Mamarazzi's Ranting
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Waking Hours by Lis Wiehl with Pete Nelson
Labels: book review , booksneeze , thriller
The Promise of an Angel by Ruth Reid
Book Description
In Mescota County, Michigan, an angelic visitor's words inspire Judith to a future she never imagined. After a barn raising accident, Judith Fischer’s convinced she’s met an angel. However, her attempts to convince others end up frustrating her Old-Order Amish community. Only Andrew Lapp believes her, but the rest, including Levi Plank, the man’s she’s waited to marry, demand she forget the nonsense. Meanwhile, her younger sister Martha has taken a fancy to Levi and sees her sister's controversy as a perfect distraction for turning Levi's head.In a dream, the angel tells Judith she must choose her path. As her faith continues to grow, so do her feelings for Andrew. Will she continue to place her hope in the angel’s message, even if it means losing all she knows and loves?
My Comments :
This is the 1st book of Ruth Reid's "A Heaven On Earth" series. There are 3 books in this series
She had done an amazing work on this first book as the book certainly give a refreshing twist to the usual Amish fiction. Just imagine, nobody believes that Judith have seen an angel. Instead f supports, she was in fact frown upon and thought to be sowing discord among the community.
The character of were quite well developed and it shows us how important to held on something that you believe in inside of just going with the flow. Though our faith may waver sometimes but God would come knocking at our door to lead us back to his folds just like Jesus Parables on the Lost Lamb.
I finished this book in one reading as the story was good and easy to read.
There is only one complaint about this book. Well, actually it's two. I find that the cover looks rather dull. Without reading the synopsis, I don't think I would pick up this book in the stores. But this is only my personal opinion for each person taste is different.
My second complaint is, this book may have spoilt me for the second instalment as I would have higher expectation for the second book.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through theBookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.
Labels: 4 stars , amish , book review , booksneeze
Please Stop Laughing at Me: One Woman's Inspirational Journey by By Jodee Blanco
Book Description
While other children were daydreaming about dances, first kisses, and college, Jodee Blanco was trying to figure out how to go from homeroom to study hall without being taunted or spit upon as she walked through the halls.This powerful, unforgettable memoir chronicles how one child was shunned--and even physically abused--by her classmates from elementary school through high school. It is an unflinching look at what it means to be the outcast, how even the most loving parents can get it all wrong, why schools are often unable to prevent disaster, and how bullying has been misunderstood and mishandled by the mental health community.
You will be shocked, moved, and ultimately inspired by this harrowing tale of survival against insurmountable odds. This vivid story will open your eyes to the harsh realities and long-term consequences of bullying--and how all of us can make a difference in the lives of teens today.
My Comments:
I requested this book because I wanted to know more about bullying. There are more and more case of bullying reported in school in this country and I wanted to find out more on what is the cause of it. Any prevention or how to avoid these case from happening.
From this book, I found that that bullying can happen for not much reason at all. It can be a simple peer pressure or just that they don't like who you are friend with.
I am shocked at what Jodee Blanco had gone through trying to fit in with the popular crowd. The bullying was so bad till she had to change school. Although she said she managed to come in terms her past it when she attended her high school reunion but based on how this book is written, I feel that she had yet to fully let go of her past.
Would it have been better if she had not tried so hard to fit in? Maybe find her own group of friend?
