Arletis, Abuelo y el Mensaje en la Botella (Spanish Edition) by Lea Aschkenas

Detalles del Libro: 

Título: Arletis, Abuelo y el Mensaje en la Botella 

Autora: Lea Aschkenas

Editor: Star Bright Books

Páginas: 48

Fecha de Lanzamiento:  April 25, 2023

Nivel de Grado: 1 - 2

Género: Vida familiar multigeneracional de los niños

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Descripción del Libro:

Había una vez una isla con forma de caimán en medio de un ancho mar, donde vivía una niña que amaba los mapas y soñaba con conocer otros lugares… En otra parte del mundo, en la desembocadura de una amplia bahía, vivía un señor mayor que en su juventud había soñado con navegar por el mundo y hacer amigos en tierras extranjeras… Cuando estos dos desconocidos se conectan, a través de un mensaje en una botella, la relación que establecen inspira una visita. Se forja así una amistad duradera que amplía el mundo de ambos. Basado en una historia real, Arletis, abuelo y el mensaje en la botella es un retrato sobre la vida en la Cuba rural, líricamente escrito e ilustrado con exuberancia, que encantará a niños y adultos por igual.

Mis Pensamientos: Bello

¡Que cuento tan bello! Lo primero que me cautivó fue el título. Enseguida que comencé a leer, me cautivó el cuento y las bellas ilustraciones. Sentí como si estuviera ahí al lado de Arletis en su bella isla. Todo lo que ella  hacía me traía a la mente gratos recuerdos de mis días visitando a mi familia quienes también viven en una isla. 

La historia de Arletis y el abuelo es bella e impactante. Lo mejor de todo fue algo inesperado que sucedió. Me sorprendió, pero también me dejo feliz y con una sonrisa en la cara. Realmente es una hermosa historia que recomiendo encarecidamente no sólo a los niños, pero a personas de cualquier edad.

Gracias a NetGalley por proporcionarme una copia avanzada de este libro. Todos los comentarios y opiniones son voluntarios y completamente míos.

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About the Author:  Lea Aschkenas

Lea Aschkenas ha escrito reseñas de libros y artículos para Washington Post Book World, Los Angeles Review of Books y Salon. También es autora de un libro de memorias de viaje, Es Cuba: Life and Love on an Illegal Island. Se enamoró de Cuba y su gente en su primer viaje a la isla en el año 2000 y ha regresado casi todos los años desde entonces. Arletis, abuelo y el mensaje en una botella es su primer libro para niños. Lea vive en el norte de California, donde trabaja como bibliotecaria pública y enseña en el programa California Poets in the Schools. Visite: leaaschkenas.com. 

Arletis, Abuelo and the Message in a Bottle by Lea Aschkenas

Book Details: 

Title: Arletis, Abuelo and the Message in the Bottle 

Author: Lea Aschkenas

Publisher: Star Bright Books

Pages: 48

Release Date:  April 25, 2023

Grade Level: 1 - 2

Genre: Children's Multigenerational Family Life

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Book Description:

Once, on an alligator-shaped island in the middle of a wide sea, there lived a little girl who loved maps and dreamed of one day knowing other places . . . In another part of the world, at the mouth of a wide bay, there lived an old man who in his youth dreamed of sailing the world and making friends in foreign lands . . . When these two strangers connect through a message in a bottle, their communication inspires a visit that forges a lasting friendship, which expands both their worlds. Based on a true story, Arletis, Abuelo, and the Message in a Bottle is a lyrically written, lushly illustrated portrait of life in rural Cuba that will enchant children and adults alike.

My Thoughts: Beautiful

What a beautiful story! The first thing that drew my attention was the title. Immediately as I began reading, I was captivated by the story and the lovely illustrations. I felt as if I was right next to Arletis on her beautiful island. Everything she did brought to my mind fond memories of my days visiting family who also live on an island.

The story of Arletis and the grandfather is beautiful and amazing. The best thing of all was something very unexpected that occurred. It surprised me, but it also left me with a smile on my face. It truly is a beautiful story that I highly recommend not just for children, but for people of all ages. 

