The Sayings of Old Ch'eng: on the nature of original mind translated by Mike Dickman

Published by Cool Grove Press

This small book is really quite deceptive in that it packs a powerful message within it's pages. At under 50 pages, this book can be read in next to no time but you may also find yourself, like me, spending extra time savouring each message and perhaps even using them as meditation aids.

This book is simply perfect for those readers who are tired of following the various spiritual books and teachers out there. The book sends the message that the only place we can really find the answers we seek, is within ourselves and that we could find it so much easier if we simply stopped looking.

The book shows us that the original mind is something we all have. We just often cannot find it beneath the constant chatter of our minds as we think, plan, worry and so on. While you would think from that, that this is yet another meditation book, it isn't.

I wish I could explain more what this book is about, but I can't. Not because it's difficult to understand but because what I get from it, what you get from it and what someone else will get from it will most likely all be very different. So, all I can say is I encourage you to read this little gem of a book for yourselves.

Before All Dignity is Lost: The Living and Dying of an AIDS Victim by Norman R. Beaupré

Published by Llumina Press

Before All Dignity is Lost is one man's journey through life, which is often a struggle, traumatic, disheartening even. We are introduced to Drew by way of his letters to the author of the book. We witness his hopes, his dreams, his fears and the many hurdles he overcomes in his life. It is a true story based on real letters.

His mother and sister leave home, leaving him to care for the rest of his family including an alcoholic, suicidal father. He discovers that a kind act on his part has left him infected with HIV, a job he had worked incredibly hard at was taken away from him and he was given no backpay or severance, plus his girlfriend of 3 years abandons him. These are just a few of the experiences which seem to always knock Drew back a few steps but, incredibly, he always bounces back and inspires the reader with his strength of will and determination.

In the later pages, he describes life with the HIV disease and his disappointment in the medical system. All too often the medical system comes across as having the attitude that as someone with HIV, Drew's future is already carved in stone and that it's pointless even trying to do anything. He is given doctors with little or no experience with the disease, rather than someone who could really help improve his quality of life. It's truly disturbing in that aspect.

This book is a very quick yet deeply impacting read. It achieves so much. For me personally, it encouraged me to deal with my own outlook on this subject. It taught me that as much as people seem to let their fear of this disease win out, we need instead to remember that we are still dealing with a person, like us, with their own fears and insecurities. Compassion is often lacking and many people, whether they will admit or not, seem to believe that those suffering this disease are either gay or drug using.

This book is a wake up call that HIV sufferers should not be stereotyped, avoided, or written off. It's an incredible little book that will touch your heart and soul and give you much to think about. I liked it a great deal and I am thankful that the author felt able to share Drews story.

Author's website: www.nrbeaupre.com

The Royal Woods by Matt Duggan

Published by Key Porter Books

Hold on to your hats as this book wastes no time in sweeping the reader into a fast paced, imaginative tale filled with many memorable, and at times odd, characters.

The reader is introduced to Sydney and her brother Turk as they decide to take a trip. This isn't just any trip. Sydney who is twelve years old, and her nine year brother feel a little troubled in life after a tragic event. They think back to happier times, in a farm with Uncle Frank and Aunt Lily, and they desperately want to feel that safety and warmth again.

They hop a freight train heading West which probably wasn't a great idea when they look back on it. Some of their next choices are far more wild though. On discovering that the farm is gone, along with their aunt and uncle, they don't know what to do. They vowed to each other to not go back home but what can they do when all they are left with is a new subdivision: The Royal Woods. They don't know anyone and don't even know where to begin looking for Uncle Frank and Aunt Lily. That doesn't stop the feisty and determined Sydney. On their adventure they meet a crazy old man who has a home made from junk, a gas bar attendant who pops up again in so many different places that he seems to work everywhere in town and the local bullies who become instant enemies.

This book is a fantastic and magical read. The characters are so vivid and real. The situations are oftentimes funny but equally as often contain a lesson or two on safety, tolerance, honesty, trust and more. Yet another Young Adult book that older adults are going to like too. A book that will keep you on the edge of your seat as you read, never knowing what will happen next. I just loved it.

