'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.....

'Seven Steps to Freedom'

Even if you want to change something, the first thing you should do is to say yes to the current situation. 'Seven Steps to Freedom' by Darrell Mowat maybe a fast and simple read but don't let that fool you! It's packed full of great thought-provoking quotes that will only better your life. I love how simple this book makes everything. The first half contains short stories, while the second half is a discussion for self-development. This is the perfect antidote if you are ever struggling to know your life and emotions.

'Nothing'

Nothing by Linda Naseem is, as the author says herself "unfortunately, inspired by experience". It tells the "fictional" story of Annie, who discovers her husband is a drug addict. It was a very interesting story highlighting the affects on a relationship due to drug abuse. Some of the writing was convoluted and hard to get through but nonetheless worth the effort. A raw story filled with tragedy, violence and hope. These kind of stories stir up just about every emotion possible. So thank you Linda for sharing a story that many of us are not strong enough to even articulate aloud.

'Crumbling Walls'

Jack and Emily. Emily and Jack. Crumbling Walls by Laura Strandt is the first in a series of YA romance books. I didn't love this book, but I did like it. The book kicks off really well with two entertaining personalities. Right from the start you can see a truly sizzling chemistry that never fizzles out. The humour and witty dialogue really carried the story a long way. There are moments that show hesitancy from Emily, but this makes for a more interesting read. A few typos, but overall, this a winner and I am seriously convinced that she will write an even better follow up.

'Expecting'

After two miscarriages, Laurie and Alan are expecting - through IVF. But everything gets turned upside down when their doctor tells Laurie she was accidentally impregnated from a donor other than her husband! They must now face reality and their new future. You could easily see this being a movie. Expecting by Ann Lewis Hamilton is told with humour and substance that will leave you thinking of it long after you close the book. I thought it was going to be a bit fluffy but the author manages to pack in a lot of emotions without overdoing it. Ann's book was a wonderful read that I expect to rise on the best-sellers list.

'Leaving Normal'

Not your "normal" memoir :P Leaving Normal: Adventures in Gender by Rae Theodore will challenge you to examine your ideas about gender & society. Small anecdotes and memories make up this easy to read memoir dealing with a complex subject. Self-identity is so important for your peace of mind and it can be extremely difficult when society wont accept your identity. This book is an insight into the soul of woman who gives a tremendously moving and funny account of a bitter-sweet life. At about 120 pages, its well worth your time.

'The Everyday Space Traveler'

Travel on a virtual voyage to Mars and discover your inner self. If you have gloomy view of our species’ destiny, you probably won’t enjoy this book. The Everyday Space Traveler by Jason Klassi reminds us how it is an human imperative to explore. The author has divided the book into nine chapters, each beginning and ending with part of a fictitious "Log" on a journey to Mars. Each chapter also gives a very importance insight of mindfulness in our lives and how it can improve our living. I've always been a fan of mindfulness and have read a lot on it and how recent scientific researches shows that mindfulness can affects our brain positively. Through in a foreword by Buzz Aldrin and you have a wonderful "out of this world" experience in the palm of your hands.

'My Beautiful Flower'

Jean Murray has written an inspirational memoir about life with depression and her daughter's learning difficulties. 'My Beautiful Flower' is both uplifting and somber at the same time. What most distinguishes this book, however, is Jean's affection for her daughter. The reader will recognizes that people with disabilities have the same human desires and needs as the rest of us do - like respect, shelter, education, love etc. No matter how strong our personality is, it is inevitable to feel down. But depression can ruin your life by making you less productive and withdrawn. We should all read books on personality development and coping with depression while we still have the time to read. I heartily thank Jean for allowing me a glimpse into her life :)

'It's Never Too Late'

This is not an entertaining book - It's inspirational! An amazing story from Chris and Debbie Atkinson who absolutely practice what they preach. Everyone is looking for some magic trick that will allow them to be happy and successful. We all believe that some "quick fix" will guide us effortlessly through life into a blissful well-being. Life is not so simple, but it's never too late to work for the life you want. The information presented here gets you thinking in the right direction and is life transforming if one applies it to their life. I have made a conscious decision to include some of the information into my daily routine. The principles in this book are simple to understand and easy to implement. The biggest thing I got out of it, was I was forced to look at the people I was associating with. Well worth the investment.

'Soul Mirror'

The combination of  a coming-of-age story with a philosophical message, come together to make a fascinating and engaging little book. 'Soul Mirror' by Jessica Tumminello is a short story for young adults who are trying to find out who they are. I picked up this book last weekend and spent an evening reading it and sharing the story with my niece (12 years old). We both loved it! The character's dialogue and unique personality kept us both amused and intrigued to the end. Also this book really got me into appreciating myself more - So thank you Jessica :)