Dee Ann Grand

Science Fiction & FantasyFictionWomen's FictionMystery

Suspense, laughter and love

Feature by Dee Ann Grand

Do you prefer your fiction pulse-pounding, heart-wrenching, sprinkled with belly laughs or loaded with hairpin twists and turns? These new inspirational fiction titles offer something for everyone and are sure to deliver.

As if the complicated emotional relationships between animals and humans weren’t enough to stir the soul, Neil Abramson adds a harrowing twist of legal suspense to his moving first novel. Hauntingly told through the voice of a dead woman, Unsaid finds former veterinarian Helena caught between this world and the next as she watches her loved ones and worries about a dark secret she’s taken to the grave. Her widower, David, is still struggling to get back to his law practice, deal with his grief and find a way to care for the many rescue animals (all with their own issues) that Helena had nurtured. 

But David is forced into action when Cindy, a chimpanzee Helena had loved, suddenly becomes the target of a dangerous lab experiment. It is up to David to save Cindy through a harrowing legal battle that (unbeknownst to him) could release Helena from her sad purgatory. Unsaid explores the miracle of sentience in humans and animals, and every character in this story makes heartbreaking mistakes. This compassionate and suspenseful story will remind you to savor every moment of every meaningful relationship you may ever be blessed with—whether human or animal.

LOVE AND MARRIAGE

Whether you’ve read the previous five Bug Man novels by Tim Downs or not, Nick of Time will show you just who Nick Polchak, aka the Bug Man, really is deep down inside. Though Nick is a forensic entomologist who studies insects from murder victims’ remains, this time he faces a much more precarious situation: He’s getting married. And never has Nick Polchak ever been more out of his element. Dead bodies and bugs? No problem. Wedding cake and honeymoon decisions? Run! And whether consciously or unconsciously, he does run—or rather, accepts an invitation from the Vidocq society to attend a forensic specialists meeting just a few days before the wedding ceremony.

Alena Savard, the bride-to-be and a trainer of cadaver dogs, is none too happy about Nick’s sudden departure. Then Nick and Alena, along with several other interesting folks—most of whom are forensic professionals who relish solving dead-end crimes—suddenly find themselves fearing for their lives. Downs uses plenty of humor to expose the quirks of these odd characters. In fact, Bug Man fans might be in for a jolt at the story’s close when the day arrives for Nick and Alena to tie the knot. 

END OF DAYS

Tim LaHaye’s best-selling Left Behind series cast him as an expert on prophetic fiction. The second entry in the End Series, written by Lahaye and Craig Parshall, Thunder of Heaven, does not disappoint. Political squabbling, governments and agencies butting heads, an angry Mother Nature, global warming and unemployment aren’t only today’s top news headlines—they are the bones of this knockdown, drag-out tale that grips readers from the start. 

Almost anyone can identify with Deborah Jordan as she sits in a plane on a tarmac awaiting departure. The hassle of security, boarding and cramped seating just isn’t fun. But unbeknownst to her, her plane—along with several others in other cities departing at the same time—is part of a coordinated attack on America. From there, the pace doesn’t let up until the last page as all the members of the Jordan family do their dead level best to thwart the destruction of our country, in spite of the politically driven media, inept government, soulless terrorists, global threats and enormous personal sacrifice.

A MOTHER’S HOPE

Mark Schultz, an award-winning Christian music artist, has touched millions of hearts with his song “Letters from War.” The song tells an unforgettable story, reminding listeners of the sacrifices our military men and women make for our freedom and the unwavering courage of their families. Now, writing with Travis Thrasher, Schultz has expanded that song into a novel that follows the emotional journey of one soldier’s family, friends and community. Readers get to know one military mother, Beth, who refuses to give up hope even after two years of not knowing whether her son James is being held prisoner, wounded or dead. She finds strength in her faith, continuing to pray and write letters to her son, even as well-meaning friends say hurtful things. The ripple effect of how one missing soldier can change the lives of so many people is vividly portrayed in Letters from War. But most powerful throughout the story is Beth, who continues to give to her family and to her community even though her heart is fighting despair. 

A true master at storytelling, whether in song or in prose, Schultz has written a tale that will bring a tear and lift your spirit, all while honoring the service of our military families. 

 

Do you prefer your fiction pulse-pounding, heart-wrenching, sprinkled with belly laughs or loaded with hairpin twists and turns? These new inspirational fiction titles offer something for everyone and are sure to deliver.