My disappointment in this book is that it did not much solution on how to stop or prevent bulling from happen. Neither provide much information on how the school authorities could have helped. This books feels more like a memoirs instead of and inspirational book
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Labels: 2.5 stars , book review
The Final Summit by Andy Andrews
Book Description
David Ponder is back. This time the fate of mankind is in his hands.This is mankind’s last chance. Centuries of greed, pride, and hate have sent humanity hurtling toward disaster, and far from its original purpose. There is only one solution that can reset the compass and right the ship, and it consists of only two words.With time running out, it is up to David Ponder and a cast of history’s best and brightest minds to uncover this solution before it is too late. The catch? They are allowed only five tries to discover the answer.Readers first encountered David Ponder in The Traveler's Gift. Now, in The Final Summit, Andrews combines a riveting narrative with astounding history in order to show us the one thing we must do when we don’t know what to do.Comments:The question is "What does humanity need to do, individually and collectively, to restore itself to the path towards successful civilization?"This is an interesting book. Have the element of time travelling and holy intervention in the form of an Angel Gabriel. It is interesting to read what historical figure like Albert Einstein, Abraham Lincoln, Winston Churchill and even Joan of Arc have to say about this. I love this part. There is just too many possible answer to the question. It kept me reading on and on till I could not stand the suspense and I did a very bad thing. I flipped to the last page and looks at the ending.yes, for me this is a good book to read. Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from the publisher through the BookSneeze®.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Labels: 4 stars , book review
Read and Share: The Ultimate DVD Bible - Volume 2
Product Description
These bite-sized vignettes in book and DVD presentations are perfect for the attention span of little ones, and give parents maximum flexibility to fit any time frame. This volume contains more than 100 beloved Bible stories, including time-honored favorites like Joseph, Moses, Balaam, The Promised Land, Solomon, Elisha, Daniel, Jonah, The Boy Jesus, Miracles of Jesus, Jesus’ Death and Resurrection, and many more.
Comments
The book
First thing comes to mind is, this is a heavy book. Not in the sense that it's hard to read or digest but rather that it is hardcover and have 224 pages. Most of the stories in this book are from the Old Testament
I like the illustration as it's simple. Stories are told with simple wordings. Not many big words. Easy for children to read for themselves or with the help of an adult.
There is a scripture reference is given for each story in case you want to look it up in the Bible.
In my opinion, the book is suitable for kids around the age of 4 to 8 years old.
The DVDs
There are two DVD which comes with the book. In the DVD there are selected 26 stories from the book. The cartoon is simple nothing fancy. And the way they talk is rather slow to emphasis on what they are saying. Language used also simple.
It is just too bad the stories told in the DVD are not in sequence with stories in the book.
I think the DVD is suitable for toddlers and kids around 3-5 years old. Older kids would find the DVD not much of a challenge.
Thomas Nelson gave me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
Labels: 5 star , book review
Unplanned by Abby Johnson with Cindy Lambert
When she was a student, she joined the Planned Parenthood movement. She had believe of Planned Parenthood and had wanted to help the ladies who were in trouble.
She rose in rank until she became the Clinic Director. That is till one day she was asked to perform an an ultrasound-guided abortion. It is an abortion where you can actually see what was happening.
Then she made a radical decision where she quited her position and walked across the street to join the pro-life movement. She wrote "Unplanned" to let people know of the story.
No matter what, I think it is good that this book was published as it tells the reason why she joined the Planned parenthood and what are the mission and goals of Planned Parenthood. It also recorded her personal feelings and hope of which when she joined.
I think she is really brave to stand up and wrote what she thinks is right. Not many people would dare to do this anymore for fear of getting into a lawsuit and stuff.
However, my stand still remains that I am neither pro Planned Parenthood nor pro-life. It is a choice where each individual will have to make.
I have been provided a complimentary copy of ARC by Tyndale House Publishers. All opinion express herein are mine.
Labels: 3 stars , book review
"Big Red" Holy Bible - Contemporary 3-D Art
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Note : FedEx came a moment ago. Wow! Booksneeze sent me a replacement copy via FedEx!
Labels: book review
An Amish Christmas, Expanded Edition
There are four lovely stories of four Amish ladies in this book
A Miracle For Mariam by Kathleen Fuller
Mariam, her heart was once broken. Her self esteem took a heavy beating. Then Seth came back. Can she accept him? Would the pain be too great?
A Choice To Forgive by Beth Wiseman
Lydia, a widow, opened the door and suddenly she was like strucked by the ghost of her past. Daniel who had deserted her stood there and told her that she have been baptized back into the community. Could she forgive and let him enter her life again?
