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 began by destroying livestock, causing a famine throughout the world. Then the unthinkable happened, it was passed from...){kind=link}
The Lathe of God
A Quest for Noah's Ark
Angus L Franklin
2010 Gold Medal
624 Pages
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Fiction - Suspense
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
The setting is post 9/11. Bio-terrorists have unleashed multiple viruses including anthrax, small pox, and a virus so evil that we can only begin to imagine the implications. RAPAIDS (a cross between the Parvovirus and AIDS virus) began by destroying livestock, causing a famine throughout the world. Then the unthinkable happened, it was passed from the livestock to the farmers. Within one year of contracting the disease, the victim was dead. Scientists are frantically working to find a cure. Could the solution lie in Noah’s Ark? Sightings of the Ark have come to light. Is it a myth or fact? Could God have placed an instrument on board (The Lathe of God) that can regenerate the Earth?
The scientists found the very idea of Noah’s Ark to be far fetched, few were believers. However, they knew that the citizens needed something to believe in, something to give them hope. A group formed to search for the Ark and save the world. They called themselves S.T.O.R.M. Science, Technology, Old Religion and Mythology. They researched all aspects of the story very carefully.
They began the journey to the summit with terrorists trying to stop them. Will they survive their search for the Lathe of God?
"The Lathe of God: the Quest For Noah’s Ark" is part sci-fi, part action adventure, and totally entertaining. When I first saw that this book was 621 pages long, I was a bit put off. But, once I started reading, I was hooked. The reader travels with the members of STORM through the dangers of mountain climbing, terrorist attacks and a struggle with all that they believe. The plot is well developed and leaves room for sequels. The characters are interesting.
The setting is post 9/11. Bio-terrorists have unleashed multiple viruses including anthrax, small pox, and a virus so evil that we can only begin to imagine the implications. RAPAIDS (a cross between the Parvovirus and AIDS virus) began by destroying livestock, causing a famine throughout the world. Then the unthinkable happened, it was passed from the livestock to the farmers. Within one year of contracting the disease, the victim was dead. Scientists are frantically working to find a cure. Could the solution lie in Noah’s Ark? Sightings of the Ark have come to light. Is it a myth or fact? Could God have placed an instrument on board (The Lathe of God) that can regenerate the Earth?
The scientists found the very idea of Noah’s Ark to be far fetched, few were believers. However, they knew that the citizens needed something to believe in, something to give them hope. A group formed to search for the Ark and save the world. They called themselves S.T.O.R.M. Science, Technology, Old Religion and Mythology. They researched all aspects of the story very carefully.
They began the journey to the summit with terrorists trying to stop them. Will they survive their search for the Lathe of God?
"The Lathe of God: the Quest For Noah’s Ark" is part sci-fi, part action adventure, and totally entertaining. When I first saw that this book was 621 pages long, I was a bit put off. But, once I started reading, I was hooked. The reader travels with the members of STORM through the dangers of mountain climbing, terrorist attacks and a struggle with all that they believe. The plot is well developed and leaves room for sequels. The characters are interesting.
Recommend this book:
The Smarter Preschooler
Unlocking Your Childs Intellectual Potential
Renee Mosiman, MA and Mike Mosiman
2010 Gold Medal
224 Pages
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Non-Fiction - Parenting
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
The introduction to this book reminds us that the first few years of a child’s life are spent playing and discovering. We can make that play intellectually stimulating. An intellectually stimulating environment is “child focused, and physically and verbally engaging, as well as, emotionally supportive.” The key is to recognize your child’s gifts and offer opportunities to develop those gifts. This book discusses theories of intelligence and different things that impact a child’s intelligence. The author stresses the importance of reading to your child, verbally interacting with your child, and playing with your child.
This book is an excellent tool for parents. I was pleased to see the emphasis on reading, talking and playing with your child. The author discusses in-depth types of play and the way it stimulates your child to learn. The use of TV and computers is discussed. The author explains appropriate TV viewing and how much TV to allow. There is also a section on classical music. A parent should seize every opportunity to engage a child including outings. There is an important section on proper nutrition and exercise.