Children's & YAMiddle Grade

Faith-based selections for the season

Feature by Dee Ann Grand

The holidays are always a festive, frolicking time, but there’s also a religious message inherent in the Christmas season. If you’re looking for books that focus on the meaning of the holiday or that offer messages of faith, hope and love to little ones, these selections from Christian publishers would be just right for gift-giving or family sharing.

WORDS OF COMFORT

Not just at Christmastime, but year-round it happens. A kid needs an understanding pal, a listening ear or a promise of hope—and right away! Veteran author Sally Lloyd-Jones had just that in mind with Thoughts to Make Your Heart Sing, a generous collection of encouraging words about the everyday bumps and hurdles that children encounter. Each page is a blend of Lloyd-Jones’s inspirational, gentle tone with illustrations of rich, deep colors by British artist Jago that depict a God who is forever with us and always understanding.

“Of all the incredible things God made, which do you think is the most amazing?” Lloyd-Jones writes in a section titled In All the Earth. “Is it the Grand Canyon? Or the Milky Way? What about the North Pole? . . . Do you know what God says is the best, most magnificent, incredible thing he has ever made? You.”

I call this a go-to book in times when a child (or even an adult) needs a spiritual lift or a happy thought at the end of a rocky day. The author says it much better by describing how the book came about in the first place.

“My niece was the inspiration for this book. She was 8 at the time. And almost overnight, she went from being a vivacious little girl full of life to a quite hidden child. Even her voice changed—into a very quiet voice you could hardly hear. And we found out she was being bullied at school,” Lloyd-Jones says. “I wished she had a book that she would want to have by her bedside, a book she would look forward to reading, a book no one would have to make her read–but that she would choose to read–a book that would tell her what God says about her instead of what these bullies were saying. And so I wrote the book for her—and every child like her.”

THE GOOD SHEPHERD'S GOOD BOOK

Children’s Bibles have changed over the years, becoming more and more accessible to young readers. Jesus Calling Bible Storybook by Sarah Young is a terrific selection, especially for kids who sometimes tire of the same stilted retellings. This Bible brings it home, making children feel that ancient Bible is personal, speaking directly to them. Young masters this in two ways. First she puts the stories in modern “kidspeak” with everyday language. For example, she begins the story of creation this way: “A, B, C . . . 1, 2, 3 . . . Everything begins somewhere.” How simple is that? Then after every Bible story, Young ends with a Jesus Calling scripture and simple devotional that is conversational, written as if Jesus were sitting right next to the reader and talking about things kids experience or question like faith, happiness, right and wrong, and love. Again, the language is just right when Jesus tells kids, “Talk to me all the time —in good times and in bad times.” No vague Bible-speak here that swooshes over the reader’s head. Jesus’ words seem written in real time.

Each story is carefully selected to teach young hearts not only basic Bible stories, but also to show Jesus’ role in the Old Testament and the New Testament. With bright, vivid illustrations by Carolina Farias, God’s love unfolds on page after page, from creation to Jesus’ departure from this earth. Farias’ style is captivating, with a color palette that lends itself to Biblical times yet somehow feels warm and intimate for today’s reader. This is a Bible to be treasured for many years.

THE CHRISTMAS STORY

In A King James Christmas: Biblical Selections with Illustrations from Around the World editors Catherine Schuon and Michael Fitzgerald combine excerpts from the Gospels with beautiful illustrations, ranging from Renaissance masterpieces to paintings by Schuon herself. The selected passages from Matthew and Luke tell the story of Jesus’ birth and childhood, as well as the key tenets of his teachings (Jesus Teaches in the Temple and the Sermon on the Mount). For young readers who may be a bit intimidated by the language of the King James Bible, the editors have included synonyms for unfamiliar words within the text. This beautifully crafted book makes the story of Jesus’s birth easy to follow and understand, and the multicultural artistic expressions add to the book’s appeal. Intended for the entire family, A King James Christmas would be a perfect choice for a Christmas Eve read-aloud.

A NEW ADVENTURE

Now here’s a good idea: an Old and New Testament Bible that kids can read and comprehend all by themselves. Although the publisher, Common English Bible, painstakingly created this translation with 120 Bible translators from 24 denominations plus a plethora of diverse Bible readers, Deep Blue Kids Bible is truly in the language and on the vocabulary level of today’s child. There’s no better way to engage kids than to use their own words, then enliven the reading experience with 3D-style illustrations, lively characters and timely life-related notes throughout. The Deep Blue Kids Bible makes the reading more like a Bible story adventure.