So Long, Jackie Robinson by Nancy L. M. Russell

Published by Key Porter Books

In So Long, Jackie Robinson we are introduced to Matthew Parker. A twelve year old boy who finds himself far from his friends, and baseball team in Pembroke, Ontario, living instead in Montreal, Quebec with his mother and new stepfather Alain, who frankly, Matthew really doesn't like that much at all.

Matthew feels very lost and alone. His love of baseball makes it difficult to make friends as everyone else seems passionate about hockey. One day though, as he wanders around, he hears a familiar sound and traces it. What he finds is Delorimier Downs, the home ground of the Montreal Royals, who just signed Jackie Robinson, the first African-American player to play in the majors.

From there, the story follows Matthew as he lands a job selling refreshments in the stands, thanks to Tyrone, an old baseball player who seems to have a mysterious connection to Jackie Robinson that Matthew has not been able to figure out. He isn't the only one, neither has the reporter, Dewey, who tries to uncover the story to make a name for himself.

Matthew begins to make new friends both at work, and with his neighbours, finally finding his feet and when an opportunity arises, he has a tough choice to make.

This book has so much going for it. History, drama, humour, friendship, and love. The vast range of emotions will leave the reader as it did me, holding their breath, chuckling, sharing moments of sadness and excitement alike. It's a book that a reader can't help but enjoy.

I think my favourite aspect was the sprinkling of french, throughout. It added a nice touch. I definitely loved the history too though and it has inspired me to learn more about that period in time and this great player, Jackie Robinson.

A great read for Young Adults that older adults will greatly enjoy too!

Author's website: http://www.isn.net/~rmaclean/

Animal, Vegetable, Miracle: A Year of Food Life by Barbara Kingsolver

Published by Harper Collins Publishers

Barbara Kingsolver brings the reader an inside look at a year with her family as they commit to buy food that is raised locally, grow their own foods and learn to adjust to living without items that don't fall into those categories.

We are introduced to many experiences along the way which are not solely limited to personal anecdotes but also eye opening facts and even topics such as turkey mating and keeping your door locked during zucchini season. (Just a couple of the many parts within this book which will make you chuckle!)

The book, while mostly written by Barbara Kingsolver, includes end of chapter essays written by Camille (daughter) and tasty recipes to try. There are also occasional words from Steven (husband) and many wonderfully awe inspiring moments involving Lily (younger daughter).

Although much of the book takes part where Barbara Kingsolver and family are located, they do travel at points in the year and then we get a glimpse of other wonders. An Amish family, a tour of Italy and more.

I can't express how much I was moved by this book. Before I had even reached a quarter of the way through, I was already hitting google and doing searches for farms in my area and tracking down the local farming association to request details on farmers' markets and more. I don't think anyone could read this book and not find themselves affected in some way by it. I constantly found myself sitting down next to my husband and starting conversations with "In this book I am reading" or "Did you know?" and found he was as enthusiastic as myself to make changes, which was exciting.

Having finished the whole book, I know it will be a book I will return to often and as for making better food choices, even today while grocery shopping, I found myself setting aside apples that were grown and imported from the USA, in favour of buying Canadian grown. I also spent a great deal of time scouring local stores and inspecting their produce, ruling out anything that didn't have Produce of Quebec or Local Produce on the label. It may take a few more moments of shopping time, and it will make choices more limited at first but now that I know what a difference it can make to the local economy and so on (especially when I use the famers' market and skip the supermarket chains) , I am confident in taking those steps.

I hope many people will buy this book and let it inspire them too. A fantastic read that belongs on any bookcase!

Author's website: http://www.kingsolver.com

How the Dead Live by Alvin Greenberg

Published by Graywolf Press

Alvin Greenberg brings us a collection of short stories which, while often morbid, are always brilliant. There are 15 tales in all. In How the Dead Live we find Feidelman, a man who at first appearances, seems to have it all. When a mugger attacks Feidelman, the mugger is the one in fear. In The Life of the Mind we find Bill who ideally would love to be a vampire, and who has a dislike of mirrors and the backs of heads. Those who care about him struggle to try and understand.

No Loose Ends brings us Henry and Malvina, two people who are as opposite as can be and we get to witness their strange and often confrontational dynamic. This particular tale has a fantastic way of playing with the reader some and almost seems interactive. My favourites along with those already mentioned, are Found, Tremors, The High Hard One and A Couple of Dead Men.

