by Summer D Clemenson | Oct 28, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Books can take you all sorts of adventures. Some of these books I am sharing this month were books I read as a child. Some of them I read to my preschool students or nieces and nephews. Some of them are brand new to me but they remind me of other people in my life. Books are so important. I love to watch children fall in love with books because I know that books not only increase our ability to imagine new places but they teach us self reliance and resilience. If you can imagine yourself doing something, you can make it happen. I hope you are fostering love for books with the young people in your life.
Now without further ado 5 Books for October 2024:
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The Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle
The Raggedy Andy Stories: The Very First Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I grew up with Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy and I had The Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle as a child. Reading this collection of children’s classics fiction stories was heartwarming and nostalgic. Out of the 8 stories: How Raggedy Andy Came, The Nursery Dance, The Spinning Wheel, The Taffy Pull, The Rabbit Chase, Raggedy Andy’s Smile, The Wooden Horse, and Making Angels in the Snow, I have to say the 6th story, Raggedy Andy’s Smile is my favorite. I loved my dolls. I loved to help them or other children’s dolls or blankets when their smile wore off or some other repair needed to be made. I love that Santa came to the rescue of all of Marcella’s dolls and repaired them all because she loved her dolls and played with them every day.
This beautiful fantasy picture book is filled with love and friendship and is perfect for any story time. I really enjoyed reading this book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Raggedy Andy Stories by Johnny Gruelle on Amazon.
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Harold at The North Pole by Crockett Johnson
Harold at the North Pole by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Harold at the North Pole by Crockett Johnson is another children’s classic fantasy about Harold and his crayon and how he solves a problem though art. This time, Harold needs a Christmas tree before Santa comes to his house. While he is out looking and drawing, there is a snow storm and he gets a little lost, but ends up at the North Pole where Santa is snowed in. Although Santa can jump up the chimney, his sleigh and all his reindeer cannot, so Harold helps him out. Harold also finds the perfect tree, just in time. This beautiful children’s holiday fiction picture book is perfect for any story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold at the North Pole by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Fairy the Farting Unicorn by Humor Heals Us
Fairy the Farting Unicorn : A Funny Kid’s Book About a Unicorn Who Farts by Humor Heals Us
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Fairy the Farting Unicorn by Humor Heals Us is so fun to read. It book every rule about bodily functions my nana ever taught me, but I think, even Nana would have laughed at Fairy’s floral scented flatulence, especially when she blasted the animal poachers to France! Even though the word fart was consider the “F” word when I was growing up, I have found that farting happens and children, especially my nephews, love books about farting, so I was excited to add this book to my collection fiction picture books and I have laughed through my first reading of this great fantasy. The rainbow colored illustrations are exceptional too!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Fairy the Farting Unicorn by Humor Heals Us on Amazon.
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A Treasury of Curious George by Margret & H.A. Rey
A Treasury of Curious George by Margret Rey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
A Treasury of Curious George by Margret & H.A. Rey is a collection of 8 stories that include: Curious George Takes a Train, Curious George Visits a Toys Store, Curious George and the Dump Truck, Curious George and the Birthday Surprise, Curious George Goes Camping, Curious George Goes to a Costume Party, Curious George Visits the Library, and Curious George in the Big City. All stories were fun and educational as we watch a little monkey, named George, be curious and get into all kinds of adventure, but if I had to pick one favorite, it would be Curious George and the Dump Truck.
In Curious George and the Dump Truck the story starts out with ducks and ducks are one of my favorite animals. George likes them too and since he had never seen ducks before, he followed them to the park where he found a dump truck. The workers were on their lunch break. George really reminds me of my nephew, Kaison, who doesn’t have a lot of words yet, but he has enough energy and curiosity for 10 children and that can lead to anything, much like the creative situations that George often finds himself in. He doesn’t mean to cause trouble, but messes often happen and there always some fun.
The illustrations in this classic fiction picture book are in the style of H.A. Rey, by Vipah International and Martha Weston and they are heartwarming and fun. George makes any story time fun.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of A Treasury of Curious George by Margret & H.A. Rey on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog Goes On a Cruise by William Katzwinkle, Glenn Murray & Elizabeth Gundy
Walter the Farting Dog Goes on a Cruise by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I always wonder why Walter’s family take him on adventures since his atrocious gas always gets him alienated from society, but I love that they adore him enough to try to include him. Although one might see Walter’s horrendous gas as a handicap, it always turns out to save the day, just as it does in Walter the Farting Dog Goes On a Cruise by William Katzwinkle, Glenn Murray & Elizabeth Gundy. As always Walter is isolated because no one, not even the other animals, can stand the smell of his farting, but when the computer system goes out on the cruise ship, leaving Walter on a dingy attached to the back of the boat worked out for everyone as some especially powerful farts project Walter and the ship directly into port right on time, saving the day even with some humor.
The fun and colorful illustrations by Audrey Colman really add to the enjoyment of this children’s fiction picture book.
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog Goes On a Cruise by William Katzwinkle, Glenn Murray & Elizabeth Gundy on Amazon.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Oct 23, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews
Kamala Harris is a strong woman. She is not a person that lets moss grow under her feet, but a woman of action. Raised by immigrants, her mother from India and her father from Jamaica, Harris’ family instilled a powerful work ethic and love for education, the arts, civil rights, feminism and food. In this autobiography, The Truths We Hold: An American Journey by Kamala Harris, we read her nonfiction memoir about her growing up as an immigrant daughter that becomes a lawyer and leader in politics.
“Above all, I rise today with a sense of gratitude for all those upon whose shoulders we stand. For me, it starts with my mother, Shyamala, Harris…And I know she’s looking down on us today. And, knowing my mother, she’s probably saying, ‘Kamala, what on earth is going on down there? We have got to stand up for our values!’”
Harris chose to be a prosecuting attorney because in her life, she wanted to help people. In her history, when people needed to know what to do or have greater understanding, they always called lawyers. Harris has always used her position to try to lift up everyone, not just the influential.
“There are many ongoing struggles in this country—against racism and sexism, against discrimination based on religion, nationalism, and sexual orientation. Each of these struggles is unique. Each deserves its own attention and effort. And it would be wrong to suggest that the differences don’t matter, or that one solution or one fight will alone solve them all. But at the same time, we should embrace the point that King made to Chavez—that what these struggles have in common is of freedom of basic human rights.”