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.  All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Author:  Lea Aschkenas

Lea Aschkenas has written book reviews and articles for Washington Post Book World, Los Angeles Review of Books, and Salon. She is also the author of a travel memoir, Es Cuba: Life and Love on an Illegal Island. She fell in love with Cuba and its people on her first trip to the island in the year 2000 and has been returning nearly every year since. Arletis, Abuelo, and the Message in a Bottle is her first book for children. Lea lives in Northern California where she works as a public librarian and teaches with the California Poets in the Schools program. Visit: leaaschkenas.com. 

Her Amish Patchwork Family (Hope's Haven Book 3) by Winnie Griggs

Book Details: 

Title:  Her Amish Patchwork Family

Series: Hope's Haven Book 3

Author: Winnie Griggs

Publisher: Forever

Pages: 353

Release Date:  April 25, 2023

Genre: Amish Romance

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Book Description:

In this heartwarming Amish romance, a former schoolteacher and a single father discover a second chance at friendship, family, and love—perfect for fans of Laura V. Hilton and Marta Perry.

Former Hope’s Haven schoolteacher, Martha Eicher, has always been the responsible one, putting her family first and caring for her widowed father and two younger sisters. But now they’re all happily married, and Martha isn’t sure where she fits in anymore . . . until she hears that Asher Lantz needs a nanny. Even though her childhood friendship with Asher ended abruptly years ago, when a misunderstanding drove a wedge between them, Martha offers her assistance.

Asher is also feeling adrift. As a single father to his niece and nephews, he struggles to balance his new family responsibilities with those on the farm and in his workshop. He’s grateful for Martha’s help, but worries things will always feel awkward with her. Yet before long, Asher realizes Martha is exactly what his family needs, and he can’t imagine his home without her. Martha and Asher thought they were lost, but could they be right where they belong . . . together?

My Thoughts: Absolutely Lovely 

What an absolutely lovely story! I was immediately drawn into an emotional connection with the characters and their story. I felt for Martha and Asher as the changes they went through with their family situations had to be difficult for them. When Martha takes on the task of helping Asher with his situation, things begins to take a turn. It deeply touched my heart to see how theirs turned from friendship to unexpected feelings, and I loved how the transition took place. The great secondary characters, especially the children, added a lovely touch to the story and had me smiling and laughing more than once. 

Another thing that made this such a lovely story is how it drove home the message about misunderstandings. They can cause great hurt, affect relationships and can also cause one to carry a heavy weight on their shoulders unnecessarily. It also drove home the message that through honest communication, trust, and forgiveness, healing is possible and misunderstandings can be overcome. 

Great characters, great message, and a touching storyline are what make this such a lovely story and one that I highly recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.  All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Author:  Winnie Griggs

Winnie Griggs grew up in south Louisiana in an undeveloped area her schoolmates considered the very back of beyond. With her two younger siblings and another family of three siblings for playmates, she spent many an hour exploring the overgrown land around her home, cutting jungle trails, building forts and frontier camps, and looking for pirate ships on the nearby bayou.

Once she 'grew up' she found other outlets for dealing with all those wonderful, adventurous, imaginary friends by filling notebooks with their stories. And somewhere along the way, those scribblings gave way to full length books.

Eventually she found her own Prince Charming, a rancher whose white steed takes the form of a tractor and whose kingdom is situated in a small rural community that she loves to call home, and together they've built their own storybook happily-ever-after. Their lives together expanded to include four now grown children who share Winnie's vivid imagination and her husband's steadier influences and are now out in the world pursuing their own adventures.

You can learn more about Winnie and her books, past and future, at www.winniegriggs.com

 

Courage in the Storm (A Johns Mill Amish Romance Book 3) by Laurel Blount

Book Details: 

Title: Courage in the Storm 

Series: A John Mills Amish Romance Book 3

Author: Laurel Blount

Publisher: Berkley

Pages: 336

Release Date:  April 25, 2023

Genre: Amish Romance

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Book Description:

In this powerful Amish romance, an isolated woman and a compassionate man learn that love can build a bridge between their two worlds.

Since witnessing the murder of her beloved parents, Miriam Hochstedler suffers from paralyzing anxiety and a deep-seated fear of the Englisch. Unwilling to venture beyond her family’s Tennessee farm, she forms a close bond with a badly injured gelding. Like Miriam herself, the traumatized animal seems unlikely to recover—until skilled horse whisperer Reuben Brenneman arrives.
 
