April 30, 2021

Monthly Wrap up: (April 2021)

 

April was a slow end but May was fast approaching. I have read a total of 4 books. It was a mixed bag one and that stayed that way though out the month.  My recommendation page is still a work in progress but there are more books on the page, if you want purchase some of these lovely books. It looks better and cleaned up and organized. Check it out if you want to shop one of the books that been reviewed on my blog. It still needs for work but I am working on it stages. Book Tours books and Activity Books are next on my list to add to the recommendation page. How was your Easter?

I have giveaways going on my blog. Check my sidebar on my blog under "Giveaways".

Books Read in April:

  1. Blood of the Dragonfly by Hawk MacKinney (On Tour April 23, 2021)
  2. Let's Talk! (A Story about Autism and Friendship) by Lisa Jacovsky
  3. The Silver Shadow by Liz Tosma
  4. Dear Mrs. President by Ana Maria Medici
My books really fell in 4 different genres for this month. They are in 3 different media categories I believe as well. They will be shown below.

Books by Genre:
  1. Children - 2 Book
  2. Mystery - 1 Books
  3. Historical - 1 Book
Books by Media Categories:
  1. Hard Cover - 2 Books
  2. Paperback - 1 Book
  3. E-Book - 1 Book
I have read a total of 534 Pages, for the month of April. I am finally back to reading around what I think I can for a month.  The total for 2021 is 2,337 Pages and 0.00 Hours of Listening.

Books by Pages Total:
  1. Blood of the Dragonfly - 226 Pages
  2. Let's Talk! (A Story about Autism and Friendship) - 30 Pages
  3. The Silver Shadow - 256 Pages
  4. Dear Mrs. President - 20 Pages
Total Pages by Month:
  1. January - 371 Pages
  2. February - 90 Pages
  3. March - 1,344 Pages
  4. April - 534 Pages

Total books by Month:

  1. January - 12 Books
  2. February - 3 Books
  3. March - 6 Books
  4. April - 4 Books
   
Favorite Book of the Month:
Harper, a seven-year-old little girl that is typically developing, loves going to the pool. One day when she gets to the pool, she meets a new friend, a little girl who is also seven years old . She has no idea that this friend is any different than her. All Harper knows is she has a new friend that wants to play in her tube with her. They both love to swim at the pool and want to play together however, Emma has little communication skills. Emma can make sounds and not words and flaps her hands when she is excited. When Harper realizes she cannot communicate with her new friend she becomes determined to find a way to. In talking to her mom, Harper is told that Emma has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Determined to not let this stand in the way of her new friendship she becomes determined to learn how to communicate with Emma. She begins to learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder and asks Emma's mom to show her the different ways she can communicate with her new friend. Harper becomes excited to begin to use her new tools to communicate with Emma. The two become inseparable from that day on. Harper introduces Emma to all her friends and teaches them how to communicate with her. Harper and Emma become the center of their circle of friends and begin to have many more adventures together.
Want to buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christian Books |

Book Haul of the Month:
 
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Book Challenges:
- Goodreads Reading Challenge 25/30 Books
- Fiction Addiction's Monthly Wrap up
- Backlog of Reviews (0 Reviews) 2011 though 2018
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Here is everything that been posted for the year. Some things have been will be posted later then when I read the book or reviewed it. Most cases this is when a book is on tour with me. The Book review may be posted later or a month or so done the line. I will gladly mark these when I read the book so you know.


My Wrap Ups for the Year:

  1. January
  2. February
  3. March
  4. April
What are your Reading this Month?

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April 28, 2021

Book Haul #10 (April 2021) - With Special Kickstarter


April has come and went with little hassle and fuss. I finally had some family time this Easter. Hope you enjoyed yours. Here are some amazing books that all arrived this month. I want to say Thank you to all of the authors and publishers and new one for all these lovely books that arrived this past month. They are on my TBR List to read. Some are book tour books for next month. If they have not already been read and reviewed during this month.


