The Grumble Free Year by Tricia Goyer

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Imagine challenging yourself and your family to a year of no grumbling! That's what Goyer did - and then she wrote about their experiment. She offers suggestions and steps on how the family faced the challenge and took the opportunity for transformation. An interesting practical look at how life thrives with appreciation, honesty, and no grumbling.

Well worth reading, whether you are single, married, or have a family. This book will give you opportunities to change your trajectory from grumbling to gratefulness.

Stand Out Networking A Simple and Authentic Way to Meet People on Your Own Terms by Dorie Clark

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Relationships built up over time are valuable and can change the course of life and work. Rather than manipulative name-collecting, Clark advocates for - and explains how to - genuine networks that are of mutual and expansive in their reach.

Clark says, "Rightly understood, networking is a way of living your life with integrity, helping others, and benefiting in proportion to the mount you do and the way you navigate the world." The longterm investment of self in other people brings lifelong benefits and opportunities.

The core mindset of kindness and looking out for others is explored with how-tos, suggestions for maximum effectiveness, and encouragement to become part of a global network that brings mutual and widespread advantages.

Well worth consideration.

MicroShifts Transforming Your Life One Step at a Time by Gary Jansen

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
If it's too hard to make big changes, what happens when small changes are repeated over and over again? Life transformation or big changes in trajectory can be a result of tiny decisions day after day. Jansen encourages the reader to accept challenges by moving toward them incrementally. The stories, examples, and incentives mentioned make transformation seem not only possible but attractive.

Move forward, one small step at a time. Start by reading this book.

Why? What makes us Curious? by Mario Livio

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
What's the first question you remember asking? The curiosity that drives innovation and exploration is unique to humans. Livio explores the qualities of asking "why" that compel us to seek answers. No matter what work we are drawn to - science, art, mathematics, literature ... we want to know why and what and how, when, what for, and what ways things work.

A fascinating look at the inner life and outer workings of curious minds.

Radically Different by Champ Thornton

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Got a pre-teen or teen who's struggling with their identity? Someone being challenged about who God is and if he matter to us? A group of students who wonder if God makes a difference in the world around us?

This book comes with a fill-in leader guide and is recommended for small groups and their leaders. Organized by good, bad, and new categories, this will challenge students to think about and act on God-with-us in ourselves, our families, and our world. It's got colorable (and doodle-able) graphics and space to write your own thoughts, too.

Wish I'd had this when my kids were entering junior high. Recommended.

The Mindful Writing Workshop: Teaching in the Age of Stress and Trauma by Richard Koch

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Stuff happens. Life does not always unfold as it should, with loving parents, caring siblings, and trustworthy friends. Nor does the environment always stay peaceful and supportive of children as they grow up.

This book is intended as a working manual for guiding children through their traumas and stresses toward health and an integrated, productive life. Koch presents an opportunity for a classroom in which children can choose their part in the activities from options that draw them out and draw them forward. The key values are compassion, kindness, respect, and attention from teachers, which are fostered among the students themselves.

Though the underlying philosophy is Buddhism, the principles of caring for each other are valuable and important. Christian teachers (and those of other religions) can translate the values of respectful compassion into their own ways of thinking and pedagogy. This worthy volume will deepen conversation, enhance interactive learning, and encourage respectfulness among colleagues and our students.

Recommended.

Nature into Art by Thomas Christopher and Ngoc Minh Ngo

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
When words and photography and passion come together, you may grow a garden like this one - and a book as beautiful as it is instructive.

The photography captured my eyes first. Then came the chapters on how and why the garden exists, its borders and specialty areas - and the seasons as they progress through the plantings and backdrop of Wave Hill.

The book is descriptive, with a manual of gardening basics on every page. I delighted in it. And though my garden is now tropical, I loved the beds and borders and intentionality - and the wildness that nature insists on.

Well worth a space on your gardening bookshelf as well as on your coffee table for guests to ooh and aah over.

Science in a Jar by Julia Garstecki

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Sometimes I fondly remember the days of homeschooling, when our four kids were baking, cooking, blowing things up, and painting. This book would have been great fun - it allows you to explore the environment and speculate on what might happen.

