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![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/christmas-beneath-the-lake&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51LRVldjk7L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="Christmas Beneath a Frozen Lake" by Darrel L. Hammon is one in the series “The Adventures of Bob the Bullfrog”. It is well-written and well-illustrated. Bob is concerned that Santa won’t be able to penetrate the thick ice covering the lake where Bob and his family live. Bob and his siblings try unsuccessfully to come up with ideas on how Sa...){kind=link}
Christmas Beneath the Lake
From the Adventures of Bob the Bullfrog
Darrel L. Hammon
2013 Finalist
26 Pages
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Children - Animals
Reviewed by Patrice Brooks for Readers' Favorite
"Christmas Beneath a Frozen Lake" by Darrel L. Hammon is one in the series “The Adventures of Bob the Bullfrog”. It is well-written and well-illustrated. Bob is concerned that Santa won’t be able to penetrate the thick ice covering the lake where Bob and his family live. Bob and his siblings try unsuccessfully to come up with ideas on how Santa could get their presents through the ice. Finally, they ask their mother for advice. She tells Bob and his siblings that the same thing happened to her when she was a child. She tells them what she and her family did – and how a miracle occurred.
This book is great for children of all ages and for adults like me who love children’s books and love Christmas. It does a wonderful job of describing the magic of Santa through a (bullfrog) child’s eyes. The relationships between the children and parents are warmly depicted. Children of all ages will enjoy reading the depictions of the children’s anticipation and anxiety on Christmas Eve and their graciousness as they accept the possibility that they may not get a Santa miracle. I especially loved the details of how Santa miraculously delivered the gifts. And, as an oldest sibling, I appreciated how Bob, the oldest sibling, witnessed the miracle but chose not to share that with his younger siblings. This book will not get lost in the overly commercialized, poorly written juvenile Christmas books that come out every year. It is definitely a keeper.
"Christmas Beneath a Frozen Lake" by Darrel L. Hammon is one in the series “The Adventures of Bob the Bullfrog”. It is well-written and well-illustrated. Bob is concerned that Santa won’t be able to penetrate the thick ice covering the lake where Bob and his family live. Bob and his siblings try unsuccessfully to come up with ideas on how Santa could get their presents through the ice. Finally, they ask their mother for advice. She tells Bob and his siblings that the same thing happened to her when she was a child. She tells them what she and her family did – and how a miracle occurred.
This book is great for children of all ages and for adults like me who love children’s books and love Christmas. It does a wonderful job of describing the magic of Santa through a (bullfrog) child’s eyes. The relationships between the children and parents are warmly depicted. Children of all ages will enjoy reading the depictions of the children’s anticipation and anxiety on Christmas Eve and their graciousness as they accept the possibility that they may not get a Santa miracle. I especially loved the details of how Santa miraculously delivered the gifts. And, as an oldest sibling, I appreciated how Bob, the oldest sibling, witnessed the miracle but chose not to share that with his younger siblings. This book will not get lost in the overly commercialized, poorly written juvenile Christmas books that come out every year. It is definitely a keeper.
Recommend this book:
Robin in the Hood
Diane J. Reed
2013 Honorable Mention
304 Pages
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Young Adult - General
Reviewed by Lorena Sanqui for Readers' Favorite
Robin in the Hood by Diane J. Reed is about Robin, a girl who grew up in a privileged life and her adventures when all those benefits were taken away from her. Robin grew up rich and lonely but when her father had a stroke and she discovered that they were actually broke everything changed. She is poor but no longer lonely, with her new set of family. This is based loosely on Robin Hood and his tales of thievery. Robin along with Creek steals money from bad people to give to those in need in their trailer park. In the end, she figures out that she does not need all the riches in the world to be happy.
I loved this book. The characters are quirky, fun and just really cute. I especially loved the TNT twins, imagining them in their boulder costumes. If this book is made into a movie I would definitely watch it. I loved all the thoughts that go on in Robin’s mind. It really showed how her character evolved from a spoiled, rich brat to a self actualized person. I also loved Creek: his loving and caring character. The way he protects everyone makes him a real hero, even if he does it in a not so legal way. Everyone else is also adorable, Grandma Tinker and her crystal ball, Colonel and his fleet of geese, the TNT twins and all their fireworks and everyone else. Overall the story is great and the characters are well-developed.
