On April 18 Israeli police arrested the scholar Nadera Shalhoub-Kevorkian at her home in the Armenian Quarter of Jerusalem. Now sixty-three, she has researched the state repression of Palestinian children in East Jerusalem for decades, but the police’s arrival at her door was still a shock. They confiscated her cell phone, her computer, posters made […]
Original source: https://www.nybooks.com/online/2024/06/05/israel-universities-the-crackdown/
Shelterwood by Lisa Wingate is a standalone historical fiction that takes place in 1909 & 1990 Oklahoma at what became Horsethief Trail National Park when Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell arrived in 1990. A rich tale about wayward children, land shares and a national park mystery and missing person’s case. Come see what I enjoyed about Shelterwood.
Shelterwood
by Lisa Wingate
Genres: Historical Fiction
Source: Publisher
Purchase*: Amazon | Audible *affiliate
Rating: 
From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of Before We Were Yours comes a sweeping novel inspired by the untold history of women pioneers who fought to protect children caught in the storm of land barons hungry for power and oil wealth.
Oklahoma, 1909. Eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley knows that her stepfather doesn’t have good intentions toward the two Choctaw girls boarded in their home as wards. When the older girl disappears, Ollie flees to the woods, taking six-year-old Nessa with her. Together they begin a perilous journey to the rugged Winding Stair Mountains, the notorious territory of outlaws, treasure hunters, and desperate men. Along the way, Ollie and Nessa form an unlikely band with others like themselves, struggling to stay one step ahead of those who seek to exploit them . . . or worse.
Oklahoma, 1990. Law Enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell arrives at Horsethief Trail National Park seeking a quiet place to balance a career and single parenthood. But no sooner has Valerie reported for duty than she’s faced with local controversy over the park’s opening, a teenage hiker gone missing from one of the trails, and the long-hidden burial site of three children deep in a cave. Val’s quest to uncover the truth wins an ally among the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police but soon collides with old secrets and the tragic and deadly history of the land itself.
In this emotional and enveloping novel, Lisa Wingate traces the story of children abandoned by the law and the battle to see justice done. Amid times of deep conflict over who owns the land and its riches, Ollie and Val traverse the wild and beautiful terrain, each leaving behind one life in search of another.
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I love how Lisa Wingate wove these two timelines and separate stories together. In 1990, single mother and law enforcement Ranger Valerie Boren O’dell is newly arrived at the National Park and trying to prove her worth, when a teenage boy goes missing and the old burial site of three children is discovered in a cave. Valerie will work with closely with the neighboring Choctaw Tribal Police chief to solve these puzzles and what she discovers ties in to the second story.
In 1909, Eleven-year-old Olive Augusta Radley slips away with a young Choctaw girl who is boarding with them, when her sister goes missing. Olive knows her father has ill intentions towards the girl. Traveling with her pony, she and six-year-old Nessa travel towards the rugged Winding Stair Mountain. Danger lurks, but along the way, they form friendships and fight to survive.
Wingate did a wonderful job sharing Oklahoma history, political figures and the children impacted over land claims. I love Olive and how courageous she was. I also feared she may be one of the young girls found in 1990. You’ll have to discover that for yourself.
I enjoyed both timelines from the missing teenage boy and his precocious little sister, to what they find in the mountains in 1990, to the woman speaker that women from miles around came to hear in 1909.
Shelterwood is the perfect beach read for those that enjoy mystery, history and adventure. I loved when the title clicked. A memorable read.
Amazon | Audible
Lisa Wingate is a former journalist, an inspirational speaker, and the bestselling author of more than thirty books. Her blockbuster “Before We Were Yours” was on the NYT best seller list for over one year. Her work has won or been nominated for many awards, including the Pat Conroy Southern Book Prize, the Oklahoma Book Award, the Utah Library Award, the Carol Award, the Christy Award, and the RT Reviewers’ Choice Award. Lisa believes stories can change the world.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/06/shelterwood-by-lisa-wingate.html
Sophia Rose is here today with the fourth book in the best-selling series chronicling the life and adventures of one of Norway’s most controversial kings, Olaf Tryggvason. Come check out Sophia’s thoughts and add this saga to your TBR pile.
