Self-Published Book Review of the Week: Sunaru

9781432713553_cov.inddSunaru

by Lawrence Lueder

This self-published book was recently reviewed by Reader Views:

The author has taken us into the future, with space travel made easy, new planets discovered and the dangers of setting up a new civilization. One cannot take on the expedition if they do not meet the requirements, one of which is that you are an ex-con and willing to fight. Also on board are frozen embryos, clones and a mix of people from other planets.

The discovery of Sunaru is one of excitement and danger- no civilized person has been here before. What they didn’t realize is that they are not alone- Manators, horrex and bull-bears are in hiding waiting for them. In an instant they will appear and one of the explorers will disappear.

Through the author’s excited voice and description, the readers are able to imagine that this one-day may be where we live. It is filled with drama, daring escapes and creatures you couldn’t even imagine. Mr. Lueder brings in new concepts of families, medicine, weaponry and survival that none of us might even imagine.

I must say that science fiction isn’t something I read a lot of; however, while reading “Sunaru” by Lawrence Leuder I felt that the author was giving us a preview of what’s to come. This is the first in a series for the author; the ending of the book leaves you wanting more.

For more information or to order the book, visit the author’s webpage: www.outskirtspress.com/Sunaru

Self-Published Book Review of the Week: Patterns of Perception

9781432729295_cov.inddPatterns of Perception

by Nicholas J. Cipriani

This self-published book was recently reviewed by Reader Views:

You never know when you are going to fall in love with a book. It is a great experience to pick up a book you would not normally read, and fall deeply into the book. I was hooked from the intriguing photo on the cover – which at any given time looks like a beehive, tree knot, vicious screaming
warrior, or an enhanced photo of a mushroom lying on its side – and couldn’t wait to see what was between the cover. I was not disappointed. Each of the short stories will have you esmerized and wanting more. Short stories are some of my favorite literature to read because there is so much in such a short time.

“Patterns of Perception” sways into metaphysics and deals with thoughts and ideas beyond our normal scope of understanding. As Cipriani states, “Voltaire wrote, ‘When he that speaks, and he to whom he speaks, neither of them understand what is meant, that is metaphysics.’ My guess is that the imagination lies somewhere between the mind and the soul and is attached at the heart.  Personally, I can think of no better place.” With this in mind…beep, turn the page.

Everyone will have a favorite. My personal favorite is “Ca’noonce The Merman.” I thought it was just wonderful. A magical island named Lemuria and mermaids and mermen. Ca’noonce was sixteen with a massive chest and bulging biceps and muscles – what more could you ask for?  Magical fins?

Cheers to Nicholas J. Cipriani; he has created a masterpiece with “Patterns of Perception.” Having started with a blank mind you will be surrounded by worlds and wisdom like never before. You will experience heightened feelings and, as I, truly love reading this book. I hope there are many more to follow. And about the cover, I’m thinking maybe a tree stump?

For more information or to order the book, visit the author’s webpage: www.outskirtspress.com/patternsofperception

Self-Published Book Review of the Week: In-Sight

9781432737023_cov.inddIn-Sight

by Gerard D. Webster

This self-published book was recently reviewed by Reader Views:

Author Gerard D. Webster has given readers an action-packed, suspenseful read that they will not be able to put down. His characters are lost in their own world of greed and deception, and Ward McNulty places himself in danger when he lets an old friend convince him that he should back an exclusive resort to be built on an island that his own father lives on.

Ward’s girlfriend, a popular news anchor, can’t understand why he won’t commit to marriage and still let her lead her life the way she wants. Later, through many dangerous adventures, she discovers something about her own past that makes her re-think her priorities.

The authors’ use of vivid descriptions of people, places and events put you right in the action. His underlying story is that of redemption, belief in the Higher Power and the love of family.

“In-Sight,” by Gerard D. Webster, is a book you won’t be able to put down.

For more information or to order the book, visit the author’s webpage:  www.outskirtspress.com/insight

Self-Published Book Review of the Week: How to Heal Your Heart and Soul From Divorce

9781598007145_cov.inddHow to Heal Your Heart and Soul From Divorce

by Tammy Lynn

This self-published book was recently reviewed by Reader Views:

Through the author’s own experience, she talks about her divorce and what she learned to help her get through this startling and traumatic time. Divorce is never easy, especially when it comes as a surprise.

Often we give up our careers and goals to the wishes of our partner; we have no job skills and don’t even know where to start to get back on our feet. We find that we have few friends we can count on during this time. Then we have the difficult task of telling our children what is going on. Tammy Lynn was able to do this through the help of very close friends. After being out of work for some
time, she found she needed to enter the job market once again.

Even though we go through denial, anger and maybe revenge, Tammy Lynn lets us know that those feelings can only hurt us and keep us from moving on. She has provided examples of how she was able to move on and shares them with the readers in an encouraging format.

“How to Heal Your Heart and Soul From Divorce” by Tammy Lynn is a wonderful, encouraging read from a mother of three.

For more information or to order the book, visit the author’s webpage: www.outskirtspress.com/howtohealyourheartandsoulfromdivorce

Self-Published Book Review of the Week: Never Assume

9781598007145_cov.inddNever Assume: Getting To Know Children Before Labeling Them

by Patricia McGuire

This self-published book was recently reviewed by Reader Views:

Patricia McGuire, a single parent, mother of three, and a developmental pediatrician, has written an excellent resource for parents to help them learn to get to know their child(ren), their temperaments and how to develop skills that make parent and child living together easier.

Through essays and personal stories, the author gives everyday examples of when meltdowns come for both the child and parent. She gives good advice on how to handle various situations and advice on when to not get into a battle.

One of the most important sections of information, I thought, was very beneficial, was the section on learning your child’s temperament. Temperament is the way your child handles the world around them. Some of these traits include approachability, adaptability, and intensity of reactions. By providing examples of her daughter Megan, these areas are easy to read and understand. Even being a Psychologist for over 25 years, I had not even thought of this area as one we need to know. I certainly changed my mind after reading this section. I still believe, as does the author, the best way to communicate with a child is to get down to their eye level, use a low and calm voice, say their name and keep the words simple.

The author also provides a good section on special needs children and the impact that labeling has on them. Many in the education world believe that children with learning disabilities are “just plain lazy.” It is important that educators learn to teach children at a level and type that are comfortable to the children.

The last section of the book talks about modeling for our children and often we as parents say things like “because I’m the parent and I said so.” Children often think we don’t have the time to answer their questions of “why”- and we often believe we don’t have to answer those questions. This often leads to a battle of wills- with no one winning.

I found “Never Assume” by Patricia McGuire to be very informative, set in a tone that was neither demeaning nor controlling. I can see the author’s passion in working with children and trying to help parents become the best parents they can. It is such a simple thing- know your child.

For more information or to order the book, visit the author’s webpage: www.outskirtspress.com/Patricia_McGuire_MD_FAAP