This Bible is so upbeat that parents and grandparents will get a kick out of reading it with their kids and grandkids. Adults will enjoy the pages loaded with devotions, highlights of fascinating facts, notes of character traits and faith concepts. Children’s ministries will appreciate the resources that pop onto the pages, like fun trivia, easy overviews and kid-level discussion suggestions. All that and the pages never look too busy, overloaded or junky. Instead, this Bible os inviting, calling for kids to climb aboard and explore—in a high seas adventure kind of way.

COOKING UP SOMETHING SPECIAL

With just the right measure of clear directions and big, delicious food photos, the Faithgirlz line of books for tween girls adds a delicious recipe book. More than a simple snack cookbook, Food, Faith & Fun has an array of cooking delights from munchies, and salads to main courses, with a dash of scripture included. Healthy smoothies, perfect potato salad and enchiladas are just a few samples any family would delight in being served and any tween would enjoy creating—with Faithgirlz flair, of course. Vegetarian recipes are part of the mix, along with a nice section for creative holiday treats, including Cathedral Window Cookies and Christmas Swirl Cookies. Food, Faith & Fun encourages friends and family to grab an apron and join in the fun of nourishing the body and soul.

The holidays are always a festive, frolicking time, but there’s also a religious message inherent in the Christmas season. If you’re looking for books that focus on the meaning of the holiday or that offer messages of faith, hope and love to little ones, these…

Children's & YA

Coloring outside the lines: focus focus

Review by Dee Ann Grand

Can you read this review in 20 seconds without blinking? If so, you would be the perfect victim to fall prey to Marjorie Priceman's optical illusion, It's Me, Marva! A Story About Color &and Optical Illusions. And who better to razzle dazzle us with funky patterns, color mixing and eyeball trickery? Priceman Caldecott Honor Award winner for Zin! Zin! Zin! A Violin overloads our eye cones rather unapologetically. Kids everywhere have seen her striking color palette and animated brush strokes on Reading Rainbow. Her artwork is undeniably energetic, and it's everywhere.

It's Me, Marva! (like the mixing and meshing of the hues in the illustrations) stirs in a humorous story about a wacky inventor, simply trying to get through her fumbling and stumbling day. Marva is truly accident-prone, which sets the perfect stage for radical hair colors and a wonderful little lesson for kids about why sorting laundry into like colors is ever so important. Throughout the story, Priceman seamlessly pauses in just the right places with activities that teach about color phenomena: contrasting, mixing, patterns and shapes. As Marva dashes from one disaster to the next, the reader learns more and more about optical effects, which is good, because the happy ending to this story is told with an after-image (staring at an object without blinking, then looking at a totally blank page). No kidding. It really works. And if the reader wants to know more about how we perceive images, Priceman further explains in very simple language why our perception of something isn't always what we would predict.

For example, stare at this review for 20 seconds without blinking. Now look up at the ceiling. What do you see? If you've mastered the art of illusion from It's Me, Marva!, you should see a subliminal ÔThank you' for reading Coloring Outside the Lines. No? Well, you must have blinked.

This little corner is a salute to those overachieving writers, artists and publishers who rebel against the bookmaking norm (whatever that is) and insist on creating a one-of-a-kind. 

Can you read this review in 20 seconds without blinking? If so, you would be the perfect victim to fall prey to Marjorie Priceman's optical illusion, It's Me, Marva! A Story About Color &and Optical Illusions. And who better to razzle dazzle us with funky…

Children's & YA

This little egg of mine

Review by Dee Ann Grand

What do you call a walking, talking gargantuan egg who's in a nasty mood? Kevin O'Malley calls him Humpty Dumpty in his latest attention-getting picture book, Humpty Dumpty Egg-splodes. From the get-go, O'Malley signals the book's giggly atmosphere with end pages depicting the library shelf in his Mother Goose Land. Lost Sheep by Bo Peep and Dr. Little Boy Blue's book Sleep Disorders foreshadow the kind of thinking you'll need for this plot spiraling story.

