The Great Little Book of Fun Things You Probably Don't Know About Ireland!

Ireland is one of those countries that people love, and we're not sure why. Robert Sullivan strives to feed our hunger for the Emerald Isle in his collection of trivia called The Great Little Book of Fun Things You Probably Don't Know About Ireland!

The collection is a smorgasbord of information from every aspect of Irish culture imaginable. Find out about their Irish traditions both new and old. Read about some crazy stories from Irish history. Learn the meaning of baby names for boys and girls. And of course, a whole chapter each is dedicated to those favorite Irish sayings and proverbs. Understand "Craic" and Celtic knots.

One of the oddest traditions I saw was a variation on the American tradition of spanking the birthday boy. In Ireland, the birthday boy (or girl) is lifted by his (her) ankles, and the head is bounced on the floor the same number of times as years of age, plus one extra for good luck.

You have seen images of the Irish throwing their waste water into the streets, in movies such as Angela's Ashes, right? The Irish continue to not take care of their aquatic systems, making a fair share of the water undrinkable. So heads up if you ever travel - prepare to buy some water!

Many Americans can boast Irish heritage, including possibly 40% of all Presidents, and of course, Tom Cruise, who is supposedly going to buy the family farm there. (He supposedly bought a plot of land for Katie in my hometown of Toledo, near her parents, so why not partake in his own heritage?)

A whole chapter is devoted to the Irish Christmas. And of course, there are all of the fun and weird traditions about marriage, divorce, drinking, and sobriety.

The book is perfect for those of us who take pleasure in learning as much trivia as possible. It could turn into a fun party conversation, or help you land a role on Jeopardy!

The book is a great deal of fun to read and to share. It's not meant to be a read-through book - unless you are that hungry for information. But it makes a great coffee table book, or even a fun bathroom read!

Purchase The Great Little Book of Fun Things You Probably Don't Know About Ireland: Unusual facts, quotes, news items, proverbs and more about the Irish world, old and new

A review copy of this book was provided by the author. The opinions expressed above are completely honest and my own.

Teaching the Story: Fiction Writing in Grades 4-8

Title: Teaching the Story: Fiction Writing in Grades 4-8

Author: Carol Baldwin

Publisher:  Maupin House

ISBN: 978-1-934338-35-3

Carol Baldwin's book Teaching the Story: Fiction Writing in Grades 4-8 is a beneficial asset to the upper elementary/middle school language teacher's collection. It provides a series of mini-lessons that can supplement the teacher's writing curriculum, in an easy-to-follow format that also incorporates technology into the lessons.

Within the first chapter, students learn how to brainstorm ideas and to outline their story. Important topics include deciding upon a genre, how to write in a detailed active voice, and how to do background research. Though it is possible for a teacher to change the order of lessons, and possibly even skip a few, these all should be taught, as they are the foundation of writing a story.

Next comes a section on creating a believable character. Lessons here reflect upon creating the character's personality, likes and dislikes, and even naming him/her, though use of questionnaires. A few of these points could be combined, if the teacher is short on time.

Setting and mood are essential to any plot. Teaching the Story spends the third chapter teaching children how to utilize the senses when describing a scene, to show the reader the story, as opposed to simply telling it. The abstract discussions in this section could also be served by real-life practice. For example, a recommendation is to take photographs of a scene to describe. The teacher could also bring in objects, or if possible take a short excursion outside of the classroom, to realistically use the senses to describe a scene.

When creating a conflict, the writer must create a believable problem that the character is capable of solving. This section provides more graphic organizers designed to allow the young author to outline her story. She is required to think out each situation, step-by-step.

Baldwin then takes the teacher through teaching how to write out the first draft. Children must collect all of the data thus collected, and assemble these building blocks into the structure of the story.  They also learn how to keep the story within a reasonable length. The length of time required on this part of the book is going to depend on each individual class. Some children will be able to simply whip right through it, while others may suffer from a bit of writer's block.

Once that first draft has been written, it is time to edit and correct any mistakes found within the story. Now is the time to focus on spelling, grammar, and punctuation mistakes.

In order for children to be effective writers, they will need to learn all of these building blocks. Some are going to find the process tedious. As a young writer, I often had this problem. Nevertheless, the lessons contained within are very beneficial. When possible, the teacher should streamline the process for the children who seem to grasp the concepts, and provide extra help and extra exercises for those who require them. The goal is to not deter children from wanting to write.


It is also refreshing to see such a detailed book on the art of fictional writing for kids. Because nonfiction writing is the trend throughout one's school career, creative writing is often overlooked. Many of the mini lessons taught within this book could also be used by older writers who wish to refresh their writing style.

Accompanying the book is a CD of overheads and printouts that are used to supplement the lessons. This eliminates the need to photocopy the graphic organizers within the book. They are also designed to be used with Smart Boards, keeping in line with the modern technology being used in classrooms all over.