Robin in the Hood by Diane J. Reed is about Robin, a girl who grew up in a privileged life and her adventures when all those benefits were taken away from her. Robin grew up rich and lonely but when her father had a stroke and she discovered that they were actually broke everything changed. She is poor but no longer lonely, with her new set of family. This is based loosely on Robin Hood and his tales of thievery. Robin along with Creek steals money from bad people to give to those in need in their trailer park. In the end, she figures out that she does not need all the riches in the world to be happy.
I loved this book. The characters are quirky, fun and just really cute. I especially loved the TNT twins, imagining them in their boulder costumes. If this book is made into a movie I would definitely watch it. I loved all the thoughts that go on in Robin’s mind. It really showed how her character evolved from a spoiled, rich brat to a self actualized person. I also loved Creek: his loving and caring character. The way he protects everyone makes him a real hero, even if he does it in a not so legal way. Everyone else is also adorable, Grandma Tinker and her crystal ball, Colonel and his fleet of geese, the TNT twins and all their fireworks and everyone else. Overall the story is great and the characters are well-developed.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/animal-portraits-with-the-digital-photography-of-john-crippen&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/512WSpeHd2L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="Animal Portraits with the Digital Photography of John Crippen" is a guide for photographers who have made, or are considering making, the transition from a point and shoot or a "prosumer" DSLR camera to a full-fledged DSLR. The first part of the book is a tutorial with demonstrations showing how shutter speed, focal length and environmental condit...){kind=link}
Animal Portraits with the Digital Photography of John Crippen
Learning Photography With Animals
John Crippen
2013 Bronze Medal
112 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Animals
Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
"Animal Portraits with the Digital Photography of John Crippen" is a guide for photographers who have made, or are considering making, the transition from a point and shoot or a "prosumer" DSLR camera to a full-fledged DSLR. The first part of the book is a tutorial with demonstrations showing how shutter speed, focal length and environmental conditions can make photography challenging, and the solutions that can be used. He gives examples of pictures taken in zoos and in the wild, and shows how the background of each picture can enhance the mood of the presentation. Author and photographer John Crippen also discusses the types of equipment you'll need to bring along for a day's shooting. Each picture contains data including the type of camera, lens, f-stop, ISO and the time of exposure. He suggests that new DSLR enthusiasts can learn through exploring what experienced photographers have achieved and gives the reader basic instructions and guidelines. He also includes pictures taken with various point and shoot cameras while noting that great shots are sometimes just a moment or two's opportunity.
I will be purchasing a new DSLR in the near future and am also a wildlife photographer. This book is both impressive and enlightening. There are portraits of lions and elephants, seals and sea lions, and an amazing selection of wild bird photos, all beautifully composed and filled with life. Crippen's details and instructions are precise and to the point, and his pictures illustrate the lessons given. This is a remarkable collection of photographs as well as a well-thought-out introduction to the art of animal photography using a DSLR camera.
"Animal Portraits with the Digital Photography of John Crippen" is a guide for photographers who have made, or are considering making, the transition from a point and shoot or a "prosumer" DSLR camera to a full-fledged DSLR. The first part of the book is a tutorial with demonstrations showing how shutter speed, focal length and environmental conditions can make photography challenging, and the solutions that can be used. He gives examples of pictures taken in zoos and in the wild, and shows how the background of each picture can enhance the mood of the presentation. Author and photographer John Crippen also discusses the types of equipment you'll need to bring along for a day's shooting. Each picture contains data including the type of camera, lens, f-stop, ISO and the time of exposure. He suggests that new DSLR enthusiasts can learn through exploring what experienced photographers have achieved and gives the reader basic instructions and guidelines. He also includes pictures taken with various point and shoot cameras while noting that great shots are sometimes just a moment or two's opportunity.