I am very pleased with this book. Too often parents try to force their children to learn. They compare their child to other children. This book has a common sense approach. It is well organized, easy to understand and to use. Where was this book when my children were young? Ah, but it is here in time for my grandchildren!
The introduction to this book reminds us that the first few years of a child’s life are spent playing and discovering. We can make that play intellectually stimulating. An intellectually stimulating environment is “child focused, and physically and verbally engaging, as well as, emotionally supportive.” The key is to recognize your child’s gifts and offer opportunities to develop those gifts. This book discusses theories of intelligence and different things that impact a child’s intelligence. The author stresses the importance of reading to your child, verbally interacting with your child, and playing with your child.
This book is an excellent tool for parents. I was pleased to see the emphasis on reading, talking and playing with your child. The author discusses in-depth types of play and the way it stimulates your child to learn. The use of TV and computers is discussed. The author explains appropriate TV viewing and how much TV to allow. There is also a section on classical music. A parent should seize every opportunity to engage a child including outings. There is an important section on proper nutrition and exercise.
I am very pleased with this book. Too often parents try to force their children to learn. They compare their child to other children. This book has a common sense approach. It is well organized, easy to understand and to use. Where was this book when my children were young? Ah, but it is here in time for my grandchildren!
Recommend this book:
Cecile and The Spider Queen
Mystic Heroine Adventures
Marilyn Churchill
2010 Honorable Mention
108 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
Cecile wandered the forest, not knowing who she was or where she came from. A tiny spider sent Cecile to a castle. A horrible spider tried to catch her in a web, but Cecile ran bravely onward. She came upon a sweet lady named Emma that gave her food and told her she was the Princess of Belamor. An evil spider queen had stolen the castle and the people from Cecile. The queen was trying to capture Cecile because only she could open the door to the Treasury.
"Cecile and the Spider Queen" is a delightful story. This entertaining story is filled with enchantment, adventure and deception. The ending of this story makes it very special for all little girls who want to be a princess. This book will stay in my library so that my granddaughters and I can share the delightful tale over and over again.
Cecile wandered the forest, not knowing who she was or where she came from. A tiny spider sent Cecile to a castle. A horrible spider tried to catch her in a web, but Cecile ran bravely onward. She came upon a sweet lady named Emma that gave her food and told her she was the Princess of Belamor. An evil spider queen had stolen the castle and the people from Cecile. The queen was trying to capture Cecile because only she could open the door to the Treasury.
"Cecile and the Spider Queen" is a delightful story. This entertaining story is filled with enchantment, adventure and deception. The ending of this story makes it very special for all little girls who want to be a princess. This book will stay in my library so that my granddaughters and I can share the delightful tale over and over again.
Recommend this book:
Smoke Before the Wind
Diana Wallis Taylor
2010 Gold Medal
211 Pages
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Christian - Romance - General
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
Carrie Dickson and Andrew Van Zan were introduced to each other by mutual friends. She was sweet, beautiful and just coming out of a bad relationship. Andrew was handsome, wealthy and every woman’s dream man, or was he? After a whirlwind courtship, Andrew proposed. The wedding was scheduled to take place in just a few short weeks. Carrie returned to her home town in the mountains of California to finalize preparations.
Carrie had been attracted to Scott Spencer since her school days. He was a strong Christian. Scott’s presence caused Carrie to question her relationship with Andrew and, more importantly, her relationship with Christ. She had been excited to introduce Andrew to her family and to show him where she grew up, but he seemed to have little interest in either.
Andrew had a secret that he was hiding from Carrie. Will it destroy their relationship or take it to a new level?
I don`t want to give away the ending to this book. Carrie was a delightful character. While, at first, I did not like Linda, I soon found her to be spunky and endearing. Diana Wallis Taylor is a talented author. Her plot has a deep message but is not preachy. I enjoyed this book.
