Reviewed by Trevor Otieno for Readers' Favorite

The inside perspective of the foster care system is presented in depth, intensely intimate, and compellingly by Carmen Maria Navarro. It is an emotive tale about the decisions that actual foster parents must make and the effects those decisions may have on their families. Carmen Maria discusses the effects that fostering has had on her biological children. Fostering is a testament to someone like Carmen Maria, who sometimes sacrifices her peace of mind or that of her children to improve the world and provide for children in need of a better life, if only for a while. Pick up a copy of Fostering: A Memoir of Courage and Hope and set aside some time to read her account of events as they transpired.

This memoir is superbly written and a must-read. It presents challenging material regarding the foster system in a friendly manner. Inspiring examples of resiliency, hope, and love may be found throughout this book. The conversation made me feel as though I was there to witness every event, and the author's choice to continuously express her inner thoughts kept me interested the entire time. The book did a fantastic job of portraying foster care in all its complexity, with both the good and the difficult aspects. Carmen Maria and others like her who are making great efforts to enhance the system that safeguards children have my sincere gratitude. To anyone who appreciates reading about amazing encounters, I heartily suggest Fostering: A Memoir of Courage and Hope. The outstanding work of Carmen Maria Navarro has left me yearning for more.

Reviewed by K.C. Finn for Readers' Favorite

A Schizophrenic, Tapped & Skipped: Hope In The Midst Of Madness is a work of non-fiction in the memoir, inspirational and social issues subgenres. It is intended for the mature adult reading audience and was penned by author J Mark Stacy. In this harrowing, raw, and in-depth account of what it’s like to live with those who suffer from severe schizophrenia, we explore the difficulties of one particular family. Herein we learn about the unending power of one mother’s love for her family and how, through her relationship with Christ, she is able to endure the pain and continue to seek solace for those who are vastly overlooked by society at large.

The first word that comes to mind when writing about the reading experience of this novel is ‘worthy’, both because it is worthy of your time as a highly compelling memoir and account of real-life turmoil, but also because the cause which it highlights is incredibly worthy too. The book is not for the faint-hearted and certainly contains a lot of disturbing and upsetting content, but at the same time, there is a keen sense of the importance of the work in bringing mental health issues, particularly schizophrenia, to the forefront of our consciousness to show how little support there is for sufferers. Overall, A Schizophrenic, Tapped & Skipped is a testament to the power of faith and the inner fortitude of a dedicated parent who allows love and light to flow through her, even when times require harsher measures and tough decisions to be made.

Reviewed by Leonard William Smuts for Readers' Favorite

Gregory Diehl breaks new ground with The Heroic and Exceptional Minority. He explores the concept of heroism with all its positive attributes and links it to the search for something beyond mediocrity. There are intelligent and talented people in the world, but they are a minority and do not always reach their true potential. Constraining belief systems prevalent in society, together with our inbuilt fear of failure, conspire with many other factors to imprison them in a paradigm of discontent and estrangement from life in general. Diehl challenges them to be different, to embrace their talents, seek self-knowledge, allow original thought, and shed the conformity that flows from childhood conditioning. Heroism is about overcoming the odds, being true to our core values, living our truth, and seeking justice. It is also about idealism and creating a better reality. This is not an attempt to create an elite corps that will solve the world’s problems by imposing their will on others from a position of arrogance. Instead, the aim is to make readers aware of their uniqueness and potential to become exceptional through making meaningful choices and eliminating the false. The author encourages readers to overcome obstacles, both real and imagined. This book is a call to arms for all those who have felt trapped since childhood by feeling that they were different. Readers will be guided through a thought process that can bring about the freedom they desire while achieving new levels of understanding and excellence.

The Heroic and Exceptional Minority is a breath of fresh air and adopts a unique approach to self-awareness and development. Gregory Diehl has identified key aspects of personal growth through self-discovery. The book is divided into short chapters, each of which relates to a specific topic. These are dealt with in a concise and readable manner and Diehl gets his points across with precision and without over-elaboration or hype. I particularly liked the chapter regarding the intellect, which reflects on the sometimes lonely path of the gifted minority who find it difficult to share concepts with people of lesser understanding. This can lead to isolation or even alienation and begs the question as to whether the intellect is a blessing at all, as there is a perception in some circles that intellectuals are aloof and should be marginalized. The author also makes the important point that intelligent people are neither inherently heroic nor exceptional. These characteristics flow from a state of mind and conscious effort. This book will not appeal to those with closed minds but will be a revelation to readers searching for new depths within themselves. It is a book that is full of insights and practical advice. It should be read once and then studied in detail later. Perhaps then, the minority will flourish.

Reviewed by Frances Deborah Kerr-Phillips for Readers' Favorite

The Satisfied Introvert by Benjamin Plumb is a remarkably candid and intriguing account of the author’s journey through life as he negotiates a world designed for extroverts whilst being far from one himself. His coping mechanism of having what he calls a ‘recipe’ to apply to all situations in which he finds himself ultimately fails to sustain or fulfill him. Plumb reveals his experiences of young love, his stint in the US army in Vietnam, his travails at Harvard, and his business ventures in South America. After a failed marriage and the trauma of a broken family, Plumb charts his path to self-discovery, self-realization, and, finally, fulfillment.