A Walk for Sunshine

A Walk for Sunshine: A 2,160 mile expedition for charity on the Appalachian Trail by Jeff Alt is a unique kind of adventure story. When Jeff Alt set out on his expedition, it was not for any selfish purpose of self-discovery. He wanted to take something that he loved, and use it to help someone he loved. He chose to make his journey, raising money for the Sunshine Children's Home outside Toledo, OH. His brother, Aaron, was born with cerebral palsy and mental retardation, and lives at the Sunshine Children's Home. This fundraiser was a great way to say thank you, and he was able to provide money for purchasing communication devices and other equipment that improves the residents' way of life. This story holds a special place in my heart, as I am originally from the Toledo, OH area, and know the Sunshine Children's Home quite well.

The 36 chapters contained within the book break up the journey into entertaining little blurbs about life on the trail. You feel like you are right there with Jeff as he makes his way through every kind of weather imaginable. He shivers through sub-zero temperatures, then swelters in temps above 100 degrees. He gets saturated in rainfall that lasts for fifteen days, then has endless sunshine allowing him to truly view the natural beauty of the trail.

Maps precede each chapter, charting Jeff's progress along the way. He shares his problem solving techniques, and strategies designed to make his hike as successful as possible. Two of these include having packages regularly sent to him along the way, and meeting up with friends and family for a day or two of joined hiking.

Along the way, Jeff encounters a range of characters that vary in temperament almost as much as the weather. Even the briefest encounter allowed for a lifelong memory and learning experience. He learns from people and animals, even having some of each as bed mates. He also discovers a new sense of power and courage that had been hibernating until this point.

Adding to the story are tips about both cerebral palsy and hiking. One appendix provides information from the United Cerebral Palsy organization, while another goes into more detail about the Sunshine Children's Home. He also shares an epilogue about life lessons learned from the trail, as well as checklists for going hiking with or without family.

A review copy of this book was provided via my association with BookPleasures.

Purchase A Walk for Sunshine: A 2,160 Mile Expedition for Charity on the Appalachian Trail, 3rd Edition

What Happy Working Mothers Know

What Happy Working Mothers Know: How New Findings in Posilktive Psychology Can Lead to a Healthy and Happy Work/Life Balance is a self-help book for mommies that is based upon scientific research. Authors Cathy L. Greenberg, Ph.D. and Barrett S. Avigdor, J.D. have compiled workplace statistics with stories from successful, happy mothers. Stories are about real people in real situations, with real solutions to their real-life problems. Some contributors are unknown working moms, such as Yolanda. Others are more widely recognized such as First Lady Michelle Obama and Benita Fitzgerald Mosley, the first U.S. African- American to win Olympic gold in the 100-meter hurdles.

Happiness isn't about smiling all of the time and laughing out loud. It is about finding a sense of peace and joy in one's own life. How one achieves these will depend on the individual. Some mothers base it on personal success in the home and wokrplace. Others may view it as flexibility or being a role model. However it is defined, it is about a positive attitude in life.

Women need to be happy in order to be healthy. Unhappiness leads to stress, which leads to several health issues. Also, an unhappy mother leads to an unhappy family. Mom is the one who sets the tone for everyone else. Those who worry about the impact of the mother working outside the home can have their fears put to rest. It isn't the fact that Mom is working that influences the children - it's how she feels while doing it.

The authors have created an easy-to-read format with numerous bits of information. Everything is divided by subtitles, lines, lists, or boxes, to separate each type of information. Research statistics are bulleted. These smaller blurbs are much easier to read, especially for the busy mommy for whom this book is intended. Read explanations of various facets of happiness, followed by a real-life example from a mother. Be inspired by interspersed quotes. Then take the small self-coaching breaks. These are exercises designed to help Mom really think about what she wants out of life.

Also included are physical exercises that allow for meditation and relaxation. Complete with a list of good food choices, the authors strive to help Mom become a happier, better person from the inside out. 

A review copy was provided via my association with BookPleasures.

Purchase What Happy Working Mothers Know: How New Findings in Positive Psychology Can Lead to a Healthy and Happy Work/Life Balance

10 Things I Hate About Christianity

The title alone is especially eye-catching:  10 Things I Hate About Christianity: Working Through the Frustrations of Faith. Also appealing was the headline of the PRWeb article that introduced me to this work by Jason T. Berggren: "Ex-pastor And Punk-rocker Challenges The President's Position On Healthcare Reform As A Moral Imperative".What kind of wisdom can an ex-pastor and ex-punker have about Christianity?

Let me start by clarifying that Jason is, in fact, a Christian, even though he is an ex-pastor and ex-punk rocker. He is just willing to acknowledge some of the flaws that exist within the Christian structure, with which many Christians can identify. Ten chapters cover the ten biggest areas of malcontent amongst Christians at any stage:  Faith, Prayer, The Bible, Sin, Rules, Love, Hell, Answers, Church, and Christians. Most Christian writers like to tell YOU what is wrong with YOU and how YOU need to change yourself. Here, Jason implies that the fault lies not totally in the self, but in human nature. Because humans are in charge of Christianity here on Earth, and humans are fallible, it is logical that Christianity has problems, as well.