Here are the books I received from several different publishers.Thank you to some authors as well. Thank you to those Book Tours as well. All are review books. I want to say Thank you all.
  • The Silver Shadow by Liz Tolsma (Review)
  • A Celebration of Autumn by Roger Carlson
  • A Celebration of Winter by Roger Carlson
  • A Celebration of Spring by Roger Carlson
  • A Valentines Breakfast in Bed by Roger Carlson
  • A Costume Contest by Roger Carlson
  • Ava and Aaron Christmas by Roger Carlson
  • The World Famous ABC by Roger Carlson
  • Precious Moments with Dick and Jane by Roseann Woodka, PhD
  • I Love You Daddy by Roger Carlson
  • Three Paws and the Secret Cave by Karen Struck
  • Rumble Boo's Lake Vacation by Reena Korde Pagnoni (On Tour May 31, 2021)
  • I'm Not Weird, I have SPD by Chynna Laird (On Tour May 28, 2021)
  • The Medusa Quest by Alane Adams
  • The Export's Revenge by JK Kelly
  • Colton's Pocket Dragon by Rebecca Massey
  • Colton's Time Matchine: Jefferson, Adams and Franklin by Rebecca Massey
  • Balloons for Tiger by Lori Orlinsky (On Tour May 20, 2021)
  • Does Grandma Remember Me? by Evita Sherman (On Tour June 3, 2021)
  • The Adventures of Molly and Ollie: Moving Day by Sally Beale (On Tour May 18, 2021)
  • Buckley the Highland Cow and Ralphy the Goat: A True Story about Kindness, Friendship, and Being Yourself by Renee M. Rutledge
  • Me vs. the Multiverse: Pleased to Meet Me by S.G. Wilson
  • The Trichster Diaries by Barbara Lally
  • The Curious Case of Florence Winters: A 1920s Historical Cozy Mystery by May B. Bridge
  • Henry and the Gym Monster: A Children's Picture Book About Taking Responsibility by Ben Lancour
  • The Odyssey of Sarah Hayward by Beth Behshad
  • Fred Gets Dressed by Peter Brown (On Tour May 3, 2021)
  • The Toot Fairy by Mark Huffman (On Tour May 8, 2021)
  • Cheesemaker Durdsden by Mark Huffman (On Tour May 8, 2021)

All are on my radar to read. I hope to read these books soon. This is my book haul for this month.
Please support this "Kickstarter Deal" by Mariana Publishing

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Book Tour / Review: Love on the Edge

Book Title: Love on the Edge
Authors: Kathleen Shoop, Demi Stevens (Editor), Lorraine Donahue Bonzelet, Jennifer D. Diamond, Abigale Drake, Judy England-McCarthy, Phil Giunta, NJ Hammer, Kimberly Kurth Gray, Hilary Hauck, SM Kraftchak, MaryAlice Meli, Amy Morley, Gail Oare, Kim Pierson, James Robinson Jr., Lisa Valli, Deborah Vita, Madhu Bazaz Wangu, Denise Weaver, Michele Zirkle
Series: Mindful Writers Retreat Series # 3
Genres: Love, Romance, Short Story, Poems, Anthology
Publisher: Year of the Book Press
Publisher Date: 2021-01-12 (256 Pages, Paperback)

Experience love’s emotional gamut from the authors of Mindful Writers Retreat, sure to bring joy and bliss to your heart any time of year.
From love in the time of war… to love at first sight and long walks in the snow… to sparks flying because of nosy neighbors… Love on the Edge reveals the essence and evolution of the human need for relationship, written in a time when we’re all searching for deeper meaning and connection.
Featuring works by: Lorraine Donohue Bonzelet, Jennifer D. Diamond, Abigail Drake, Judy England-McCarthy, Phil Giunta, N. J. Hammer, Kimberly Kurth Gray, Hilary Hauck, S. M. Kraftchak, Ramona DeFelice Long, MaryAlice Meli, Amy Morley, Gail Oare, Kim Pierson, James Robinson, Jr., Kathleen Shoop, Demi Stevens, Lisa Valli, Deborah Vita, Madhu Bazaz Wangu, Denise Weaver, and Michele Zirkle.
Proceeds benefit Allegheny Children’s Initiative—Partners For Quality, Inc.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book though Beck Valley Books and for an honest review
Want to Buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Kobo | I-tunes |
Add To: Goodreads
You may be looking for a book that has some stories of love. This book has a few different tiers of redemption of love. It got stories about the loss of love and a few others; there are even poems about love.

The stories are all sweet and enjoyable. Some occur set around the Pittsburgh area. I know the names of the rivers around my neighborhood, and they signify mentioned in this book. They are featured in some of the stories as well.

Here seems like an excellent book to have around for Valentine's day. You can read this book anytime; You can pick and choose a story here or there. There no reason to read the whole book at one time. They are all sweet.

There are various authors, and they all write differently. Primarily the stories are focused on love or a form of love. This one is not as a promise to me as the second book in the series. But it is decent and enjoyable to read.