One Child by Barbara Cameron
For any woman, having a miscarriage is one of the most painful thing ever. Sarah lost her first child a year ago. And due to circumstances beyond her control she was looped in to be the the midwife of an Englisch couple. Would Sarah be able to share the joy?
Christmas Cradles by Kelly Long
Anna was to takeover for a night from her Aunt Ruth who is the Amish local midwife. Guess it's Murphy's law. It happens to be the darkest night and they having the worst blizzard. And all who going to give birth, gave birth that night. Can Anna help these mothers? Two dramatic birth. And what does Asa ,who is escorting Anna around, feel?
Mamarazzi told me that the stories in this book are easy to read. The language flows easily. She finished this in two hours.
Mamarazzi give it 4 stars out of 5
Oh ya...Mamarazzi received this complimentary book from Thomas Nelson Publisher as part of the blogger review programme. She was not required to give a positive review and all opinions expressed here in are her own.
Labels: book review
Beneath The Night Tree By Nicole Baart
Labels: 4 stars , book review
Almost Heaven By Chris Fabry
Mamarazzi received this book complimentary copy of this book from Tyndale House Publishers. Mamarazzi was not required to give a positive review and all opinion expressed herein are solely hers.
The main character in this book is Billy Allman. He had a tough childhood, a near death experience and a Guardian Angel.
He idolised his father but lost him at a very tender age. His only legacy was an old Mandolin which his father taught him how to strum. He was gift not only in playing the Mandolin but also fixing things.
He have a good heart but not much of social skills. Even his guardian angel was puzzle why Lord singled him out for special protection. Billy seems to be in good shape. He believe in the way of the Lord and did many good things. He would never do a bad thing. But why he is in need of a guardian angel.
He managed to built himself a radio station in his home though the town people was not as optimistic as him. There is one woman who supported him but he was unable to open up his heart to her. This is because he carries with him a brutal secret.
But would the help of the guardian angel and the love of a woman be enough for him to battle the demons that haunt him? Well, that's for me to know and for you to find out.
I can tell that Mamarazzi loves this book. She said the first few chapters were very moving. Cried a river. But the some how the book lost it's steam in the middle. However, it managed to pick up the pace again just before the ending.
Mamarazzi gave this book 4 stars out of 5 stars.
Mamarazzi is hoping to get her hands on "June Bug" which is also written by Chris Fabry. From the excerpt, June Bug seems to be another delightful book.
Labels: book review
Adventures in Booga Booga Land - Volume 1 (DVD) By Richard Milner
Wow! I have just received a complimentary DVD from Thomas Nelson the publisher for me to review as part of their Blogger Review Programme. I am not obliged to give a positive review and all opinion expressed here are my own.
The story is about naughty Marty the Monkey and good Gimbo the Giraffe. They are two best friends from Booga Booga Land who went to look for job and had all sorts of adventures.
In this first Volume there are three stories. The stories are based on three Parables but in an updated version which applies to everyday life.
I love this DVD very much especially the naughty and impatient Marty.
The running time of this DVD is around 45 minutes. Each story runs around 15 minutes which is just a nice lenght of time. I didn't get bored.
I give it 5 out of 5 stars.
Labels: book review , product
The Nativity Collection By Robert Morgan
Mamarazzi have requested a review copy of this book from Thomas Nelson, the publisher, as part of their bloggers review programme. Mamarazzi is not required to give a positive review and all opinions are her own.
Frankly, Mamarazzi have yet to receive the copy of this book. Then how to review, you may ask. Well, she know one blogger friend who had also requested this book and had finished reading it. This friend had given this book a glowing review. Mamarazzi was very impatient to lay her hands on this. Hence she borrowed her friend's copy.
This book consists of short stories that was written by Robert J Morgan and shared with his church at Christmas Eve every year. What so special about this is that he only write one short story a year even though he have over two millions books in print. All the lovely stories that he shared with his church is now in this book.
