"Escape from Silver Street Farm" by Nicole Davies & Illustrated by Katharine McEwen

In Escape from Silver Street Farm of the Silver Street Farm series of books, the children are actively engaged with farmer Flora and their farm which is located in the city. A farm in a city is unheard of but actually fits quite well the active imagination of the young reader.  On the farm, they have sheep and turkeys which escape from within the confines of the fences that are set to house them in this unreal cityscape.

Once the animals escape the children begin trying to figure out how they escaped, who helped the animals escape, how to recapture them, and how to protect them from going over the dam. Deduction. Pursuit. Resolution are all part of the children's activties in the story.

As a young child progresses in his/her reading skills, they venture into the reading world of chapter books. The Silver Street Farm series of books make early chapter book reading appealing and doable. The books are relatively short in total number of pages . The chapters are short so as not to tire the young reader. The illustrations throughout the book keep the reader's mind engaged and helps them to visualize the characters and events.

The story shows adults and children working together in the community and on the project. It engages the American child in a bit of British literature since the author is British. And there is a touch of multicultural activity with Meera and family's Indian sweet treats.

I recommend this series to libraries and young readers.

GIVEAWAY: Candlewick Press is graciously providing a giveaway copy for one of Chat With Vera's readers. Begins July 1 & ENDS July 18 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. Open to USA addresses only.
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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of Escape from Silver Street Farm from Candlewick Press in exchange for my honest review. No compensation was received for writing this review. Opinions are solely those of the reviewer. The giveaway copy is provided compliments of Candlewick Press and will be shipped directly to the winner.

A Wedding for Julia: Book 3 in the Pebble Creek Amish Series by Vannetta Chapman (Review & Giveaway)

About the book: A Wedding for Julia, the third book in a romantic series from popular author Vannetta Chapman, takes a last look at the Amish community of Pebble Creek and the kind, caring people there. As they face challenges from the English world, they come together to reach out to their non-Amish neighbors while still preserving their cherished Plain ways.

Review:  Previously in books one and two, Vannetta Chapman inserted us into the lives of Pebble Creek residents and newcomers. We met Lydia and Miriam and now the community story is rounded out with the story of Julia. Each of these ladies has obstacles to overcome in their daily life. We know that life in the Amish community is plain, not easy, not luxurious, not complete with conveniences we deem necessary to life. But these three ladies each has unique lives and must meet their struggles square on.

Julia is the daughter of Ada and they have just lost the father and husband. Now Ada has informed Julia that Julia's dream of opening a restaurant or cafe in their family home is not to be because Ada and Julia's father have determined that since Julia is unmarried she can not live alone so the house must be sold and she must move to another Amish community - unless she marries.

Julia's story rapidly progresses through the phases of unbelief, horror, inspiration, solution, and marriage. Through all of this, sweet Ada's failing mental capacities are worrisome but her ability to quote the Psalms and inspire those around her with these and other wise sayings is phenomenal.

"Courage is fear that has said it's prayers." page 129

When Sharon, a troubled teen from another Amish community, comes to live with them, her troubled spirit is comforted by Ada's quoting Psalms and stroking her head as she brings relief from fear. (page 158)

I found encouragement in things to ponder (page 257)...... perhaps you will, too. Put a name in the blank/s and apply to yourself.

______ and _____ love me.
_____ is a gift from God.
_____ and _____ are a joy.
_____ makes me smile.
_____ is special.
and then affirm.....  God has taken care of me.

The Pebble Creek Series is worth reading. For your pleasure and for your encouragement. True it is a work of fiction. But sometimes fiction can bring forth truths that make real life more liveable.

GIVEAWAY: Vannetta Chapman, author, is graciously providing a giveaway copy for one of Chat With Vera's readers. Begins June 30 & ENDS July 17 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. Open to USA addresses only.
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DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy of A Wedding for Julia in exchange for my honest review. No compensation was received for writing this review. The giveaway copy is provided compliments of the author and will be shipped directly to the winner.

The Quarryman's Bride by Tracie Peterson (Review & Giveaway)

About the book: The latest book in the Land of Shining Waters series.

Peterson Hits the Bestseller Lists Again and Again!

Emmalyne Knox and Tavin MacLachlan were destined to be together . . . until the tragic deaths of Emmalyne's youngest sisters. Family tradition mandates that the youngest daughter should remain single to care for her parents in their old age, and now that daughter is Emmalyne. Her father unyielding, Emmalyne surrenders to her duty, heartbroken. Tavin leaves town, equally devastated.

Years later, Emmalyne's family moves, and she and Tavin meet again. Their feelings for each other are as strong as ever, but their painful past and Emmalyne's father still stand between them. Soon both families are in the midst of the growing conflict rising between the workers at the granite quarry that Tavin's father owns and operates. When a series of near-fatal accidents occur, Tavin must figure out who is behind the attacks before someone gets killed.