Kevin O'Malley's in-your-face illustrations (each one with a subplot of its own) help tell the story of one bad day in Mother Goose Land, where your favorite childhood characters, while always remaining in character, are forced to deal with a flipped out Humpty who's on a rampage. Old King Cole enlists Jack Be Nimble and other village folks, including Peter Piper and Peter Pumpkin Eater, who might help rid the town of their eggshelled Godzilla.

I've got it! barked Old King Cole. Do you know the Muffin Man? The Muffin Man? asked Jack.

The Muffin Man! Do you know the Muffin Man? asked the king.

Oh sure, said Jack, he lives on Drurey Lane. You don't have to be a children's lit scholar to enjoy the clever word play. But the story will have you scurrying back to your raggedy childhood Mother Goose book, rereading it with questions like: What ever happened to those three men in a tub, anyway? Perhaps the double-page, gaping-jaw portrait of a flustered Mother Goose isn't the best way to lull the kiddos into sleepyland, but Humpty does have a wonderful support system in this community of classic characters who finally address his needs; thus, a fairy tale ending.

Not only a good chuckle for kiddos, Humpty Dumpty Egg-splodes is a heavyweight for adult parody humor. What would Mother Goose say to O'Malley's spin of her beloved rhyming family? I'm pretty sure it would ruffle her feathers.

What do you call a walking, talking gargantuan egg who's in a nasty mood? Kevin O'Malley calls him Humpty Dumpty in his latest attention-getting picture book, Humpty Dumpty Egg-splodes. From the get-go, O'Malley signals the book's giggly atmosphere with end pages depicting the library shelf…

Inspirational Fiction

Tim LaHaye keeps readers enraptured with tales of those Left Behind

Review by Dee Ann Grand

"When I gave my life to the Lord, I thought I'd be a preacher," says Tim LaHaye, who despite more than 50 years of preaching is now best known as a phenomenally successful author. More than 30 million copies of LaHaye's books have been sold, including eight titles co-authored with Jerry Jenkins in the Left Behind series, the seemingly omnipresent apocalyptic novels.

With his latest book, Mind Siege, co-authored with David Noebel, the soft-spoken minister has raised the bar in Christian book sales. His critique of the ills of modern society premiered on The New York Times hardcover nonfiction bestseller list at number 17. At the same time the Left Behind series had five entries on the hardback and paperback fiction lists.

"I can't tell you what a thrill it is to walk into a Costco and see our books and other Christian books in the secular stores," LaHaye remarks.

And what set off this avalanche of publishing success? "About 40 years ago I had an experience where I wrote a tract, he explains. After I'd preached a message on Sunday night, I'd print it up. One Monday, he went to visit a patient in the hospital. Her family had given her the tract, she read it, then gave it to the other lady who was sharing the same room. And that [tract] led her to Christ. I kind of staggered down the hall and thought, Oh God, this is a new way to reach people!" Years later, LaHaye and his wife took a trip overseas and were surprised to find just how far-reaching his printed products had become. "Bev and I did a trip around the world, and we'd been to Poland, a communist state. The spiritual leaders apologetically showed me a copy of my Spirit-Controlled Temperament. You see, they'd copied it without permission from the U.S. publisher. But I was elated they were using it."

Today, LaHaye's books have been translated into 34 languages. "And I've never done one thing to cultivate that," he says adamantly, crediting all his success to God.

But there must have been a secret formula for the overwhelming popularity of the Left Behind series, which describes the fate of those left on Earth after the rapture, in which Christians ascend into heaven. "It's a series of things," LaHaye says of the books' appeal. "Timing is one thing. All people, even secular people, are seeing books on the market like The End of History. It makes them start thinking, where is this world going? People recognize something's going to happen, and they'd better get ready." Another component in Left Behind's success, LaHaye says, is his co-author, Jerry Jenkins. "I think it's Jerry's masterful fiction writing. And he's never been given his due credit until now with the Left Behind series." Eight titles have been published in the series, with more to come.

"I think God has chosen to use this as a tool," LaHaye continues. "And Tyndale House has done a good job with marketing. They've done their homework."

With a wide array of topics, from the apocalypse to Bible prophesy, family life and the purported evils of secular humanism, who is LaHaye trying to reach? "Both adults and children," he admits. "I have several audiences. That's why I write, with help, children's books, like the Left Behind: The Kids," LaHaye says. "I'm currently working on a Mind Siege for youth. And part of my vision is to do dynamic videos for kids." But he doesn't stop with videos. LaHaye has set his sights on the big screen. Unhappy with the current Left Behind: The Movie so much so, he has filed a lawsuit against the movie's producers his goal is to create a believable conversion with a top quality, feature film.

