Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite

Growing up Twice: Shaping a Future by Reliving My Past by Aaron Kirk Douglas is a powerful and memorable book. It’s a spellbinding, unusual memoir that explores the relationship between a middle-aged man and his teenage protégé, a book that is laced with wisdom and insight, both exciting and entertaining at the same time. Meet Aaron Kirk Douglas, a middle-aged man who selflessly undertakes the mission to mentor the son of an undocumented Latino. He has to be an elder brother to the boy and help him grow by being a role model for him. But it is more than that. The reader is transported into a world where brotherhood is defined, where fatherhood takes on a new perspective, and where friendship develops in the midst of harrowing trials. Can Aaron stay steadfast in his commitment until the end?

I enjoyed the many aspects of Growing up Twice: Shaping a Future by Reliving My Past. The story is beautifully written, insightful, and loaded with metaphors and a witticism that will interest readers. I enjoyed the fact that contact with the young boy could help the narrator look at his own upbringing and draw powerful lessons from it. I have read many memoirs, but rarely have I read something of this nature — a story that purely focuses on real friendship between two strangers. Readers will enjoy watching as the characters develop, gaining more wisdom and insight and contributing to each other’s personal growth. Mr. Douglas’ writing is stellar, his narrative voice compelling, and his story filled with emotional depth. This book will change the way we look at the less fortunate people we meet along the way, a powerful testimony that we can become the best we can be and, by so doing, become an inspiration for others.

Reviewed by Divine Zape for Readers' Favorite

When Angels Fly by S. Jackson, A. Raymond and M. Schmidt is a memoir of abuse, pain, and survival; a story of courage, heart-wrenching and filled with pathos. Meet Sarah Jackson, a woman who has suffered at the hands of a wicked, heartless mother. She grows up and gets married to a monster, a man who subjects her to the worst form of abuse one can imagine. And as if that isn’t enough to break her, her son suffers from cancer for months. What is it that makes her survive the pain? Where did she find the strength to stand up and to heal?

First, I must say that the story is well-narrated and I admire Sarah for telling her story for it will encourage many other women who undergo the kind of abuses and horrible things Henry inflicted on her to speak out. The narrator, Paula Slade, did an awesome job with the story, allowing the narrative voice to come out clearly and compellingly, and conveying the pathos with such vividness that will draw tears from some readers. My emotions were rattled as I listened to this story — at times my fists clenched, at times my teeth gritted, and most of the time I cringed as I followed the story.

When Angels Fly is emotionally rich and the reader can feel the honesty in the tone and a sense of desperation that stayed with the protagonist during many years of suffering. When Angels Fly is a powerful indictment of those who make life a living hell for others and a strong message of hope that we can transcend our hurts and embrace our freedom when we stop identifying with the message our oppressors want to convey — that we are not worth anything. A highly recommended read!

Reviewed by Sefina Hawke for Readers' Favorite

Thomas Jefferson From Boy to Man by Jayne DAlessandro Cox is a non-fiction audio book that serves as a biography of Thomas Jefferson’s life from childhood to adulthood. This is a book that would appeal to a mixed audience of young adults and adults who enjoy historically accurate accounts of Thomas Jefferson. Thomas Jefferson is well known for having been an inventor, lawyer, natural philosopher, president, and much more, but what most people do not know is how a young boy grew into the man that would become such a widely known historical figure. Are you ready to learn about Jefferson, not just as a historical figure, but as a unique person?

Thomas Jefferson From Boy to Man by Jayne DAlessandro Cox was a book that I was instantly interested in as Thomas Jefferson was one of my favorite figures in my high school history classes. I found the author did a wonderful job of keeping the book historically accurate regarding both the time period and Thomas Jefferson’s life. The aspect of this book that truly set it apart from others on Thomas Jefferson is the way it shared history while keeping it interesting. There were sections that held my interest in the same manner a fictional novel would.

Thomas Jefferson From Boy to Man by Jayne DAlessandro Cox was narrated jointly by James Brinkley, Alexander Brinkley, Christina Rideout, and Jayne DAlessandro Cox. James Brinkley’s voice acting of a middle-aged Thomas Jefferson clearly showcased his ability to really get into the mind space of a character. It was Brinkley’s voice acting that truly pulled me into the book as I was able to get lost in his voice.

Reviewed by Alyssa Elmore for Readers' Favorite

Live The Life of Your Dreams (33 Tips To Inspire Your Life) by Laura Ponticello is an upbeat self-help book for women going through major life changes. When the author's life takes an unexpected turn, and she finds herself divorced and alone, she has to take stock and change some perceptions. This book is a beautiful mixture of her own spiritual journey and that of others; including stories of surviving cancer, divorce, empty-nest syndrome and more. This audio book helps the listener change her view from being the victim to being a strong, independent woman ready to take on whatever comes her way. Complete with compassionate advice and helpful exercises that allow the listener to get the most from this book. Explore your spiritual side and start on your journey of self-discovery and self-enlightenment.

Live Your Life of Your Dreams (33 Tips To Inspire Your Life) by Laura Ponticello takes the listener on a soulful adventure of faith. This audio book addresses a woman's most urgent issues. By breaking down her advice into simple steps, she helps the reader expand and grow. I liked how the author takes the listener by the hand and gently leads them down a road to true peace, love, and fulfillment. Even by listening to small segments at a time, and applying the principles or tips outlined in this book, I believe that a woman truly can change her current circumstances and live a happier, healthier life. With many unique stories from real women relating their experiences to the author, this book addresses things such as conquering fear, taking time for yourself, and so much more. The author is a well-known inspirational speaker and writer who has made it her life's mission to incite positive changes in women's lives.