Reviewed by Michelle Robertson for Readers' Favorite

But By The Chance of War by Richard C. Lyons is a poetic novel written in theatrical form, introducing readers to the concepts of poetic writing, war, and human nature. But By The Chance Of War consists of four chapters written as pieces in a play, each presenting a different era of war. This introduces readers to the impulses human nature brings when conflicted with the experiences of war or just the mere thought of it. Each chapter or play piece provides references such as a map, details on the location, and who is going to be present and, of course, an overview of the scene for readers to vividly create their own scenery.

The first piece begins in the year of 515 C.E. when two armies fight in India. The second piece begins in 1759 at Fort Niagara involving the French and English armies. The third piece begins in 1918 France, during World War 1 but features soldiers of many countries such as Germany, Ireland, South Africa, and Australia. The fourth piece begins in present day Jerusalem when the United States and Israel together face a nuclear blast.

But By The Chance Of War is a book that will cause readers to reflect upon emotions and expectations of how they ultimately see the world. The author offers a in-depth look into human nature and its connection to and hunger for war over time. The book is over 480 pages long, thus making it a read that cannot be rushed or skimmed due to its size and also its uniquely written style. A reader that is not interested in the theater or not familiar with poetry perhaps will not find this book for them. Readers who have studied or are interested in military history, psychology, and theatrical poetry will enjoy But By The Chance Of War immensely. Bravo, Richard C. Lyons.

Reviewed by Bil Howard for Readers' Favorite

Sometimes God's creatures need a helping hand when they become lost or stuck. The Great Carp Escape by Irish Beth Maddock and illustrated by Lucent Ouano tells the story of how some ugly fish are treated just the same as the more beautiful of God's creatures. Beth and Paul enjoyed playing along the edge of the lake, spending their summer days watching the minnows and digging for clams in the mud. They discovered another fish, a rather ugly one near the drooping willows. That ugly fish was a carp, not a particularly pleasing sight for the two. They tended to stay away from the drooping willows along the edge of the lake to avoid having the carp nibble on their toes. One spring, however, when the flood waters came, a school of carp was trapped in a pool. With no way to escape, the ugly fish would never make it back to the lake. Would Beth and Paul let them die or was there a way to help them out? You'll have to read the story to find out.

Irish Beth Maddock has written a simple story with a sound message in The Great Carp Escape. Although carp are not particularly attractive, they are one of God's creatures and in their way have a certain sort of beauty that is all their own. It is impossible not to be drawn into this story without fully appreciating the rich colors and awesome detail. A simple message with profound meaning and illustrated beautifully, The Great Carp Escape is a great addition to any child's book collection.

Reviewed by Tracy Slowiak for Readers' Favorite

In a fun, funny and adventurous new story targeting children in later elementary grades, The Land Without Color is the first book in a new series by the same name written by author Benjamin Ellefson. This book will engage its readers from the very beginning and will keep them reading all the way through until the very end. Follow the story of protagonist 12-year-old Alvin, a boy who finds himself in quite a predicament. After floating through the air with the aid of a huge gum bubble, he lands in a world unlike any other he's seen before, a land without color. Everything there is gray, and no one is quite sure why. Alvin meets some new friends that are set on helping him, as well as solving the mystery of the colorless landscape that surrounds them. Will they succeed, and will Alvin find his way home? You'll have to read the book to find out!

I loved The Land Without Color. Loved. It. How's that for a review? Well, it's definitely how I felt about this lovely book for older children. Author Benjamin Ellefson has done a wonderful job in creating a story line that will entertain its readers and please their parents with its message and tone. This book contains elements of fantasy, fairy tale, action and adventure, is fast paced, and is simply a fun read! Any child, but especially those between fourth and sixth grades, would enjoy this book, and their parents should absolutely buy it for them. I highly recommend this book, and look forward to seeing more in this promising series by author Benjamin Ellefson, hopefully in the very near future!

Reviewed by Kim Anisi for Readers' Favorite

Freedom Within The Heart by Mark Mahon is the story of the Viking invasion of Ireland, and how the Irish clans dealt with that rather unpleasant visit. Mahoun and his brother Brian Boru are the centre of the story, and of course Brian is the hero of the title. And he is indeed a historical figure of Irish history. So this comic is not only entertaining but also a good way to get people interested in that part of history. It's a different kind of historical fiction, and of course has a bit of folklore mixed in.