I chose to read The Satisfied Introvert in the hopes it would offer me some insight into how to better support any children I teach who might be withdrawn and introverted. I did gain that, but so much more too. Plumb has written a page-turner which one moment would have me smiling and the next brushing away a tear. His honesty and openness are disarming in places. I thoroughly enjoyed the accounts of life in Brazil, Panama, and Argentina, as well as Plumb’s recollections of historical events which I had also experienced. Plumb’s style of writing is straightforward and matter-of-fact, with the description being there to paint an accurate picture, rather than for its own sake. The memoir will appeal to a broad audience. The Satisfied Introvert is courageous and uplifting - do yourself a favor and read it!

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

Soulwork: Connecting with the Universe and your Spiritual Path to Find your True Purpose in Life, by Elizabeth Radcliffe, is an inspiring and informative self-help book to assist you in developing your spiritual well-being and maximizing your potential. Religion and science often clash on what reality is. Is it something that takes faith to understand or sheer facts? The author thinks the truth is something of both. Most people feel the need to question their existence--who are we, where do we come from, where are we going? For those who believe in the spiritual side of things (or even if you don't), this author can help guide you to a deeper understanding of yourself and the world around you through a process she calls Soulwork.

Just like a doctor or therapist asks patients and clients to do exercises and work at home to improve themselves, Radcliffe asks readers to be open-minded and engage in thought patterns that can benefit their mind, body, and especially the soul. The head/heart connection is accurate, and most people would like to have them in a closer relationship. Yes, spiritual wellbeing can be improved upon, and I like how the author explains more. She shows you how with examples, exercises, and prompts for deeper examination. If you've ever felt the need to be more at one with yourself and the spiritual realm or dig deeper into who you are as a person, this guide may be a great and powerful tool. I also like that Radcliffe doesn't ask you to give up your own established beliefs, if you have them, to learn from her book. Some terms may sound new to you: unseen spirit guides, the Universe, energy, Beginner's Mind, Tai Chi fist, Emotional Release, to name a few.

This spiritual journey uses Soulwork to heal old soul wounds and allows your gifts to shine. Soulwork will help remove the barriers that you may have erected. Once these barriers are gone, you can live a fuller life. You'll read how music affects your soul, how your energy is like the sun, and how guardian angels work in your life. My favorite concept is to recognize and embrace "love yous in disguise," which means caring gestures that you may label as a potential negative, like lecturing by parents. And the opposite, "love mes in disguise," which are the times you may act out negatively but are seeking love and validation underneath. You may or may not agree with every point in the book, and the author doesn't ask you to. For a fresh perspective on your soul and how to have a stronger relationship with the Universe, consider diving into Soulwork: Connecting with the Universe and your Spiritual Path to Find your True Purpose in Life by Elizabeth Radcliffe.

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

Purpose Passion and Pajamas: How to Transform Your Life, Embrace the Human Connection, and Lead with Meaning by Genevieve Piturro is a powerful and inspiring guide to help you overcome struggles and begin a journey into a transformative leadership role. Author Piturro felt like a lot of you do in the world when you're dissatisfied with your station in life because you know you aren't fulfilling your dreams and potential. The author was firmly perched on the corporate ladder of success as a TV marketer, but all of that changed when a little girl posed a heartbreaking question that led Piturro to create the Pajama Program, a nonprofit that began in 2001. She never thought that this would be the road she would detour onto, but it has inspired outreach and caring all around the world. This nationally recognized story--from Oprah to the morning shows--is about more than pajamas, it's about heart, and children reading, and answering a call.

This true story is more captivating and entertaining than a work of fiction. Going from corporate to philanthropy wasn't easy, but she met the challenges with determination and grace. I like how the book chronicles the downs as well as the ups. But besides the author telling her own amazing story, she wants to help others identify their gifts, strengths, and purpose, even when it seems impossible or people tell you it can't be done. Given how easy it is for some to fall into depression during the fallout of COVID-19, it's refreshing to hear that there are people like Piturro willing and able to share valuable tips and tools for making a change in not just a career, but in life too. Leadership comes easier to some than others, but this author shows how just being yourself and reaching out with a caring attitude toward others can propel you closer to a leadership role.

The book offers hands-on advice that you can use in your own goal-setting. For example, know that it often takes more than one person to get something done. You can involve like-minded individuals to help you. As a former social worker, I especially appreciate the author's points on listening to your inner voice, treating others with respect, and striving to connect with others. I also like the relevant current examples of race and injustice that the book covers. The author isn't afraid to talk about these things, which makes this a book that can transform your life. My favorite part is where the little girl asks the pivotal question about pajamas. It will probably bring tears to your eyes too. Purpose Passion and Pajamas by Genevieve Piturro is the must-have guide for living and making monumental changes, starting today.