Bound by obligation, yet yearning for a future together, can Emmalyne and Tavin dare to dream that God could heal a decade-long wound and change the hearts of those who would stand in the way of true love?
 
My thoughts: The story is set in America and involves families who have Scottish heritage and strong Scottish accent. Meet Emmalyne's family the head of which, her father, is a Scottish, hard-nosed tyrant that believes in family tradition. He is also a man very angry at life and the people around him suffer from his anger and bitterness.  His demands upon Emmalyne are hard, unjust, and unreasonable for any sane man to impose on his daughter. On the cusp of her wedding to Tavin, her father demands they not marry and she remain single as the caregiver (translate "servant") to her parents.  But the demands and unreasonable attitude continue for years.

There are scenes you will nearly weep over and rail at the old curdmonger. There are also scenes of tenderness. You'll meet Tavin's family, also Scottish, who are handling their sorrows differently. Their family has seemingly unbearable tragedies, too.

This is a story of bitterness and anger, love and redemption, of grace and forgiveness.  

Tracie Peterson has again written a story well worth the reading and one I recommend.

GIVEAWAY:  The good folks at Litfuse Publicity group are graciously providing a giveaway copy for one of Chat With Vera's readers. Begins June 28 & ENDS July 15 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. Open to USA addresses only.
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About the author: Tracie Peterson is the award-winning author of over eighty novels, both historical and contemporary. Her avid research resonates in her stories, as seen in her bestselling Heirs of Montana, and Alaskan Quest series. Tracie and her family make their home in Montana. www.traciepeterson.com   

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary copy from Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of Bethany House a division of Baker Publishing Group and the author in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. The giveaway copy is provided also by Litfuse and will be shipped directly to the winner.

"Ivan Becomes a Hero" by Linda Rossetti Brocato, Illustrated by Donna Brooks

This book is a wonderful story of acceptance.  Throughout the story the main character “Ivan” wants to learn about the world outside his own backyard.  He learns that we are all different and sometime others are not kind and friendly or accepting of differences.  

He does learn that God created us for His purpose and we need to praise Him for how he did make us.  Brooks’ illustrations are fabulous as they depict the emotions that are experienced by Ivan.

This would be a good story to read aloud to younger children when teaching that each one of us is different and we need to celebrate our differences and use them as a positive instead of a negative.  This story is heartwarming and Ivan is a character that many children can relate to the feelings he experiences. (reviewed by C.Delorge)

DISCLOSURE: Ivan Becomes a Hero  Published by Brocato Publishing.

"Pennsylvania Patchwork" Kate Lloyd (Review & Giveaway)

About the book:  Seattle native Holly Fisher is smitten by Lancaster County, its simplicity and her long lost relatives. In the sequel to bestselling Leaving Lancaster, Holly embraces the Amish culture, learning to slow down to see what --- and who --- really matters.

Meeting the family that her mother had kept hidden from her, Holly comes face to face with her real life and blood legacy. She also falls for the charming Zach, a handsome Mennonite veterinarian who is everything she's ever wanted in a husband: confident, kind, successful, and authentic. And Zach proposes marriage. Is this too soon? Is this the right choice? Mother and Amish grandmother think she's rushing into too much of a lifestyle change. Holly is in love with Zach and that precludes everything. Until she meets an attractive Amish man. And an old suitor shows up.

Pennsylvania Patchwork is the moving, richly told story of one woman's heart, her faith and trust, and the choices she makes. Never easy, but one choice can change your destiny.

My thoughts:  There are 370 pages to this story. It takes around 270 of them to settle the disputes and trust issues. The arguments and meddling. The interference and tattling and gossip. Frankly, I found it tiresome to read on and on how the grandmother, the mother, and the daughter argued with each other. Biblical concepts would be thrown about but obviously they weren't adhered to by the characters.

There was a sunset romance in the works between the mother, Esther, and Nathaniel, but that was in jeopardy because his long-lost wife was supposedly spotted in a nearby state. The daughter, Holly, becomes unofficially engaged to Zach, but two other suitors come on the scene.

Neighbor spats. Family spats. Sweetheart spats abound. This is also a story of former Amish returning to the fold and of non-Amish considering being baptized into the Amish faith. Of secrets in families and flaring tempers. Of decisions good and decisions bad.

I did not enjoy this book nor enjoy the characters and their continual sparring. The basic story premise is good, but lingering in the atmosphere such conflict is not enjoyable to this reader.  It was, however, good to read a good clean book and the story ends very nicely.

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GIVEAWAY: A copy of Pennsylvania Patchwork is being provided as a giveaway for one of Chat With Vera's readers. Simply follow the directions. Begins June 17 & ENDS June 30 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT. Open to USA addresses only.