What I loved about the stories within these pages, is that the author doesn't provide tidy stories. You won't find the usual tales in which every loose end is covered and the reader is provided with all the answers they could hope for. What you will find, are stories which seem almost fractured at times. The beginnings often don't feel that way and the endings, well, the reader will be left with more questions than answers but that made me adore this collection all the more.

It inspires, it teases the imagination, it provides much food for thought and I have to admit that I found myself reaching the end of some of the tales with a strong urge to put pen to paper and write something about the characters. I didn't of course, but I found it wonderful that I felt that way.

This is my first experience with this author and I will be looking into his other titles.

Holding My Breath by Sidura Ludwig

Published by Key Porter Books

Beth is the only child of Goldie and Saul Levy. At a time when Beth's grandmother is needing to be taken care of, Beth and her parents move into the house which is also shared with two aunts, Carrie and Sarah. What follows is a story of a Jewish family who are dealing with many secrets, tragedies and the usual conflict that occurs between loved ones.

Goldie is very traditional and has long held the dream of living in a large house with four children and being very successful in the community. Sarah is wild and rebellious, choosing to do her own thing, regardless of the consequences and then there is Carrie, quiet, thoughtful and often saddened by the loss of their brother Phil who died during the second world war.

Beth often seems to be walking a tightrope in life as she is alternatively pushed into adulthood and yet still kept sheltered and innocent. She comes across as a really complex character who knows what she wants in life almost from the start but is often unable to reach for it. I loved witnessing her development.

This book is just wonderful, I couldn't put it down. The author writes with a style that pours emotion from the pages to drown the reader. While the content is often saddening, there are many moments that will make your heart spin and churn with excitement, suspense, regret, and at times you will moved to laughter and tears.

I would love to see more about Beth in the future but regardless of whether that happens or not, I know this is definitely not the last we have seen of Sidura Ludwig.

One of my favourite novels of this year.

Author's website: http://www.sidura.com/

At Long Last, Love: A Collection by Judy Bagshaw

Published by Pearlsong Press

Judy Bagshaw brings the reader a delightful collection of short stories about love. What makes this book refreshingly different is the fact that the heroines of the tales are far from being the traditional image.

In Duet, we meet middle-aged widow Tricia who was content with being alone, then she met Harry. In Coming Home we are introduced to Bev as she tries to come to terms with her past and finds that not only can you go home, but sometimes it can really be quite surprising when you get there. In Vivian's Muse we meet Vivian, an author who seeks seclusion to work on her new book and instead, finds inspiration in the form of Rolly Stevenson.

There are 12 stories in all. Each of them quite different from the rest, though admittedly the BBW (Big Beautiful Women) theme pops up in most. That in itself for me made this book so much better though. It's about time that someone was able to capture what so many women go through, and place it within the pages of a book. Size acceptance has always been a concern. Hopefully this book and others containing similar heroines are going to help change that.

A great little book. A speedy and heartwarming read.

Author's website: http://www.judybagshaw.com/

Shenzhen: A Travelogue from China by Guy Delisle

Published by Drawn and Quarterly Books

Guy Delisle brings us another great graphic novel in the same style as Pyongyang: A Journey in North Korea. This time the fearless Delisle is in China and though the scenery and people may change, Delisle's winning style and humour do not.

Along with an exploration of China, we are introduced to hilarious moments such as a visit to the Dentist office which bears an uncanny resemblance to the Operating Room in MASH the TV series, dinner with new friends in which they communicate by drawing images and writing notes - which was one of my favourite illustrations, a how-to guide on cycling in China and so much more.

What I loved about this one too, was the inclusion of a few warmer moments in which Guy Delisle seemed to connect with people around him, something which I didn't see happen in Pyongyang or at least, I didn't notice it. The most memorable of these moments was a shared christmas.

I loved this book as much as I did Pyongyang and I look forward to his next book which I believe is going to be about his time spent in Burma. Another great read!

Pyongyang: A Journey in North Korea by Guy Delisle

Published by Drawn and Quarterly Books

In Pyongyang: A Journey in North Korea, Guy Delisle brings us a personal account of his experience there, overseeing animation production. In it we get to tag along as Guy tries to explore his environment and learn a little about North Korea. Of course, this is never easy as he has a constant shadow, his guide, who insists on revealing a picture perfect, rose-tinted view of his country.

