To Get to the Other Side by Kelly Ohlert

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

This was heartwarming and funny, even when it dealt with real issues. Much of how we live today depends on how we process past experiences. With an unexpected beginning and much drama between, the end is satisfying and good.

I recommend this quirky novel if you're struggling to make sense of where you are today. I'd say, "Read it!" if you're stuck in the middle of conversations or relationships. Watching Trixie and Bear negotiate their friendship will give you something to think about and some things to be happy about. Take it with you - and enjoy!

It's Better This Way by Debbie Macomber

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

Macomber is a good writer. Her stories are interesting and familiar because she opens the door to our families, our emotions, and our dreams - by writing about things we know, in uncommon ways.

Claire, Michael, Hilary, and Julia - and their friends - go through challenges that may end in tragedy and mistakes. But ... with the encouragement of her dad's words, ringing in her ears, Julia comes to realize, "It's better this way." 

A fun read, a good story. One to tuck in your bag for the commute or read during the wait for an appointments. 

Suspects by Danielle Steel

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

 Well, the experienced storyteller comes up with another fun plot and characters you want to cheer for. In the flow of this romantic thriller, you will run into surprises. Theo and Mike are on separate missions but unite to find her family's killers.

Steel brings a love story and hope to tragedy and grief, no matter what she writes. You'll be surprised and on the edge of your seat - and then enjoy a satisfying ending.

1 Minute Dog Training® by Tom Mitchell

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

So you got a dog. You don't have much time. But you are frustrated because your pet doesn't listen or obey?

Pick up this simple and clear training manual; it's a great start to a new relationship with your dog. You'll have to be sequential. You'll have to be consistent and firm. You'll learn how your dog understands what you want and want to please you. This book will help you with all that.

Put it on the table beside your gaming chair. Don't forget to check in every day and get moving. Follow the pictures and step-by-step instructions, written by someone who loves and knows animals.

Look out, my 3 doggies. New lessons are coming your way!

Super Fun Art Activities for Kids by Susan Schwake

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

I used to homeschool. This is the kind of book that our 4 kids loved. The pictures and instructions are simple enough for them to do the crafts on their own (after elementary age). The projects are adaptable enough to be the foundation for various subjects. It wouldn't be the only book on my idea shelf but it would be a welcome addition!

The Traitor Among Us by Anne Perry

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

I look forward to Elena Standish novels - and this one doesn't disappoint. The settings feel authentic, the characters genuine, and the mystery to be solved is intriguing. Ok - that's basic.

What I liked about this story is that it kept me turning the page, wondering what was coming next. I was cheering for those doing well and damning those creating trouble. You've got to pick up a copy for your next trip or your commute. I promise the hours will fly by.

Lights a Lovely Mile: Collected Sermons of the Church Year by Eugene H. Peterson

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

The old-fashioned cover is deceptive. Within is collection that gives a broad and up-to-date look at a pastor's heart. For both leaders of congregations and those who appreciate reflective reading, Peterson offers a plunge into stories and shapes of scripture and the Christian calendar. 

Peterson was a student of people, historical writings, and scripture, so his writings offer insights for practical life as well as theology. If your view of the Christian life has become stale, pick up a copy. You'll be prepared to be inspired by quotes from Christians of the past, observations by current scholars, and a man who loves the Bible.

Seek: How Curiosity Can Transform Your Life and Change the World by Scott Shigeoka

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

Some books encourage creativity and curiosity. You'd expect that from a book with this title. Shigeoka is a storyteller who intends to pull you into the world of the creative thinker.

Transformation is encouraged through practical guides of questions, lists, and exercises. You won't be disappointed - next time you walk down the street, sit in a meeting, or wake up to a new day, you'll have new tools to fuel and expend your own creative work and conversations.

Before War: On Marriage, Hierarchy, and Our Matriarchal Origins by Elisha Daeva

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

This is a fascinating look at women's place in history. Social scientists and anthropologists interpret the scant evidence of history, since there are no survivors from various cultures. We have DNA samples, leftovers of writing and hospitality, worship, migration patterns, and settlements. A researcher's job is not just to read the evidence but to interpret it. Therefore, depending on the philosophy (and culture and religion) of the researcher, the findings can be diverse and exciting. 

This volume interprets history through the lens of feminism and anti-patriarchy. Daeva present a well-documented trail of evidence, previous research, and current speculation. While I disagree with most of the author's conclusions, this book presents a wealth of research in anthropology, humanities, historical religious, and mythology.

Dive in if you dare - and see where she takes you. I'm the mom of three fine grown sons and a wonderful daughter. It's been clear from their first yelp that men and women are created differently and those differences show up from the time of birth. Whether our adult kids would agree with each other and Daeva on the evidence dissected and reworked, is not up for debate. The window you look out of determines your view of the street, no doubt about it.

Learn to Draw in 5 Weeks: A Beginner's Workbook for All Ages by KRITZELPIXEL

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

If you're willing to put in the time, you'll have drawing basics at the end of five weeks! (Check the date is 5 weeks from today?) 

Pixel starts with materials and how an artist thinks - "How do you draw a line? swiftly and deliberately. Move you arm from ...." She moves the reader to more and move complex shapes through warmups and assignments and practice sheets. She guides the reader  through the foundations of drawing what you see and imagine. 