There are 6 stories all in. Each were very moving and heart warming. Brings hope that there is goodness in this world after all.
Some of the stories had brought tears to Mamarazzi's eyes, especially the story of Ollie. *sob*sob*.
Christmas will be here in 3 months. This book will be a very good Christmas gift for those who love reading. And for those who can't read yet like me, maybe can get their Mommy or Daddy to read to them.
Mamarazzi give it 4 stars out of 5.
Labels: book review
The One Year Book of Encouragement by Harold Myra
Mamarazzi was provided by Tyndale House Publishers with this complimentary copy of "One Year Book of Encouragement" written by Harold Myra.
This book consist of a collection of words of wisdom and encouragement by authors from the past and present. There are 370 pages in this book, including the "Sources/Bibliography" page. Each date there is a story and at the end of the story there is a quote from the Bible. Very meaningful.
This book is just right for those people who do not have time to read. It's a good motivational book to start or end the day with. Just need a minute or two to finish a story. After all, it's just a page and some are shorter than a page.
When Mamarazzi received this book, she immediately flip to the date February 23. It's a story titled "A Short Visit Here". It's words of wisdom from Thomas A Kempis who provided the yardstick of genuine success. According to him "He is truly great, who is great in the love of God. He is truly great, who is humble in mind, and regards Earth's honors as nothing".
Meaning, many chase the honor and glory on earth but these "medals" are earth bound and will pass in a blink of the eye. Only the love of God is everlasting.
The end of the story there was this line from the Bible Psalm 90:12 "Teach us to realise the brevity of life, so that we may grow in wisdom.
Mamarazzi gives this book 4 stars out of 5.
Labels: book review
The King's Christmas List by Eldon Johnson
We were provided by Thomas Nelson Publishers a copy of this lovely book titled "The King's Christmas List" by Eldon Johnson for their Booksneeze bloggers program . We were not required to write a positive review and therefore, the book review is 100% my own opinion.
Tho story is a bit fairy tale type. It's about a little girl named, Emma and her doggie Shu Shu. Emma received an invitation from the king to His birthday party. Something happen and Emma and Shu Shu discovered they can understand what each other is saying.
Emma was sad as she did not have a present for the King. But then she saw the cake that she baked with her mom and decided to give the cake to the King.
Emma and Shu Shu set off to the King's birthday party with the Cake. Along the way, they meet many people who are in need of help. They helped the people as much as they can and end-up even giving the Cake to the needy. Hence, they have nothing left for the King.
This is a lovely tale that not only reminds children about the true meaning of Christmas but also teaches children to be generous and considerate.
I love this book for it's beautiful illustration and simple language. Love it when Mamarazzi read it for my bedtime story.
I give this book full marks. Just nice for younger children like me.
Labels: book review
Immanuel's Veins By Ted Dekker
This is a fantasy novel set in the historical time around late 18th century eastern Europe
The hero, Toma Nicolescu and his side kick, Alec Cardei were ordered by the Queen to protect the Cantemir family. This is where it all started. The two sisters, Natasha and Lucine, which they were protecting were very beautiful. Who can keep themselves from falling for them?
But this is the wrong timing for all these. It's really a tales of terrible longing and seduction. Also of bold sacrifice.
Mamarazzi have heard so much about Ted Dekker's talent but have yet to read any of his book. This is the first which she read and I bet this will not be the last.
Seems to be a page turner. Mamarazzi burn two nights of midnight oil to finish it.
The characters were well developed and there are heart stopping screen. Mamarazzi felt like she was watching a movie when she was reading this book. Everything was so vivid and gripping
However, bear in mind, this book maybe for everyone but as described in the summary "But remember, not everyone is for this story."
Mamarazzi give this book 4 stars out of 5 Stars
Labels: book review
Slumdog Millionaire(Originally Published as Q & A) by Vikas Swarup
Mamarazzi have been hoping to get her hands on this novel since she read "Six Suspects" which is also written by Vikas Swarup.