Riddle of the Gods
by Eric Schumacher
Series: Olaf’s Saga #4
Genres: Historical Fiction
Source: Author
Purchase*: Amazon *affiliate
Rating: 
Riddle of the Gods is the riveting fourth novel in the best-selling series chronicling the life and
adventures of one of Norway’s most controversial kings, Olaf Tryggvason. It is AD 976. Olaf
Tryggvason, the renegade prince of Norway, has lost his beloved wife to a tragedy that turns the lords of
the land he rules against him. With his family gone and his future uncertain, Olaf leaves his realm and
embarks on a decades-long quest to discover his course in life. Though his journey brings him power and
wealth, it is not until he encounters the strange man in the streets of Dublin that his path to fame
unfolds. And in that moment, he is forced to make a choice as the gods look on – one that could either
destroy him or ensure his name lives on forever.
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The intrepid and fierce Vikings live again within the pages of the latest book in the Olaf Saga, Riddle of the Gods. Eric Schumacher is a new to me author and I have rarely ventured into books featuring a Viking protagonist or the Viking world of the early medieval age, but I can be open to the exception when the mood hits me.
Riddle of the Gods is the fourth book in the Olaf Saga following the life and adventures of notorious real life Viking, Olaf Tryggvason in a well-crafted historical fiction filling in where detail is scarce in a way that felt plausible and authentic to the character and times. Riddle of the Gods is not the best place to start for following the human story going on, but I didn’t feel lost, either, jumping in here with Olaf and Torvil, his longtime loyal friend’s story. So, this is book four and a lot has gone down in Olaf’s life up to this point.
This saga is narrated from Torvil’s perspective. Torvil swore to Olaf’s father to take care of him and they’ve been through thick and thin together, I gather. Olaf seemed to have settled in with the Wagarians and had a wife, but that falls apart when Olaf’s wife dies. Olaf goes a-Viking. He becomes a mercenary, hiring out to an Irishman against other Irish. At this point, the title of the book comes into play when Olaf is faced with Christianity or Pagan? Can a pagan give his sword-arm to a Christian? And other moral concerns related to who he hires out to and what he does. Olaf has no scruples about it if the money’s right. He’s going for the money and power now.
And, herein lies the rub, poor Torvil has scruples about who he fights for and against. A friendship is torn asunder and they part ways, though both remain at distant locations within what will be the British Isles. There is even dangerous reference of traitor about Torvil within Olaf’s band. In my mind, that all depends on some factors of who was being traitorous, and Olaf wasn’t exactly truthful when he talks of what split the two. Yes, I was more drawn to Torvil than Olaf, but Olaf is a big move and shaker who captivated my attention. I found it easy to see how such a character could rise and dominate in a ruthless world, knowing exactly what was at stake if he was seen as weak or vulnerable.
Riddle of the Gods didn’t stint on the fighting (and, yes, those who are familiar with my reading habits can count on me rushing quickly past the details when reading the squicky bits), but was also layered with an eye for character development, build of plot, and historical backdrop so it was a fully fledged out historical saga keeping me in the story. Obviously, Olaf’s saga is nowhere near completion, but I appreciated how this segment of the saga felt resolved to an extent.
In summary, I was impressed with my first venture into Eric Schumacher’s writing and delving into his Olaf’s Saga Viking world. This is historical fiction for those who like the bark on it when it comes to the dark and gritty medieval ages and I definitely recommend it to Viking era fans.
Amazon
Eric Schumacher discovered his love for writing and medieval European history at a very early age, as well as authors like J.R.R. Tolkien, C.S. Lewis, Bernard Cornwell, Jack Whyte, and Wilbur Smith. Those discoveries fueled his imagination and continue to influence the stories he tells. His first novel, God’s Hammer, was published in 2005.
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Sophia is a quiet though curious gal who dabbles in cooking, book reviewing, and gardening. Encouraged and supported by an incredible man and loving family. A Northern Californian transplant to the Great Lakes Region of the US. Lover of Jane Austen, Baseball, Cats, Scooby Doo, and Chocolate.