Then it gives you ideas on what you can do and what should happen: "What could you learn from this project?" Parents will like it for its lessons - but kids will like it because it's a fun book and there are lots of ideas.

Recommended.

The Characters of Christmas by Daniel Darling

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
You can read this book with your kids, your friends, or on your own. "Christmas is just around the corner," as they say.

Whether you're a volunteer or staff member trying to present a holistic picture of the Christmas story, or a parent trying to make sense of what Joseph and Mary went through, you'll enjoy this creative exploration of who the characters may have been - around the time of Jesus' birth.

For a fresh look at the old old story, pick up a copy to read by yourself or with friends.

First Time Sewing with a Serger by Becky Hanson, Beth Ann Baumgartel

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
You bought a machine because it's cool, looks easy, and you thought you knew what to do. Now that it's home, you have no idea where to start. Okay, here you go!

This little volume will introduce you to the purposes, parts, and processes of sergers. The clear pictures and detailed text will help you get started. And from there, you'll have lots of ideas on what your serger is designed for. Have fun - opens the world of clip and sew beyond the sewing store classroom!

Highly recommended. Your #1 go-to once you get that serger out of the box.

The Best Veggie Burgers by Joni Marie Newman

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
This revision of a classic will have you cheering. You love burgers but are cutting down on meat? You'll love this new edition.

Take the food that's good for you, reform it, cook it, mash it up - and you'll have delicious goodness that you and your family (or friends) can enjoy and appreciate.

The pictures are good; the recipes are easier than ever. I recommend it.

A Garden Miscellany by Suzanne Staubach

★★★★★ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

Most gardens have the same basic elements. You expect certain things from a garden. We've all met luxury additions in the landscape, but some things are ... well, what make a space a garden.

And in Staubach's book, you'll find delightful illustrations that feel familiar, no matter where you are gardening. You might find new ideas of how to take your garden to the next level. You may also find out what was missing - that thing that would make your space complete.

This artsy visual encyclopedia of gardening is a delight for the eye as well as the mind. It's equally interesting as a coffee table book, a art illustration idea book, and a gardener's go-to. 

Enjoy it!

Drawing the Head for Artists by Oliver Sin

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
So what's in a face? A whole life is apparent to those who watch our factly and expressions closely. This book will help you observe, focus, and express your observations through drawing and portraiture.

You'll enjoy capturing those you love - as well as those you snap in a photo. Take your art to a whole new level - whether drawing or other mediums are your preferred means of mark-making.

Recommended.

101 More Mixed Media Techniques by Cherril Doty, Heather Greenwood, Monica Moody, Marsh Scott

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
I want to try some of these. Nope - I want to play with most of them. This art DIY volume will bump up your mixed media "I wanna" and your creative "I can do it."

The book offers bright cheer as well as information. You'll look at your tools, your page, and your creative goals in a fresh way. Enjoy this exploration of craft and art - you might even want to take it along on the next girls-night-out and plan an art date with your friends.

Recommended

Painting Masterclass: Creative Techniques of 100 Great Artists by Susie Hodge

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
So how did they do it? You've stared at masterpieces in galleries or on the page - and wondered how on earth you could paint something like that. Maybe you can - and maybe you can't. But it's worth a try to expand your own creative practice.

Hodge simplifies the steps and explores the processes of bringing life to a 2-dimensional format. Worth a look - and worth copying some of the techniques.

Epic Vegan by Dustin Harder

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
You sort of wanted to be a vegan. (But then you thought of all the good food you'll miss. ) Sure, it would be healthier for you. (But what about the tastes you'll leave behind?)

Harder makes vegan recipes an adventure. They look tasty, the photos are attractive, and the ingredients are mostly basic and easy to find. And you can choose the level of complexity - basic or complex.

Word browsing at the bookstore - and probably worth taking to the check-out! For old-timers, this will give you some new ideas as well.

Recommended by someone who was vegan for 7 years. I would have made these recipes.

The Simple Life Guide To Decluttering Your Life by Gary Collins

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
We've become buried in stuff. And we want to live well. So there are a lot of "simplify" books out there. This one was useful because it categorized the various aspects of life in a different way: time, space, energy, etc. We need to declutter. We know that.

And here's a fresh look at how you might do it - and the freedom you're about to experience from that process. Recommended.