I will be purchasing a new DSLR in the near future and am also a wildlife photographer. This book is both impressive and enlightening. There are portraits of lions and elephants, seals and sea lions, and an amazing selection of wild bird photos, all beautifully composed and filled with life. Crippen's details and instructions are precise and to the point, and his pictures illustrate the lessons given. This is a remarkable collection of photographs as well as a well-thought-out introduction to the art of animal photography using a DSLR camera.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/along-the-watchtower&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51UXOaVF7UL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="Along the Watchtower" is the story of Lieutenant Freddie Williams who was severely injured by an IED when he was on patrol with his group in Iraq. The story proceeds on two levels: we follow along as he recovers from his injuries in the VA hospital and begins an intensive course of physical therapy to regain the use of his legs; and we are also pr...){kind=link}
Along the Watchtower
David Litwack
2013 Bronze Medal
214 Pages
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Fiction - Drama
Reviewed by Jack Magnus for Readers' Favorite
"Along the Watchtower" is the story of Lieutenant Freddie Williams who was severely injured by an IED when he was on patrol with his group in Iraq. The story proceeds on two levels: we follow along as he recovers from his injuries in the VA hospital and begins an intensive course of physical therapy to regain the use of his legs; and we are also privy to his dreams, wherein he is the Dauphin, heir to a kingdom, a role he has been in training for all his life. Now that his father, the King, is dead, he must pass a series of challenges and trials. The survival of the kingdom and all its inhabitants is dependent on his successful completion of these tasks. In his waking life, in addition to the challenges he faces as he regains his ability to walk, Freddie carries a load of grief and regret, both for the loss of his comrades back in Iraq and the premature deaths of his parents and brother.
David Litwack's "Along the Watchtower" is a remarkable and timely novel that should appeal to a wide-ranging audience. The parallel stories grab the reader from the introductory paragraphs and keep them enthralled as Freddie progresses through the challenges and trials he faces. "Along the Watchtower" explores the extreme hardships faced by veterans whose physical injuries are often accompanied by brain injuries and emotional trauma. I was particularly interested in Freddie's interactions with the hospital staff and his fellow patients. Choosing the Cape Cod area also adds a lot to the work. From the ocean-front home Freddie shared as a child with his family to the ice-sculptures he visits during his convalescence, the environment is beautifully presented and adds to the enjoyment of the reader. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to reading more of Litwack's books.
"Along the Watchtower" is the story of Lieutenant Freddie Williams who was severely injured by an IED when he was on patrol with his group in Iraq. The story proceeds on two levels: we follow along as he recovers from his injuries in the VA hospital and begins an intensive course of physical therapy to regain the use of his legs; and we are also privy to his dreams, wherein he is the Dauphin, heir to a kingdom, a role he has been in training for all his life. Now that his father, the King, is dead, he must pass a series of challenges and trials. The survival of the kingdom and all its inhabitants is dependent on his successful completion of these tasks. In his waking life, in addition to the challenges he faces as he regains his ability to walk, Freddie carries a load of grief and regret, both for the loss of his comrades back in Iraq and the premature deaths of his parents and brother.
David Litwack's "Along the Watchtower" is a remarkable and timely novel that should appeal to a wide-ranging audience. The parallel stories grab the reader from the introductory paragraphs and keep them enthralled as Freddie progresses through the challenges and trials he faces. "Along the Watchtower" explores the extreme hardships faced by veterans whose physical injuries are often accompanied by brain injuries and emotional trauma. I was particularly interested in Freddie's interactions with the hospital staff and his fellow patients. Choosing the Cape Cod area also adds a lot to the work. From the ocean-front home Freddie shared as a child with his family to the ice-sculptures he visits during his convalescence, the environment is beautifully presented and adds to the enjoyment of the reader. I highly recommend this book and am looking forward to reading more of Litwack's books.
Recommend this book:
Pushing Through the Darkness
From Montserrat to Montserrat
Linette Arthurton Bruno
2013 Honorable Mention
110 Pages
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Fiction - Womens
Reviewed by Amy Raines for Readers' Favorite
Pushing Through the Darkness: From Montserrat to Montserrat by Linette Arthurton Bruno tells the story of a young married couple, Clementine and Christophe, as they honeymoon in the Caribbean islands. The young couple revels in the history of events in both Montserrat and Martinique as they intertwine with the lives of their family. Can their discoveries uncover the change in Clementine’s father? Will the clarification of the family’s frightening past help Clementine discover herself and have a happier future with her new husband? Will the couple’s family see eye to eye upon their return home?