Apparently, the story behind Freedom Within The Heart by Mark Mahon will be turned into a movie, and I can imagine how this would work quite well. It all starts with the childhood of the two brothers who witness how their parents are brutally murdered by the invading Vikings. That experience leads to them growing into men that will play a vital role in the fight against the invaders. The story is full of action and a fair amount of violence, but it also does not lack moments of emotion and drama and some fun. I thoroughly enjoyed reading page after page, and it taught me something about Irish history that I did not know. I am sure that this kind of format would also be quite valuable to older students for history classes (as traditional history books can be so off-putting).

Reviewed by Lit Amri for Readers' Favorite

“I hope this book makes at least a small contribution to accurately publicizing the true nature of the young successor, of whom little is known.” Ha Tae Keung.

The Great Successor - Kim Jong Un: A Political Cartoon is a comic book detailing the succession to power of the present North Korea leader, written by Ha Tae Keung, president of Open Radio for North Korea, which broadcasts educational, cultural and personal message programming into North Korea. This book is illustrated by artist Choi Byeong Seon, a researcher at the Global Artists Association and a director of the Korea Cartoonists Association.

Perhaps this is the most serious and thought-provoking comic book that I’ve ever read. Reading or listening to any news about the self-isolated North Korea is sporadic at best. This book gives us insight into the North Korea dictator’s past, present, and the sentiments towards him and his ruling. Readers will also learn about Jong Un’s half older brother, Kim Jong Nam, who was once widely considered to be the next leader of North Korea. Jong Nam’s capitalist nature and his desire for reformation of the country, however, were opposed by his father. His much-publicized botched attempt to secretly enter Japan using a fake passport and visit Tokyo Disneyland in 2001 was his ultimate downfall with his father and North Korea’s elite.

The illustrated feelings of the North and South Koreans regarding the succession give us a rare and informative glimpse into this particular event. All in all, this is a great read and ultimately, the North Koreans are hoping for a better future. Hopefully that day will come soon.

Reviewed by Faridah Nassozi for Readers' Favorite

The Cavern of Promise is the third and final chapter in the Giants in the Land trilogy by Clark Rich Burbidge. Thomas and Herdshepherd's journey to the western lands is cut short by an ambush in which Thomas is captured. Although left for dead, Herdshepherd's purpose is not finished and, with the guidance of Rachael (deceased wife of Thomas), he will serve to aid the living. The attack on Thomas and Herdshepherd threatens the peace that was delicately crafted after a deadly battle that left behind a millennium-long rift between the giants. From here on, every party must tread carefully if there is to be any hope of peace prevailing. While Earthwatcher and Forestmaster make the sad journey back home with Herdshepherd's remains, Rose, Marcus and Tom set off on a near suicidal mission to rescue Thomas. Thomas's people are racing against the clock to rescue him from the hands of the ruthless king of the western lands and to do so without any major disruption to the fragile peace. Thomas will face a most trying time at the hands of the king, but will emerge from his trials as the beginning of hope for the oppressed people. But first, he will have to survive a deadly match against a most vile of giants. Only then will there be hope for all - a journey to the mythical Cavern of Promise hangs in the balance.

Just as in the first two books, Clark Rich Burbidge's work in this final part of the Giants in the Land trilogy is simply incredible. The Cavern of Promise brings an amazing story to an end in a most fitting way. Clark Rich Burbidge's skill comes through in every bit of the story including such aspects as the carefully selected character names that strike a delicate balance between matter of fact and elusive mystery; defining each character's place and purpose in the land, but with a hint of something more. The Giants in the Land trilogy is a profound read that goes beyond the amazing story telling to share invaluable lessons. Man has a lot to learn from the story, including such lessons as to always choose love over hate and peace over war, and to always hold on to hope, even in the most trying of situations. Our leaders could learn so much from the doctrine of The Way of Things, as would all of us. I was most profoundly touched by this statement uttered by a grieving father who chose peace over avenging his son: "What good does hate and revenge do if the result is that I become what I hate?” These words will forever ring loud in my mind. If you have read book 1 and 2 of the Giants in the Land trilogy, you will definitely have to read this remarkable conclusion to the story, and if you have not, you are missing out on a truly worthy fiction fantasy read.

Reviewed by Ashley Tetzlaff for Readers' Favorite

Tim Love wrote The Book That Gets Better with Age: Observations Through the Looking Glass of Aging to help older folks process life – past, present and future – and assist young people in letting go of things that hinder them now so they can live a fuller life as they age. There are 32 chapters in the book, almost every one of which has an accompanying illustration which brings the concepts to life more. The font also increases one point in each chapter, so you go from about 10/12 font size to 40 or so. It is fun and makes reading feel fast and easy. Tim asked different people the question “What gets better with aging?” Answers like “comfort rather than fashion,” “enjoying the journey, rather than just racing to a destination,” “doing what you want instead of what you should do,” “having an easier time saying no,” show wisdom and insight that both old and young can appreciate.

