'6.4 Squared'

There are only a handful of authors in the world who I would read every word they’ve ever written. John Walsh is one of those. With Irish wit and worldly knowledge, John has put together a wonderfully warm and humourous collection of reflective poems. Several of the poems from John's rich understanding and wisdom about life made me stop, think, reread and really absorb what he said. With a masterful command of verse and a bullish view of life, this book is both special and thought provoking. A true treasure to read and a book that you will pick up again and again and again and.....

'Underwater'

I have to say I've never read anything quite like Underwater by Marisa Reichardt. There’s something so undeniably perfect about this book that I found myself reading it into the early hours of the morning. When I finally finished this book, I wanted to hug Marisa and thank her for writing this book. By reading this, the author allows us to better understand what is the real life experience for so many who feel trapped and have suffered in silence, not allowing themselves to be free of a certain burden. This is a powerful book that I believe will serve as a great conversation piece. Thanks to Macmillan Books for sending me a copy of this book! loved it.

'Punishment Summer'

Punishment Summer by Peggy Rothschild is a heart-warming coming of age story that makes you stop and reflect on both the beauty and the cruelty of life. When I read the blurb on this one, I had to dive right in. The story of a girl named Nicki, who is sent to her grandfather’s in the town of Punishment. She has secrets, but so has Grandpa. From pot farms to trafficking, Nicki discovers nothing in ‘Punishment’ is as it seems. Good thing Grandpa taught her to shoot. This is an all encompassing novel of love, anger, learning and growing - and those are just a few of the emotions I felt reading this book. Thanks Peggy for a wonderfully written book.

'The Absolution of Otto Finkel'

'The Absolution of Otto Finkel' by John McKay is a fascinating story, full of action and adventure…all told with skill and grace. The story is set in Europe in the era of World War Two. Told without any political agenda it starts out in 1928: Five friends are involved in an incident leaving a man dead and one of the boys disfigured. 1940: Now men, each chooses to serve their respective countries in different ways. Years later - memories fade, but not for Otto.  What I loved about this book was that there are powerful examples of average people in trying times deciding daily between morality and survival. I have been left awe-struck. So, thank you John for writing this book. It has been an honour.

'Mom, Why Do My Farts Stink?'

First a Question - Then a Mom answer - And then a science answer. Both are perfect :) Mom, Why Do My Farts Stink? by Carol Mona is a definite keeper as your child grows. Parents/teachers will have fun reading this book to their children, as it provides helpful, funny answers to some of the most awkward questions children can ask. Parents will gain a lot from the questions Carol has laid out here, as the friendly language will help parents and children learn about science together. They  will learn to think like a scientist as they engage in fun conversations. Put simply - I loved it :D