Pushing Through the Darkness is an interesting trip through the past and present with a well thought out plot that unfolds through the history of two islands tormented by volcanic activity that destroyed homes as well as lives. The characters are very interesting and easy to relate to as Clementine and Christophe discover and share historical events that left emotional damage on the people involved in the natural but tragic events. I love how Pushing Through the Darkness shows how the distant past can influence families and communities, causing them to change physically, emotionally and psychologically, as well as influencing the futures of the people who endure the trauma and the aftermath of events. I recommend Bruno’s Pushing Through the Darkness to anyone who enjoys history and its effects on the future of the people who survive and find a way to carry on after the tragedy has passed.
Pushing Through the Darkness: From Montserrat to Montserrat by Linette Arthurton Bruno tells the story of a young married couple, Clementine and Christophe, as they honeymoon in the Caribbean islands. The young couple revels in the history of events in both Montserrat and Martinique as they intertwine with the lives of their family. Can their discoveries uncover the change in Clementine’s father? Will the clarification of the family’s frightening past help Clementine discover herself and have a happier future with her new husband? Will the couple’s family see eye to eye upon their return home?
Pushing Through the Darkness is an interesting trip through the past and present with a well thought out plot that unfolds through the history of two islands tormented by volcanic activity that destroyed homes as well as lives. The characters are very interesting and easy to relate to as Clementine and Christophe discover and share historical events that left emotional damage on the people involved in the natural but tragic events. I love how Pushing Through the Darkness shows how the distant past can influence families and communities, causing them to change physically, emotionally and psychologically, as well as influencing the futures of the people who endure the trauma and the aftermath of events. I recommend Bruno’s Pushing Through the Darkness to anyone who enjoys history and its effects on the future of the people who survive and find a way to carry on after the tragedy has passed.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/the-tiferek-talk-interviews&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41tP-TwiK7L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="The Tiferet Talk Interviews" is an inspirational and moving collection of interviews conducted by Melissa Studdard, host of the Tiferet Talk radio program, and edited by Donna Baier Stein, publisher of Tiferet: Literature, Art, & The Creative Spirit. These interviews are a goldmine of information for anyone seeking creative or spiritual rejuvenati...){kind=link}
The Tiferek Talk Interviews
Melissa Studdard
2013 Gold Medal
254 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Cultural
Reviewed by Tania Staley for Readers' Favorite
"The Tiferet Talk Interviews" is an inspirational and moving collection of interviews conducted by Melissa Studdard, host of the Tiferet Talk radio program, and edited by Donna Baier Stein, publisher of Tiferet: Literature, Art, & The Creative Spirit. These interviews are a goldmine of information for anyone seeking creative or spiritual rejuvenation. The book consists of conversations with well-established and passionate authors, poets, and spiritual mentors. Interviewees include Julia Cameron, author of "The Artist’s Way", Robin Rice, a contemporary shaman and author, Dr. Bernie Seigel, a leading doctor in experiential health and healing, Robert Pinsky, a former poet laureate, and several more inspiring speakers.
"The Tiferet Talk Interviews" is a must have for anyone seeking creative reawakening and spiritual healing. As a writer myself, I am amazed by the wealth of information I have received from this book. New mentors and resources abound in this easy to read collection. Melissa Studdard is an excellent interviewer that manages to ask the questions that listeners want to know, while still allowing her guests the room to express themselves freely and creatively. At the end of each interview, she always ask her guests for further information about their work, webpages, blogs, new books, etc., which makes this book a handy guide that I will turn to repeatedly. It will also be a book that I encourage my friends and family to read. This is not just for writers and artists. The speakers all have the common understanding that everyone is creative in some way; everyone is an artist. This book will help open your eyes to this fact, and prepare you to see the world and your life in new and exciting ways.
"The Tiferet Talk Interviews" is an inspirational and moving collection of interviews conducted by Melissa Studdard, host of the Tiferet Talk radio program, and edited by Donna Baier Stein, publisher of Tiferet: Literature, Art, & The Creative Spirit. These interviews are a goldmine of information for anyone seeking creative or spiritual rejuvenation. The book consists of conversations with well-established and passionate authors, poets, and spiritual mentors. Interviewees include Julia Cameron, author of "The Artist’s Way", Robin Rice, a contemporary shaman and author, Dr. Bernie Seigel, a leading doctor in experiential health and healing, Robert Pinsky, a former poet laureate, and several more inspiring speakers.