I absolutely LOVE The Book That Gets Better with Age! Tim Love does an exceptional job presenting the different concepts. He has a great sense of humor and a good grasp of language. The chapters flow together and into the next so well, though each chapter can be read as a standalone. Also, select pieces of poetry and thoughtful quotes are sprinkled throughout the book. I find that I appreciate the wording and thoughts in these as I get older too. Poetry is a pain as a youngster. The flavor is so much better as you age – like a good wine. This book is so good. It will DEFINITELY go on my list of top favorite books. And I am already thinking of all the people that would appreciate getting it as a gift, including myself. Recommended for all ages.

Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

When cousins Justin and Adam traveled to Egypt with their grandmother and Aunt Isabel an adventure awaited them. Scottish archaeologist James Kinnaird was missing. His theories concerning the legendary Scarab King were controversial. Mysteries abound in Egypt. Adam acquired a special antique scarab. Sinister Dr. Khalid was very interested in Adam’s artifact. Aunt Isabel’s camera was stolen. The boys face danger and kidnapping. Can they rescue Kinnaird, solve the mystery, and find the treasure?

Too often it is difficult to find books that will hold the attention of 10-15-year-olds. They prefer action packed books. The lead characters in this book are Justin and Adam. They will appeal to the focus audience. The boys are intelligent, diligent and brave. They are excellent role models. Fiona Ingram has not short changed the secondary characters. They are well developed with personalities and voices of their own. The plot is fast paced and action packed. Adults will enjoy this book just as much as preteens.

Reviewed by Anne Boling for Readers' Favorite

Janice Hypolite retired from her position as an accountant, spent time with her daughters and then decided to pursue her desire to teach. In the 1980s it was very easy to achieve certification to substitute teach. After a short while she returned to accounting. In 2007 she decided to return to subbing. Her certification was out of date and the criteria to gain one was much tougher. After receiving her updated certification Janice prepared herself for the new school year by buying paper, pencils, a tote and searching for lessons to keep the students occupied. She expected to work frequently but it was the end of Oct. before she was called to teach. The teacher had not left a lesson plan. The students were loud, rude and uncooperative.

At one point Janice asked herself the question, “Who is in charge, the students or the teachers.” After having also been a substitute teacher with similar experiences I can say that too often the students are in charge. MS Hypolite apparently kept a diary of each class she taught and problems within the class. Being a sub is not easy. I found the best subs were retired teachers. They had degrees in education. They were better prepared to handle the behavior problems in the classroom. Students seem to recognize their authority.
Not everyone is cut out to be a teacher. Many who desire to be one lack the skills that are needed. I discovered early on that I worked better in EBD classes than in regular classrooms.

Author Janice Hypolite's experiences as a substitute teacher in the Chicago Public School system are informative and well documented. She effectively discusses discipline problems and the attitudes of teachers, as well as the issues facing subs like intimidation from other teachers and lack of lesson planning.The last chapter of the book is filled with the author’s creative suggestions and honest opinions. There is a lot of valuable experience and wisdom in this book that readers will find eye-opening, especially parents and those in the educational field.

Reviewed by Paul Johnson for Readers' Favorite

Former military intelligence operative, now small town lawyer James Becker, and his ex-CIA wife, Beth, have retired to Beck's hometown of Red Wing, Minnesota. Their retirement hasn't been exactly what they'd expected. Now, a new source of crime and intrigue has settled in their small community. A large Mexican drug cartel, tired of risking everything in cross-border actions, has set up shop in their county to make and sell crystal-meth. The new meth production facility is the largest in North America. But, to complicate things a little more, Becker's slightly eccentric, good friend and ex-special operations soldier, Terry "Bull" Red Feather, tells him that there may be other trouble coming their way. Bull's former comrade-in-arms is coming to Red Wing on a mission. After decades of assaults on the cartels, he is determined to finish it, once and for all, with plans to blow up the Minnesota meth plant. He wants Bull to help. The Beckers want no part of that but realize they must do something to dismantle the cartel operations before a full-blown drug war breaks out in Red Wing.

This story is very well written with interesting characters, good straight forward dialog and plenty of intrigue and action to keep the reader's attention and interest. I found it interesting that the author chose to use different points of view within the story. For the protagonist, and actions and scenes centered on him, it was first person; for the other characters, to include other major players as well as numerous flashbacks, it was third person. Although more writers are using the multiple POV format, it isn't widely done. In this case, the author managed to pull it off without any major distractions. I'm not sure if I'm a fan of this particular style of writing, but each reader can make up his/her own mind. Overall, The Covert Element is a good story with a good amount of suspense and action.