This book was originally published as "Q & A". It was made into a movie and have won awards.
This novel tells the story of Ram Mohammad Thomas(funny name ya?There is a story behind that) participated in a game show called "Who Will Win A Billionaire" and won. He was just an 18 years old poor Waiter from the slums.
Later he was arrested and questioned by the police on suspicion of cheating in the game show for the organiser did not believe a poor waiter from the slum have the knowledge to answer all the questions correctly.
He was torture. There was a moment where he felt he can't take it anymore, a lady lawyer came and rescued him. She brought him to her place. He was asked how he knew all the correct answers to the questions.
It seems that he "know" the answers to the questions due to his life experience. For each question, a chapter of his life unfolds.
Mamarazzi love this book very much. Each chapter is a new story but ending all merge together to a good finish. She give it 5 stars out of 5.
She finally finished reading this at 2 a.m. this morning.
Lucky Mamarazzi can wake up early enough this morning to go for Dim Sum at Restaurant Khee Way. Very yummy Dim Sum. She only remembers to snap photos after everything is in the tum tum.
And I learn how to "pick" my teeth using a toothpick by observing Papa. When pick teeth must close the mouth with one hand while the other hand holding the toothpick.
Mamarazzi had a yummy book and I had a yummy breakfast.
Labels: book review
Bedtime Stories And Prayers By Enid Blyton-The Voice In The Night
The story for today is rather scary. Voice in the dark.
According to the book, there was once a woman called Hannah who wanted to have a baby very much. She went to the House of God to pray. She promised God that if she were given a baby boy, she would give him back to God to serve the Church when he is old enough.
The priest, Eli, heard her and told her to go in peace and may her prayer be answered
Hannah was granted a baby. She named him Samuel. She loves him very much but she remember her promised to God. When the day came, she brought him to Eli.
At first Samuel was very lonely but he was hardworking. He serve Eli and the church well.
God look down and saw Samuel love him. God saw here is some one who would work for HIM and show people how to be good. Thus, God called out to him when he was sleeping.
"Samuel!"
Samuel awoke at once and thought Eli called him. Eli said he didn't call him and ask him to continue sleeping
As Samuel was dozing off, once again he heard someone called his name. Again he thought it was Eli.
Eli told him he did not call him.
Once again Samuel went back to sleep....isk...kesian him
Samuel heard his name called again for the 3rd time. This round, Eli knew. It must be God who is calling Samuel. That time no iPhone nor Blackberry mah. God cannot text Samuel.
This round Eli told Samuel if he heard the voice calling him again, to baling a kasut at it! No la...actually he was told to answer "Speaks, Lord, for your servant hears you."
Wow...Samuel was really stunned. Didn't expect God to be calling him. This round he answered as advised by Eli. God told him many things. Samuel grew up to be a great man and a great preacher but he never forgets the night that God calls out to him.
The moral of this story is to be ready when God calls.
But then if you are of other religion, Mamarazzi heard that if you hears a voice calling you in the middle of the night, you had better not answer.
There is a story that say, voices in the night are ghosts. If you answer them, they will follow you and enter your body. Scary.
Labels: book review , festival , food-hawker stalls/roadside
The Boy Who Changed the World By Andy Andrew
The Boy Who Changed the World written by Andy Andrew and illustrated by Philip Hurst.
This is a Children's Book. The story starts with young Norman Borlaug playing in his family’s cornfields with his sisters. And when he grew up he changed the world by using his knowledge of agriculture to save the lives of two billion people.
But is it Norman alone that changed the changed the world? Or was it Henry Wallace or was it George Washington Carver?
This book really makes young mind churn from the effect. It sends a message that everything we do and how we act will have an effect. Just like the effect of butterfly flying.
I love this book and so does Mamarazzi. Though I am a bit too young to understand the story, but I love the lovely illustration. I would kept holding this book out to Mamarazzi and asked "Mama, read book".