"The Tiferet Talk Interviews" is a must have for anyone seeking creative reawakening and spiritual healing. As a writer myself, I am amazed by the wealth of information I have received from this book. New mentors and resources abound in this easy to read collection. Melissa Studdard is an excellent interviewer that manages to ask the questions that listeners want to know, while still allowing her guests the room to express themselves freely and creatively. At the end of each interview, she always ask her guests for further information about their work, webpages, blogs, new books, etc., which makes this book a handy guide that I will turn to repeatedly. It will also be a book that I encourage my friends and family to read. This is not just for writers and artists. The speakers all have the common understanding that everyone is creative in some way; everyone is an artist. This book will help open your eyes to this fact, and prepare you to see the world and your life in new and exciting ways.
Recommend this book:
 and s...){kind=link}
The Answer
The Road to Peace
Rose S. Kurtz
2013 Finalist
150 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Inspirational
Reviewed by Kelly Santana for Readers' Favorite
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” is an inspiring story written by R.S. Kurtz. In this book, Mrs. Kurtz tells about her personal journey through her more than 80 years of life. In this candid narrative, she describes what was like growing up as a Jewish girl while assuming many roles (daughter, sister, wife, mother and later on grandmother) and searching for answers about religion, spirituality and inner growth. With her inquisitive nature, Rose Kurtz researches various religions, and probes many questions on her quest for God. Although she cannot find the exact answer for her questions, her life experiences and her spirituality guide her to believe that there is more to life than simply satisfying our individualistic needs. Mrs. Kurtz chooses the Baha´i Faith as the one which gives her the best road for inner peace and sense of accomplishment in life. She discusses her beliefs in giving and the betterment of mankind, and gives practical advice about spiritual growth and taking care of the mind, body and soul.
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” was a delightful book. While trying to bring important facts about her life forward, Rose Kurtz is concise and entertaining, making me want to dig deeply into the story. Among many passages that I enjoyed, I give special kudos to the mystic side of her book. Mrs. Kurtz brought up the thoughtful relationship she had with her older sister, Clara, including her sister´s medium abilities, and cited a situation that happened and made her know when her beloved sister passed away. I liked that while explaining her position about God, spirituality and the meaning of life, Mrs. Kurtz gave a snapshot on various world religions without being pretentious or biased. Lastly, I want to commend her approach to life. The sharing of her personal experiences can help many people to reflect and search for ways to become better individuals.
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” is an inspiring story written by R.S. Kurtz. In this book, Mrs. Kurtz tells about her personal journey through her more than 80 years of life. In this candid narrative, she describes what was like growing up as a Jewish girl while assuming many roles (daughter, sister, wife, mother and later on grandmother) and searching for answers about religion, spirituality and inner growth. With her inquisitive nature, Rose Kurtz researches various religions, and probes many questions on her quest for God. Although she cannot find the exact answer for her questions, her life experiences and her spirituality guide her to believe that there is more to life than simply satisfying our individualistic needs. Mrs. Kurtz chooses the Baha´i Faith as the one which gives her the best road for inner peace and sense of accomplishment in life. She discusses her beliefs in giving and the betterment of mankind, and gives practical advice about spiritual growth and taking care of the mind, body and soul.
“The Answer: The Road to Peace” was a delightful book. While trying to bring important facts about her life forward, Rose Kurtz is concise and entertaining, making me want to dig deeply into the story. Among many passages that I enjoyed, I give special kudos to the mystic side of her book. Mrs. Kurtz brought up the thoughtful relationship she had with her older sister, Clara, including her sister´s medium abilities, and cited a situation that happened and made her know when her beloved sister passed away. I liked that while explaining her position about God, spirituality and the meaning of life, Mrs. Kurtz gave a snapshot on various world religions without being pretentious or biased. Lastly, I want to commend her approach to life. The sharing of her personal experiences can help many people to reflect and search for ways to become better individuals.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/the-other-end-of-the-stethoscope&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/51TYZJC2DiL._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=Are you among the many people who think that doctors have a job of leisure? Have you ever wondered what it is like for a doctor to get out of bed to go to the hospital to treat an emergency? Dr Dianna Reed writes "The Other End of the Stethoscope" to inform and educate people about the life of a doctor: the rigorous training involved, the daily rou...){kind=link}
The Other End of the Stethoscope
The Physicians' Perspective on the Health Care Crisis
Diana Reed, MD
2013 Bronze Medal
196 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Health - Medical
Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite
Are you among the many people who think that doctors have a job of leisure? Have you ever wondered what it is like for a doctor to get out of bed to go to the hospital to treat an emergency? Dr Dianna Reed writes "The Other End of the Stethoscope" to inform and educate people about the life of a doctor: the rigorous training involved, the daily routine of medical practice and the difficulties of reconciling the business of medicine with our ultimate goal of healing. She stresses how the health care and malpractice crises affect physicians, and on how the doctor-patient relationship has suffered. After reading this book, I have an altogether different outlook on doctors in general! As a neurologist, Dr. Dianna Reed uses her own experiences, along with the experiences of other physicians in the healthcare system to explain some of the situations doctors face in their everyday work. In the six chapters in this book, Dr. Reed enlightens her readers on the business aspect of being a doctor, such as: a Career in medicine; the practice of medicine; the business of medicine; liability in medicine; the Doctor as patient; and the future of medicine from a physician’s perspective.