Reviewed by Natalie Soine for Readers' Favorite

Snow Blind: Recovering After the Random Shooting by William M Johnson begins in July 1991 when, at the age of 41, Bill Johnson was shot in the left temple. The bullet passed behind the orbits of his eyes and exited at the right temple. Accepting his blindness, Bill was faced with a list of daily living skills that he would have to acquire. After his discharge from the hospital, Bill was given medications to reduce the risk of seizure, brain swelling, and infection to possibly allow some return of vision. Ray Schaeffer with The State of Missouri Rehabilitation Services for the Blind encouraged Bill to get help and Bill went to Lions World School for the Blind. Bill spent almost five months being cared for by medical and rehabilitation professionals until he felt confident that he was on the right path.

Snow Blind has given me an entirely new perspective on persons with visual impairments and what it must be like to lose one’s vision. Bill Johnson explains how the small things that we take for granted every day can be overwhelmingly difficult for someone who cannot see what the rest of us can. This memoir is smooth flowing from beginning to end, filled with interesting information and facts around injuries that cause blindness as well as the ensuing treatment and rehabilitation. Bill also shares with us his personal, physical, and emotional challenges that led him to the school for the blind and independence. I would recommend this book to all adults and children, especially those who have friends or family members that are visually impaired.

Reviewed by Joe Wisinski for Readers' Favorite

Open Heart: The Transformational Journey of a Doctor Who, After Bypass Surgery at 61, Ran Marathons and Climbed Mountains is an inspirational instructional manual. Author Akil Taher, M.D. underwent open-heart surgery at age 61 and realized he had to change his lifestyle. Only eight months later he ran in his first, but not his last, half-marathon. Furthermore, he engaged in body-testing activities such as running full marathons, climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, completing a triathlon, and competing in a 100-mile bike race. In addition to relating his physical adventures, Taher writes about the role diet plays in his now-healthy lifestyle. He revolutionized his food intake, cutting out meat, dairy, eggs, and sugar and replacing them with a plant-based diet. Taher’s book is based on both his personal experiences and reputable sources.

This book is terrific. Author Akil Taher, M.D. is a fine storyteller and his book is part adventure story and part inspiration. Taher’s transformation from being a man with numerous medical problems to a fit, healthy, septuagenarian athlete makes for enjoyable and motivational reading. Not everyone will agree with all of his advice, but Taher lays it out in an easy-to-understand fashion for the reader’s consideration. He notes that changing our diet may be even more difficult than changing our exercise routine, and wisely recommends that readers take “baby steps” to transform their lives. “We are capable of doing much more than we think we can do,” he writes. It’s Taher’s hope that his readers don’t wait until they get into his formerly dire physical strait before taking action. I recommend Open Heart to anyone who is open to improving their physical health.

Reviewed by Mamta Madhavan for Readers' Favorite

You've Got Some Nerve: The Battle Back from an Invisible Injury by Derryen Plante is the author's story of how her life changed when, while completing a unit check at a juvenile prison, she was attacked by an inmate who furiously struck her many times in the head and face. That attack damaged not only her body and her mind but also her future. The author's life story gives glimpses of the trauma that caused unseen injuries, and how she managed to pick up the damaged pieces of her life and rebuild them. This memoir can be related to by many readers and will give them much-required assistance in their healing process. The book is not only for trauma survivors but will also help caregivers when it comes to understanding their friends, family members, colleagues, doctors, and nurses.

Derryen Plante's story is nerve-racking and she is very honest and straightforward when it comes to sharing her story with readers. It is heartbreaking to read how her dream of working as an investigator for the federal government was shattered when she was assaulted. She also speaks about the atmosphere in the unit on the night of the assault and though it was not too calm, she did not suspect any tension in the air. What stands out in the author's story is her determination, courage, and hope when it came to redefining her life after addressing her problems. She also encourages readers to be there for all those who are suffering from injuries that are not visible to others, and how she found her support during her times of hope and despair.

Reviewed by Tammy Ruggles for Readers' Favorite

The Angle of Flickering Light by Gina Troisi is a powerfully moving memoir of a woman losing herself, finding herself, and having the insight to put it into perspective. The author recounts what it was like to live with verbal abuse from her father, psychological abuse from her mother, and her father's infidelity. Her pain turned inward, into self-torture involving an eating disorder, physical workouts, and control issues in hopes of disappearing. Her self-destructive attempts at escaping through hallucinogenic mushroom tea and snorting pills were not enough to heal the scars. A positive force in her life was her terminally ill grandfather, a father figure, and she found love with a heroin addict named John. When running from herself took her from the east coast to the west coast, she realized how much she missed John and what he represented to her--home.

Troisi brings us her story that many can connect with--of feeling misused, lost, and yearning for home and true love. Going from pillar to post wasn't satisfying enough, and she deserved more for herself than she realized. It takes a lot of courage to tell a life story honestly, but this one has something more, and it's the author's gift for introspection and storytelling. There are themes of hitting rock bottom and recovering, but it is wrapped in a well-written memoir that reads like a good piece of literary fiction; absorbed like a fine film. The writing is deep and poetic. One of my favorite parts was her relationship with John--complex, deep, and real, in spite of the pitfalls. The Angle of Flickering Light by Gina Troisi is a modern fairytale, and Troisi's carriage ride is bumpy, emotionally satisfying, and inspirational.