Recommended for the next 5 weeks.

The Girl from the Papers by Jennifer L. Wright

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

Want a book with a compelling story that gives insights into culture, American prejudice, and immigrant restrictions? This is it! Highly recommended.

It's a good novel in itself but the story is both heartbreaking and hopeful. You'll want to read it all, including in the messy middle. If you thought your life was complicated and hard, enter the world of Bea and Jack - you'll grieve, laugh, wonder, and most of all consider where your own choices are taking you.

Stolen Focus by Johann Hari

 ★★★★★  The publisher provided a copy for review before publication.

WOW WOW WOW. And I don't "wow" lightly. This is a must-read. Think you control your online feeds? Think you're getting unbiased information. Wonder why your kids are getting the junk they're clicking on? 

What an eye-opener this well-researched book is. 

I teach research and writing in universities, I'm happy to say that research writing is becoming more interesting for the casual and academic reader. 

Why? The writing style has changed from formal to conversational - and this book is no exception. You'll enjoy reading this, be able to find sources (if you're using it for academia), and learn a lot. That's the best kind of book, in my estimation. Definitely worth having on your shelf.

The Urban Sketching Handbook Color First, Ink Later by Mike Yoshiaki Daikubara

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. An interesting new way of looking at and recording your surroundings - blocking in impressions before adding details. Great illustrations, step-by-step techniques, and ideas galore. Worth a place on your shelf and table before you head out the door to sketch your surroundings.

The Burnout by Sophie Kinsella

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

I haven't laughed this hard or this loudly at a book in years. I'm not sure why it struck my funny bone. Maybe ... because so much of it is relatable. You'll enjoy the characters, the struggle to breathe, and the offbeat solutions that bring hope to an exhausted life. Definitely a pick-me-up for when you think you can't take another meeting, another person's drama, or another long night at work.

Put it in your briefcase for when you've endured a coworker's ramble, a boss' dumb idea, and a team's failure. You'll walk away a bit happier with your own situation - and be glad for a funny pause from real life.

Never Too Late by Danielle Steel

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

It's never too late for a happy ending. Just when you're looking for an unpredictable story, a hopeful and interesting plot, and likable characters, here comes another book by Steel.

I always look forward to the twists and turns in the novels she writes. You'll want to tuck this one in your bag or tote for a commute, a day at the beach, or a few hours in the waiting room.

Every Season Sacred by Kayla Craig

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

These reflections will help you to pause and to practice the seasons of faith. I'm recommending this to families, spiritual directors, contemplatives, and those who think they are too busy to reflect on their faith. Craig provides weekly guidance in every season; you'll enjoy the prayers, ideas, and activities. 

Pivot by Scot McKnight; Laura Barringer

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

If your organization or church is struggling to cast vision, live out its purpose, or stay on track, Pivot provides a proven roadmap by trusted mentors. Designed for leaders, board members, and influencers, McKnight and Barringer guide you step by step through the process of creating healthy and effective culture that moves your mission forward.

Highly recommended for aspiring and practicing leaders.

Women Mean Business by Edie Fraser; Robyn Freedman Spizman; Andi Simon

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

 Here's a book written for women who need some quick inspiration ... or deep insights into the meaning and process of work. Whether you're an entrepeneur, a business owner, or employee, there's a quote for every situation and most working relationships.

Proven leaders will speak their wisdom into your career and aspirations. A book to park close at hand for times when you need that special mentor or an influencer, whatever field your career is in.

Living the Seasons: Simple Ways to Celebrate the Beauty of Your Faith throughout the Year by Erica Tighe Campbell

★★★★ ☐ The publisher has provided a copy for review. We sometimes make faith complicated. In our busy schedules, if we think about the milestones of the Christian calendar at all, celebrating the days may feel like too much of an effort. Designed for busy moms, the simple crafts, explanations of the holidays, and adaptations to family rhythms make this a worthwhile purchase. Add it to your shelf ... or let your kids browse the illustrations for ideas during their carpool.

 

Creative Portraits in Watercolor by Ana Santos

 

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

Wow - creative indeed. I enjoyed it. Santos covers the basics if you need help in selecting watercolor supplies, identifying face shapes, and outlining your portrait. However, the color combinations, choosing identifying features, and making a portrait your own are unique and helpful.

The illustrations are clear, the text interesting, and the process is informative. One to add to your library as a beginner or more advanced watercolorist. 

Happiness by Danielle Steel

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

This famous author still knows how to tell a good story. This one was a little random, full of repeated observations and descriptions. But I enjoyed getting to know the family of main characters and how they solve their relationships and resolve their challenges. 

You'll be cheering for the heartfelt hopes and happy with the positive ending. This is one to pick up when you need a little softness to blunt the edges of a day or are passing time on your commute. Enjoy!

A Christmas Vanishing by Anne Perry

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

Ok, this one captured my attention. I wasn't sure where it was going and where it would end until I had finished reading it. 

I enjoy Perry's writing. In her series of Christmas-themed books, this was one of my favorites. It contains mystery, suspense, romance, and holiday hopes. Well worth picking up as the days grow shorter, your evenings are spent indoors, and Christmas comes nearer.