Carrie Dickson and Andrew Van Zan were introduced to each other by mutual friends. She was sweet, beautiful and just coming out of a bad relationship. Andrew was handsome, wealthy and every woman’s dream man, or was he? After a whirlwind courtship, Andrew proposed. The wedding was scheduled to take place in just a few short weeks. Carrie returned to her home town in the mountains of California to finalize preparations.
Carrie had been attracted to Scott Spencer since her school days. He was a strong Christian. Scott’s presence caused Carrie to question her relationship with Andrew and, more importantly, her relationship with Christ. She had been excited to introduce Andrew to her family and to show him where she grew up, but he seemed to have little interest in either.
Andrew had a secret that he was hiding from Carrie. Will it destroy their relationship or take it to a new level?
I don`t want to give away the ending to this book. Carrie was a delightful character. While, at first, I did not like Linda, I soon found her to be spunky and endearing. Diana Wallis Taylor is a talented author. Her plot has a deep message but is not preachy. I enjoyed this book.
Recommend this book:
![](http://pinterest.com/pin/create/button/?url=/book-award/the-butterfly-cometh&media=https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/41QP%2BO3cXML._SL442_.jpg._AA200_.jpg&description=This book is aptly named, "The Butterfly Cometh". A butterfly starts out as a worm; it wraps itself in a cocoon, and waits. During that time, the body is changing. Slowly it works its way out of the cocoon but it does not immediately fly off. First its wings must dry. Slowly the butterfly unfolds and stretches its wings, that have never been opened...){kind=link}
The Butterfly Cometh
Putting The Color Back Into Life
Diana Webb
2010 Gold Medal
212 Pages
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Christian - Devotion/Study
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
This book is aptly named, "The Butterfly Cometh". A butterfly starts out as a worm; it wraps itself in a cocoon, and waits. During that time, the body is changing. Slowly it works its way out of the cocoon but it does not immediately fly off. First its wings must dry. Slowly the butterfly unfolds and stretches its wings, that have never been opened before. The worm has turned into a butterfly. That is so like people. I find that the butterfly reminds me of my Christian walk. I started out as a child. Slowly I grew in the midst of Bible study, Sunday School, Worship, etc. I wrapped myself in all these things and more. Eventually I emerged still not ready to stretch my wings but soon I was going into the ministry.
MS Webb takes readers on a spiritual journey. Perhaps that was just something I read into it. She acknowledges that we live is a world of strife. This book takes the reader through a time of soul searching. Ms Webb encourages readers to find their true inner self. She reminds us that our wings will not have full color until we allow them to dry. Webb offers readers 171 daily devotions that will build your character, strengthen your friendships, guide your path and lead you closer to the Lord.
The book is easy to read and well organized. Well done!
This book is aptly named, "The Butterfly Cometh". A butterfly starts out as a worm; it wraps itself in a cocoon, and waits. During that time, the body is changing. Slowly it works its way out of the cocoon but it does not immediately fly off. First its wings must dry. Slowly the butterfly unfolds and stretches its wings, that have never been opened before. The worm has turned into a butterfly. That is so like people. I find that the butterfly reminds me of my Christian walk. I started out as a child. Slowly I grew in the midst of Bible study, Sunday School, Worship, etc. I wrapped myself in all these things and more. Eventually I emerged still not ready to stretch my wings but soon I was going into the ministry.
MS Webb takes readers on a spiritual journey. Perhaps that was just something I read into it. She acknowledges that we live is a world of strife. This book takes the reader through a time of soul searching. Ms Webb encourages readers to find their true inner self. She reminds us that our wings will not have full color until we allow them to dry. Webb offers readers 171 daily devotions that will build your character, strengthen your friendships, guide your path and lead you closer to the Lord.
The book is easy to read and well organized. Well done!