DISCLOSURE:  I was provided a complimentary copy of Pennsylvania Patchwork Litfuse Publicity Group to facilitate my honest review on behalf of the author, Kate Lloyd, and David Cook, Publisher

Author bio: Author Kate Lloyd is a passionate observer of human relationships. A native of Baltimore, Kate spends time with family and friends in Lancaster County, PA, the inspiration for her novels. She is a member of the Lancaster County Mennonite Historical Society. Kate and her husband live in the Pacific Northwest. Kate studied painting and sculpture in college. She's worked a variety of jobs, including car salesman and restaurateur. Learn more about Kate at http://www.katelloyd.net

"Red Dawn Rising" by Sue Duffy (book 2 in series) + Free Kindle June 20 & 21

About the book: Twenty-seven-year-old Cass Rodino is a hardworking, dedicated set designer on Broadway. But, like the actors who take the stage every night, she is masking a different reality. Her secrets lie deep within past wounds too severe to expose to anyone.

Evgeny Kozlov has secrets of his own. A former KGB assassin, he is trying to outrun the underground revolution he once served. Trying to right his wrongs, he's in a race against time and against a former colleague, Ivan, who has sinister plans to bring down the United States, including an assassination attempt on famed pianist Liesl Bower.

As Cass and Evgeny separately set out to save Liesl from an impending doom, both are hurled into a fierce CIA/FBI dragnet, not knowing that their formidable opponent-a most unlikely predator-is already closing in on them.

Book 2 of the Red Returning Trilogy, Red Dawn Rising mixes suspense, action, and romance in a tale of personal tragedy and triumph that will keep readers pivoting between the evil desires of world powers and the redeeming powers of personal faith, life, and love.

Review:   This is my first Sue Duffy book and it's a "keeper." The story line involves international intrigue and individuals on both sides who spy, kill, capture, create mayhem. Red Dawn Rising is book two in a series and I missed book one, The Sound of Red Returning, which I regret. However, one may read Red Dawn Rising as a stand-alone book.

Our main female lead, Cass Rodino, is a wealthy young woman who has experienced sorrow and disappointment in life. She follows her step-father under cloak of darkness because her mother suspects his having an affair. However, it opens wide the door of danger, intrigue, and national security.

During the same time frame, Evgeny Kozlov, a Russian spy is pursuing another Russian who is intent on destroying the confidence of the American people in their country and government's powers of protection. This Russian is known as the "Architect." The Architect's plan is even far more reaching on the international scene as he plans to shape the future of Israel, Russia, and America. His identity unknown to most everyone.

I enjoyed the story, the action, and the characters. The story was interesting to read and to consider the premise that such could actually occur. It is encouraging to read of CIA, FBI, and police agencies involved in the protection of our country and how much goes on of which the average citizen has no idea. I know this is a novel but it brings a surge of pride when good triumphs over evil. It is also encouraging to read of characters of little or no faith coming to trust in the God that saves and shelters.

I recommend Red Dawn Rising for home libraries, public and school libraries, and individual reads.

DISCLOSURE: I received a complimentary review copy of Red Dawn Rising from Kregel Publications for the purpose of this review. Opinions expressed are solely my own and I received no compensation for this review.

"Hooray for Bread" by Allan Ahlberg & Bruce Ingman (Review & Giveaway)

ISBN:  978-0-7636-6311-7
US $15.99

About the book:  Early in the morning the baker bakes a delicious loaf of bread. So delicious, in fact, that by the time the sun goes down it has been gobbled up! Who eats it all? Well, the baker munches on its crunchy crust. The baker’s wife eats some toast for breakfast, and the baker’s son gets a cheese and ham sandwich for lunch. And let’s not forget the dog! As the loaf gets smaller, slice by slice and crumb by crumb, everyone eats their fill: ducks, fishes, birds, and even a teeny tiny mouse who nibbles up the very last scrap. With lively rhymes, fun illustrations, and an infectious refrain, Allan Ahlberg and Bruce Ingman cook up a tasty tale that is sure to become a read-aloud staple.

My thoughts: This is a cute book that in rhyme goes through the life of a loaf of bread. Combining simple line drawings with a touch of watercolors with the rhyming text the story ambles through the day from when the baker first mixes the dough to when the last crumb is used. No crumb goes wasted and the life of a loaf of bread is a happy life providing substance for many. There is a touch of counting and you can use the book to identify foods.

This is the tale. I'll tell it now
No need to ask me twice
It's full of fun and flavor
And I'll tell it . . . slice by slice.

The book is good though not outstanding. I love rhyming stories for children so that is a plus for this book. The pictures are simple and happy and a child can easily relate to them. The story is one that would appeal to families - especially if they bake their own bread.

I think this is a good book to add to a library for public and school libraries.

GIVEAWAY:  The good folks at Candlewick Press have graciously agreed to provide a copy of Hooray for Bread for one of Chat With Vera's readers. Simply use the Rafflecopter form below to enter & remember sometimes the form is a bit slow to load. Begins June 15 & ENDS July 8 @ 12:01 a.m. EDT.

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DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of Hooray for Bread  by Candlewick Press in exchange for my honest review. Opinions expressed are solely my own. I received no compensation for this review.