love nonfiction books. The great ones have exploratory, vibrant qualities that engulf readers. Kids get overjoyed. Sharing is a must! What a treat to see young faces light up in astonishment as they collectively peer over images of rare species, space discoveries, brave heroes, inspirational kids, cool inventions and so much more. I want to share that excitement with you by sharing links (click topics below) to the latest and greatest in Nonfiction 2017. The Horn Book

My mind was at ease when I started reading the adult book my friend (and parent of avid readers) recommended. It's called The Last Sin Eater, by Francine Rivers. Cozy on the couch as winter purred outside the bay window, I anticipated an aloof read. After all, 1850's Appalachia mentality is the farthest thing from life today in the 21st Century. Certainly, the uneducated people from centuries ago, concealed by endless peaks, can be easily veiled by the evils that surround

If you're a baseball mom, you know the scenario all too well. Two outs, two strikes and your ball loving son is up at bat. Usually, he holds his own. A contributor to the team's success. But recently, he's been in a slump. Maybe this is it-the moment he crushes the ball. Your stomach tightens into a double, no, triple knot. Sweaty palms grasp your watered down, shaken iced-tea beverage. You can't catch a breath. You do what every great mom does. Pray! "Please, God! Let him c

Remember shows like Dallas, Knots Landing, and one of my all old-time favorites, Beverly Hills 90210? I have to admit, I love stories about rich people and evidently, I'm not alone. Families with money make for great dramas! We get wrapped up in a world of grand illusions. Beautiful things. Extravagant homes. The power and prestige that comes with affluence. We see ourselves living that lifestyle. But then the deceit is exposed and reality hits. (What's that new disease calle