At age 74, the author is bombarded with speaking invitations and does a weekly Prophetic Update on the television program The King is Coming. Does he believe his true calling is to warn about the coming of the rapture? "I hope," he says with a smile, but then adds, "Well, maybe that's one of them."

 

"When I gave my life to the Lord, I thought I'd be a preacher," says Tim LaHaye, who despite more than 50 years of preaching is now best known as a phenomenally successful author. More than 30 million copies of LaHaye's books have been sold,…

Children's & YA

Coloring outside the lines

Review by Dee Ann Grand

This book has some serious problems. Seriously! Greg Tang, math whiz and author of The Grapes of Math wants your kids to see math in a screwy kind of way.

How many fish are in this class?
Answer quick and you will pass.
Here's a hint, a little clue,
When counting fish, just look askew!

 

Tang has cleverly disguised problem-solving and critical thinking in what he calls "mind-stretching math riddles." But I gotta tell you, there's no pain and agony here. It's more like looking at cool pictures from several different angles. These riddles are riddled with bright, bold illustrations by Harry Briggs, coaxing kids into seeing patterns, thinking creatively and ultimately learning clever math shortcuts and skills applicable to multiplication and even algebra. Creativity and problem-solving working together? How's that?

Greg Tang squashes all the drills and rote memorization we've all suffered through: 2 + 2 = 4 . . . 2 + 3 = 5 . . . Zzzzz. Then he shows kids how to look for symmetries, even if that means turning the illustrations sideways or upside down, all while meeting the challenge of a math problem in rhyme.

Children and their parents will want to reread the book, because once they get the hang of it, they'll go back and solve the same problems differently or make up new problems, using their own brand of pattern-making and natural intuition. According to the buzz, The Grapes of Math will be the first in a series of fun and easy creative math books. How do I know? I heard it through the grapevine.

This little corner is a salute to those overachieving writers, artists and publishers who rebel against the bookmaking norm (whatever that is) and insist on creating a one-of-a-kind. 

 

This book has some serious problems. Seriously! Greg Tang, math whiz and author of The Grapes of Math wants your kids to see math in a screwy kind of way.

How many fish are in this class?
Answer quick and you…

Animals

Gone to the dogs

Review by Dee Ann Grand

Can a totally self-contained, dry-clean-only-clothed woman living in New York City actually transform into a fur-hugging, slobber-tolerant dog lover? Well, yes and no. Louise Bernikow morphs right before your eyes albeit reluctantly in Bark If You Love Me, from a woman who has never had a pet to a (gasp!) "dog person."

Just as amazing in this tale—subtitled A Woman-Meets-Dog Story—is the whole new world that opens up to Louise after a very unplanned adoption of Libro, a skinny, limping Boxer found abandoned in New York's Riverside Park. Suddenly, all those things that once annoyed this city girl on her daily jogs in the park (you know, things like icky dog owners and their furballs who skitter all over her path, not to mention the dog mess problem!) are rapidly transforming into consultants, advisors, and even her closest friends. And outside the parks and dog runs, Louise notices that when she's with Libro all kinds of people who would never otherwise speak to her are friendly and curious, acting almost . . . well, human.
Libro's good fortune of finding a good home, mixed in with Louise's canine conversion, makes a delightful formula for adventures, laughs, heart-swellings, and a few tear jerks in this way too short book. After reading this story full of twists and turns, you realize who really leashes whom. Bark if you'll love this book? This reviewer says, "Woof, Woof!"

Can a totally self-contained, dry-clean-only-clothed woman living in New York City actually transform into a fur-hugging, slobber-tolerant dog lover? Well, yes and no. Louise Bernikow morphs right before your eyes albeit reluctantly in Bark If You Love Me, from a woman who has never…

Children's & YAPicture Book

Weimaraner sibling squabbles

Review by Dee Ann Grand

William Wegman’s first new book in 10 years comes with an unexpected twist. Once again, Wegman features photographs of his Weimaraners—dogs with piercing blue eyes and personality-plus. But instead of the usual photos depicting the canines in elaborate costumes and settings, he adds paint to the pictures to create the hilarious scenes of Flo & Wendell. This merging of media is a visual treat, and the dogs’ deadpan, all-too-human expressions add to the fun.