A Year of Creativity by Petra Hoeksema; Lidy Nooij; Miriam Catshoek; Bregje Konings

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

So you want to make something special. And when you look back, you want to have finished projects on the wall, the floor, the landscape ... at work, home, and elsewhere. This planner is for you.

Enjoy the prompts and interactions. You already have to know something about crafting and have some basic skills. But at the end of the day, beyond diapers or dishes or weeding, you'll have something that makes you smile and enhances your spaces.

Recommended.

Inside Outside by Linda O'Keeffe

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
This landscaping picture book includes a lot of practical suggests as it explores structure and beauty through text and pictures.

There are enough photos to inspire you and enough white space for notes - I recommend circling what catches your eye and making it a workbook, beyond the coffee table.

Recommended.

Weaving with Little Handmade Looms by Harumi Kageyama

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Small is easily overlooked. Crafts are sometimes trite. But there's real satisfaction in creating something personal and little.

Enjoy this how-to, from making your own loom to choosing your yarns, strings and other materials, to a pretty finished creation.

Recommended for those with limited time and resource - you'll have made something interesting and fun when you're done.

Llewellyn's Complete Book of Essential Oils by Sandra Kynes

★★☐☐ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Essential oils: you've encountered them in pharmacies, on gift shop shelves, and at holistic medicine displays.

Kynes presents a what, why, what for, and how to of using these oils in religious practice (she's a modern witch) and home life. While my faith conflicts directly with hers, I found some of the ideas for health useful. I skipped the religious chapters.  I suggest you do the same.

Read with caution - it's as much a philosophy of religion as a manual for using naturopathic aids. (It fascinates me that earth-as-mother religions are presented without apology while ancient faiths such as Christianity are censored.)

Recommended with the same cautions.

The Canadian Manifesto by Conrad Black

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
As a Canadian who's lived elsewhere (including in the USA) for over 30 years, this was fun to read. It starts with a review of our history and the relative tranquility of our national ethos. We've had no emancipation of slaves or civil war,. We've skipped most shows of force in industry contexts that result in loss of life. (No coal wars for us.)

So how do we appreciate and contribute our ethos to the world at large when our southern neighbor is writing the script for global interactions and forceful (sometimes even bullying) in promoting their worldview and agendas?

Black suggests several areas in which Canada could become a role and world leader. Can he galvanize a nation of responders and generally apathetic citizens to action? That remains to be seen.

I enjoyed it, cheered for much of it, and will ask my expat friends to read it as well.

The Non-Obvious Guide to Emotional Intelligence by Kerry Goyette

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
How do you read and respond in situations that are unknown, uncomfortable, or out of your area of expertise? How do you come to an agreement without compromising your values and ethics? And how do you consider the needs of others while promoting your agenda?

You start by reading the people in the room with you.

Goyette explores three areas where it is key to understand the emotions, background assumptions, and other factors present: decision-making, activity, and relationships.

This book felt as though it was designed for a team workshop. I'd take it on a team retreat and work through it, asking for agreement and observations, disagreements and challenges from team members. Worth considering - might be revolutionary for a dysfunctional team IF the leader was willing to be empathic and open to sharing and receiving the emotional observations of others. (The problem with a low EQ team often stems form a leader with low EQ - who is thus unwilling to be criticized or receive input without completely redefining it from his/her POV.)

I recommend it.

A Theology of Love: Reimagining Christianity through A Course in Miracles by Richard Smoley

★★☐☐ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
What would it mean to do theology with the assumption of God as ultimate mystic? Smoley explores the human adventure described in scriptures through the lens of input from various philosophical and religious traditions. He explores the limits of our imagination and understanding - and asks, what is reality if we don't understand much about anything (besides what we can experience with our senses)? It's an intriguing and dangerous idea - an one that leaves room for a lot of speculation and wild imagination.

Perhaps my biggest concern is the supposition that we can place limitations on God's revelation of himself in the Bible. Is what he tells us enough? Did he reveal himself to us in a true and provable way? Or is it our responsibility as humans to go beyond what we read to speculate on what God might be like and what the universe could be about?

Do we need to add some wildness and unlimited possibility to our theology?