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Original source: https://caffeinatedbookreviewer.com/2024/06/riddle-of-the-gods-by-eric-schumacher.html
In Penelope the Pesky Pelican, authors Scotty and Kris Bolleter introduce us to the friendliest pelican you’ll ever meet. Despite her warm greetings and loving hugs, Penelope often faces rudeness and unkindness from those around her. Undeterred, she persistently spreads cheer, though she is sometimes seen as a nuisance and sent away. It is only through the encouragement of her best friend that Penelope’s spirits are lifted, reminding her of the value of her positive attitude and persistence.
This charming story is beautifully illustrated by Evelina Losich, whose colorful and expressive artwork perfectly complements the narrative. The book skillfully blends alliteration and repetition, making it not only engaging but also an excellent choice for bedtime reading and elementary classrooms. Young readers will undoubtedly root for Penelope, learning important lessons about maintaining a positive attitude and understanding the true essence of friendship. Penelope the Pesky Pelican is a delightful and educational read, sure to become a favorite.
I highly recommend Penelope the Pesky Pelican to any parent seeking a story that imparts valuable life lessons while introducing young readers to the joy of repetitive text and the rhythm of language. This lovingly crafted tale will surely be a hit for children and parents alike.
Pages: 30 | ASIN : B0D3472L69
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/05/penelope-the-pesky-pelican/
Children, brimming with energy, often resist bedtime. However, if we can show them that bedtime can be as fun as reading a good book, their attitude may improve. Addressing this common issue, Kristen Puma presents Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure. Abby and Liam are siblings and best friends who love to play and imagine all sorts of exciting scenarios. After a long day, their parents signal that it’s time for bed. The siblings, still full of energy, try to resist. That’s when their dad steps in, transforming the bedtime routine into an adventurous challenge that even includes a volcano. Their mom also joins the fun, taking on the role of a daring dragon.
The energy of the whole family is delightful. Many children’s books focus solely on the perspective of the kids, but this story feels special because both dad and mom are involved and part of the game. This promotes the idea of family unity and encourages children to communicate with their parents and be honest about their feelings. Kristen Puma’s use of short, melodic phrases makes the reading experience enjoyable and keeps the interest alive. Additionally, the illustrations are adorable and endearing, featuring soft and cheerful tones, beautifully designed. The story is dynamic from start to finish, as the siblings move from one imaginative challenge to another.
Abby and Liam and the Bedtime Adventure is perfect in every detail; it’s well-structured and presented. It’s designed to be enjoyed by both parents and children, with all characters actively participating. The main idea, although simple, is presented in a fun and enthusiastic way. It’s undoubtedly an excellent choice for parents to spend a beautiful moment with their children before bedtime and instill a love for reading.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B0CYCNJLGQ
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/05/abby-and-liam-and-the-bedtime-adventure/
After finishing their morning classes, best friends Condi, Jean, and Sonia head to the school cafeteria. On the way, they encounter fellow student Johnny, who is recovering from a broken arm. Curious about how bones function, heal, and grow, the girls seek expert advice from Nurse Florence. Together, the classmates uncover the immense complexity within our skeletons as the wonders of science unfold.
Nurse Florence, Tell Me About the Bones by Michael Dow is another excellent addition to the Nurse Florence series. The curiosity of the three friends about science is delightful, and Nurse Florence’s patient and kind responses are always informative. The illustrations by Bella Stercula beautifully depict the cells at work inside human bones. Each high-quality image is easy to understand and visually explains the inner workings of the skeleton as well as any science book. Learning alongside the three classmates, I found Nurse Florence’s explanations about how bones constantly repair themselves fascinating. For instance, I was surprised to learn that bones are made up of small, interconnected rings of bone called osteons. This book is a testament to how readers of any age can benefit from Nurse Florence’s gentle and accessible teachings about the complexity of biology.
This book is an outstanding entry in the series, with Nurse Florence continuing to be our compassionate and reliable guide into the world of scientific study. Suitable for all ages and readers interested in learning about our skeletons, this book, and indeed the entire series, is an excellent choice for parents and educators. Nurse Florence continues her amazing journey to teach us about health and human biology.
