Reviewed by Leonard Smuts for Readers' Favorite

As a business matures, the founder can become an unwitting constraint to further success. David Grau Sr. explains how to avoid this in The Founder’s Treadmill. The author is all too aware of how easy it is for an entrepreneur to want to control every aspect of the business, but such intense involvement can become a treadmill. The temptation is to do everything yourself, but hard work alone is not a sustainable long-term solution. A better model is needed. Business owners are confronted with three basic choices. They can stay as they are, run the business smarter, or step off the treadmill completely. Each option is assessed. The author shows how to build capacity over time, not just by hiring extra hands, but by delegating responsibility and authority. A comprehensive five-year plan is provided, which adds structure without losing flexibility. The timelines can be adjusted to individual needs, while interim steps are optional. Each year has a checklist, with constant improvement as the aim. He also outlines what a CEO should be spending time on. Legal entity and tax implications are described, along with financial planning and the appropriate capital structure. Pointers to recognizing the treadmill symptoms are provided, such as not being able to take time off.

David Grau Sr. has more than 30 years of business ownership experience to share with readers. He points out that the statistics for new business failures make sobering reading and offers solutions for sustainable success. Business should not consume your life, so learn to say no. Leadership is preferable to survival. Setbacks are normal. He advocates thinking like an investor, assessing what you wish to get out of the business to compensate for your input, while reviewing the cost of success. Owners should draw up continuity and succession plans, deciding when to step back. This useful guidebook gives practical advice to those business owners who are stuck on the treadmill. It enables them to understand the problem and sets out a functional plan for implementing regular upgrades, then transitioning to sustainability before retirement. The three-basket cash flow model is particularly noteworthy. The Founder’s Treadmill offers easy-to-understand checklists. The text is concise and self-explanatory, with no ambiguity. It is thus easy to read and digest, making it an ideal management tool for any newly established business.

Reviewed by Frank Mutuma for Readers' Favorite

In Working-Class Kids and Visionary Educators in a Multiracial High School by Karen V. Hansen and Nicholas Monroe, Sunnyvale High School was established in California during significant social changes and numerous challenges. The school mainly catered to middle-class families whose many family members had a low educational background, economic challenges, and various challenges, such as racial discrimination. The school faced funding challenges, and many officials from the education department already saw the students in the school as a burden and future failures. Despite these challenges, the school formed a tight-knit community with the help of its teachers, who employed different teaching methods to support the diverse needs of its students. These methods enabled students to develop their talents and interests in academic and non-academic pursuits.

Working-Class Kids and Visionary Educators in a Multiracial High School by Karen V. Hansen and Nicholas Monroe is wonderfully written and captures some of the challenges faced by different demographics in pursuit of education. The thought-provoking work got me thinking about how various social and economic factors affect educational outcomes. I also loved the emphasis on the role of each stakeholder in ensuring better outcomes and participating in necessary reforms. Karen and Nicholas also provide various references that can be used to delve into further reading and research on learning and educational reforms. The systematic flow ensures no room for confusion, and the reader will also appreciate the easy-to-understand language used, which makes the work accessible to all audiences. I look forward to reading something else by these talented authors.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Where the Valley Widens is a heartfelt and deeply evocative memoir that chronicles Lindsey Williams’s journey as a music teacher, conductor, and mentor. Through the lens of her experiences, Williams explores themes of resilience, community, and the transformative power of music. The narrative spans nearly two decades, capturing the highs and lows of her career, from the challenges of nurturing young musicians to the profound impact of natural disasters and personal loss. The writing is grounded, and her ability to convey the emotional weight of her experiences makes the book a compelling read. The story revolves around music and the connections formed through shared struggles and triumphs, as well as the enduring legacy of those who inspire us.

Lindsey Williams recounts the devastating flood that destroyed her school and the subsequent rebuilding of her program, which is inspiring. Her relationships with students, colleagues, and mentors convey warmth and authenticity, highlighting the importance of community in overcoming adversity. The memoir also examines the author's personal growth as she transitions from a novice teacher to a seasoned mentor, grappling with self-doubt and finding her place in the world of music education. Williams invites readers to walk alongside her in the valley, where challenges are met with creativity, and where the bonds of community widen to encompass hope and renewal. Where the Valley Widens is a creative memoir reflecting on personal growth, challenges, and the impact of teaching in a community. It’s an engaging and inspiring memoir that will appeal to even non-music enthusiasts.

Reviewed by Erick Ramos for Readers' Favorite

Money has always been treated like the end goal, but it's not; it is just the tool for building a rich life. Being wealthy can look different for different people. For some, it's having a high income, large savings, investments, or financial freedom, while for others it's simply peace, health, time, and purpose. People who grew up in the 'hood versus those who grew up rich think differently about how money is used. For those in the 'hood, it's always about survival. They believe money comes and goes, which wires their mindset to survive rather than to build. If your mind isn't ready to manage money, it doesn't matter how much you get; you'll still lose it, and that's why you need to read Rise Rich by LaChelle P. Johnson to learn how to live the rich life.