The lighthearted and slightly satirical story introduces us to Flo and her little brother Wendell, who are part of a family where everyone is a creative type, but in very different ways. Dad paints large by-the-numbers canvases, while Mom is so crazy about knitting that she even knits a sweater for the family car.

Flo, with a pink bow perched atop her head, is never short on drama. She recruits her less-than-enthusiastic brother for all sorts of activities like dress-up and hide-and-seek. Wendell has interests of his own, including soccer and cooking (he even whips up a dish with tuna fish and chocolate syrup).

Speckled with a big sister’s teasing and a little brother’s ability to roll with the punches, Flo & Wendell reflects the sibling negotiations that many of us endured while growing up, but in a whimsical, furry new way.

RELATED: Read an interview with William Wegman about the creation of Flo & Wendell.

William Wegman’s first new book in 10 years comes with an unexpected twist. Once again, Wegman features photographs of his Weimaraners—dogs with piercing blue eyes and personality-plus. But instead of the usual photos depicting the canines in elaborate costumes and settings, he adds paint to…

FictionContemporary Romance

Baldacci shows his sensitive side

Review by Dee Ann Grand

Think you know David Baldacci, the thriller bestseller? Well, think again. One Summer, a giant departure from his adventure genre, is a story about love, family and moving forward in the face of tragedy. But lucky for us, the novel is written with the same fast pace as Baldacci’s razor-sharp thrillers.

We meet Jack Armstrong as he is living out his death sentence, an incurable disease. Jack is determined to use his last bit of strength just to make it to Christmas Day with his beloved wife, Lizzie, and their three children. It’s not to be. Lizzie must drive in a blizzard to refill his medicine and is killed in an accident. In his bedridden condition, Jack is unable to care for his children alone, so his choices are grim. A miserable mother-in-law makes everything even more difficult, splitting up the family from coast to coast. Then a miracle happens and healing takes place, but not just physically. Jack finds new strength and, determined to reunite his family, takes his children back to the summer home where their mom grew up and learned about the struggles in life. 

Not without challenges and hardships in their new home on the beach (with a neglected yet symbolic lighthouse), each family member learns to love again—and to move forward even when life delivers a storm of difficult challenges. 

Dee Ann Grand writes from Nashville, Tennessee.

Think you know David Baldacci, the thriller bestseller? Well, think again. One Summer, a giant departure from his adventure genre, is a story about love, family and moving forward in the face of tragedy. But lucky for us, the novel is written with the same…

RomanceRomantic SuspenseContemporary Romance

A multilayered mystery

Review by Dee Ann Grand

When several co-workers from the Powell Agency become murder victims of a killer with a talent for precision slicing, sparks begin to fly between headstrong Powell agent Maleah Perdue and the agency’s keenly intuitive profiler, Derek Lawrence. Thrown together as lead investigators, these two quickly learn that they have more than one mystery to solve and very little time before the butchering begins again. But first, the pair must figure out how to become tightly knit partners, working closely together in spite of their polar-opposite personalities and combative relationship. But life has unexpected twists—and sometimes sparks can turn into passionate flames, especially when the evil descends upon one of the duo.

Beverly Barton’s romantic, suspenseful Dead by Morning is the second book in the “Dead By” trilogy; the first book, Dead by Midnight, introduced us to Griffin Powell’s detective agency, an organization with a shadow of secrets from the past. Don’t expect Dead by Morning to end all tied up with a pretty bow. This multilayered mystery leaves us with a lingering question from way back in book one. But the author promises us more deadly fun and questions answered in Dead by Nightfall, the last of the series, coming in late 2011.

When several co-workers from the Powell Agency become murder victims of a killer with a talent for precision slicing, sparks begin to fly between headstrong Powell agent Maleah Perdue and the agency’s keenly intuitive profiler, Derek Lawrence. Thrown together as lead investigators, these two quickly…

FictionWomen's FictionReligion & SpiritualityInspirational Fiction

The wisdom of the Amish

Review by Dee Ann Grand

The Judgment is the second book in The Rose Trilogy by Beverly Lewis, who continues to captivate us with the gentle Amish life and her endearing characters. Rose Kauffman loves her Plain life and will soon have a brand new year to plan. To her, it’s a fresh start and clean slate. But will she fill that year with the love she feels for Nick Franco, who has left the Amish world under suspicious circumstances? Or will she begin a new chapter with her fiancé, Silas Good? Along with her sister, Hen, who has much more outside experience, both women must make difficult decisions that will change not only their lives, but also everyone they love.