During her career, Harris has held the offices of Prosecuting Attorney, District Attorney, Attorney General of California, California State Senator, Senate Intelligence Committee, Homeland Security Committee, Judiciary Committee, Vice President and she now is running for President of the United States of America, but she would probably say that the most important job she has held was Public Servant. Throughout her career she has helped in the following fields:
- Victims of Sexual Assault
- Children’s Issues
- Drug Crimes
- Bank Fraud and Housing Crisis
- Civil Rights
- Truancy and Family Law
- Transnational Crime (Drugs and Sex Trafficking)
- Healthcare and Pharmaceuticals
- Opioids
- Public Education
- Affordable Housing
- Climate Change
- Infrastructure
- Cyberwarfare
In 2014, she married the love of her life, Doug Emhoff. Together with his ex-wife, Kerstin, they co-parent their children Cole and Ella. The kids didn’t like the idea of calling Harris a step-mother, so they call her Momala. Family is very important to Harris. Many people have tried to say she isn’t a mother, however, she may not have given birth, she has the determination, drive and passion that mothers have. She wakes up every day and gives it her all to make sure that nothing is wasted; that all people are heard as well as they can be. She is not perfect, but nobody is. What she is is worthy.
I got this biography from my personal collection you can get your own copy of The Truths We Hold: An American Journey by Kamala Harris on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Truths We Hold: An American Journey by Kamala Harris
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I wasn’t totally sold on Kamala Harris in the beginning of her run for president. But I had to be honest, I hadn’t given her a real chance. I didn’t really know anything about her, so I started to pay attention. After reading her book, I am glad to make her my choice for president of the United States of America. She is a strong and steady person. She is capable. She is intense and willing to listen. She is worthy.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Oct 7, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Fuel Your Wellness
This article was originally posted on WellnessWorksNW.com on 9/23/2024.
In June I was inspired to join a week long group called Weakless Week hosted by Jason Seib. During this week where Seib inspired the group to get comfortable with being uncomfortable in order to give up junk food for good and commit to exercise forever because that is how we love ourself, he mentioned this self help book, Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D. He felt that this book would help us understand the value of knowing the difference between a fixed mindset and a growth mindset and teaching us to work towards living with a growth mindset.
A Fixed or Growth Mindset can be seen in Business Leadership, Home, in Parenting and in Personal Relationships.
A fixed mindset is a belief that your qualities (talents, aptitudes, interests, temperament, morals) are set in stone and can’t be changed. People with fixed mindsets are usually wrong about their abilities because they don’t know what they are capable of.
A growth mindset is a belief that our basic qualities (intelligence, personality, character) are things we can cultivate through our efforts, strategies and help from others. People that are growth oriented are open to learning, they believe they can develop themselves. Growth mindset seeks challenge and they tend to thrive even in failure.
In learning, failure, to a fixed mindset person can be a traumatic setback, but for a growth mindset person it can be a perfect opportunity to grow and become better at productivity. The belief is that are not a failure as long as you are learning from your mistakes and taking ownership. If you are blaming someone else the process of learning is over. Blaming is a trait of a fixed mindset learner.
Fixed mindset people with depression tend to shut down because when you measure yourself by failure you lose coping resources.
Growth mindset people with depression tend to try harder and be determined to keep going as well a they can because they believe their abilities can be expanded.
In their opinion, a fixed mindset person doesn’t need to ask for help because losing is not an option. They can’t handle losing. Asking for help is a sign of weakness. The idea of deficiencies is terrifying to them. A fixed mindset person relies on natural talent and they believe they don’t need to overcome challenges. Fixed mindset is ego driven and believes you are either somebody or nobody.
Talent is needed to get you to the top but character is needed to keep you there.
Growth Mindset Beliefs:
- overcoming shortfalls is exciting
- practice makes perfect
- using your personal strengths to overcome shortfalls is key
- ordinary people can do extraordinary things with the right amount of effort and training
- can talk themselves from losing to winning based on their past strengths
- focuses on self-development, self-motivation and responsibility
Fixed Mindset in love
- The ideal is instant, perfect and perpetual compatibility
- Couples will agree on everything
- Problems indicate character flaws that can’t be fixed
- After rejection feels judged, bitter and vengeful
Growth Mindset in Love
- All things can be developed
- Communication happens, nothing is assumed
- Problems can possibly be fixed
- After rejection feels hurt, hopeful, forgiving, learning and moves on
Parenting
In parenting with a fixed versus growth mindset is important to consider situations and expectations. With children complimenting intelligence or speed might stunt their willingness to try hard things. Not being honest with constructive criticism might lead to wrongful blame. Encouraging hard work in weak areas and acknowledging hard work already done will build confidence.
Remember learning is a process. Don’t judge. Teach.
Success can knock you into a fixed mindset that tells you that you won because you have talent – not that you have to fight every time to win. Parents that respond to mistakes as opportunities to learn, pass on a growth mindset.
The Journey from fixed to growth mindset
- Embrace that we all have some fixed mindset traits.
- Become aware of triggers (Mine is competition)
- Give your fixed mindset personality a name (Mine is Stormie)
- Educate your fixed mindset. Be supportive of its roll but let it know we are going to try this anyway and communicate as well as we can with those around us.
- Daily consider growth opportunities for myself and for others around me.
Fixed mindset people often have an internal monologue that is focused on judging. Where a growth mindset person is often thinking about what they can learning from an experience, how can they improve, how can I help my partner do this better?
Life is about the journey. Some days we do better than others and that is ok but keep moving forward. Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D was a very helpful book to read and I got a lot out of it that I can relate to many parts of my life. I think it is a good nonfiction book for anyone to read that wants to sharpen their personal development skills.
I got this book from my personal collection you can get your own copy of Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck My rating: 4 of 5 stars Mindset is often the reason we are successful and in Mindset The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck, Ph. D, Dweck talks about the difference between fixed and growth mindsets and how they make a difference in the outcomes of our lives. A Fixed Mindset is the belief that our talents, aptitudes, interests, temperament, morals are set and can’t be changed. A Growth Mindset is the belief that our intelligence, personality, character can be developed through education and practice. Most people have a mixture of both types of mindsets throughout their life but the book illustrates that the Growth Mindset is the goal as it has the greater room for possibility. View all my reviews
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I hope this article helps Fuel Your Wellness. Please leave your comments below.
Summer D Clemenson is a co-owner Clemenson Enterprises, LLC and Wellness Works NW. Summer her wife, Karen G Clemenson’s personal motto is Creativity, Honesty & Positivity are a must! This mantra helps them stay community and wellness minded in all they do. Summer is an Independent Wellness Advocate at dōTERRA. Summer also writes poetry and inspirational blogs @ GoodTimesAlways.com.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 17, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I believe that Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is one of the saddest stories I have ever read. The first time I ever heard about this book, I was reading The Reading List by Sara Nisha Adams. This classic fiction novel was on the reading list in this book; since then I have also seen it on a couple more literary must read lists, so I purchased it and made sure to read it. I don’t believe the book mentions any dates for reference, but it must take place around the time it was written, 1938. I suspect this because people had cars but no TVs in their homes, women were educated but men still did most of the talking.
