The Supreme Court justices’ responses last Thursday to the oral arguments over Donald Trump’s disqualification under Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment were worse than an embarrassment—they were a disgrace. With the partial exception of Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the members of the Court appeared woefully ignorant of the historical and constitutional issues before them. They […]
Narrated by Stephanie Richardson, Dead as A Dodo by Hailey Edwards, is the second audiobook in the Yard Birds series. Elle has her handsful investigating shifter attacks and her marriage is going all to hell thanks to a curse. Adventure, family, snark, and danger await you in this quirky cozy.
Dead as a Dodo by Hailey Edwards Series: Yard Birds #2 Narrator: Stephanie Richardson Length: 2 hours and 50 minutes Genres: Cozy Mystery, Paranormal Source: Publisher Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: Narration: 3.5 cups Speed: 1.5x
Ellie has done her best to keep the spark alive in her marriage to Wally, but she has limited options with her husband cursed into the body of a vintage novelty toy. She thought everything was going okay, aside from the fact he’s battery-operated and bursts into song whenever his motion sensor is triggered, but he’s done being a collector’s item.
When the Middles turn up with a half-dead coworker on her doorstep, Ellie jumps at the chance to help her nephews find who’s responsible to avoid the problems at home. As the attacks grow deadlier, and the rift between her and Wally grows wider, Ellie has to focus on saving herself if she ever hopes to save her marriage.
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Ellie is a retired monster killer, who, along with fellow retired witches, lives in and protects Samford, Alabama. A town of humans, shifter packs, witches and more. Ellie’s husband was cursed and his spirit lives in a singing fish plaque. Ellie wants to protect him at all costs, but things have been strained between them. When he goes out with the boys, she goes hunting and ends up injured. Before she can heal, the Middles turn up with a half dead coworker. Ellie steps in despite protests.
The audiobook was just under three hours, but the story was intense. We’ve got bodies piling up, and turf wars. Ellie, Zack, his brothers, and Jo Beth will need to draw the killer out and they’ll need the Yard Birds to do it. The tale blends humor, action and magic. Despite Jo Beth’s protest, Ellie and the coven prove their worth.
Stephanie Richardson narrates and does a great job with Ellie. She provides voices for the others and while most are distinct; I had to rewind once or twice because some sound were too similar.
This is a fun, light, paranormal cozy and I enjoy the older cast of characters. I am looking forward to the next audiobook in the Yard Birds series.
Amazon* | Audible
*kindle unlimited
About Hailey Edwards
Hailey Edwards writes about questionable applications of otherwise perfectly good magic, the transformative power of love, the family you choose for yourself, and blowing stuff up. Not necessarily all at once. That could get messy. She lives in Alabama with her husband, their daughter, and a herd of dachshunds.
Website | Twitter | Facebook
About Stephanie Richardson
Stephanie Richardson records audiobooks from her professional home studio near the mountains in Utah. She places a special emphasis on bringing positive and wholesome content in the world and records work in a variety of nonfiction and fiction genres, including self-development, memoir, children’s and young adult, and cozy mystery. She has trained with award-winning narrators PJ Ochlan and Sean Pratt and was awarded the ABR award for best mystery in 2020. While not enjoying a book, she can be found playing zoo-keeper to her four rambunctious children, playing nerdy board games, or talking to her plants.
Website | Twitter | Instagram
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Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
Super Big Brother: Finding Your Hero, by Deanna Bussadori, is a delightful narrative that celebrates the essence of everyday heroism through the lens of sibling love. The story revolves around Lulu the Little and her adoration for her big brother, Super Sam. Their day-to-day interactions, from morning reading sessions to evening playtimes, are beautifully depicted, underscoring the profound yet simple ways in which a sibling can be a hero.
As someone who deeply appreciates the world of superheroes, I found this book particularly resonant. It skillfully explores the virtues and values that define true heroism, far beyond the realms of capes and superpowers. The narrative struck a chord with me, echoing the cherished bond I share with my own brothers. Super Sam embodies the real-life superhero traits of patience, gentleness, and kindness, inspiring both his sister and readers to embrace these qualities.
The illustrations in Super Big Brother, crafted by Blueberry Illustrations, are vivid and captivating. An engaging element is the playful “find the teddy” challenge on each page, which adds an interactive dimension to the reading experience.
This book is a heartwarming exploration of the power of the heart and the impact of virtuous actions. It’s an excellent choice for a range of readers, from young children to adults, making it a versatile addition to any bookshelf. Ideal for shared reading experiences, whether with a parent or a ‘super-sibling,’ this book is a fine tool for early readers.
Super Big Brother: Finding Your Hero stands out as an endearing tale that highlights the importance of virtue in everyday life and celebrates the unique bond between siblings. Its focus on real-life heroism, combined with charming illustrations, makes it a memorable read for anyone looking to discover the hero within.
Lisa Mottolo’s How to Monetize Despair presents an evocative and intimate collection of poems, weaving personal experiences and reflections into a tapestry of themes ranging from loss to existential musings. This collection, which navigates through the terrain of deeply personal topics, showcases Mottolo’s skill in capturing the essence of human emotions and experiences.