Maybe - but here's my caution: without  the anchor of a vibrant relationship with God through Christ, are we cliff-jumping into academic and philosophical silliness? Smoley's mixture of invention and mystical traditions makes this a no-go for me. It's interesting, but too far from the God who reveals himself in scripture to make it a serious contender for a way of life ... or as wisdom that could lead to a more profound or accurate theology of God-with-us.

Louis L'Amour's Lost Treasures: Volume 2 by Louis L'Amour, Beau L'Amour

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. I have a complete leather-bound collection of Westerns on our cabin shelf. They're barely read because we bought paperbacks of the same books so we could dog-ear the corners, flip them upside-down, and take them to the lake without worrying about their condition.

They're Louis L'Amour novels. A friend introduced us to L'Amour as a favorite author - so I started reading. And kept reading. I get lost in the stories, though they can be formulaic.

And here comes another set, introduced by Louis' son Beau - along with a biography of his father's writing career and connections. I learned a lot, enjoyed the stories (and broader genres), and observations of his writing process.

I'll say it - if you're a fan (old or new), get this volume. You'll feel the familiar cadence in L'Amour's writings. He's a great storyteller and entertainer. But you'll also be surprised by the breadth of his observation of life around the world - beyond Westerns. Recommended.

Publish with Purpose by Tara R. Alemany

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
So many of today's books feel aimless. They wander through a story or landscape with half-formed characters and no point to reading them beyond an interesting observation or two.

Alemany aims to change that with her categories of selection - audience, purpose, methodology - to make writing books a purposeful exercise. This results in reading that is more fun, more challenging, and more useful to those who pick up your book.

This book reminded me of explanations of using social media, selling online / in person, and other ways of connecting your expertise to a wider audience. So it's a sales book in that sense.

But its DIY focus is clear. Following its steps will result in more satisfaction in getting yourself and your information to the public. Recommended for writers.

How Can I remember that? by Tracy Packiam Alloway

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.

Some kids have trouble remembering - maybe because of a brain disfunction, a learning gap, or other challenges. This book aims to provide reassurance and tips for improving working memory.

However, it also provides information and help for adults with learning disabilities or who struggle to build working memory. Highly recommended as it's from a professional who works in the field and has ideas for personal practical application.

I'm going to use some of the tips as I learn a new language.

Global Arts and Christian Witness by Roberta R. King

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
This is part of a series on Mission in Global Community for students and others. Music and other arts are an integral part of culture. They have always been part of the worship of the Church and part of the way we tell God's story. As a musician, this topic is dear to my heart. Though there is nothing startlingly different here, the book is encouraging and comprehensive about creative and proven ways to intersect culture.

With many illustrations, King encourages artists and musicians to create space for God's work in and through their art. She also promotes the idea of engaging and understanding cross-cultural settings by listening and looking at the art of other places, particularly in non-reading cultures.

Art is always a two- (or more-) way conversation. Showing, telling, and playing through voice, instruments, and artistic mediums allows a deep heart engagement, which nonetheless comes with some parameters and cautions. King gives a good overview of the process and the possibility of offering Good News through the arts. Recommended.

Nine Thoughts That Can Change Your Marriage by Sheila Wray Gregoire

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
Marriage is no easy relationship. It is not something that can be treated lightly after the white dress is hung up, the flowers have wilted, and the new furniture is moved into a house.

This, written in an easy-to-read style, could be called "The nine secrets of a happy marriage." Gregoire examines damaging assumptions with which women enter and maintain their marriage.

She encourages wives to continue to pursue health and strengthen their marriages by changing their thinking ... and thus their actions. There are chapters on treating our husbands as friend and neighbor, accepting them as they are, not competing, and being a person of peace.

If you have been struggling in marriage or if you need a book that offers hope for a wife who wants to bring health to her marriage relationship, pick this us.

Life Coaching: The Key to Your Future by Alexander R. Davis

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
This book is like having a life coach sit down and ask you questions. It explains the process of life coaching from one appointment to the next. If you've considered hiring a coach, this will explain how the process works.

Looking forward from where you are - want to go from here to there (even if you don't know where "there" is?

Want your assumptions challenged? This is for you if you'd benefit from examples on how to attract a life you have only hoped for.

Always On by Angela Williams Gorrell

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
The author views 4 general categories of new media - social networking, user content, marketing/trading sties, and gaming - and their implications for the Christian community. Many of our interactions now take place online.