“I believe there is a theory that men and women emerge finer and stronger after suffering, and that to advance in this or any world, we must endure ordeal by fire.” Chapter 2
Rebecca was the name of the first wife of Mr. de Winter. Although Rebecca is dead, she is still the main character throughout this mystery. Although the narrator and secondary character is the second Mrs. de Winter and we never hear her first name throughout this entire romance thriller.
Rebecca is an intense book. It is well written. I was compelled to continue reading it. There was growth in the characters, especial the second Mrs. de Winter, but it was a stressful story. I am not in love with the ending. It doesn’t feel finished.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
I related a lot to the narrator of this book. As a young woman I was very shy and not able to communicate or feel capable of knowing how to make myself known. The second Mrs. de Winter was a very young lady when she married her much older husband and she had no idea the history of the family she was marrying into or even the history of her husband. She had a lot of learning and growing to do and she was forced to do it or lose him. Rebecca by Daphne du Maurier is a complicated and sad story of mystery and manipulation.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Sep 12, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
In all the world we will never find a love like what we receive from God. I knew that before I read The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning because in all the world I have only met a few people that even came close to God’s ability to accept me and know me and love me even partially as well as He loves me. This book celebrates this truth and encourages us to reach out to our broken, imperfect neighbors and love each other anyway because it is what God does. We are all given the opportunity to be un-entitled beggars able to receive God’s mercy.
“My deepest awareness of myself is that I am deeply loved by Jesus Christ and I have done nothing to earn it or deserve it.” Brennan Manning
When we accept our humanity, we declare our freedom from hunger for power or acceptance from others because we are more secure in ourself. We no longer fear criticism, because we accept our limitations. When we trust in God, who loves us consistently and faithfully nurtures us to be free disciples we are able to foster other loving people.
Jesus hung out with ragamuffins. In Jewish culture, to share a meal is to declare friendship. In bible times, sinners (ragamuffins) were outcasts and it was illegal to mix with them so Jesus was breaking the law and breaking the structure of Jewish society. Jesus was the first to treat ragamuffins with dignity and show them they were acceptable to God. :
- the poor
- the lepers
- the blind
- the hungry
- the lame
- sinners
- prostitutes
- tax collectors
- the persecuted
- the downtrodden
- the captives
- those possessed with unclean spirits
- all who labor
- all who are heavy burdened
- the people that didn’t know the law
- the crowds
- the little ones
- the least
- the last
- the lost sheep of the house of Isreal
Imposters in the Spirit always prefer appearance to reality: Self deception sells our sinfulness and prevents us from seeing that we are all ragamuffins. The self-righteous place their trust in the works of the law and closed their hearts to the gift and message of grace.
The poor is spirit (Matthew 5:3) are all those who rely entirely on the mercy of God and accept the gospel of grace. The poor in spirit are like children. Children are unselfish and incapable of pretense — they just accept the gift of the kingdom of God in faith. But we are called to be like children. Children had no worth in the bible times. So to be like a child is a big call. Christians must be willing to be totally humbled to accept oneself as unimportant and of little account. If we maintain that open-mindedness of children, we challenge fixed ideas of established structures — even our own. An open-mind believer realizes that in reality, truth and Jesus Christ are incredibly open-ended.
“Honesty is such a precious commodity that its seldom found in the world or the church. Honesty requires the truthfulness to admit the attachment and addictions that control our attention, dominate our consciousness, and function as false gods.” Brennan Manning
Repentance is not just what we do for forgiveness — it is an expression of gratitude because forgiveness can’t be earned. Once forgiven, our past is irrelevant before God. God is in the now — in the present. God is not our enemy. He is not intent on trying, tempting or testing us. He does not promote suffering and pain. Jesus teaches us that a relationship with God drives out fear, mistrust, anxiety and guilt. A true relationship is hopeful, joyous, trusting and compassionate. Human love is a faint shadow of God’s love because of it’s passion and emotion — it is a thin echo of the love of God. Authentic Christianity leads us to treat others with love and communion. It should lead the Christian to maturity, personality and reality, and reverence for the mystery of humanity in spirituality.
Jesus told us not to fear because fear was useless. He told us to trust and have joy and share this with others.
Some Christians want to be slaves. It is easier to let others make the decisions or rely on the law than to be truly honest with God and accept our limitations in religion and the gift of grace.
At this end of this book are 19 inspirational bible studies. I wish that I had been doing them while I read the book. Since I think this is a book that is to be read again and I again, I will keep this in mind when I read it next time. I highly recommend this book to anyone wanting to grow in their relationship with Christ and their understanding of theology.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Ragamuffin Gospel by Brennan Manning
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have tried to read this book for over 20 years. In fact this is not the first copy of this book I have bought. Now was the time for this book and I am glad I finally read it because over the years, in my personal study of the bible, I have come to find that my beliefs, which seem to be different that what I was taught growing up, are exactly what are in this book. I am thankful that I can never earn the mercy and forgiveness I have got from God. I love that God is so in love with me that I can learn that kind of love from Him. That I can even try to share that kind of love with others. I know that my version of love is just a shadow of His, but I am glad to be free from the law and to live in His grace. This book is such a gift.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 30, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Rosa Parks was an amazing woman and what is special about this biography put out by the Library of Congress is that it is full of pictures of her memorabilia and writings. She was an avid writer and notetaker and would write on anything she had on hand. I find this fascinating because I do this too.
Rosa Parks was active in helping people well before the day she chose to not get off the bus. She also:
- Educated voters
- Supported activists
- Campaigned for political candidates
- Fought segregation
- Sought justice for victims of sexual assault, abduction and gang rape
Rosa Parks lived for freedom not just for herself but for others. She wanted all people to be treated well.
“I would rather be lynched than live to be mistreated.” Rosa Parks
Many people had been abused as they protested bus segregation before Rosa Parks. Her actions were not planned but there was a lot to fuel the fire of history. Rose had just reached her tipping point on that day.