Rise Rich by LaChelle P. Johnson is an inspirational book that shares personal stories and inspirational teachings, coupled with biblical references, on how to build wealth. It drew me in, slowly teaching how to go from low to high in managing money. Bit by bit, the book teaches that wealth starts with vision, self-control, and understanding values. I like how the book connects real-life experiences with Bible references, guiding us both spiritually and physically. One of my favorite lines is, "Getting rich and building wealth doesn't start with a number; it starts with a new way of thinking." The main theme is mindset: how fear, scarcity, and impulse choices can trap someone, and how clarity, vision, and discipline can set them free. This book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand money from a unique perspective.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Trauma-Informed Teaching: From Reaction to Restoration by Dr. Annise Mabry offers a framework for rethinking educators’ responses to student behavior, particularly in homeschool cooperatives and microschools. The book opens by challenging traditional discipline models, arguing that many behaviors labeled as defiance or disruption are actually responses to trauma. Dr. Mabry explains that trauma is not defined solely by events but by how the brain and body process those experiences, shaping how students react in learning environments. Through examples and case studies, the book illustrates how students may exhibit fight, flight, freeze, or fawn responses, often misunderstood as behavioral problems. The narrative progresses from recognizing trauma to implementing practical strategies that prioritize emotional safety, connection, and restoration. By moving from punishment to restoration, Dr. Mabry presents an approach that centers on dignity, understanding, and the belief that all students can succeed when they feel safe and supported.

Dr. Annise Mabry’s writing is direct, conversational, and grounded in real-world experience, making the material easy to follow while still conveying important educational concepts. The pacing is steady, moving from foundational ideas to practical application in a way that builds clarity. Dr. Mabry incorporates clear examples, sample language, and step-by-step strategies to translate theory into practice, particularly in areas such as restorative communication and crisis response. Readers who work in education, caregiving, or community leadership will find the approach especially useful, as it applies across different settings beyond traditional classrooms. The emphasis on relationship-building and structured yet flexible routines adds to the book’s appeal for those seeking meaningful ways to support learners. Trauma-Informed Teaching focuses on the power of relationships and the role of educators in shaping student outcomes.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Dr. Annise Mabry’s Educational Disobedience: A Mom Who Became a Movement is an inspiring and thought-provoking read that redefines how we view education. With professional expertise and personal experience, Mabry offers a heartfelt and actionable guide for parents and educators seeking to transform how children learn. The book shows how homeschooling can be a lifeline for families navigating inequitable and rigid educational systems. Mabry frames “educational disobedience” as empowerment rather than defiance, encouraging parents to take control of their children’s academic futures. Her insights into crafting flexible, student-centered learning plans are practical and uplifting, making this a valuable resource for any parent.

Dr. Annise Mabry’s writing is down-to-earth, and she makes you feel as if you’re sitting in her living room talking about education as two friends over a cup of coffee. Without question, she is knowledgeable about the educational system and its strengths and weaknesses. Through Mabry’s Tiers Free Homeschool Cooperative lens, she illustrates the power of community-driven educational models that prioritize literacy, personal growth, and emotional well-being. This book challenges conventional norms and provides a hopeful vision of what education can look like when rooted in justice and care. The homeschool pro tips are extremely helpful for navigating the ins and outs of what’s needed for success. A plain language checklist is a guide to homeschool decision-making. Mabry includes items easily overlooked by newcomers to the homeschool system. Educational Disobedience is a rallying cry for change, offering encouragement and tools for those ready to embrace a more inclusive and adaptable approach to education. I highly recommend it to anyone considering homeschooling or interested in alternative learning.

Reviewed by Carol Thompson for Readers' Favorite

Renes Lophanor’s I Still Love Teaching Despite Having All The Reasons In The World To Quit is a heartfelt and thought-provoking exploration of the joys and challenges faced by educators today. Lophanor, an experienced teacher with a deep passion for education, takes readers on an honest journey through his career, sharing the uplifting moments and the frustrations that nearly pushed him to leave the profession. His narrative is a powerful testament to the resilience and dedication of those who choose to teach despite seemingly insurmountable obstacles.