Recommend this book:
The Sylvan Horn
Book One of The Sylvan Chord
Robert Redinger
2010 Gold Medal
220 Pages
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Fiction - Action
Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite
The elves were once exceptional beings; their very existence brought indescribable joy and beauty to the world. However, men in the east use sorcery from carved Runes and unleash terrible forces that are slowly destroying the earth and the once immortal elves. Efkin, a young elf lord, embarks on a quest to find a horn with the power to break the Runes before his kind and all hope disappear for good. The Sylvan Horn is the first installment of The Sylvan Chord series by Robert Redinger.
To start with, a praise to Carol Phillips for the beautiful cover art. It certainly captures the story and the ethos of what a good, classic fantasy cover should look like. The Sylvan Horn’s world-building encompasses familiar ground. Even so, it has all the necessary elements that fantasy enthusiasts always enjoy: ethereal beings, sorcery, sword clashing actions, heroes, and most important of all, a noble quest to save the world. It even has light humor, which I think is a bonus. Author Robert Redinger is highly adroit with his prose which propels a well-thought plot. The protagonist, Efkin, is given more than enough room to grow throughout the story, adding vital depth to his character.
Efkin has his group of friends who are equally fascinating. I find the Elders and the druid intriguing as well, which leads to the only issue; I desire more elaboration for some characters and some aspects of the story from this highly accomplished fantasy novel. Nevertheless, I believe Mr. Redinger saves them up for Book Two, and I absolutely look forward to it.
The elves were once exceptional beings; their very existence brought indescribable joy and beauty to the world. However, men in the east use sorcery from carved Runes and unleash terrible forces that are slowly destroying the earth and the once immortal elves. Efkin, a young elf lord, embarks on a quest to find a horn with the power to break the Runes before his kind and all hope disappear for good. The Sylvan Horn is the first installment of The Sylvan Chord series by Robert Redinger.
To start with, a praise to Carol Phillips for the beautiful cover art. It certainly captures the story and the ethos of what a good, classic fantasy cover should look like. The Sylvan Horn’s world-building encompasses familiar ground. Even so, it has all the necessary elements that fantasy enthusiasts always enjoy: ethereal beings, sorcery, sword clashing actions, heroes, and most important of all, a noble quest to save the world. It even has light humor, which I think is a bonus. Author Robert Redinger is highly adroit with his prose which propels a well-thought plot. The protagonist, Efkin, is given more than enough room to grow throughout the story, adding vital depth to his character.
Efkin has his group of friends who are equally fascinating. I find the Elders and the druid intriguing as well, which leads to the only issue; I desire more elaboration for some characters and some aspects of the story from this highly accomplished fantasy novel. Nevertheless, I believe Mr. Redinger saves them up for Book Two, and I absolutely look forward to it.
Recommend this book:
The Protected
Rowena Portch
2010 Silver Medal
Kindle Edition
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Fiction - General
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
The Protected is a fantasy story of good versus evil. The story centered around Skye Taylor a blind massage therapist. Since her husband’s death she and her service dog have lived a quiet life. She is legally blind but still drove a car. She came to in a hospital after an accident. Her leg was severely injured. A strange man with a blue mist around him visited her. She wasn’t sure if she was dead, dreaming or having delusions. After his visit she has the gift of healing and removing pain. Her gift leads to a struggle between the Spirian race, a cross between human and spiritual beings (they have super natural powers) and the Shadows (who have no powers.) The clan tried to teach Skye how to control her powers in order to protect her from the Shadows. Their future lies the children she will produce. The fate of the human race rests upon her choices.
I quickly became involved in the life of Skye. The secondary characters add dimension to the story. The plot is interesting and entertaining. This is a fast read. The Protected is a mixture of romance, mystery and humor. This is book one of the Spirian Series. I look forward to the next installment.
The Protected is a fantasy story of good versus evil. The story centered around Skye Taylor a blind massage therapist. Since her husband’s death she and her service dog have lived a quiet life. She is legally blind but still drove a car. She came to in a hospital after an accident. Her leg was severely injured. A strange man with a blue mist around him visited her. She wasn’t sure if she was dead, dreaming or having delusions. After his visit she has the gift of healing and removing pain. Her gift leads to a struggle between the Spirian race, a cross between human and spiritual beings (they have super natural powers) and the Shadows (who have no powers.) The clan tried to teach Skye how to control her powers in order to protect her from the Shadows. Their future lies the children she will produce. The fate of the human race rests upon her choices.