The short stories focused on the writer's love stories or their meaning of love to them. I enjoyed each story, though. There was not one the stuck out from the rest. This book is rated four and a half stars (Moons) for me. This book can be for anyone who might have lost a loved one or loves to read some romance.

 


Mindful Writers Retreat Authors 
The Mindful Writers retreat together several times a year in the beautiful Laurel Highlands of Pennsylvania. While there, they write books and come up with some wonderful stories. They share these in their anthologies.
 

Find the Mindful Writers Retreat Series on Facebook HERE

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I have volunteered to share my review and all the opinions are 100% my own.

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April 24, 2021

Book Review: Dear Mrs. President

Book Title:
Dear Mrs. President
Author: Ana Maria Medici
Genres: Children, NonFiction, Girls, Fiction, Inspiration, Female of Color, Diversity
Publisher: Medici Inc.
Publisher Date: March 8, 2021 (20 Pages, Hardcover)
ISBN:  9781735283166
In Dear Mrs. President, a child's letter to the first female President of the United States, becomes a symbol of hope and a touching tribute to all female leaders, everywhere. With no ambition too high, and no goal too large, Dear Mrs. President encourages kids to reach further, and dream greater.
Discliamer: I received a free copy of this book though the author for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Want To Buy: Amazon
Add To: Goodreads
Are you looking for a book that will help encourage young girls to dream big? Maybe go a little further in life than what their mothers or fathers have for them. Well, this book called "Dear Mrs. President" helps with that along with the diversity.

This book shows what an inspiration anyone girl, whether she is a female of color or not. Should try and dream big and could ever well become President of the United States. It is encouraged by the first vice president of color and the first female president of the United States of America.

The book stands written to use a child letter that tells the story of encouraging and inspiring girls and diversity through the letter and what a female can do the job and still be strong. Anyone can be anything they want to be.

It does encourage dreaming big. It should not matter if you are a female of color or not or a male to do the job. If you can do the job, you should be able to do so. This book symbolizes hope and to female leaders everywhere you can, and it's to make kids go big and dream further than ever before.


Check out my Recommendation Page
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April 23, 2021

Book Tour: Blood of the Dragonfly by Hawk MacKinney

Book Tile: Blood of The Dragonfly
Author: Hawk MacKinney
Genre: Adult Fiction, Mystery, Suspense, Thriller
Publisher: Sage Words Publishing
Publisher date: February 2021 (226 Pages, Paperback)
Series: Moccasin Hollow #5
ISBN: 978-1-7329182-6-9

While dangling a fishing hook from his flat bottom skiff before dawn, former SEAL-turned-PI Craige Ingram spots grey-black smoke coiling above the treetops across the river in the direction of the Georgia bayous and Corpsewood Manor. Bayou or bogs, fire in the uncut cypress and pines bodes a sense that the river is no barrier to the fire that threatens his ancestral home, Moccasin Hollow. Neither are the bodies later found in the burned mansion of Corpsewood Manor. Craige wastes no time in helping his ex-SEAL buddy Lt. Graysen MacGerald who is now Head of Buckingham Homicide Investigations by unofficially investigating the bodies and an exquisite dragonfly brooch found in the mansion with a reputation for evil, hauntings, and mystery.
Content Rating: PG. (There are graphic death scenes)
Disclaimer: I received this book free from IReadBookTours for an honest review and for a book tour
Want To Buy: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | BAM | Book Despository
Add To: Goodreads

Blood of the dragonfly is book five of this series. It continues the series of crime-fighting and solving murders now in the backyard of to ex seals. If you are into mysteries and murder, this series is a good one for you.

Though I would suggest that you be wary that there are death scenes and some nasty words for some readers. This book is for adults, and I recommend maybe ages 16 to 17 years old and up. However, that is up to the parents and their choice to read this book or series. This series has different ratings for content for each book.

There seem to be quite a few twists and turns throughout the book. It all starts when Craige decides to help his buddy MacGerald get home from PDK airport. It seems to start up with a mysterious shadow that he thinks he spots. Someone somehow comes alive after being dead?

You will go for a ride and hit some bumps along the way. It starts heating up when Spinner decides to come for a visit at Moccasin Hollow. Will they find out who started the fire? Who is this mystery woman that shows up out of nowhere? Who messed with MacGerarald's investigation? Who wants them all dead? What does the dragonfly have to do with it at all?