- Brown v. Board of Education which said that segregation of schools was unconstitutional
- Claudette Colvin, a 15-year-old girl had been roughed up and dragged off a Montgomery bus for not giving up her seat to a white person
- Emmitt Till, a 14-year-old boy has been murdered by the KKK for a comment no one heard him make
Because of Parks’ calm demeanor and good reputation the president of the NAACP chose her to be the face of resistance. Many things happened that were a help to the civil rights movement because Rosa Parks chose to stay seated one day on the bus. On June 6, 1956 Browder v. Gayle stated that bus segregation was unconstitutional. Civil rights leaders were expecting pushback from Alabama and they got it. Alabama appealed on November 13, 1965 but the lower court upheld the ruling. Alabama appealed a second time but it was denied and Federal Marshalls handed Mayer Gayle official notice on December 20, 1956.
“I want to be remembered as a person who wanted to be free and wanted others to be free.” Rosa Parks
This is the first nonfiction book that I have read about Rosa Parks but she also wrote books about her life and I intend to read those too:
- Quiet Strength
- My Story
- Dear Mrs. Parks: A Dialogue with Today’s Youth
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Rosa Parks In Her Own Words by Susan Reyburn on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Rosa Parks: In Her Own Words by Susan Reyburn
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Rosa Parks was a humble and great woman. She worked hard to serve others for the betterment of the civil rights movement because she wanted to be remembered as a person that wanted to be free and wanted others to be free. She was not wealthy and did not ask for riches for anything she ever did but she has gone down in history has an amazing force for good. This book, put out by the Library of Congress is full of notes and personal memorabilia that she kept while on her journey towards freedom for us all.
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My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 29, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I can’t believe that summer break is over and school has begun again. Summertime flew by. It seems to go faster every year. I hope you got your reading in. I read 24 books over the summer. I think that is pretty good for me, considering only 9 of them were adult books. I love to read. If you have any books you would like me to review just let me know! Now for the 5 Books for August 2024:
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Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Johnson
Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I love Harold and I love his adventures. Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Johnson is a sweet and classic children’s fiction story that takes you along with Harold and his purple crayon as he attempts to visit the moon, but misses and lands on Mars instead. Don’t worry, in this space fantasy Harold still makes it home in time for breakfast. I love how Harold talks about what people are afraid of and he bravely faces them with his art. I think this is my favorite Harold and the Purple Crayon picture book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold’s Trip to the Sky by Cricket Jonhson on Amazon.
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Make Way for the Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
Make Way for Ducklings by Robert McCloskey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I remember having Make Way for the Ducklings by Robert McCloskey on my bookshelf when I was a child. I had an aunt and uncle who lived in Boston, where this fiction story takes place and they had sent the book to us. I don’t remember the story though. It made reading this children’s classic, like new today and I am glad I have this book to share with my great niece and nephews. I love how this bird family, Mr. and Mrs. Mallard looked for the perfect place, free from foxes, turtles and other animals, bicycles and other things with wheels to raise their ducklings. I also love how when the ducks were ready for their first adventure, the police were ready to make way for the ducklings. This is a perfect family picture book.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Make Way for the Duckling by Robert McCloskey on Amazon.
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Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy
Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G. Hennessy is an adorable bear adventure just like the fiction animal adventures had by the character created by Don Freeman. It is great to see Corduroy continue on with new artists! In this children’s classic story, Corduroy finds out that Lisa’s birthday is coming and he wants to find the perfect gift for her. But on the way he gets lost. With the help of new friends, Lisa finds him, which is she really wanted all along. This precious family story is the perfect addition to story time. The illustrations by Jody Wheeler really bring this fantasy picture book to life.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Corduroy Lost and Found by B.G.Hennessy on Amazon.
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Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Jim Panzee woke up in a bad mood but he doesn’t know it, but luckily all his animal friends in the jungle are there for him and help him understand his feelings. It’s ok to feel what your feel, even if its s a beautiful day. Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang is a wonderful children’s fiction book that examines emotions with the use of humor. The illustrations by Max Lang are fun and inviting to any story time.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Grumpy Monkey by Suzanne Lang on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray
Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble At the Yard Sale by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Surprisingly, Walter’s family brought him to the yard sale and wondered why no one came to their yard sale, not even other animals. If you know about Walter, you know he is a dog with terrible, smelly gas. Walter probably should have stayed inside for the day but where is the humor in that? Walter’s amazing farting was so powerful, he only caught the attention of a wannabe bank robber with extra stinky crime on his mind, in Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray. I was shocked that Father was willing to part with Walter for only $10 but in the end, Walter made his way home and saved the day. The fun illustrations by Audrey Colman really make this children’s fiction picture book extra fun!
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I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog: Trouble at the Yard Sale by William Katzwinkle and Glenn Murray on Amazon.
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You learn such amazing things when you read. Sometimes you just learn about yourself and what you like. Reading is one of the best things I ever learned. I hope you make time to read.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 8, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
“Bathsheba looked directly toward the threshing floor and the king’s store house directly behind the palace. David was giving a staggering amount to this work [the building of the temple]. But she would expect nothing less of him. He was a man devoted, consumed, in his passion for the Lord his God. A generous man who had learned the gratitude that comes of sins forgiven.”
Bathsheba was King David’s eighth wife, but he was not her first husband. She was originally the wife of Uriah the Hittite, one of the King’s Thirty most trusted captains. Uriah was loyal to the rules King David, the king of Israel, established for his soldiers during war, which included celibacy. Wars could last months and Bathsheba was often very lonely.
During the beginning of this biblical fiction book, King David’s favorite wife, Abigail, died after giving birth to their third child and King David was very distraught. He stayed behind from a battle and eventually met Bathsheba on her roof. They were both attracted to each other, but they stayed away from each other, knowing they were married.
Still depressed, King David, stayed back from another war. His wives quarrels had become too much for him, Abigail had often been the peacekeeper. King David and Bathsheba kept bumping into each other until one night he sent for her.
In all the four years Bathsheba was married to Uriah, she had never conceived. Bathsheba had grown accustomed to the idea that she was barren. However one evening with the king brought forth a child. When Bathsheba told the king, he called Uriah home from war and suggested that he go home to his wife. After two nights, Uriah stayed faithful to his men at war and slept at the castle’s front gate with the guards. He did not want to fail his men.
Knowing that by the time Uriah returned from war, the pregnancy could not be covered up and the consequences for adultery was death, King David ordered Uriah the Hittite to the front line, where certain death came. After the allotted time of grieving, King David took Bathsheba as his bride.
The birth of David and Bathsheba’s first son brought the attention of Nathan the profit with a message from God. The truth was revealed and David repented. God forgave David and Bathsheba but He took their first son. God also said that sword would never leave his house, while he was alive.
Years later, after David and Bathsheba had know the forgiveness of God for their forbidden romance and raised their 4 sons, King David announced his son Solomon as his successor. He had never know war and was the one to bring peace to Israel. King Solomon would go down in history as being able to do things that King David would never have been able to do.
Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith is #3 in a three part historical fiction series of the Wives of King David: Michal, Abigail and Bathsheba are wonderful novels. Each book is powerful and can stand on their own. Michal, telling about David in his youth and running from King Saul. Abigail tells of King David as his kingdom is established. Bathsheba shares about his last years. King David was a strong and passionate leader and these three of many wives helped him in so many ways. I highly recommend these Christian fiction books on their own or as the series.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Bathsheba by Jill Eileen Smith showcases the humanity of King David and Bathsheba and the love and mercy that God offers for His own pleasure and purpose. I found myself having compassion on both characters because there was so much sadness and loneliness around them. I could understand how they might have been able to cling to each other, even though they had their own spouses. Among the pain there is growth and forgiveness and that is the theme of life. I truly enjoyed the Wives of King David series, this book being #3. I highly recommend this fiction book to anyone that likes to read, even if you are not a Christian.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Aug 2, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith is an amazing historical fiction novel based on the story of King David in the bible. Abigail was David’s third wife, but before she was King David’s wife, she was betrothed to Nabal, a cruel, rich man who had inherited debt owed to his father, by Abigail’s father. Both Abigail’s father and brother worked for Nabal and Abigail was promised to him as soon as she was old enough to marry.
The marriage was filled with abuse and infidelity but Abigail was honorable to her husband in order to honor God. When David’s men protected Nabal’s livestock and required some pay, Nabal refused. Knowing this would not end well, Abigail ordered her servants to pack mules with provisions and she met David on his way to seek revenge. David respected how Abigail honored him and was thankful for the payment. There were mutual feelings on both sides at their first meeting.
As Abigail tried to tell her husband how she had saved his life and corrected his mistake, Nabal was about to strike her, but God would not allow it and struck Nabal down, who died a few days later. When David found out, he asked permission from Abigail’s father, who had joined his camp earlier, for her hand and once he agreed, David offered to marry Abigail, knowing that a woman without a husband in Israel at that time was powerless, Abigail accepted.
Abigail knew she was David’s third wife and knew he would probably take more wives. She truly loved David and he truly loved her. David even admitted, he wished he had met her first, so she could be his only wife. Her love for the Lord and her wisdom were a great comfort to him. Out of all his wives, she was the easiest confidant and support.
But sharing King David was a true test of her strength and devotion. It was hard to bear the other wive’s complaints and to share his time among them and their children, but with God’s help they made it work.
Abigail is number 2 in the 3 part biblical fiction series of The Wives of King David. I can’t really compare this book to the first one: Michal. Abigail is it’s own story. Both books are wonderful in their own ways. Whether you are a Christian or not I believe that this story of romance and war is compelling and worth the read.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Abigail: A Novel (The Wives of King David) by Jill Eileen Smith (2010) Paperback by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Abigail by Jill Eileen Smith is number two in a 3 part Christian Fiction series about The Wives of King David. Abigail was King David’s third wife and probably his favored because of her love for the Lord and her wise ways. She came to him while he was still living in the wilderness, hiding from King Saul’s murderous hunting and rose with him to the pinnacle of his success. The story of Abigail is full of history, romance, war and everything in between. I really enjoyed this book.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 31, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Michal by Jill Eileen Smith is biblical fiction and based on history as found in the bible; the story of the rise of King David.
“And suddenly she knew. A window to her soul opened, and Michal squirmed at the sight. What a bitter woman she’d become! She’d been so afraid Father’s demons would one day hound her steps that she never realized she’d given herself over to demons of her one.”
Michal wasn’t sure how to pray but she was not alone and Adonai led her through to repentance.
Michal was the youngest daughter of King Saul, the first king and once powerful ruler of Israel. But as Saul stopped honoring the Lord Most High, his success waned and he was known to have fits of madness. Only the music of David could soothe him. But there was word that David had been anointed as the next king by Samuel the priest and this hurt King Saul’s pride. He wanted his son to be king. But even Jonathan, the king’s son was willing to honor God’s will. As King Saul’s madness progressed he was willing to do anything to keep David away from the throne. However, Michal loved David and she did become his first wife. But as King Saul sought to kill David, he had to leave his bride behind as he fled. They were separated for 17 years before David could take his place on the throne and reclaim her, but much had changed for both of them.
I was so into this historical fiction book, I read all 382 pages in one day. I simply couldn’t put down the book. I highly recommend this novel on romance and war and everything in between to anyone that likes to read, especially if you enjoy Christian Fiction.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Michal by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Michal by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Michal is a book about romance and war and life lived as the daughter of a king driven mad with jealousy while being the wife of the future king. Michal has a life of loss that has turned to bitterness but in the end she learns to turn to God for forgiveness and freedom from all the pain.
Michal by Jill Eileen Smith is an action packed book that keep the pages turning for me. This is not the first book by Smith that I have read and I look forward to reading more. I highly recommend her books to anyone that likes to read.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 30, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I am sitting here and thinking about how I can really honor The Last Black Unicorn by TIffany Haddish. This autobiography is for adults. Your kids might want to read it but you might want to read it first because Haddish has had a challenging life and she doesn’t hide any of it, not the complexities of being black, homeless, female, abused or any other detail about her life as she shares her memoir of how she built her life from being an unwanted foster kid to being celebrity. Comedy is Haddish’s saving grace and what keeps her healthy. It is how she has made it through most of the hardest parts of her life. In high school she had the opportunity to meet Richard Pryor and he told her to always have fun and that advise has really paid off. This nonfiction biography is filled with pain, growth, but also humor and beauty as Haddish learns to value and trust herself.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Last Black Unicorn by TIffany Haddish on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I have always enjoyed Tiffany Haddish in movies and in interviews. She is so authentic. This book is honest. She has had a hard life but she always chooses to have a good time. She has overcome a lot and worked hard to be where she is and this book tells how she did it. It was an easy read because you didn’t want to put it down. Haddish is an amazing and resilient woman.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 26, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg takes place between 1924 and 1988. It is a compilation of stories told by Mrs. Ninny Threadgood to Evelyn Couch when she comes with her husband to visit his mother at Rose Terrace Nursing Home. Evelyn is not welcomed by her mother-in-law so she finds herself visiting with a lively lady; Mrs. Threadgood, who loves to tell her about the amazing stories of Whistle Stop, Alabama, where she grew up and would like to return, as soon as her roommate Mrs. Otis gets comfortable and can handle her leaving.