I quickly became involved in the life of Skye. The secondary characters add dimension to the story. The plot is interesting and entertaining. This is a fast read. The Protected is a mixture of romance, mystery and humor. This is book one of the Spirian Series. I look forward to the next installment.
Recommend this book:
Fortress In The Desert
Tale Of A Female Oedipus
Sidney Dunn
2010 Finalist
450 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
The setting was Rome at its height of power. The people were ill-treated. Death sentences came swiftly. Our story begins with the birth of a child. The mother suffers great distress. She knew her child would be taken from her and given to a wealthy man. Barnabas’ wife had not borne a child so he took one for her. The male child was raised as Barnabas’ son.
Asaneth was an orphan. She accepted life as it was dealt to her. Eventually she was adopted by Abraham. He was kind to her and loved her. She looked like his deceased wife. Abraham was an accomplished cook. Asaneth was later befriended by a gladiator. The gladiator shared a story with her concerning Abraham.
The gladiator told her of a beautiful woman that caught the attention of Barnabas. She was brought to the palace and forced to become one of his many wives. The woman already had a husband, Abraham. He came to fetch his wife but Barnabas declared they were never married. The beautiful woman took her own life rather than marry Barnabas.
Years later, the gladiator shared the story with Barnabas’ brother Nicholas. Appalled at what his brother had done, Nicholas sent the gladiator to Masada to rescue Abraham. He was accompanied by Asaneth.
"Fortress In The Desert" is not an easy read. The style is almost prose. The author transports readers back in time. He successfully depicts the life of the Jewish people. He does this without a religious tone. The reader will question the relationship between Asaneth and Abraham. The relationship is one of endearing love. It does not appear to cross the boundaries of incest, yet Abraham’s love for Asaneth goes beyond the love of a father for a daughter. Asaneth at times speaks to Abraham as a father and at other times seems to speak to him as though she is his deceased wife. I kept expecting the gladiator to declare his love for Asaneth.
The setting was Rome at its height of power. The people were ill-treated. Death sentences came swiftly. Our story begins with the birth of a child. The mother suffers great distress. She knew her child would be taken from her and given to a wealthy man. Barnabas’ wife had not borne a child so he took one for her. The male child was raised as Barnabas’ son.
Asaneth was an orphan. She accepted life as it was dealt to her. Eventually she was adopted by Abraham. He was kind to her and loved her. She looked like his deceased wife. Abraham was an accomplished cook. Asaneth was later befriended by a gladiator. The gladiator shared a story with her concerning Abraham.
The gladiator told her of a beautiful woman that caught the attention of Barnabas. She was brought to the palace and forced to become one of his many wives. The woman already had a husband, Abraham. He came to fetch his wife but Barnabas declared they were never married. The beautiful woman took her own life rather than marry Barnabas.
Years later, the gladiator shared the story with Barnabas’ brother Nicholas. Appalled at what his brother had done, Nicholas sent the gladiator to Masada to rescue Abraham. He was accompanied by Asaneth.
"Fortress In The Desert" is not an easy read. The style is almost prose. The author transports readers back in time. He successfully depicts the life of the Jewish people. He does this without a religious tone. The reader will question the relationship between Asaneth and Abraham. The relationship is one of endearing love. It does not appear to cross the boundaries of incest, yet Abraham’s love for Asaneth goes beyond the love of a father for a daughter. Asaneth at times speaks to Abraham as a father and at other times seems to speak to him as though she is his deceased wife. I kept expecting the gladiator to declare his love for Asaneth.