Nurse Florence, Tell Me About the Bones by Michael Dow is a captivating and educational addition to the Nurse Florence series. The story, enriched by Bella Stercula’s exceptional illustrations, makes complex scientific concepts accessible and engaging for readers of all ages. The book beautifully balances curiosity and education. This series is a valuable resource for parents and educators seeking to introduce children to human physiology in an enjoyable and understandable way.
Pages: 71 | ISBN : 1304506509
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/05/nurse-florence-tell-me-about-the-bones/
Dana J. Summers’ Hell’s Heart is a gripping mystery novel set against the backdrop of Oakley, Florida, a town marked by its heat, humidity, and the ghosts of unsolved crimes. The story begins with a brutal murder in 2004, where Frank Jackson is killed in his bedroom. Fast forward to 2019, and retired cop Bart Long’s son, Jake, now a sheriff, is drawn back into the cold case that haunted his father. The novel deftly intertwines past and present as Jake navigates his tumultuous personal life and the lingering mystery of Jackson’s murder.
Summers’ writing is compelling, capturing the reader’s attention from the first page. The opening scene is a masterclass in suspense, vividly describing Frank Jackson’s final moments. The author’s ability to create a sense of immediacy and tension is commendable. The descriptions of Oakley, with its oppressive heat and small-town malaise, are immersive and enhance the story’s atmosphere. The dialogue is sharp and realistic, adding depth to the characters and their interactions.
One of the standout aspects of this book is its complex characters. Jake Long is a flawed protagonist, dealing with personal demons including a troubled marriage and a strained relationship with his dying father. The dynamic between Jake and his father, Bart, is particularly well-drawn. Bart’s obsession with the Jackson case and its impact on his family life adds a poignant layer to the narrative. Additionally, the secondary characters, such as the diligent but weary nurse Albert and the hard-as-nails Maxine Burns, enrich the story and provide a fuller picture of the Oakley community. Summers also excels in weaving intricate plot threads. The novel is not just a murder mystery but also an exploration of themes such as justice, obsession, and the passage of time. The subplot involving Jake’s marital issues adds emotional weight to the story, making it more than just a police procedural. The mystery itself is well-crafted, with clues and red herrings expertly placed to keep the reader guessing. The way Summers integrates the past and present investigations is seamless, allowing for a slow but steady unraveling of the truth.
Hell’s Heart is a must-read for fans of mystery and crime fiction. Dana J. Summers has delivered a novel that is both thrilling and emotionally resonant. The book will appeal to readers who enjoy character-driven stories with a strong sense of place and a well-constructed mystery. Whether you are a longtime fan of the genre or new to it, Hell’s Heart is a novel that promises to keep you engaged from start to finish.
Pages: 314 | ASIN : B0BZN5J91D
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/05/hells-heart/
“The Mess” follows two young kangaroos as the disappearance of their teddy bears propels them into a day of adventure and teamwork to solve the mystery, highlighting the importance of familial love and problem-solving. What was the inspiration for the setup of your story?
I was inspired to write this story because of my preshool classroom that I was working in at the time. As a teacher, I had to think creatively and outside of the box when it came to encouraging the children to clean up in between transition times. Asking the children to clean up was not helpful, so I created clean time into a fun game, and the children were receptive to that. They enjoyed cleaning up during the game. The children learned about teamwork and responsibility of their classroom space.
Can you share any behind-the-scenes details about the collaboration process with Olivia Smith H. for the illustrations?
I was referred to Olivia. We had an introduction to each other, and we both shared our ideas and thoughts. Then we mutually decided to work with each other. Olivia and I were in constant communication about the illustrations. I shared that I wanted vibrant colors and she suggested watercolor paint. I went with her idea after she shown me an example of a picture. She shared her insight of what will work and I shared my feedback as well. We had a smooth process with working with each other. It was a team effort and it she is easy to gdt along with.
What message or lesson do you hope children and parents take away from The Mess?
My hope is that children can learn that tidying up and cleaning can help them with organization, accountability, teamwork, and using a game to complete a task such as cleaning their space can be helpful and fun in a meaningful way.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
I have an idea about my next book but I have not put anything on paper. My ideas are still flowing and I have not made a decision on when I will release another book.
Author Links: Website | Instagram | Facebook
Original source: https://literarytitan.com/2024/06/05/helpful-and-fun-in-a-meaningful-way/