For years, Fried Green Tomatoes has been my favorite movie. People have always told me that it was a queer friendly movie and I never saw it. But I have finally purchased the book and the book is now one of my favorites. Idgie (one of the main characters) was a lesbian and her mother knew it and if it bothered her, she didn’t let it show. She loved her daughter. she had a suit made for her to wear to her sister’s wedding instead of fighting her over a dress. When she saw that Idgie loved Ruth, she announced it at the family dinner table and sent the kids away for laughing at her. When Ruth came back to be with Idgie, leaving her abusive husband, pregnant, Idgie’s father gave her $500 to buy a business to support her family. To have the love and support from their family and community must have been amazing.
The nice thing about books is they have time to develop characters that movies don’t and even though it is fiction, I love how Flagg showed us the depth of each character and even brought us to the end of their life. Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe is a classic contemporary story of love, empowerment, humor and southern flare. It is properly based in a historical fiction setting that is interesting all on its own but also relevant to all female literature readers as well. The book has everything in it to keep the pages turning mystery, murder, social injustice and lots of friendship. I highly recommend this book to anyone!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Cafe by Fannie Flagg
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I LOVE THIS BOOK! I have seen the movie several times. It is one of my favorites but the book, as always, has caught my heart and will be on my shelf for when I need to go to a more simple time. Fannie Flag wrote a masterpiece about topics that are not always easy to talk about but she did it so smoothly that I was overwhelmed with all kinds of emotions. People had always told me that two of the main characters, Ruth and Idgie were a couple, but I didn’t think they were more than great friends. The movie was not specific enough for me, but the book was blatant and I needed that. The entire book takes place between the 1920’s and the 1980’s while Mrs. Threadgood, a resident at the home where Evelyn Couch’s mother in law lives, tells Evelyn about her life in Whistle Stop, Alabama. Through the powerful stories, their relationship brings Mrs. Threadgood a new friend and helps Evelyn come to terms with middle age, menopause and herself. I could hardly put this book down!
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 25, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Descriptions of cultural, racial and physical differences that note “otherness,” these may also include wealth, class and gender; these differences are used to identify an outsider in order to define one’s self. Othering is only taught by example. We want to own and govern the other because of the emotions they provoke in our own self. When strangers walk away from us they sometimes take our good opinion of ourself with them.
These are all ideas that I pulled out The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison a Black author, known for her stories and essays on feminism, race, social justice and history. Morrison is a highly intelligent artist that writes fiction novels but weaves in nonfiction and deep cultural meaning into all her work. Her philosophy is to engage her readers in as much reality or purpose as they can bear.
The Origin of Others is a short but powerful read. I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Toni Morrison has always fascinated me and this book did not disappoint. The Origin of Others by Toni Morrison is about race and how people create “others” because of the emotions they created in our own self. Morrison talks about how she uses these concepts in her books and how she felt her readers responded to them. It is a short but honest read.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jul 24, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
The best times I had as a kid were under the apple trees in my back yard. I would steal my mom’s old sheets and find some string or yarn and make a tent and live in there until I had to come out. When I wasn’t doing my doll’s hair I was reading. It was a great way to find shade and let my imagination run wild. I hope you are finding times with your kids making forts and reading piles of books. It is the best way to take adventures without going anywhere, especially when parents have to work and kids need something to do. I hear Longview Public Library has some great programs this summer too! Now for our 5 books for July 2024:
The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle
The Grouchy Ladybug by Eric Carle
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have to admit I was a little grumpy when I started to read The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle and the art in this colorful children’s picture book really cheered me up. The grouchy lady bug has terrible manners and big emotions and feels like fighting but can’t seem to find the perfect animal to fight no matter where she goes on her adventure. This great classic family fiction book talks about time, size, shape, mathematics and manners and is even a board book so it can be washed a bit, making it a perfect story time book.
This is definitely a book to read again and again. In fact, apparently I read and reviewed this book last summer too! 🙂
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Grouchy Lady Bug by Eric Carle on Amazon.
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A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson
A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson
A Picture for Harold’s Room was written in 1960 by Crockett Johnson. It is a wonderful adventure story as Harold, wanting to create a picture for his room imagines an entire world where he becomes very large and also very small. This fiction children’s classic is the perfect pace for family story time before bed while Harold explores and explains the fantasy world he creates in this picture book. I really enjoyed it.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of A Picture for Harold’s Room by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Dandelion by Don Freeman
Dandelion by Don Freeman
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Dandelion by Don Freeman is a story about a lion that is invited to a party and wants to change his look but his friends like him the way he is and don’t recognize him. This classic fiction book is full of different animals who all help Dandelion with his day of fashion or enjoy him at the party after they finally let him in. I think this picture book is a little short-sighted because no one lets Dandelion explore his new look but only likes him when he stays the same. Sometimes that happens in real life so maybe this book also brings value to story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Dandelion by Don Freeman on Amazon.
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Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson
Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson is a colorful children’s fantasy picture book that reminds us that no one is perfect. We all color outside the lines sometimes or make mistakes and it is ok. With wonderful words that rhyme, Stinson uses poetry to liven up story time with fiction that is as real as true life and farting. The illustrations by Rebecca Ashdown add humor and aid our imagination to take us to fun places. I recommend this book.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of Even Fairies Fart by Jennifer Stinson on Amazon.
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Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen
Layla, the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
Layla is about to start school for the first time and she is a little nervous. She has spent all her life in the Overlook Woods with her animal friends and that is where she is comfortable. But as fall comes, it is time to go to school at Unicornia with all the other unicorns. Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen us a fantasy children’s story about learning how to find your way in a new place. This fiction picture book is brought to life by illustrations by Jessica Gibson. This book, about how our differences can be our strength, will be a great addition to your story time.
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Layla the Last Black Unicorn by Tiffany Haddish and Jerdine Nolen on Amazon.
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I had a great time reading this books. Let me tell you, it was what I needed to get my mind off of politics!
Be Blessed!
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jun 28, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
It is officially summer time and the kids are home. There is no better reason to be reading children’s books. I hope you are enjoying time in any book you enjoy but if you have kids, there is no better time than time spent reading with your kids. When you read to kids to teach them that learning and loving is important, you encourage communication too and that is so important. With out much further ado…here are our 5 Books for June 2024.
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson is an amazing adventure for Harold as he draws his way through his visit to the circus. With humor he tells us about the animals and dogs, clowns and even the treats in this fiction children’s classic. Harold is endearing and charming and provides many ways to talk about all kinds of things in this picture book. Harold’s Circus is an outstanding addition to any family story time.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Harold’s Circus by Crockett Johnson on Amazon.