This is a book that everyone would benefit from. It really helped me to know what my doctors face as they see very different patients from day to day. I have always said that it takes a special person to be a doctor or nurse, and after reading this book, it confirms what I have always believed. Doctors are special people that we all should love and respect for what they do to help people on a daily basis.
Are you among the many people who think that doctors have a job of leisure? Have you ever wondered what it is like for a doctor to get out of bed to go to the hospital to treat an emergency? Dr Dianna Reed writes "The Other End of the Stethoscope" to inform and educate people about the life of a doctor: the rigorous training involved, the daily routine of medical practice and the difficulties of reconciling the business of medicine with our ultimate goal of healing. She stresses how the health care and malpractice crises affect physicians, and on how the doctor-patient relationship has suffered. After reading this book, I have an altogether different outlook on doctors in general! As a neurologist, Dr. Dianna Reed uses her own experiences, along with the experiences of other physicians in the healthcare system to explain some of the situations doctors face in their everyday work. In the six chapters in this book, Dr. Reed enlightens her readers on the business aspect of being a doctor, such as: a Career in medicine; the practice of medicine; the business of medicine; liability in medicine; the Doctor as patient; and the future of medicine from a physician’s perspective.
This is a book that everyone would benefit from. It really helped me to know what my doctors face as they see very different patients from day to day. I have always said that it takes a special person to be a doctor or nurse, and after reading this book, it confirms what I have always believed. Doctors are special people that we all should love and respect for what they do to help people on a daily basis.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/in-the-shadow-of-elvis&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/61P59aIvq5L._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description="In the Shadow of Elvis" is the story of the legitimate, illegitimate son of the legendary King of Rock ‘n Roll, John Dennis Smith. Author Rico Austin meets Elvis’s son at a chance meeting in Cave Creek, Arizona, and this book follows the journey of that unique encounter, along with the trials and tribulations of trying to get the story written...){kind=link}
In the Shadow of ELVIS
Perils of a Ghostwriter
Rico Austin
2013 Bronze Medal
236 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Autobiography
Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite
"In the Shadow of Elvis" is the story of the legitimate, illegitimate son of the legendary King of Rock ‘n Roll, John Dennis Smith. Author Rico Austin meets Elvis’s son at a chance meeting in Cave Creek, Arizona, and this book follows the journey of that unique encounter, along with the trials and tribulations of trying to get the story written and published. John Dennis Smith wanted his story told, and Rico Austin was the person he wanted to tell it.
This book was interesting in two ways, one because it tells a never before told story of the son of Elvis who was raised by Elvis’s aunt and uncle, which makes the story well worth reading. But then when things happen with the story totally out of Austin’s control, he turns the situation into the difficult journey of a ghostwriter. And Austin has such a unique way of writing that he makes the story fun, exciting and entertaining enough that you don’t want to put the book down until you finish. This is really a sad story because though John loved his adopted parents, he was robbed of a relationship with his own father and mother. And as the story tells, John follows in Elvis’ footsteps in several ways. It is all written here in Austin’s book, "In the Shadow of Elvis". This is sure to be a best seller as this book gets more and more publicity. If you enjoy memoirs, you will enjoy Smith’s story. If you are an Elvis fan, then this book is a must for you. And as an added bonus to this book, there are photos of John’s dad Elvis and his mother Zona Marie, plus lots of pictures of the author as well.