Jason uses real-life examples to back up any of his opinions, which makes him very easy to read and understand. He delivers his message in a way that isn't preachy, which is very appealing to those of us who are not fans of being told what to do on a regular basis. He bares his soul in many areas, such as addressing questioning God after his first child died. When he asks his questions, you often find yourself pondering your own conflicts and questions, as well.

The books is a very easy read. In fact, I read most of it in one day. (And yes, I read fast, but for a book to hold my attention that long, and to inspire me to finish it in one day, says a lot.) I recommend reading it with a journal by your side, so that you can take notes on your own thoughts and observations as you read Jason's. You can't help but to be inspired to question your own faith, and writing your thoughts is the best way to reflect on them. I would like to reread this book at a time when I can really reflect on the message, and perhaps attack some of my own issues.

Purchase 10 Things I Hate About Christianity: Working Through the Frustrations of Faith


After reading the book, be sure to also check out Jason T. Berggren's blog or follow him on Twitter @jasonberggren.

I received a copy of the book directly from the author, for the purposes of reviewing on my blog.

Can't Stand the Heat

Can't Stand the Heat is A Recipe For Love novel by Louisa Edwards, and her debut novel. In this steamy romance, Miranda Wake, a stubborn food critic who never has anything nice to say about any place she reviews, meets her match in restaurant owner Adam Temple. When the two of them meet at a special opening celebration for his new Manhattan restaurant, Market, things become sizzling hot both in the kitchen and out of it.

Adam challenges Miranda to come spend a day in his kitchen to see how tough it actually is. Next thing they both know, Miranda is spending a month in his kitchen, to work on a series about a critic in the kitchen. Ideas quickly come together for a book, but what exactly this tell-all confessional will contain keeps changing as relationships between characters keep evolving.

Adding to the plot are secrets about other workers at The Market, including a big one being hidden by Miranda's younger brother Jess. Miranda has been caring for him since their parents died when he was young. These secrets help add to the plot's twist and turns, test relationships, and keep the pages moving.

The strong attraction between Miranda and Adam is apparent from the very beginning, and let's face it - it wouldn't be a romance novel without a somewhat predictable relationship between the two main characters. Yet, reading of their exploits provides plenty of entertainment over a period of a few hours. Also enjoyable are the recipes and cooking tips that are included throughout the text. At the end are detailed recipes for a few of the highlights, including rose-infused vodka.

Intimate scenes between the two are quite detailed, and the associated language suddenly becomes vulgar. The language used to describe their encounters almost feels out of place with that of the rest of the story. Some people who would have otherwise greatly enjoyed this story are going to be turned off by these scenes.

Fortunately, I was able to get through those scenes and liked the book a lot. At the end is a preview chapter of the next book, On the Steamy Side, which I look forward to reading some day, as well!

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I received a review copy of this book through my association with BookPleasures.com.

Poltergeist

For those who have ever been curious about that paranormal phenomenon known as the poltergeist, then this book by Colin Wilson is for you. Poltergeist: A Classic Study in Destructive Haunting goes beyond simply telling a scary ghost story. It delves into centuries of stories and case studies, dating as far back as the Ancient Greeks and Romans and has some research to back it up. It answers many questions, and leaves others unanswered.

The stories he shares range from the typical ghost story of objects flying through the air, to some of the most truly bizarre, such as the girl who could see through her ear, or the talking mongoose. Some of them are famous, such as the story of the Bell witch, and the bizarre case of Uri Geller and his ability to make random objects move and appear. Other stories are lesser known.

What they tend to have in common is some sort of force that propels the movement of the objects, usually centering around a teenager, almost always a female. When she leaves a place that appears to be inhabited by a poltergeist, the events usually stop. Most poltergeists do not speak, but on occasion, they attempt to mimic speech. Most can be eventually driven away. All of them are creepy.

It's a book that is going to appeal to the more intellectual crowd, as the stories are written as case studies. Wilson attempts to use strong evidence for answering questions, such as the creation and impetus of poltergeist forces, and what tactics they seem to use for survival. It is well-researched, with documentation spanning the centuries, as well as scholarly studies and reports by other professionals in the field. Those stories that seem unlikely are exposed and challenged. Wilson has been chasing ghosts for years, and knows what he is talking about.

While the book doesn't read like a novel, it is still an entertaining look into a history that is shared by cultures all over the world. It's the kind of history that you are not going to get in a traditional classroom setting. And it's scary enough to give you chills when you read it before bed or to question those little bumps you hear in the night.

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I received a review copy of this book from the publisher via my association with BookPleasures.com.