A survivor of an abusive childhood, Reuben understands fear better than most. He’ll do whatever it takes to help a terrified animal, but his compassion doesn’t extend to the church that turned a blind eye to his family’s suffering. Once he finishes this job, he’ll return to the Englisch world, putting his Amish heritage behind him forever.

As Miriam works alongside Reuben, battling the horse’s fear—and her own—an unexpected friendship blooms and deepens into romance. But the Amish faith that sustains her inspires only distrust in Reuben, and the Englisch world he’s chosen has already broken her heart once.
 
Falling in love was easy. But staying together will take all the courage they have.

My Thoughts: Deeply Touched My Heart

Miriam and Breeze were each in need of healing from deep fear caused by traumatic situations. While it appears that Reuben enters the picture only to help Breeze, it becomes evident that Reuben himself is also in need of healing. As Reuben and Miriam work together, they develop a very special relationship. Seeing how honest and open they were with each other and how that honesty impacted their relationship, even when struggles and unexpected events presented themselves, was beautiful. Their story is an absolutely special one that deeply touched my heart.

Author Laurel Blount has once again crafted a story that is so well written and realistic. Once I started reading I did not stop until I got to the very end. At times I felt angst for the characters and what they were each dealing with. Other times I felt hopeful as I watched them experience even the smallest of victories and breakthroughs in their situations. Through everything, love, faith, courage, forgiveness and trust shine through as key elements in the healing process. 

The author's research added so much to the realism of the story. I learned much about the trauma of horses, how it affects them and their healing process. I also learned so much about fear and how deeply it's impact can be. These details added an extra touch that took the story to another level. I recommend you read it for yourself to see just how special it is.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.  All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Author:  Laurel Blount

Award-winning author Laurel Blount writes captivating romances full of grit and grace—with characters who’ll walk right off the page and into your heart. She lives on a farm in Georgia with her husband, their four fabulous kids, and an assortment of ridiculously spoiled animals. Whenever she's not working, you can find Laurel with a cup of tea at her elbow, a cat in her lap, and a good book in her hand. Connect with her at: www.laurelblountbooks.com

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Men of Courage: Prequel Novella to the Acts of Valor series by Rebecca Hartt

Book Details: 

Title: Men of Courage 

Series: Acts of Valor Series Prequel

Author: Rebecca Hartt

Pages: 55

Release Date: June 28, 2020 

Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense Romance/Military Romance

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Book Description:

Enjoy this prequel novella to Rebecca Hartt's highly acclaimed Acts of Valor series (Returning to Eden/ Every Secret Thing/ Cry in the Wilderness). Meet the world's bravest men and the women strong enough to love them. Follow their struggles and triumphs as they rely on faith to overcome adversity.

Taylor Rex never considered being anything besides a Navy SEAL. But a mission-gone-wrong has ended his career in the Teams, leaving Taylor handicapped, his self-identity in tatters. Returning to his hometown of Louisa, Virginia, Taylor wallows in despair. He has no idea the dog foisted on him by a former classmate holds the secret to his healing and his happiness. Becca Winslow's high-school crush on the formidable "T-Rex" hasn't waned one iota in the last decade. Seeing him brought so low rouses Becca's determination to help, even as she is menaced by a stranger who gets bolder by the day.

My Thoughts: Awesome!

What an awesome book! While I was completely drawn in and captivated by the suspense and romance, my heart was deeply touched by the elements of loss, faith and healing. This is the first book I've read by author Rebecca Hartt, but it definitely won't be the last.

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About the Author:   Rebecca Hartt

Rebecca Hartt is the nom de plume for an award-winning, best-selling author who, in a different era of her life, wrote strictly romantic suspense. Now Rebecca chooses to showcase the role that faith plays in the lives of Navy SEALs, penning military romantic suspense that is both realistic and heartwarming.

As a child, Rebecca lived all over the world. She has been a military dependent for most of her life, first as a daughter, then as a wife, and knows first-hand the dedication and sacrifice required by those who serve. Living near the military community of Virginia Beach, Rebecca is constantly reminded of the peril and uncertainty faced by US Navy SEALs, many of whom testify to a personal and profound connection with their Creator. Their loved ones, too, rely on God for strength and comfort. These men of courage and women of faith are the subjects of Rebecca Hartt’s enthusiastically received Acts of Valor series.