"In the Shadow of Elvis" is the story of the legitimate, illegitimate son of the legendary King of Rock ‘n Roll, John Dennis Smith. Author Rico Austin meets Elvis’s son at a chance meeting in Cave Creek, Arizona, and this book follows the journey of that unique encounter, along with the trials and tribulations of trying to get the story written and published. John Dennis Smith wanted his story told, and Rico Austin was the person he wanted to tell it.
This book was interesting in two ways, one because it tells a never before told story of the son of Elvis who was raised by Elvis’s aunt and uncle, which makes the story well worth reading. But then when things happen with the story totally out of Austin’s control, he turns the situation into the difficult journey of a ghostwriter. And Austin has such a unique way of writing that he makes the story fun, exciting and entertaining enough that you don’t want to put the book down until you finish. This is really a sad story because though John loved his adopted parents, he was robbed of a relationship with his own father and mother. And as the story tells, John follows in Elvis’ footsteps in several ways. It is all written here in Austin’s book, "In the Shadow of Elvis". This is sure to be a best seller as this book gets more and more publicity. If you enjoy memoirs, you will enjoy Smith’s story. If you are an Elvis fan, then this book is a must for you. And as an added bonus to this book, there are photos of John’s dad Elvis and his mother Zona Marie, plus lots of pictures of the author as well.
Recommend this book:
The Depth of Grace
Finding Hope at Rock Bottom
John Bronson Haley
2013 Gold Medal
287 Pages
Check current price
Young Adult - Non-Fiction
Reviewed by Joy Hannabass for Readers' Favorite
Hitting rock bottom was not just another phrase for author J. Bronson Haley; for him it was a reality. Living life in the fast lane, a most feared reputation of a street fighter and spending time in jail gave Haley a reputation that caused people to stay clear of him. But then one day Haley found Someone who changed his life forever, Jesus Christ. Jesus delivered Bronson from the deep hole he’d dug for himself. And his story is written in his book, "The Depth of Grace". This is a story, and a testimony of how God can take a life that is seemingly doomed and make something wonderful out of it. Bronson doesn’t sugarcoat his story by any means; he is totally honest about his life before he ask Jesus in. His deep bondage to sin gripped his life and wouldn’t let go, no matter how hard he tried. The things Haley did, the situations he tells of in this book, are heart wrenching, because of the way he was ruining his own life. But the amazing thing is, none of that matters to God. This story shows just who God is, and that He is in control, not matter the situation, and that He can do anything, just because He is God. This would make an awesome Bible study because the author gives 'rest stops' chapters throughout the book to give the Biblical viewpoint of what he is telling.
I very highly admire and respect author Bronson Haley for telling his story. My prayer is that many people out there that are in somewhat the same situation as Haley will read this book, and find out that there is hope, no matter how difficult their situation is. God loves us and He does care for us more than we know. And even in the times He doesn’t seem real, He is definitely real, and willing to change our life when we call on Him.
Hitting rock bottom was not just another phrase for author J. Bronson Haley; for him it was a reality. Living life in the fast lane, a most feared reputation of a street fighter and spending time in jail gave Haley a reputation that caused people to stay clear of him. But then one day Haley found Someone who changed his life forever, Jesus Christ. Jesus delivered Bronson from the deep hole he’d dug for himself. And his story is written in his book, "The Depth of Grace". This is a story, and a testimony of how God can take a life that is seemingly doomed and make something wonderful out of it. Bronson doesn’t sugarcoat his story by any means; he is totally honest about his life before he ask Jesus in. His deep bondage to sin gripped his life and wouldn’t let go, no matter how hard he tried. The things Haley did, the situations he tells of in this book, are heart wrenching, because of the way he was ruining his own life. But the amazing thing is, none of that matters to God. This story shows just who God is, and that He is in control, not matter the situation, and that He can do anything, just because He is God. This would make an awesome Bible study because the author gives 'rest stops' chapters throughout the book to give the Biblical viewpoint of what he is telling.
I very highly admire and respect author Bronson Haley for telling his story. My prayer is that many people out there that are in somewhat the same situation as Haley will read this book, and find out that there is hope, no matter how difficult their situation is. God loves us and He does care for us more than we know. And even in the times He doesn’t seem real, He is definitely real, and willing to change our life when we call on Him.
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