Suppose you are into thrillers and suspense and mystery. This book and series is a good one to pick up and read. I have rated this book 4.5 stars (Moons). It seems to have puzzles and clues to have you guessing until the end. What did I know more about how Corpsewood Manor was the target or a little more detail about what was going on to set fire to Corpsewood?



Prize: $25 Amazon Gift Card courtesy of the author of BLOOD OF THE DRAGONFLY (1 winner) (open to Amazon.com customers) (ends May 7)
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Hawk MacKinney served in the US Navy for over 20 years. While serving as a Navy Commander, he also had a career as a full-time faculty member at several major state medical facilities. He earned two postgraduate degrees with studies in languages and history. He has taught postgraduate courses in both the United States and Jerusalem, Israel.

In addition to professional articles and texts on chordate neuroembryology, Hawk has authored several works of fiction—historical love stories, science fiction and mystery-thrillers. His titles are not genre-centered, but plot-character driven. Moccasin Trace, a historical novel nominated for the prestigious Michael Shaara Award for Excellence in Civil War Fiction and the Writers Notes Book Award, details the family bloodlines of his serial protagonist in the Moccasin Hollow Mystery Series—murder and mayhem with a touch of romance. Hidden Chamber of Death, the first book in the mystery series, was followed by Book 2, Westobou Gold and his latest, Book 3, Curse of the Ancients. All have received national attention. The Bleikovat Event was Vol I in The Cairns of Sainctuarie Science Fiction Series followed by Vol II, The Missing Planets. Vol III, Inanna Phantom is in final galleys. ​

​Connect with the author: Website

BOOK TOUR SCHEDULE: 

Apr 12 – PIck a Good Book – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 13 – Splashes of Joy – book review / author interview / giveaway
Apr 13 - Rockin' Book Reviews – book review / guest post / giveaway
Apr 14 – Ms. Cat's Honest World – book review / guest post / giveaway
Apr 14 - Book Corner News and Reviews – book review / giveaway
Apr 15 – I Read What You Write – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 16 – Books for Books – book spotlight
Apr 19 – Bigreadersite – book review / giveaway
Apr 20 – Bound 4 Escape – book review / giveaway
Apr 21 – Sadie's Spotlight – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 22 – Gina Rae Mitchell – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 23 – Nighttime Reading Center – book review / giveaway
Apr 23 - Locks, Hooks and Books – book review / giveaway
Apr 26 – My Reading Journeys – book review / giveaway
Apr 26 - Kam's Place - book spotlight
Apr 27 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 27 - Buried Under Books - book review / giveaway
Apr 28 – Sefina Hawke's Books – book review / giveaway
Apr 29 – Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 30 – Adventurous Jessy – book review / giveaway
Apr 30 - BookishKelly2020 – book spotlight
Apr 30 - Books Lattes & Tiaras – book spotlight / giveaway


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April 19, 2021

Book Review: The Sliver Shadow

Book Title:
The Sliver Shadow
Author: Liz Tolsma
Publisher: Barbour Books
Publish Date: 5/1/2021 (256 Pages, E-Book)
Genres: Christian Fiction, Historical Fiction, True Crime, History, Mystery, Thriller
Series: True Colors #11
ISBN: 9781643528342 | ASIN: B08NFSTVVG
Fiction Based on Strange, But True, History

A Shadowy Figure Is Intent on Harming Denver’s Women
Step into True Colors -- a new series of Historical Stories of Romance and American Crime

Denver of 1900 is still a dangerous place to be following the silver crash of 1893. And of out of the dark comes a shadow intent on harming women. Ambitious young Denver newspaper reporter Polly Blythe is searching for the big story that’s going to launch her career. On Friday evening, August 24, 1900, she gets her break when two women are cracked over the head within a two-minute walk of each other. But policeman Edwin Timmer thwarts Polly’s ideas of a serial criminal. . .until the shadowy figure strikes again. Will the reporter and the policeman team up to find the culprit before her strikes too close for comfort?
Declaimer: "I received a complimentary copy of this book from Barbour Publishing and was under no obligation to post a review." All reviews written are my own and honest.
Want To Buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christian Books |
Add To: Goodreads | LibrayThing | BookBub |

Do you enjoy crime stories? Maybe a bit of true crime but with some fiction. This book "The Silver Shadow" is book eleven in the True Colors series. What a plot this is. There seems to be a mysterious person that keeps hitting women on the head.

We mean you introduced the main two characters—some of the crime that is going on. We meet a mysterious male that wants to teach women their place in the time of the 1900s. The woman is a reporter for the Denver Post. Edwin is the other main character; He works at the Denver Police department.