In poems like “Obituary for a Small Parrot,” Mottolo offers a glimpse into her personal life, recounting the poignant moment of bringing her parrot home in a cardboard box. She also delves into the mundanity and unexpected profundity of daily life, as seen in “Memoriam for the Grocery,” where a simple act of selecting avocados in a grocery store becomes a moment of introspection. Her poem “Sonder” explores the multifaceted nature of the English language, highlighting our continuous, though often unsuccessful, attempts to make sense of the universe. Mottolo’s ability to connect with readers is evident in her honest and lyrical style, which resonates deeply and evokes a range of emotions. The transition from the simplicity of drinking black coffee to the metaphorical “brewed from the grounds of the cemetery” in her poem about her mother’s passing, for instance, strikes a chord with anyone who has experienced loss, prompting a reflection on the fleeting nature of life.
How to Monetize Despair is marked by its rich similes and vibrant descriptions, making it not just a collection of poems but an artistic experience that invites deep contemplation and ignites the imagination. Lines like “the season moves like the laughter of past children” encapsulate feelings of nostalgia and the inexorable passage of time. While How to Monetize Despair may particularly resonate with those who have experienced the loss of a loved one, I believe its scope extends far beyond. Mottolo explores a myriad of subjects, including religion, love, family, trauma, and even more abstract concepts like nihilism, the news, robots, aging, and the sea.
Despite the brevity of its poems, How to Monetize Despair serves as a catalyst for a more nuanced and discerning perspective on life. Mottolo paints the stark realities of loss and death in a way that is not only relatable but also prompts introspection. This book is likely to be a source of continuous inspiration, encouraging readers to embrace the fullness of life with an enriched understanding and appreciation.
Alan J. Hesse’s The Adventures of Captain Polo: Polo and the Yeti, the second installment in his graphic novel series, provides a unique and engaging approach to understanding climate change and global warming. Hesse, with his background as a conservation biologist and an illustrator-author, crafts a narrative where the titular character, Captain Polo, embarks on a journey of environmental discovery after surviving a sea crash. This journey takes readers across various countries, each illustrating different aspects of global warming and the efforts to combat it.
The novel stands out for its ability to be accessible to new readers, offering a succinct summary of the first book, thus making it easy to dive into Polo’s world without prior knowledge. The storytelling is complemented by Hesse’s captivating illustrations, which not only add visual appeal but also effectively convey the gravity of climate change’s impact on both humans and animals. This dual focus is a testament to Hesse’s expertise as a climate educator, showcasing his ability to present complex issues through a medium that resonates with contemporary audiences. What is particularly noteworthy about this graphic novel is its ability to blend education with entertainment. The narrative is not just informative but also immersive, encouraging readers to engage with the critical topic of environmental preservation in a manner that is both enjoyable and thought-provoking.
The Adventures of Captain Polo: Polo and the Yeti is a commendable work that promises to enlighten and inspire its readers, regardless of their familiarity with graphic novels, and paves the way for future installments in the series. I recommend Hesse’s work to both parents and educators seeking high-interest nonfiction text for young readers.
In One Icy Night, author W.A. Pepper presents a gripping narrative centered around Rook Kellum, a twenty-year-old bassist caught up in the chaos of the 1994 Delta Ice Storm. The story unfolds in a small-town setting, where Rook, left stranded by her bandmates, finds herself passing the time in a local bar. The narrative takes an intriguing turn as Rook interacts with a cast of distinctive characters, including the bar owner Stalin, Sherriff Roberts, and the enigmatic Riley. Pepper skillfully weaves a tale where secrets are unveiled amidst a backdrop of a severe blizzard, compelling Rook to navigate through escalating tensions and unexpected revelations.
Pepper’s writing is notable for its blend of wit and intensity, creating an engaging and thought-provoking thriller. The novel is structured around three closely linked timelines within a year, offering a deeper understanding of Rook’s past and the circumstances that have shaped her resilient and resourceful character. This narrative approach, while involving shifts in time, remains clear and coherent, enhancing the overall storytelling. The character of Rook, particularly her relationship with her grandmother and her ability to persist in the face of adversity, is a highlight of Pepper’s character development. The reader is drawn into rooting for Rook, partly thanks to the well-placed plot twists that keep the suspense high. The author’s humor provides a balanced contrast to the more action-packed and dramatic scenes, enriching the reading experience.
With its brisk pacing, engaging flashbacks, and a collection of well-crafted characters, One Icy Night is a commendable choice for fans of thrillers. Its appeal lies in the compelling combination of high-stakes scenarios, a strong female lead, and an addictive narrative rhythm. This novel is especially recommended for those who appreciate stories with dynamic action scenes and complex protagonists.
The Actions: 7 Steps to Powerful Change provides your strategies for setting purposeful goals, improving emotional skills, and taking decisive action to transform bad days into fulfilling ones. Why was this an important book for you to write?
Thank you for asking. This book is important for me to write because at the time I did not know what it was like to feel sadness due to a specific loss that occurs when someone dies, after which I lost interest in life and not being able to adjust my daily routine is abnormal. I had no one to share what I was going through, and it became clear that when I needed guidance the most, I did not know where to turn for help. Grief is complicated and a hopeful future is unlikely to happen, so, I wrote this book with hope that as people face grief instead of wallowing in despair, remember and cultivate the goodness, honor and reflection through preserving the memories of your loved ones.