But then sadly, Mamarazzi was too engrossed in another book. It's called The Butterfly Effect. Its also by Andy Andrew.Mamarazzi said this book is written based on The Butterfly Effect.
Mamarazzi said she would recommend this book to others since I love this book very much.
Mamarazzi would like to thank Thomas Nelson for providing her with a complimentary advanced reading copy of this book. We are not obliged to give a positive review in return of the book.
Labels: book review
The Butterfly Effect How Your Life Matters By Andy Andrews
The Butterfly Effect, How Your Life Matters is written by Andy Andrew. Mamarazzi have been provided an advance reading copy by Thomas Nelson in exchange of an unbiased review
This is a gift book. An inspirational gift book.
This book tells us about how the action of one person can effect the universe. How a person act or do/refrain from doing something will have its consequence. The message is clear. Think properly before you take action as every action have it's reaction, just like butterflies flapping its wings.
Mamarazzi give it 3 stars. The reason begin, though the book seems to have a "beginning" and "middle", but there is no "ending". No doubt we have to think before we act, but the result will never be predictable. All will be left in the hands of God.
Each page are beautifully written and presented.
I know this book would be a perfect book for Auntie Florence. True to her name, she is as caring as Florence Nightingale.
Labels: book review
Six Suspects by Vikas Swarup
Mamarazzi got this from BookXcess during their 3rd Anniversary Promotion. If not mistaken there was an additional 20% on top of the price state.
It was an impulse buy and she had no regret in getting this book.
What attracted Mamarazzi to this books was the author's name. She is crazy about Asian writers. Have you heard of "Slumdog Millionaire"?It's written by this author.
The story starts with the murder of the notorious, Vicky Rai, the son of a corrupted politician and gangster, Jagannath Rai.
Vicky Rai was shot at a party in his home. The party was to celebrate his acquittal of a murder case.
Six people were found with guns in their possession when the police seal-off the murder scene.
They are :
1)Mohan Kumar, the Bureaucrat. He is as corrupted as can be. One day he went for a seance and the spirit of Mahatma Gandhi seems to have possessed him. Since then he was like Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde. Scaring the people around him with his multiple personality.
2)Shabnam Saxena, The Actress. She is very successful and is the subject of envy for many people. Despite the stardom, she hungers for her family love. She trusted people and was bitterly betrayed.
3) Eketi, the tribal who travel from his native Andaman Island to India to retrieve a sacred object that was stolen from his people. At first he thought India is a good place to stay on but later found out that it is a very harsh place. People were very cruel, unlike those in his Island. He dreamt of going back to his beloved Island once he retrieved the stolen object and also bring his new found love back with him.
4) Munna Mobile, the Thief. His speciality is to steal handphones. He met a rich girl. At first he was just fooling around looking for a quick lay but then he fell in love. It's a forbidden love as they are of different caste.
5) Jagannath Rai, the Politician. He is a very corrupted and an ambitious politician who happens to be the father of Vicky Rai. He is like a gangster. Did many crimes and yet he always got away with it because people are too scared to go against him. Those who are brave enough were "eliminated". He wanted to be the next Chief Minister and Vicky Rai stood in his way.
6) Larry Page, the American who works as a forklift operator and have the same name as the Google's founding CEO. He is like "Mr. Bean". Always get in to trouble but some how he is always lucky enough scrape thru it. He came to India to marry his "Mail Ordered Bride".
The above mentioned people have motive to murder Vicky Rai.
The characters in this book are well developed and very lively. Mamarazzi can't help laughing like a hyena at the things that Larry got himself into. Also can't help felling anxious about Shabnam's and Munna's predicament.
This book is a must read for all mystery fan and those who love a bit of spice in their live.
*sob*sob* am not crying because Mamarazzi cooked "Rojak Vege" for me to eat again as in when she was reading Paul Coelho book. But rather Mamarazzi said she wanna go hunting for more books written by of Vikas Swarup. This means less time for me to go play in Dan Neh Noh.
Labels: book review

