The more we get into the story or plot. It is more interesting. Polly gets another dressing down from her boss. She still wants this story and to solve these crimes. The detective has to get the runaround, and these bosses seem to think it nothing to be concerned about these crimes. The story is getting more twists and turns. The man shows up once more and remains described as the Silver shadow. Will he be caught?

This book has quite a few twists and turns. Who could be the mysterious Silver Shadow? When will they stop? It is a good book for adults if they want a little history and some crime and a mystery to go along with it. I hope to be able to read more of these True Color series books. I have read a few of them and enjoy them.


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April 16, 2021

Subscribers on my RSS Feed (Feedburner) - Moved to Mailchimp

 All new subscribers to my RSS Newsletter.. Please know I have added you all to my Mailchimp newsletter to keep getting my RSS emails. As of the end of July of this year. Feedburner will not send out any more email or will the Google Rss Widget (Follow By Email be working). I have moved you over to my newsletter to keep getting my blog content. If you do not want to be a subscriber you will be able to unsubscribe if your choose.

You may get double the emails until Feedburner has been shutdown the email subscription service completely. I am giving your this has heads up and to let you know you of the change.  You will still be updated unless you decide to unsubscribe and that is up to you.

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April 11, 2021

Book Review: Let's Talk (A story of Autism and Friendship)

Book Title: Let's Talk (A story of Autism and Friendship)
Author: Lisa Jacovsky
Genres: Children, NonFiction, Autism, Special Needs, Friendship, Fiction
Series: Let's Talk #1
Publisher: Let's Talk
Publisher Date: July 2, 2020 (30 Pages, Hardcover)
ISBN: 9780578718194

Harper, a seven-year-old little girl that is typically developing, loves going to the pool. One day when she gets to the pool, she meets a new friend, a little girl who is also seven years old . She has no idea that this friend is any different than her. All Harper knows is she has a new friend that wants to play in her tube with her. They both love to swim at the pool and want to play together however, Emma has little communication skills. Emma can make sounds and not words and flaps her hands when she is excited. When Harper realizes she cannot communicate with her new friend she becomes determined to find a way to. In talking to her mom, Harper is told that Emma has Autism Spectrum Disorder. Determined to not let this stand in the way of her new friendship she becomes determined to learn how to communicate with Emma. She begins to learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder and asks Emma's mom to show her the different ways she can communicate with her new friend. Harper becomes excited to begin to use her new tools to communicate with Emma. The two become inseparable from that day on. Harper introduces Emma to all her friends and teaches them how to communicate with her. Harper and Emma become the center of their circle of friends and begin to have many more adventures together.
Discliamer: I received a free copy of this book though the author for an honest review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Want To Buy: Amazon
Add To: Goodreads
Let's Talk is about a story of a girl that meets a new girl that has Autism. So this book is about Autism and friendship. It is a sweet story; I enjoyed it. Though I have Autism Spectrum Disorder, it is a disability. Many people have it, and each person is on a different spectrum. Some are on the high end, some are somewhere in the middle, and some are on the lower side.

We may look standoffish or even act strangely or act differently than usual. I have Autism and am on the high end of the spectrum. Though I was different from my cousins when growing up and acted differently than them. I still do.

Autism is something we all need to learn and understand and accept, as it is still hard to see or understand. This book helps in a way or at least spotlights on the communication part of Autism. I can relate to this book, and I know quite a few people with Autism. We all act differently and our interests. I get along with them all.

This book hit Autism on one aspect but shows that we can enjoy some fun and form friendships even though we are different. Will they last well? That depends on the friends who want to understand and do not mind our quirks and the way we commute.

This book shows how a girl learns about Autism and understands and communicates with another little girl named Emma. The pictures are down well. It an excellent book to have on any child's bookshelf; It will teach parents and children or introduce them to Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder. The story is down well and sweet. I cannot wait to see what these girls do on their adventures.


Check out my Recommendation Page
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April 9, 2021

Interview Around The Globe with Lisa Jacovsky

Let welcome to our latest and newest member to our list of authors. Let welcome Lisa Jacovsky to Nighttime Reading Center. She here on a book Spotlight tour. She is stopping by here on April 9, 2021. I work with +Laura Fabiani iRead Book Tours and I happy learn about her books and giveaway.