In your book, you emphasize the importance of overcoming internal barriers. Can you share a specific moment in your life when you successfully overcame such a barrier?
There were so many barriers in my life including external and internal. That internal barrier moment was when I told my partner that I was going to write a book and he told me straight up – who would read my book? He said, “You’re bilingual, your vocabulary is limited so what makes you think you can write a book?”
I absorbed his words and told myself that he was right. I am not good enough to write any books. Who will read my book when I do not know how to write it or where to start? People don’t know who I am or anything about me so why do they read my book? His words echoed in my ears and hissed in my mind for days. At that point, mind you that I had overcome 4 years of grief/depression, and I was working towards a better version of myself. I am proud how I have conquered death, my emotions are sublime, and I look forward to a wonderful future.
Weeks turned into months and finally I had a breakthrough. I thought and spoke deeply to myself, the person closest to me did not help me overcome the pain of losing my mother, and he did not know how I went through hell and came back alive. The feeling he told me I wasn’t good enough or worthy to write a book boiled to my core. I will prove to him and myself that I can write a book and people will read my book. A year later, The ACTIONS was born and received four awards. If I let this internal barrier overcome me, this book, The ACTIONS, would not have published nor would it have been known and would not have helped people.
How do you balance the need for setting ambitious goals with the importance of self-acceptance and living in the present?
Ambition is a powerful driving force that pushes me towards achieving my goals and aspirations. Being ambitious blinded me to my own well-being, leading to burnout, stress, and a decline in mental and physical health. I have learned in the pursuit of success; it is crucial not to overlook the importance of self-acceptance and living in the present. It involves acknowledging and embracing the present moment, including one’s strengths and limitations, while ambition involves setting goals and striving for personal growth.
Balancing living in the present with self-acceptance and ambition is a delicate and personal endeavor. One personal approach to balance these two is to cultivate self-awareness and mindfulness, allowing for an appreciation of the present while also channeling ambition into meaningful and realistic pursuits. It’s important to recognize that balance may look different for each individual and can evolve over time based on life circumstances. Nevertheless, you must cultivate mindfulness in your daily routine. This will enable you to stay present and appreciate the journey, regardless of the destination. You are where you are in your life because of the goals you keep. Therapy, meditation, and self-reflection are helpful in navigating this balance. Set clear boundaries between work and personal life, allowing for quality time with loved ones and relaxation.
Can you elaborate on the concept of the “drunk monkey” that you mention in the book, and why it’s crucial to overcome it for personal growth?
The “drunk monkey” I mentioned in the book is the mind chatter of which the distracted, disorganized, and often when the chaotic feeling we have in our mind our conscious throws all the negative self-talk at us including the pros and cons of the situation or choice leads to overthinking and procrastinating. Especially when we are afraid, that is when the loudest monkey sounds the alarm incessantly to indicate things we should be alert for, and it is up to us to choose fight or flight mode. If we do not know how to tame and manage our mind, we let the drunk monkey freely control our thoughts means that our mind will just bounce around and go wherever it’s taken in our head, it creates impulsive reactions, and a solution will never be able to find.
There are ways to overcome it. As you already know our mind is restless, unruly, and hard to control. It actively constructs our experience and behavior, but we are not bound by our drunken monkey mind. We must respond thoughtfully, rather than reacting emotionally, and be aware of our thoughts, be truly present within our environment and within our interactions. We must focus on what is important at each moment, which is a critical aspect of mindfulness, and that is crucial for our personal growth.
YOUR ACTIONS BUILDS YOUR LIFE Do you want to reclaim your life, replace bad days with good days, get yourself back on track?Do you make up excuses instead of doing what it takes to achieve your goals? How many times have you created a story in your head why you shouldn’t be trying something new and challenging? Are you familiar with that drunk monkey whispers in your ears and keeps you from getting what you want? Now it is time to slap the drunk monkey off your shoulder and take ACTION!
If you want to reclaim your life, replace bad days with good days, get yourself back on track and stop the drunk monkey in action, this is what you’ll need:Identify your objectives. Change your responses. Make a good use of your time. ˃˃˃ In this book, you’ll learn to:~ Identify and acknowledge self-acceptance. ~ Structure the blueprint of purposeful intentions and goals. ~ Prioritize personal tasks based on the importance. ~ Focus on reconstructing on self-improvement. ~ Improve emotional skills through self-awareness. ~ Cultivate with people who can be helpful.
˃˃˃ Change starts with YOU, and now is the time to take ACTION and create that change within yourself.In this book, Margaret Tran will guide you how to take action and make your life better.
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The Supreme Court justices’ responses last Thursday to the oral arguments over Donald Trump’s disqualification under Section 3 of the Fourteenth Amendment were worse than an embarrassment—they were a disgrace. With the partial exception of Justice Sonia Sotomayor, the members of the Court appeared woefully ignorant of the historical and constitutional issues before them. They […]