Recommend this book:
Naomi of the Arizona Territory
Mary Katherine Arensberg
2010 Gold Medal
162 Pages
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Fiction - Historical - Event/Era
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
Calvert Hart was fascinated with Naomi Atkins from the moment he heard her laughter. The red haired beauty with turquoise colored eyes captivated him. Unfortunately for him, her parents considered him worthless. His parents were not any happier but love won out and the two eloped. They had been married months before revealing their secret.
Cal and Naomi made a meager home for themselves on his family’s farm in Missouri. They were happy until the war intruded on their lives. The land was worn out, the soldier burned everything in sight and the jayhawkers stole what they could. Time had come for the couple to move on. They were going west to the Arizona Territory. The couple packed all they owned and made the long trek.
Naomi proved she was made of tough stuff. She survived and thrived despite hardship of the era and the territory.
This is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. I loved Namoi’s spunk.
Calvert Hart was fascinated with Naomi Atkins from the moment he heard her laughter. The red haired beauty with turquoise colored eyes captivated him. Unfortunately for him, her parents considered him worthless. His parents were not any happier but love won out and the two eloped. They had been married months before revealing their secret.
Cal and Naomi made a meager home for themselves on his family’s farm in Missouri. They were happy until the war intruded on their lives. The land was worn out, the soldier burned everything in sight and the jayhawkers stole what they could. Time had come for the couple to move on. They were going west to the Arizona Territory. The couple packed all they owned and made the long trek.
Naomi proved she was made of tough stuff. She survived and thrived despite hardship of the era and the territory.
This is one of the best books I’ve read in a long time. I loved Namoi’s spunk.
Recommend this book:
The Dreamer, The Schemer & The Robe
The Amazing Tales of Max & Liz - Book Two
Jenny L. Cote
2010 Gold Medal
400 Pages
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Children - Grade K-3rd
Reviewed by Anne Boiling for Readers' Favorite
After saving Noah and family from the evil stowaway Charlatan aboard the ark in The Ark, the Reed, & the Fire Cloud, heroes Max and Liz, along with faithful mates Kate and Al, earn immortality and a directive from God to serve as His envoys for pivotal points in human history. They have waited for centuries for a word from the Maker; now they learn they are to work behind the scenes in the life of Joseph. In 'The Dreamer, The Schemer & The Robe' the fate of an entire nation rests in their paws.
All looks hopeless for the young teenager as Joseph s brothers sell him into slavery in Egypt. Has Charlatan returned to Egypt to once again stop Max and Liz from accomplishing their mission? With the help of two new characters, a British archeologist mouse and a forlorn camel, they must combat the forces of evil that are out to thwart their plans, leading them into mysterious adventures with pyramids and mummies. If Max and Liz fail in this mission, all of Egypt will suffer from famine, and the Hebrew nation will never be born.
Abounding in life lessons on struggle, enduring trials, forgiveness, and redemption, This book is a nonstop thriller filled with twists and turns, side-splitting humor, treachery and heartache, hope and redemption.
After saving Noah and family from the evil stowaway Charlatan aboard the ark in The Ark, the Reed, & the Fire Cloud, heroes Max and Liz, along with faithful mates Kate and Al, earn immortality and a directive from God to serve as His envoys for pivotal points in human history. They have waited for centuries for a word from the Maker; now they learn they are to work behind the scenes in the life of Joseph. In 'The Dreamer, The Schemer & The Robe' the fate of an entire nation rests in their paws.
All looks hopeless for the young teenager as Joseph s brothers sell him into slavery in Egypt. Has Charlatan returned to Egypt to once again stop Max and Liz from accomplishing their mission? With the help of two new characters, a British archeologist mouse and a forlorn camel, they must combat the forces of evil that are out to thwart their plans, leading them into mysterious adventures with pyramids and mummies. If Max and Liz fail in this mission, all of Egypt will suffer from famine, and the Hebrew nation will never be born.
Abounding in life lessons on struggle, enduring trials, forgiveness, and redemption, This book is a nonstop thriller filled with twists and turns, side-splitting humor, treachery and heartache, hope and redemption.
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