Another Beverly Lewis treasure is Amish Prayers, and what better timing? Easter invites us to spend time celebrating new life and our many blessings. This beautifully illustrated collection of prayers dates back centuries (and is still used today by Amish and Mennonites). Each prayer is as relevant to our modern lives as they were to believers 300 years ago. Complete with related scripture, this is a gift of comfort and grace for a friend, or a forever keepsake for you and your loved ones.

 

The Judgment is the second book in The Rose Trilogy by Beverly Lewis, who continues to captivate us with the gentle Amish life and her endearing characters. Rose Kauffman loves her Plain life and will soon have a brand new year to plan. To her,…

Children's & YA

Paula Danziger

Interview by Dee Ann Grand

Draped in daring, bright colors and adorned in her trademark jewelry rings on every finger with gems of all kinds, including, of course, amber Paula Danziger arrives on the scene undaunted, jovial and fearless.

Danziger has several reasons to be jubilant. Since the 1974 publication of her first novel for young teens, The Cat Ate My Gymsuit, her entire library of books has been continually reprinted (a situation unusual to most authors). "I'm very lucky. I'm very fortunate that my books have never gone out of print none of them," she says.

Her new bundle of joy comes from a dear old friend, a friend many parents and older kids will remember as the spunky 9-year-old fourth grader, Amber Brown. The original Amber Brown series has quite a history, is loved worldwide and has been translated into several languages. "Yeah, a lot of languages," Danziger affirms, beaming. "It's fun to pick up a book and see her in French, or Hebrew, Spanish or Portuguese. I love it! And she's got different names. In French, she's called Lili Graffiti, in Spain she's Ambar Dorado and in Brazil, she is Clara Rosa."

Today, although Amber is still Amber, Danziger is introducing her to a whole new and even younger generation. Originally a chapter book series, Amber and her best pal Justin are now bouncing into the little hands of beginning readers and this time in full color. The illustrator, Tony Ross, has added another dimension to Amber Brown's world. His artwork "adds even more humor to the story," according to Danziger. The first two titles in the new A is for Amber series, It's Justin Time, Amber Brownand What a Trip, Amber Brown are written with second graders in mind, but are by no means any less saucy, perky or lovable than the originals. Given the abundant changes in our lives since the original Amber Brown stories, such as cell phones, e-mail, etc., how has Danziger had to modify the new Amber Brown from the original? "I try to be careful because technology changes so much over the years," she says, "but some things don't change. Kids and parents have disagreements, kids try to manipulate, parents try to sit down with rules and regs. That part never changes."

Danziger is also sensitive to the ever-changing structure of a "typical" American family. "I thought the first one, Amber Brown is Not a Crayon, would be a "one-off,'" Danziger confesses. "I didn't expect to be doing a whole bunch of Amber Browns. And because it was just one book, and the father had moved away, I didn't realize I was going to have to deal more with shared custody, divorce and all those issues." But she does courageously and always with just the right amount of humor, and reliably, in perfect kid-speak.

With a reach that spans from picture book readers to young adults, Danziger's characters have always fallen into timeless themes of growing up and learning lessons. None of her characters are flawless, and none are villainous to the core. This is especially true in Amber Brown's world. "

Amber Brown is not a perfect child. She doesn't always use her best judgment, she gets into jams and makes lots of mistakes." Danziger quickly interjects, "And Amber's parents make goofs, too. Probably why so many kids identify with her and her family. She doesn't always say or do the right things, and she doesn't have to. Mistakes are growth and we learn not to do it again. But it doesn't make you a terrible person. That's important to me." That also seems to be important to Danziger's worldwide audience. She's well published in England where she had a regular television segment in the UK, and her books are found on tape and in multi-title collections. Danziger's books continue to impact real lives. She still receives letters about Amber Brown is Not a Crayon, a story about best friends moving away. Parents will buy two and give one to each child when that same situation arises.

Look for the next two A is for Amber Brown titles in 2002, plus other books for older kids, too. "I've just finished another book with Scholastic about a sixth grader, The United Tates of America," she laughs. "That was fun." Then Danziger continues in a more serious tone, "So there's a range, but I will not do a book about Amber when she leaves sixth grade. These new books are easy-to-reads, then the next level up are the chapter books, and that's where Amber will stay." Sharing the A is for Amber series with beginning readers could be a trip down nostalgia lane, reminding the older generation of the terrific humor and the ease with which Danziger writes, juggling some very serious topics with silly puns and believable character relationships. A dazzling writer, that Danziger.