I have a chance to read her book "Let's Talk! A story of Autism and Friendship". It on my TBR List. I hope to read it during Autism Awareness month. I love supporting this cause as it something I have and now some people with Autism. You got a chance to win a  - Prizes: ​ Win an Print copy of Let's Talk by Lisa Jacovsky (6 winners - open US Only). Enter her giveaway Let's Talk! (A Story of Autism and Friendship) Giveaway


Let read her Bio and then go to her interview. #Interviews, #Interviewsaroundtheglobe, #NRC, #Giveaways #bookspotlight,  #kids, #mystery, #ausism, #picturebooks, @booksbylisajacovsky and @iReadBookTours


Lisa Jacovsky currently is a doctoral level student at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is excited the possibilities having her Doctorate degree will bring her. She has been in the field of ABA since 2014. She began working with children with Autism in 2018 and is currently working in Early Intervention. It is her experience with children that inspired her to finally fulfill her dream of writing a book. Lisa began writing short stories when she was seven years old. Writing is her passion and one of many things she enjoys. She is excited for the future of her series Lets Talk!.

connect with the author: website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads
 

Describe your book in 20 words or less.

A story of strength and inspiration mixed in with childlike wonder at discovering the zoo and animals.

Where or how did you come up with the idea for your story?

I was inspired by my job and actually a client I had been working with at the time. The clients mom told me of their day at the park and how interacting with another child had gone pretty well but it was difficult for my client to understand how to really play on the swing. This had been a recurring thing with my clients that interactions with other children that are neurotypical could be positive or difficult. I thought it would be a great idea to show families that our children can break down those barriers and find a way to play. Also, this family put my client into every activity. I loved that and thought it would be great to show this in my book so families with little ones with Autism realize they are not limited at all. I thought that using my passion and the platform of a children’s book would be an amazing way to show our families how amazing our children with Autism are. I decided to use the pool because it is something I love to this day and how I grew up; going to my pool every summer. This made it easy to decide on the themes for each book by using an activity that has a meaning to me. 

How important are names to you in your book(s)? Do you choose the names based on liking the way it sounds or the meaning? Do you use​ any resources ​in assisting you ​​to choose the names​?

For me I wanted the two main characters to be names I liked but not names I would use for my future children so I can separate the two. I also wanted to honor family members that I’m very close with or have passed by putting their names with supporting characters like Emma’s mom or a new friend they meet in book two. For me symbolism plays a large role in my life and it was kind of an easy thing to decide I would family members for names of characters in the book this way.

Which of your characters (in this book) is your favorite and Why?

If I had to choose it would be Harper. I love her because she does not allow anything stand her way. She is a kid, but she Is strong and determined. Even before knowing Emma had Autism and could not speak, she played with her anyways. I think that is really inspiring and says a lot about the innocence of children and how open they can be to others that are different. I think she can teach not only other children but families to really trust their kids and allow them to be more strong and not limited.

Was there a certain scene in this book that was harder for you to write than others?

I don’t think there was a scene that was hard to write but more of finding the right words to describe a scene for an illustration. I had trouble getting my idea across at first my amazing illustrator really was patient and got it perfect.

If you could cast your characters in the Hollywood adaptation of your book, who would play your characters?

That’s a great question. I think as long as they understand the children and are the same ethnicity I don’t think I would be too picky for the two main characters. For the moms I would love Priyanka Chopra for Emma’s mom she is a favorite actress of mine. For Harpers mom I think Gabrielle Union would be amazing. She has this great quality about her that I think would make her discussing Autism just come off as easy. I think they would be incredible to play these characters if it became a movie.

What was your favorite part to write and why? (Alternate Q: What is your least favorite part of the publishing / writing process?) 

Favorite part to write was probably when Harper is talking to her mom about what Autism is. I felt like that was such a great scene to write and you can really feel her enthusiasm for wanting to be like Emma and flap her hands. I think it is a really fun scene for children to connect with and adults to realize were all special and being different is beautiful.

Just as your books inspire authors, what authors have inspired you to write? (Alternate Q: If you didn't like writing books, what would you do for a living?, What writing advice do you have for other aspiring authors?)

Its really interesting to be asked this question because I write in a different genre than I like to read. But I would say that Neil Gaiman is one of my favorite writers. I love how he is able to paint this world in your mind and I think that is really the goal for me as well.