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Curious George Rides A Bike by H.A. Rey
Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
George is a little monkey that is known for humor and getting himself into adventures and Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey does not disappoint. It is George’s 3rd anniversary with the Man in the Yellow Hat and he has given George a beautiful bike as a gift. While his friend finishes work, George explores the town in this picture book and finds ducks and other animals at the zoo. In this fiction children’s classic, George even gets to play a part in the zoo performance that night. This story book is super fun!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Curious George Rides a Bike by H.A. Rey on Amazon.
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Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy
Walter the Farting Dog: Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Walter always makes me laugh and the fact that his family loves him in spite of his terrible gas is very endearing. Yet not everyone can, as seen in this fiction family story, Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy.
First Walter is banned from the beach and then he is banned rom the village because of his bodacious farting but it is that same gargantuan gas bombs that ends up saving the day, finding buried treasure and helping the family afford their own private beach house where Walter is free to fart and not be condemned.
The illustrations by Audry Colman make this story book even more hilarious! I highly recommend this book that is exploding with humor!
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Walter the Farting Dog Banned From the Beach by William Kotzwinkle, Glen Murray and Elizabeth Gundy on Amazon.
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The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale Retold by Angela Elwell Hunt
The Tale of Three Trees : A Traditional Folktale by Angela Elwell Hunt
My rating: 3 of 5 stars
The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale retold by Angela Elwell Hunt is a beautiful children’s fiction picture book. Based on religion folklore, the story tells us how three trees grow up to become tools that serve Jesus through His life on earth. The illustrations by Tim Jonke are stunning and really bring the book to life. This is a special story to add to any book collection.
I got this book from my own personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Tale of Three Trees: A Traditional Folktale retold by Angela Elwell Hunt on Amazon.
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Cloudy With A Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett is a fun family story filled with humor and fantasy, told by a grandfather to his grandkids about a place called Chewandswallow where all the food came from the sky. This was a great place to live until it got out of hand and everyone had to escape for their lives. This children’s fiction picture book is brought to life by illustrations by Ron Barrett. Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs will make any story time more tasty!
View all my reviews
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs by Judi Barrett on Amazon.
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I had so much fun picking out these book. I hope you enjoyed reading the reviews. If you want to hear about any books you have heard about please send me a message with the form below and I will make sure to try to find that book.
Be blessed.
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Jun 20, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
My first experience with Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert was as a MP-3 that an acquaintance put on my iPod when the book first came out. I don’t generally listen audiobooks but I did enjoy the nonfiction travel biography, as read by Gilbert, herself. I saw the movie and really enjoyed it. I recently bought a copy of the book and decided it was time to read this travel memoir myself. I have gone through a lot since this contemporary autobiography was first published in 2006 and this book was fascinating.
Eat Pray Love is not an easy read, if you are a reader like I am, that really internalizes what I am reading, empathizing with the characters in the book. There is a lot that Liz goes through as she deals with the end of her marriage and then embarks on the adventure of finding herself while she travels through Italy, India and Bali in order to find what she has lost inside herself. Her search through religion and spirituality and emotional wellness through prayer among cultural experiences takes great strength. In the end Liz finds the peace she has been missing and even some romance.
I find this book to be a very powerful book to add to any collection.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
It doesn’t matter how many times you have read Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert, you have to be ready to read it. This book is not a light read; it is a life changing read. In this nonfiction memoir Gilbert takes you through Italy, India and Bali while she discovers what she has lost in herself and if you are like me, you come with her and you change too.
This is a book you don’t just read one time. It is a book you buy and you keep it on the shelf to read as you grow in yourself so that as you find yourself at new places in your life you can go on a journey and measure once again.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | May 29, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I am sort of listening to Tiffany Haddish in her interview on Colbert while I am typing up what I already wrote earlier and she is talking about her new book. I love listening to her. She is a a hoot! So her new book is called: I Curse You With Joy…I think I will have to find this book. I love how she is always changing herself because the fact that she is dynamic is what keeps her fresh. As someone who has tried several aspects of characteristics, I appreciate this about her..
I think the 5 books I read this month are like this. These books are about being strong and learning and becoming. That is what life kind of about, other than overcoming fear and learning to love…but we can talk about that later…without much ado here are our 5 Books for May 2024. (more…)
by Summer D Clemenson | May 20, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
The Ark and the Dove The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith is based on the scriptures from the bible found in Genesis 5:32 through 10:1 where we can learn about what was happening during the time of Noah and the building of the ark and what it was like to be alive on the earth at that time. The bible doesn’t give a ton of detail but Smith has obviously taken a lot of time to help us see what it would have been like to be alive during this time and how it would have been to be the wife of Noah in this historical fiction book. Zara had many responsibilities in order to support her family, her husband and the wives of her sons. It was hard to be the only family that believed in the Creator and her family was persecuted often. Zara had to be strong for them all and she worked hard to be what they needed.
It was also hard to leave behind the people they loved that didn’t choose God. I hadn’t ever thought of that before, but mourning was part of their burden as they lived in close quarters with thousands of types of animals in the ark. This story continues for generations after the flood as Noah and Zara lived to see their great-great-grandchildren. This is a beautiful Christian story. I really enjoyed it and I highly recommend this retelling of Noah’s ark.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of The Ark and the Dove The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Ark and the Dove: The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have heard and read the story of Noah and the Ark many times but it was nothing like The Ark and the Dove The Story of Noah’s Wife by Jill Eileen Smith. I loved this version! It had so many details about the life of Noah and Zara and their children and the culture they lived in. This historical fiction version brought the story of Noah’s Ark to life for me and I really got a lot out of it. I have a new found appreciation for work and dedication that Noah’s family put into honoring God’s commands. I highly recommend this book!
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | May 13, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
Emmett Till was a black 14 year old boy, raised in Chicago, that had come for a visit to his great-uncle, Moses Wright’s sharecropping farm in Mississippi. Before he left Chicago, he was told by his mother to not look white people in the eye and refer to them as sir and ma’am and to be very respectful. On Sunday August 28, 1955 Moses Wright was awakened at 2 am by two white men and at least one black man. “This is Mr. Bryant,” said another white man. “We want to talk to the boy. We’re here to talk to you about that boy from Chicago, the one that done the talking up at Money.” Milan, Chapter 2
No one is entirely clear what happened at the Bryant market in Money, Mississippi. Emmett’s cousins left him alone for only a few minutes. But Mrs. Bryant felt insecure enough to get her husband’s gun out of the car and tell her husband about it when he got home. Her husband and brother-in-law were upset enough about it to kidnap Emmett and brutalize him until he finally died and then throw his body in the Tallahatchie River, where it resurfaced on Wednesday August 31, 1955.
It would not have mattered how carefully the trial would have been handled. No one was going to find Bryant and Milan guilty for the crime of killing a black person, even though he was a child; not in Mississippi.