Draped in daring, bright colors and adorned in her trademark jewelry rings on every finger with gems of all kinds, including, of course, amber Paula Danziger arrives on the scene undaunted, jovial and fearless.

Danziger has several reasons to be jubilant. Since…

Children's & YA

Shannon Hale

Interview by Dee Ann Grand

Shannon Hale's 2005 novel Princess Academy was not only a bestseller but an award winner as well, earning a Newbery Honor and a spot on the ALA Notable Children's Book list. That highly prized princess tale, which brought Hale's work to the attention of a wider audience, is just one of the imaginative worlds she has created. Her most recent release, River Secrets, is the third in a line of companion books set in the magical land of Bayern, where characters of supernatural talents discover new strengths and abilities.

"I really do believe everybody has some kind of superpower or some secret talent. People of all ages have many things they're good at. They're a little different from other people," Hale tells BookPage from her home in Salt Lake City. "That comes out when I write these books. These characters find out they have talents that other people don't and discover what it means to them." When she writes, Hale purposefully avoids emphasis on her characters' ages, which may help to explain why River Secrets, and its two companion books, The Goose Girl and Enna Burning, are attracting an audience of all ages. "Half of my readers are adults, usually women, and the other half are preteens and teens, mostly girls."

So who does she target while she's writing? "My audience is always me. In fact, when I wrote The Goose Girl, I had not thought about it as a young adult book. I felt it was something that would have pleased me at a younger age, as well as now. But until I had an agent who said this is YA, I had not considered it that way." Hale gleans feedback about her crossover appeal from her book signings and her popular website (squeetus.com), where she blogs about everything from raising a toddler son to teaching the classics. Teens and older readers alike tell Hale they find life parallels in Razo, Enna and other intriguing characters from the three books in the Bayern series, which don't have to be read in any particular order.

Razo, a minor character in the first two books, stars in his own adventure in River Secrets. He's an unlikely main character for any story and probably would say so himself. Constantly pestered by his older brothers, Razo spends a lot of time alone in the woods, his only talent the firing of a slingshot that often provides squirrel for a family meal. Little does he realize how much his bull's-eye ability will come in handy, and no one is more thunderstruck than Razo himself when he is chosen to join a peacekeeping mission to the hostile enemy land, Tira. Razo becomes a major player in finding the truth in the darkest of shadows of Tira. He finds the first of many scorched, charred bodies and must solve a deadly mystery. In time, Razo discovers he has a knack for being a spy and turns into quite a liaison, befriending the lowest and the highest of rank. People trust him. Some of the young women even flirt with Razo, much to his bewilderment. But in spite of the help of his extraordinarily talented comrades, who have powers to harness wind, rain or fire, this peacekeeping mission is forever being sabotaged. Razo's time in Tira is rapidly running out, and the lives of Bayern's ambassador and his beloved friends are in his self-doubting hands.

As in all of Hale's books, River Secrets hosts a cast of players who accept one another's imperfections but tease each other about their flaws in good-natured fashion. A lesson in acceptance, perhaps? "If I thought I was writing a book to teach somebody something, I'd be completely paralyzed," laughs Hale, who notes that the fantasy genre lets readers find their own themes within each of her stories. "It allows readers to take from the book what they want. They read into the book their own struggles and needs I think that's fantastic."

Will there be a fantasy number four? "Bayern feels like a home to me, and I can't say how many there will be," Hale says. "I'm in love with a lot in Bayern. Razo's sister is next." So Razo's little sister is making noise for her own fantastical tale? That's terrific news for Hale's fans, who should also watch for a graphic novel, Rapunzel's Revenge, which Hale is co-writing with her husband, and an adult novel from this talented author on the rise.

Dee Ann Grand writes from a crowded couch with her two English cocker spaniels, one on either side of her laptop.

Shannon Hale's 2005 novel Princess Academy was not only a bestseller but an award winner as well, earning a Newbery Honor and a spot on the ALA Notable Children's Book list. That highly prized princess tale, which brought Hale's work to the attention of…

Sign Up

Stay on top of new releases: Sign up for our newsletter to receive reading recommendations in your favorite genres.

Sign up now

Trending Features

All Features