 

Writing advice: keep going and be determined. Don’t get discouraged and do your research. There is a whole writing community out there that is super supportive. There are a ton of ideas out there and its ok to be rejected when querying. If you feel that you don’t want to wait then self publish because that is ok too. I love self publishing and having everything be my own idea. I am grateful for this writing community and all the amazing marketing ideas I have gotten as well as support. It is easy to be disappointed and discouraged, just never dwell on it, keep going, you will have that amazing published book that will be received positively by the world. 


Do you read your reviews? Do you respond to them, good or bad? Do you have any advice on how to deal with the bad?

I do read each and everyone. I wish amazon would let me reply but I do reply on goodreads and anything I get on social media. I am truly grateful for all of my reviews. That means that person not only took the time to read my book but to write something. I have gotten one bad review and some constructive criticism. I would suggest always thinking about the criticism and see if you can use it to your advantage. Criticism is not negative just a learning tool. Any bad reviews just means that person was not meant for your book I feel. I would suggest rereading the good reviews to remind yourself there are a lot of people out there who not only love your book but understand the message.

What are you working on now? What is your next project?

Right now I am working on my second book that is in production and scheduled for release on April 2, 2021. I am super excited for this! I really hope to show with this second book another adventure or activity that little ones with Autism can do and not be afraid of judgement. I also have two other projects in the works that I am proud of. I wrote my family history into a story and will be putting it into publication, and I cannot wait to get the illustration process started. I also wrote the third installment in my short story series about the silly shenanigans my cats get into called Rascal Cat brothers. All three can be read on medium @ljayauthor or vocal. I plan to turn them into a short story book when I have four or more and put illustrations in. Hoping to have that done later this year too. Keep up on my social media and website for all these fun things coming and more books in the Let’s Talk series.

Thank you for stopping by Nighttime Reading Center, Lauren. I hope to see you around here. I hope you stop by once in awhile. I started to laugh with some of the answers. I am happy and will and hope to catch up with your books and in the series "Let's Talk".


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Book Spotlight: Let's Talk! (A Story of Autism and Friendship) by Lisa Jacovsky


Join us for this tour from Mar 29 to Apr 16, 2021!

Book Details:

Book TitleLets Talk! A story of Autism and Friendship by Lisa Jacovsky
CategoryChildren's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 32 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
PublisherLisa Jacovsky
Release date:   July 2020
Formats Available: hardback, ebook

Tour dates: Mar 29 to Apr 16, 2021
Content Rating:  G.

Book Description:

Harper, a seven-year-old little girl that is typically developing, meets a new friend one day at the pool that is diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. They both love to swim at the pool and want to play together however, Emma has little communication skills. Emma can make sounds and not words and flaps her hands when she is excited. When Harper realizes she cannot communicate with her new friend she becomes determined to find a way to. She begins to learn about Autism Spectrum Disorder and the different ways that Emma can communicate. Once she does the two become inseparable. Harper introduces Emma to all her friends and teaches them how to communicate with Emma. Harper and Emma become the center of their circle of friends and have more many more adventures together. 

Buy the Book:
Amazon
BAM ~ B&N ~ IndieBound
add to Goodreads

 
Meet the Authors:

Lisa Jacovsky currently is a doctoral level student at the Chicago School of Professional Psychology. She is excited the possibilities having her Doctorate degree will bring her. She has been in the field of ABA since 2014. She began working with children with Autism in 2018 and is currently working in Early Intervention. It is her experience with children that inspired her to finally fulfill her dream of writing a book. Lisa began writing short stories when she was seven years old. Writing is her passion and one of many things she enjoys. She is excited for the future of her series Lets Talk!.

connect with the authors:  website ~ twitter ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

Tour Schedule:

Mar 29 - Working Mommy Journal – book spotlight / giveaway
Mar 29 - Cover Lover Book Review – book spotlight / giveaway
Mar 29 - Rockin' Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Mar 30 - Stephanie Jane – book spotlight / giveaway
Mar 31 – Westveil Publishing - book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 1 – She Just Loves Books – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 1 - Gina Rae Mitchell – books spotlight / giveaway
Apr 2 – Splashes of Joy – book spotlight / guest post /giveaway
Apr 5 – I Read Kid's Books – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 5
- A Mama's Corner of the World - book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 6 – The Adventures of a Travelers Wife – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 7 – What Polly Reads – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 7 - Locks, Hooks and Books – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 8 – Sefina Hawke's Books – book spotlight
Apr 8
- The Bespectacled Mother - book spotlight
Apr 9 – Nighttime Reading Center – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 12 – Lisa's Reading – book spotlight / giveaway
Apr 13 – Jazzy Book Reviews – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
Apr 14 – I'm All About Books – book spotlight /giveaway
Apr 14 – Pick A Good Book – book spotlight / author interview / giveaway
Apr 15 – Books for Books – book spotlight
Apr 16 – Struck by Stories – book spotlight / guest post / giveaway
 