Gorrell looks at ways people engage online, as well as how to maximize the opportunities in communities of faith. Many of our friendships are found, broadened, and developed through media. Thus, God, who is present with us, is present in those interactions.

This is a book for community leaders and thinkers. How do we integrate our journey of faith with all the opportunities and challenges media puts on our phones and laptops, our businesses and homes? Sharing our human experience - with its true nature of crises and joys - lets believers bring Christ into real (no performed) conversations that are happening 24-7 with the world around us. Recommended.

The Culture of Theology by John Webster

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review.
Six lectures and a lifetime of theology. In the two decades after these talks were presented in 1996, Webster continued to explore what it means to think theologically within "the sphere in which Christian faith and life have their existence by the miracle of God's grace." The extended editorial notes explain a great deal of his theology and enthusiasm for the truth about God and humanity as found in scriptures.

For Webster, theology was a conversation rooted in Christian culture and praxis as well as a deep astonishment that God is present with us and active among us. The personal search to know God better will be a conversation between the theologian's activity in the Church and beyond it, in his/her culture and relationships, measured by God's goodness and favor.

What I felt was an invitation to join an intimate quest - to know God theologically. That may be the legacy left by Webster, who passed away several years ago. Well worth reading, reflecting on, and perhaps even - letting it change your life.

Stars in the Grass by Ann Marie Stewart

★★★★★ This book was given me by a friend, also a writer.

I thought it might be interesting, but didn't expect to be captivated by the story. It flowed with good character development - I was interested in the people I read about and felt they could be my neighbors.

When a child dies, how does a family cope? How do parents process the grief and absence of a son or daughter? How do siblings readjust to their place in the family? Stewart understands the sense of loss and the repercussions.

The story is wonderful - tender and sweet. If you want a tear-jerker, something to make you laugh and cry, something to touch your heart and make you cherish your relationships ... read Stars in the Grass.

Instagram Queen - slay Instagram traffic & targeting in 30 days! by Lara Badiali

★★★★★  I was a beta tester for this course (call me surprised by its utterly practical and creative content.)

Wow. If you're setting up an Instagram account, maximizing the potential of IG for a business, or just curious what the IG fuss is about - here's my hearty recommendation to enroll in Instagram Queen.

I was not expecting much when I signed up as a beta tester. It was a 2-week test. I was kinda curious about IG, which I rarely used. My friends touted it as "the thing" and "the way we communicate." Ok, let's see, I thought. Why not?

What I didn't expect was to be taken from raw novice to really understanding the medium. I didn't expect a course with a fun and funny host who delivered serious content, laid out in a logical, easy-to understand way. I didn't expect a deep plunge into how-tos, lots of insider tips, links to resources, or confidence in creating valuable ongoing relationships. I didn't expect maximum impact and benefit.

But Lara Badiali delivered. And how! "Much more than we expected," according to fellow IG students and me. The course starts June 17. Click here to Lara more about it.

I admit it may cost you a pretty penny - but it's the equivalent of a university summer course ... in 30 days. The course replaces someone you'd hire to figure out this stuff on her/his own for a few months. So it's a great investment. It will pay off within a short time.

Still thinking? If you dive in, be prepared to fast-forward from neutral to full capacity: Badiali leads you step by step from understanding your clients, setting up an account, and creating content, to scheduling, marketing, and maximizing what you've designed. HAVE FUN.

The Complete Food Substitutions Handbook: Including Options for Low-Sugar, Low-Fat, Low-Salt, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Free, and Vegan by Jean B. MacLeod

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review.
Such a helpful reference book! The substitutions are clear and easy - the variety is amazing. Sometimes you need to use other ingredients. You've run out of something; your food sensitivities mean you can't have certain ingredients; you're trying a restricted diet. Or you're serving a guest with restrictions.

GET THIS book if you or your family have food sensitivities. The recipes use easy-to-find and simple ingredients. The instructions are clear.

Wish I'd had it when I was vegan. Would have been such a help.

12 Rules for Life by Jordan Peterson

★★★★★  The publisher didn't provide a copy for review. I got it myself.
My brother said, "watch Peterson on YouTube." Our family enjoys a debate on topics beyond boxes and pat answers. So I did. And I said, hmmm, interesting.

