Review: The Magician's Elephant

The Magician's Elephant by Kate DiCamillo

My rating: 3 of 5 stars



Lovely book. I just finished reading it to the kids. Three stars is shy. It is closer to four.

The book transports you to the wonderful town of Baltese among a charming cast of characters. The children liked it, it was a little strong for them but a wonderful book that you will enjoy with or without them.



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Absolution ready for print

After three long days of formatting in MS Word, Absolution has finally been submitted for print review. It will be a trade paper back (5.25" x 8") and has a retail price of $7.49.

I have always loved the feel of a book and the turn of the page. The heft of Lonesome Dove in hardback makes the story feel like a real treasure in a way that devices just can't deliver. I don't know if anyone else will ever feel the same about Absolution, but for me having a physical copy of it will always be something to treasure regardless.

I was just introduced to this talk today. It resonates with me and so I am sharing it.

That wasn't so hard...

...and not easy either but,

Absolution has been published.

It took 75 days from beginning to published work. It was easier than I thought but the hard parts are the things you can't find help for anywhere. The work simply has to be done.

I know it is only a novella in length, but it has a beginning, a middle and an end. Most importantly for me, I finished what I set out to do and the process is a little addictive. I can't wait to see what the next first chapter brings.

Stay tuned but until then, here is Absolution:

http://amzn.com/B00D4YFDWE

Absolution cover art

There are five cover options to choose from and you can find them on the Absolution book page.

Also, if you are curious to read the first chapter, you can find it on my Goodreads page.

Let me know what you think, please.

Review: How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character

How Children Succeed: Grit, Curiosity, and the Hidden Power of Character by Paul Tough

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This book illuminates some of my own questions and experiences when I was going through school as an unmotivated and generally lazy student. But, it also provides plenty of reinforcement for what I am doing to help my children succeed in and outside of the classroom. I know I'll never get it all right, but I would suggest this book to any parent that is looking for tools or answers as our kids start developing even faster into the people they will become.

That aside, there is a lot of discussion about the influence of poverty, class and social status on children's ability to succeed. It is pointed out several times that those most at risk are those being raised by a single mother. Note to father's...you have a job to do. And by the way, it's for the rest of your life. Do the work.

Aside from the studies, evidence and stories that make up this book there is no mention of the role a father plays in setting an example for success. It seems to be the one ingredient missing yet Paul Tough spends no time on it. I know that's not the focus of the book, but maybe it could be for his next one.

Parents: It's a good book and it's quick. A must read.



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Fans of apocalyptic fiction and prepping must have

Just the ticket if the post apocalyptic world leaves cell phone coverage intact.

If not at least you'll have all of your favorite apps to keep you company.



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