Enter the Giveaway:

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April 1, 2021

Monthly Wrap up: (March 2021)


March flew on by. I have read a total of 6 books. It was a warm one and that stayed that way though out the month. I have finally reset up my recommendation page. It looks better and cleaned up and organized. Check it out if you want to shop one of the books that been reviewed on my blog. It still needs for work but I am working on it stages. Adult books and Activity Books are next on my list to add to the recommendation page. Children and Seasonal and Middle Grade are done until I need to add more to those sections. I love bring in each year differently.

I have giveaways going on my blog. Check my sidebar on my blog under "Giveaways".

Books Read in March:
  1. When Twilight Breaks by Sarah Sundin
  2. The Moonlight School by Suzanne Woods Fisher
  3. The Robin's Greeting by Wanda E. Brunsetter
  4. Love on the Edge by Various Authors (On Tour April 28, 2021)
  5. 'Twas the Morning of Easter by Glenys Nellist
  6. The Berenstain Bears and the Easter Story by Jan and Mike Berenstain
My books really fell in 4 different genres for this month. They are in 4 different media categories I believe as well. They will be shown below.

Books by Genre:
  1. Children - 2 Book
  2. Mystery - 1 Books
  3. Historical - 1 Book
  4. Other - 1 Book
Books by Media Categories:
  1. Hard Cover - 1 Books
  2. Paperback - 5 Book
I have read a total of 1,344 Pages, for the month of March. I am finally back to reading around what I think I can for a month.  The total for 2021 is 1,805 Pages and 0.00 Hours of Listening.

Books by Pages Total:
  1. When Twlight Breaks - 384 Pages
  2. The Moonlight School - 320 Pages
  3. The Robin's Greeting - 320 Pages
  4. Love on the Edge - 256 Pages
  5. 'Twas the Morning of Easter - 32 Pages
  6. The Berenstain Bears and the Easter Story - 32 Pages
Total Pages by Month:
  1. January - 371 Pages
  2. February - 90 Pages
  3. March - 1,344 Pages

Total books by Month:

  1. January - 12 Books
  2. February - 3 Books
  3. March - 6 Books
   
Favorite Book of the Month:
My Review for A Moonlight School
Haunted by her sister's mysterious disappearance, Lucy Wilson arrives in Rowan County, Kentucky, in the spring of 1911 to work for Cora Wilson Stewart, superintendent of education. When Cora sends Lucy into the hills to act as scribe for the mountain people, she is repelled by the primitive conditions and intellectual poverty she encounters. Few adults can read and write.

Born in those hills, Cora knows the plague of illiteracy. So does Brother Wyatt, a singing schoolmaster who travels through the hills. Involving Lucy and Wyatt, Cora hatches a plan to open the schoolhouses to adults on moonlit nights. The best way to combat poverty, she believes, is to eliminate illiteracy. But will the people come?

As Lucy emerges from a life in the shadows, she finds purpose; or maybe purpose finds her. With purpose comes answers to her questions, and something else she hadn't expected: love.

Inspired by the true events of the Moonlight Schools, this standalone novel from bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher brings to life the story that shocked the nation into taking adult literacy seriously. You'll finish the last page of this enthralling story with deep gratitude for the gift of reading.
Want to buy: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Christian Books |

Book Haul of the Month:
You can check out my Instagram if you like to follow: @hickeylindsay
You can check out my February Book Haul on Instagram

Book Challenges:
- Goodreads Reading Challenge 21/30 Books
- Fiction Addiction's Monthly Wrap up
- Backlog of Reviews (0 Reviews) 2011 though 2018
Bloggers Commenting Back
Follow me and I follow back

Giveaways:
 check the side bar


Here is everything that been posted for the year. Some things have been will be posted later then when I read the book or reviewed it. Most cases this is when a book is on tour with me. The Book review may be posted later or a month or so done the line. I will gladly mark these when I read the book so you know.



My Wrap Ups for the Year:

  1. January
  2. February
  3. March
What are your Reading this March?

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Please read my NRC Policies Page. Follow NRC: | Facebook | Twitter | Bloglovin | Pinterest | Goodreads | Google + | Smashwords | Fictfact | Riffle | Linkedin | Sign up for NRC Newsletter |
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