And then I read 12 Rules.  Peterson explains his philosophy of life - be nice and do good things - in ways that let us make pragmatic and practical choices for the future we want ... and a better world.

I'm going to read this with a group of leaders who wrestle with ideas and change. I laughed and teared up at various points (unusual for someone who is usually emotionally detached from media). I wrinkled my forehead at some points and said a loud, "Yes, of course!" at other parts.

If the name of one of the rules doesn't get your attention, you're not thinking deeply enough about consequences and societal progress. "Do not let your children do anything that makes you dislike them." Ok, here's another: "Assume that the person you are listening to might know something you don't."

Worth purchasing. Worth keeping on your desk for further thought. Hey, let's face it: I don't say that about many books. Get a copy and read it.

Orchid Modern: Living and Designing with the World’s Most Elegant Houseplants by Marc Hachadourian

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review If you live near a florist or in a warm climate, chance are you've brought home an orchid. The flowers last a long time - and bring a sophisticated touch of the jungle to any corner. In my tropical home, I repurposed thick guava branches from a 40-yr-old tree as orchid stands. But if you love orchids and live in outside the tropics, you need this book.

Hachadourian offers many arrangements for the modern home - stunning combinations of natural and found objects, care and cultivation, and how and where to display your creations. The step-by-step instructions and stunning photos will delight you.

For a special occasion, you may want to take this book to your florist - I guarantee you'll get more than you bargained for in return. Highly recommended for lovers of flowers.

Stubborn Hope by Janet Creps

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review

I picked up Stubborn Hope and couldn't put it down. Most of us had hopes and dreams when we're young - and some of those came true. We thought we'll be outstanding, that we'd contribute great things to the world. As the years go by, we began to realize that life is not what we thought it would be.

Janet weaves stories from the Bible between her own. She offers a glimpse of an utterly relatable life of longing, of wanting things to go well. Her transparency, humor, and honesty carry us through failures and endings, bittersweet downturns, and downright disappointments. You'll smile at the kindness of friends. You'll identify with doing the hard work of life. And you'll agree with how hard it is to leave the outcomes to God.

If my description makes you think the book is depressing, believe me that it's not. I felt joy bubbling up again and again. Creps explores what it means to be anchored in a relationship with the Living God. The hopefulness of an ongoing friendship with God - despite any present reality - will make your heart sing. No matter what your life is like today, I recommend this book. 

And you'll want to share it with a girlfriend or women's group when you're done!

The Happiness Diary by Barbara Ann Kipfer

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
A colorful journal for all the random thoughts that make us happy - good questions, cute graphics, lots of space to write your hopes down. You can doodle, color, or use words.

A visual dream journal and memory book in one. I recommend it.

Working with Color (Urban Sketching) by Shari Blaukopf

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review
What a good manual - I'll consider taking it along on my next trip, along with my little Winsor Newton travel watercolor set. It's better than most novels that pass the time on long flights, that's for sure. I enjoyed the layouts and explanations - if you're looking to ramp up your sketching practice, this book is for you.

I really like this press' format - the illustrations are lively, the text clear - and the subject matter is interesting and timely for me.

Me We Do Be by Randall Bell

★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review

This book was a shocker in a few ways: the clarity of writing and appeal of the stories. Best was:
*The logical premise - that there are several factors of success.
*The encouragement and inspiration with practical steps toward a life we want to live. (I really enjoyed the incremental "can-do-this-today" approach.)
* The holistic internal and external factors we choose to put in place - physical, spiritual, mental, and otherwise - are covered with stories of people every American would know.

I'd recommend it for anyone who needs motivation or coaching on moving forward toward a better life or better work.

Fun at Work by Greg Winteregg

★★★☐☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review.
A thorough, old-fashioned "Here's how it's done book, "Fun at Work" helps executives put together a job without missing pieces. Through his stories, illustrations, and lists. Winteregg shows how companies are led and managed.

I didn't find much new information here - more a review and summary of a lifetime of business experience, like something my dad would say. Winteregg's target is building a long-term dynasty, not the nimbleness of millennial startups. Therefore his book will appeal most to executives in traditional, longterm companies driven by profit and investor returns.