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B07VH13GKH/about

The Gift of Faith (Unexpected Gifts Book 3) by Kristen McKanagh

Book Details: 

Title: The Gift of Faith 

Series: Unexpected Gifts Book 3

Author: Kristen McKanagh

Publisher: Berkley

Pages: 301

Release Date: April 11, 2023  

Genre: Amish Romance

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Book Description:

The rewards of faith are plentiful in this sweet Amish romance from the author of The Gift of Joy.

The quietest of the three Kanagy boys, Daniel, would prefer to spend his time keeping his bees and selling the honey rather than tending his family’s gift shop. But with both his brothers breaking away from the family business, his parents need Daniel more than ever.

Contrary to town gossip, Faith Kemp didn’t jump the fence—she left to track down her twin sister, Mercy. When Faith returns home with a newborn baby, the rumors are tough to set right, and not everyone in the community is welcoming. To help support her family, Faith sells dried flower arrangements to the popular gift shop in town. Each visit, she looks forward to seeing Daniel Kanagy. He doesn’t say much, but his steady strength speaks to her just the same.

With girls buzzing around Daniel and trying to catch his eye, why would he turn his gaze to a quiet, plain girl who has a baby and too many rumors about her?

My Thoughts: Beautiful and Inspiring

What a wonderful story! I loved watching Faith and Daniel reestablish their friendship and watching how it blossomed into a mutual trust and support for each other. However, as their friendship deepens, challenging and unexpected situations rise up. Some of the situations are painful, and some involve difficult decisions, but all will require a reliance on faith and trust in God. 

The Gift of Faith is so beautifully written and it deeply touched my heart. Some parts had me smiling, some parts brought tears to my eyes and some had me reflecting upon the awesomeness of God and His faithfulness. That along with elements of forgiveness, grace and love make this an absolutely beautiful and inspiring story that I highly recommend.

I received an advanced copy of this book.  All comments and opinions are voluntary and completely my own.

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About the Author:  Kristen McKanagh

Romance author Kristen McKanagh writes sweet contemporary romance & Amish romance. She loves plots that warm the soul, feisty heroines with sass, heroes with heart, a dash of snark, and oodles of HEAs! Other titles include wife, mother, Star Wars geek, ex-competitive skydiver, spreadsheet lover, eMBA, organizational guru, Texan, Aggie, and chocoholic.

Kristen attempted to find a practical career related to her favorite pastime by earning a degree in English Rhetoric (Technical Writing) and an MBA. However, she swiftly discovered that writing without imagination is not nearly as fun as writing with it.

Kristen currently resides in Austin, Texas, with her own swoon-worthy hero, their amazing kids, who are growing up way too fast, and 2 adorable fur babies.

kristenmckanagh.com

Texas Ranch Target (Cowboy Protectors Book 2) by Virginia Vaughan

Book Details: 

Title: Texas Ranch Target 

Series: Cowboy Protectors Book 2

Author: Virginia Vaughan

Publisher: Love Inspired Suspense

Pages: 224

Release Date: April 25, 2023 

Genre: Christian Mystery & Suspense

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Book Description:

Somebody wants her dead…
But they'll have to go through him first.

After his client is murdered, security expert Brett Harmon plans to lie low at his family’s ranch—until he comes across an injured woman in the road. With only Brett’s business card in her pocket and no memory of her attack, Jaycee Richmond turns to her rescuer for answers. But when their search reveals a deadly connection, can Brett protect her from a killer she can’t remember?

From Love Inspired Suspense: Courage. Danger. Faith.

My Thoughts: A Real Nail Biter

Wow! Brett and Jaycee's story is a real nail biter full of intrigue and suspense. It completely drew me in and kept me on the edge of my seat up to the very end. The story is a mix of mystery, suspense, danger, action, and romance.  All of that along with great characters, family aspects and a touch of faith based inspiration make this a story that is definitely well worth the read. 

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book.  All comments and opinions are completely voluntary and strictly my own.

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About the Author: Virginia Vaughan

Virginia Vaughan is a former investigator for the State of Mississippi who left a promising career to pursue her dream of being a writer. Blessed to come from a large, Southern family, her fondest memories include hearing stories recounted by family and friends around the large dinner table. She was a lover of books even from a young age, devouring gothic romance novels and stories of romance, danger, and love. She soon started writing them herself, delving into the genre of romantic suspense, armed with her passion for writing and the knowledge gained from her criminal justice background.

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