Review Tales
Trusted Reviews and Author Features Since 2016
A Powerful Exploration of Empathy and Liberation: Bell Tower by Raphael Pond (Book Review#2025)
In Bell Tower, author Raphael Pond introduces a thrilling dystopian world where a single phrase can heal pain, and ancient meditation practices hold the key to unlocking human potential. At the heart of this compelling narrative is Sasha Sumzer, a mysterious and enigmatic meditation teacher with a hidden agenda that could change the course of society.
Read MoreAn Instrument for Florenda by Tomeko Brown and Christopher Smallwood (Book Review #2024)
An Instrument for Florenda is a heartwarming and inspiring story for young readers, written by Tomeko Brown and Christopher Smallwood. The novel follows eleven-year-old Florenda Little, a girl growing up in Louisiana, where music and sound fill her world. Florenda’s passion for playing an instrument has blossomed since attending a live orchestra performance, and her dream is to play the clarinet. When her school announces it will offer a band class, Florenda is thrilled at the opportunity to learn and perform in the Winter Concert.
However, when Florenda approaches her mother about buying a clarinet, her hopes are dashed when she learns they can’t afford it. Despite the setback, Florenda’s determination to achieve her dream pushes her to work tirelessly over the summer, taking on multiple jobs suited to an eleven-year-old. Yet, the funds she earns still fall short of the clarinet’s price.
In a touching twist, Florenda’s neighbors, Mr. Henry and Lorretta Lyles, step in to help. Lorretta, who has played the clarinet throughout her life, offers Florenda a used instrument. This selfless act of kindness allows Florenda to pursue her musical passion and join the band. The story then follows Florenda through a series of gripping events, including band competitions and a concert with a surprising and heartwarming ending.
This second edition of An Instrument for Florenda beautifully captures the themes of perseverance, community support, and the power of music. Florenda’s journey is a testament to the value of hard work, determination, and the kindness of others in the face of adversity. The vivid descriptions of Louisiana’s rich musical culture and the personal growth of the protagonist will resonate with readers of all ages.
Overall, An Instrument for Florenda is a touching and motivating read for young readers and adults alike, reminding us that dreams can come true with hard work and a little help from those around us. This book will inspire readers to believe in their own dreams and the power of community.
Written by Jeyran Main
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Abby and the Bicycle Race by Abigail Subrena Laub (Book Review #2023)
Abigail Subrena Laub’s Abby and the Bicycle Race is a delightful and empowering story that captures the heart and imagination of readers, both young and old. Based on true events from Laub’s childhood in Guyana, this tale carries an inspiring message about courage, resilience, and breaking barriers.
Read MoreEINZ Vol. I by O. Hayat (Book Review #2022)
EINZ Vol. I by O. Hayat presents an engaging and unorthodox approach to philosophical and political discourse. The book comprises a series of essays that probe deeply into some of the world’s most complex and enduring questions. Ranging from broad philosophical dilemmas to specific political debates, Hayat’s collection is both ambitious and refreshingly original in its execution.
Read MoreEverything I Hope For by Cinda Gault (Book Review #2021)
Cinda Gault’s Everything I Hope For is a beautifully crafted coming-of-age novel that explores themes of family, identity, love, and personal growth. Set in the early 1970s, the story follows Belinda Pompey, a bright and introspective young woman navigating the challenges of a fractured home, societal expectations, and the excitement of first love.
Read MoreThe Ocean in Our Blood by Tara Pyfrom (Book Review #2020)
The Ocean in Our Blood by Tara Pyfrom is a harrowing and deeply emotional memoir that tells the story of a family’s survival through one of nature’s most terrifying forces: Hurricane Dorian. Set in the beautiful, but storm-prone islands of the Bahamas, this memoir captures the heart-wrenching journey of Tara Pyfrom, her wife Catherine, their daughter Hazel, and their five dogs as they face the overwhelming fury of a Category 5 hurricane. The storm’s ferocious winds, reaching up to 185 mph, devastate their home, forcing them to seek refuge in their attic as the ocean rises around them.
Read MoreThe Little Goblin by Joanne Lecuyer (Book Review #2019)
The Little Goblin by Joanne Lecuyer is a captivating and heartwarming adventure that introduces readers to a courageous little goblin on a mission to save his maba, a beloved family member. In a world filled with mystical creatures, lush forests, and magical herbs, the goblin is determined to find a rare and powerful shroom that holds the secret to his maba’s survival. His quest is perilous, and though small in stature, he has the heart of a lion, willing to face any challenge to save the one he loves.
Read MoreThe Last Hurrah – A Living Workbook for A Happy Ending by Mary Ann Burrows (Book Review #2018)
Death is often a subject we avoid discussing, yet it remains one of life’s few certainties. In The Last Hurrah: A Living Workbook for a Happy Ending, Mary Ann Burrows approaches this delicate topic with grace, practicality, and an uplifting perspective. More than just an organizational tool, this book is a heartfelt guide that encourages readers to reflect on their legacy while ensuring their loved ones are left with clarity rather than chaos.
Read MoreThe Keepers of the Light (Logan LeVec) by Trevor A. Dutcher (Book Review #2017)
The Keepers of the Light (Logan LeVec) by Trevor A. Dutcher is an exciting and imaginative fantasy adventure that follows Logan LeVec, a brilliant but socially awkward middle-schooler, on an extraordinary journey. The story begins with Logan’s close relationship with his eccentric grandfather, whose wildly imaginative stories are often dismissed by Logan’s skeptical mother. However, Logan soon discovers that these tales are far more than mere fantasy—they are part of a subtle training regimen designed to prepare him for a greater purpose.
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