“[Emmett’s mother] Mamie [Bradley] was haunted by a story of a little black girl who had been playing with a white girl at the home of the white family that employed her mother. The white girl got upset with the black girl and ran to tell her father as he walked up the driveway from work. He angrily snatched up the black girl, shook her like a rag doll, then tossed her up against a tree in the front yard. ‘Now that girl’s mother had to finish her day’s work before she could even look after her daughter, who left there writhing in pain the rest of the day,’ Mamie remembered many years later. ‘Eventually, the little girl died of her injuries. This is a cautionary tale,’ she said, a tale of horror or rooted in real experience.” Chapter 4
Tyson did not only give us a picture into the murder of Emmett in this true crime history memoir but also into the culture at the time that Emmett’s biography takes place and what was happening in politics and race in Mississippi and other southern states. Only weeks before Emmett was murdered 2 black men were lynched for attempting to register black voters in the Magnolia State.
Had Mamie Bradley not immediately begun calling Chicago newspapers when she learned that her son’s body had been found, had she not insisted that his body not be buried immediately in Mississippi but be brought to Chicago and then had an open casket service, her son’s murder may have gone unnoticed. But Bradley was not going to allow her son’s death to be in vain and because of her courage and strength, her son’s death got the attention of people around the world and brought to light not only the behavior of white supremacy in the south but in the north and where complacency was probably worse than actual violent actions.
The death of Emmett Till inspired many people to work hard to gain more traction with more fair civil rights and social justice for everyone. We still have room to grow, but we have come so far. The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson is an emotional and hard read at times, but it is a well written nonfiction memoir that is an important reminder of American history and the importance of loving our neighbor.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
If you are looking for a light read, The Blood of Emmett Till by Timothy B. Tyson, is not it. But if you looking for a vital read this book does check those boxes. This nonfiction book doesn’t just explore the facts of the Emmett Till murder but also the politics and culture in the United States and especially the southern states where white supremacy was felt the loudest.
I recommend this book as an important part of any educated person’s reading list.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | May 1, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I have always enjoyed Matthew McConaughey in movies and interviews. I have always been able to see that he is authentic and wise. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey is a autobiography that showcases how he has gotten to be that way. He is honest with himself and with the readers. McConaughey is an inspiration in all his art.
“We all step in shit from time to time. We hit roadblocks, we fuck up, we get fucked, we get sick, we don’t get what we want, we cross thousands of ‘could have done better’s’ and ‘wish that wouldn’t have happened’s in life. Stepping in shit is inevitable, so let’s either see it as good luck, or figure out how to do it less often.” Matthew McConaughey
If I were to be critical of anything about the biography memoir, it is a creative effort to use McConaughey’s handwritten thoughts to make this nonfiction book more interesting. My only problem with it is that the writing is so small that it is very hard to read. I love the poetry throughout the book and the pictures and the layout.
I got this book from my personal collection. You can get your own copy of Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
I needed to read this book. I bought it several months ago but it fell into my hands when I needed some inspiration and inspiration I found. Greenlights by Matthew McConaughey is a nonfiction autobiography memoir that is filled with real life. McConaughey does not sugar coat anything but he also finds the ray of light in all situations and that is how he keeps moving forward and challenges himself towards excellence.
Raised in Texas, he wanted to be a lawyer until he had studied long enough to find his true calling of being an actor. He has been writing all his life. Travel was important to him and helped him cultivate his humanitarian outlook. This biography showcases McConaughey’s true art; life. This book is a must read.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
by Summer D Clemenson | Apr 26, 2024 | Book & Product Reviews, Opinions
I just finished a biography about a woman scientist and I loved it. I was never good at science. But Finding the Mother Tree Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard kept me engaged. I think it is because she loves the trees so much. She was taught to love nature by her people, her family, that love the trees. I love trees too and I can feel a connection with them when I am with them and I could feel that she knows what I feel when I am with the forest.
You don’t have to have a degree in biology to understand this book and I love that Simard explains the science part well enough that anyone could follow. She shares about her family lineage while she tells about her studies in both Canada and the United States, learning about ecology and the environment and different ways to help the trees grow stronger and healthier. Her activism and feminism comes naturally because she comes from strong and capable women and she wants to portray that to her two daughters she is raising in this nonfiction book.
In the end of the book, she has proven that we are all connected. We are connected with each other, with the animals and the plants; something the Native people, that are very prominent in Canada have been trying to teach for years. This is something that I have been learning a lot about too. I can feel this as my beloved cat is coming to the end of his path and I can feel him separating from me. What timing to finish this book. I wonder if I would have read this book a few years ago if I would have felt different.
I have really enjoyed this book. Simard has a very wonderful way of being open in her writing and it was easy to connect. I highly recommend this book.
I got this book from my sister, Jamie Holloway. You can get your own copy of Finding the Mother Tree Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard on Amazon.
Read My Review on GoodReads:
Finding the Mother Tree: Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
Finding the Mother Tree Discovering the Wisdom of the Forest by Suzanne Simard is an amazing biography by a woman that shares her family, her belief in activism, science, feminism, her love for the environment and nature and science. Simard studied biology in both Canada and the United States, but did most of her work in Canada, where she has lived most of her life. This nonfiction book teaches that ecology as well as spirituality proves that we are all connected and Simard’s life’s work has proved with science that this is so. I highly recommend this book.
View all my reviews
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Feel free to leave your comments below!
My name is Summer. That is how you can call me. I hope that I am a blessing to you. I am not perfect. I will fall again. But I am forgiven. For anyone reading this that isn’t a Christian, unapologetically, I am a Christian, but I believe there is room for lots of beliefs and religions in the world. It is not my intent to offend people with different beliefs than I have and I would be open to open-minded conversations with no goals of changing anyone’s mind, but sharing information. If you are interested in becoming a Christian…Do you know Jesus? Do want the Holy Spirit to fill you and give you understanding and salvation? Ask Him. Want someone to pray with you? Contact me.
If you would like to know Jesus as your friend, but want to make this amazing commitment by yourself please pray something like this: Thank you Jesus that You are the Son of God, the God that created heaven and earth. Thank you Jesus that You came to earth in the form of a man so that You would be able to empathize with my humanity. Thank You that You did this in order to fulfill the promises You made at the foundation of the world. I realize that I am a sinner and do things that hurt myself and keep myself away from you. Thank You that You died for my sins so that You could defeat death and bring me into Your life. Please forgive me. I ask You to be Lord of my life. I ask you to heal my hurts and show me what my new life, empowered by You looks like. Thank You for Your mercy.
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