Renes Lophanor explores the underappreciated aspects of teaching, such as building meaningful relationships with students and creating a classroom environment that fosters creativity and discipline. Lophanor doesn’t simply highlight the problems; he offers tangible solutions and strategies for educators wanting to reignite their passion for teaching. What truly makes this book a standout is his unwavering love for teaching, which shines through every page. The challenges of teaching aren’t sugar-coated but instead balanced in a way that acknowledges the struggles and the deep fulfillment that comes from making a difference in students’ lives. I Still Love Teaching Despite Having All The Reasons In The World To Quit is an inspiring and candid read for anyone invested in education. Lophanor’s reflections on teaching are filled with wisdom, empathy, and a call to action for a more compassionate and effective education system. His book serves as a reminder that, despite the many challenges facing education today, the heart of teaching is built on hope, dedication, and an enduring belief in the potential of every student. An excellent book.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

What's Your Name? by Albert Jung is an engaging and comprehensive guide to the art of transcribing names using Hangul, Korea's systematic writing system. This unique book serves as both a practical manual and a cultural journey, offering readers a deep dive into the history, methodology, and modern applications of Korean script. Jung's expertise shines through as he presents complex linguistic concepts in an accessible format, while his evident passion for the subject makes what could be dry technical material come alive with relevance and meaning. The inclusion of historical context, practical exercises, and cultural insights also creates a rich learning experience that goes far beyond simple transcription rules.

Author Albert Jung brings remarkable clarity to complex linguistic concepts, making them accessible to readers from all backgrounds. His approach combines scholarly rigor with practical application, creating a resource that serves both casual learners and serious language enthusiasts. I loved the integration of historical context with modern usage. This aspect of the work particularly resonated with me as it helped me understand not just how you would use Hangul, but why certain conventions have developed and some of the culture and social significance behind that. Jung's interactive exercises provide hands-on experience while maintaining engagement, and the illustrations effectively complement the text to add clarity. The emphasis on language as a bridge between cultures is a beautiful message, creating connections that extend beyond mere transliteration and show how important language is. The structure builds knowledge systematically while maintaining reader interest through relevant examples and cultural insights. The focus on inclusivity and global communication is a nice touch too, and it gives the material contemporary relevance while honoring traditional practices. Overall, What's Your Name? is an invaluable resource for anyone interested in the Korean language and culture, offering both practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of cross-cultural communication, and I would certainly recommend it.

Reviewed by Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite

Gifted and Distractible by Julie F. Skolnick is a heartfelt book designed to help parents and educators understand and support their twice-exceptional (2e) children. The book is divided into three parts: Understanding, Strategies, and Advocacy. To effectively help your child, you first need to comprehend their unique condition. The author explains the differences between ADHD, dyslexia, and sensory sensitivity, while also addressing issues such as anxiety and debunking common myths about 2e children. Skolnick shares practical strategies for parents, which are organized into six categories known by the acronym PRAISE: Personal Connection, Reframe, Anticipate, Incentives and Choices, Sense of Humor, and Exercise. Finally, the author encourages parents to advocate for their 2e children by creating collaborative relationships with teachers and helping their children become their own advocates. The book also offers an eye-opening narrative about a typical day in the life of a 2e child, fostering empathy and a practical understanding of their daily struggles.

Gifted and Distractible is one of the most thoughtful and comprehensive guides I have ever read. It addresses details that many parents and teachers often overlook regarding 2e children. The author effectively categorizes the different groups these children may belong to and provides practical tips to aid in their development, making them feel comfortable and understood. The biggest lesson I learned from this book is that gifted children do not always find tasks easy; they can become easily fixated and distracted, leading to misunderstandings. The practical strategies provided are straightforward and actionable. They include building rapport with your child’s educators without being demanding or sending lengthy emails, learning about your child's interests, and asking them questions to better understand their needs and values. Julie F. Skolnick includes stories about 2e children that highlight both their challenges and successes. I appreciate that the book addresses the emotional toll that parents and families experience when raising 2e children. It thoughtfully encourages patience, gradual trust-building, and self-awareness. This is a valuable read, filled with insights that will benefit anyone invested in understanding and nurturing 2e children.

Reviewed by Courtnee Turner Hoyle for Readers' Favorite

Melissa Peneycad’s Essentials of AI for Beginners is a guide for anyone seeking to navigate the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence. With AI influencing countless aspects of daily life, Peneycad provides an accessible entry point for readers to understand and harness its potential. Each chapter includes practical and detailed text and concludes with QR codes, which link to tests that reinforce key topics. The author provides four learning tracks that cover utilization, career advancement, creative capabilities, and conceptual basis, allowing readers to tailor their journey and focus on the most relevant aspects. Topics range from AI terminology and implementation steps to ethical considerations, future societal impacts, and career opportunities. Peneycad also breaks down common myths, explains how AI learns, and highlights trends that will shape its future.

Even when tackling technical concepts, Melissa Peneycad simplifies the information, making the material detailed and digestible. She offers practical knowledge, tools for learning programming, and strategies for addressing fears like job displacement. Demonstrating her determination and passion for the subject, Peneycad has placed her extensive learning into a resource that educates and engages you. The book offers additional tools like tutorials, quizzes, and a glossary to clarify unfamiliar terms, ensuring readers have a well-rounded learning experience. Embracing the collaborative potential between humans and AI, the book motivates readers to adapt and thrive in an AI-integrated environment. The book almost feels like a college-level course, complete with quizzes and an instructor who is as knowledgeable as she is approachable. If you’re ready to explore AI and enhance your adaptability, Essentials of AI for Beginners is a great selection.