Everyday activities involve frustrated attempts to seek answers that never come, dealing with animation teams who rarely seem to get things right, trips to various important places, all of which seem to center around Kim Il Sung and hilarious moments such as when he runs amok with a camera - well okay, taking one or two shots of garbage is hardly running amok but the way his guide reacts..

This book is the first graphic novel I have ever read and it won't be my last. I am hooked. This book has so much to like, humour, fact, fun little quizes, sarcasm - my favourite form of humour, and so much more. I love that it brings across the message that comic style books can still be informative and serious.

I couldn't help but think, as I read this book, that it reminded me in some ways of Bill Bryson's exploration of the U.K in Notes from a Small Island. It had a similar feel except this book is really funny, and had me laughing out loud many times. This book succeeds where Notes from a Small Island fell short.

I think this book would appeal to many people and personally, I also think it would make a great gift for those teens in your life who shy away from learning about other cultures and countries. I believe they will be as hooked as I was. I couldn't put this book down until I finished it. It was a quick and entertaining read that has left me eager to learn more about North Korea.

Wisdom Walk: Nine Practices for Creating Peace and Balance from the World's Spiritual Traditions by Sage Bennet PhD

Published by New World Library

In Wisdom Walk, Sage Bennet takes us on a journey of discovery, not only of multiple spiritual traditions but also of ourselves. Nine chapters cover Hinduism, Buddhism, Islam, Christianity, Judaism, Native American Spirituality, Taoism, New Thought and, last but not least a chapter for all traditions.

In this book, the reader can't help but notice the similarities between the traditions. In each chapter we are introduced to practices from that tradition and the benefits they can bring to our lives. Along with the information, personal stories from the author and people in her life bring the book to life and make it so much more inspirational. There are also exercises to follow which I found very interesting and can't wait to try.

I had an idea I was going to like this book but I wasn't aware of just how much. The information is great, the exercises are enlightening and practical. I hadn't realised just how much my own life was hectic, out of control and unbalanced until reading this and noticing how much sounded familiar. I loved that the author doesn't provide a quick fix or hand us easy answers but rather, encourages us to find our way and take our own Wisdom Walk.

There is so much to love about this book. The way it lets us know that it is fine to pause, slow down and take care of ourselves. The way it encourages us to help others in our lives. The way it encourages us to be open minded and respectful of those around us. The way the author doesn't tell us what to think but gives us countless tools so we can explore our own minds and hearts and seek our own answers. I think one of my favourite things though, is the feel of intimacy throughout the book. It isn't something I see often in books of this genre, or at least, not as successfully achieved.

It is easily one of my favourite books in the spirituality genre and one that I know I will refer to time and again, as I begin my own Wisdom Walk and try to implement some of these practices into my life. Highly recommended.

Author's website: http://www.sagebennet.com/

O'Rourke: Another Slop Sink Chronicle by Kevin Bartelme

Published by Cool Grove Press

Kevin Bartelme brings us this very unique and different book O'Rourke. Robert O'Rourke and his trusty side-kick Maurice are tile setters. The book follows them as they go and tend to various jobs which should be relatively painless.

Complications inevitably crop up in every situation whether it is working for the in-laws of a friend who is more than aware of how much they drink on the job and their fascination for leaving bizarre little statues and creations behind when finished, dealing with drunk, emotionally overwrought women, or clients whom insist on the impossible.

Then we have the personalities of the tile setters themselves. O'Rourke has a way of stretching the truth and outright lying but manages to pull it off in such a way that the reader is left shaking their head and finding it actually quite charming. Both O'Rourke and Maurice have a weakness for alcohol which can lead to trouble, especially when mixed with their warped ethics.

The cover states that is a hilarious book. I wouldn't go that far but I did still enjoy it and I would still love to see more of these two characters. I loved that this book taps into the common idea, or is that common fear, that we all have about contractors who enter our home. I will be reviewing another Kevin Bartelme title shortly The Great Wall of New York. It will be interesting to see how that one compares.

Scary Nuns: Sisters at Work and at Play by Essential Works

Published by HarperEntertainment - An Imprint of Harper Collins Publishers

Scary Nuns: Sisters at Work and at Play is filled with eye candy. Mention a nun and everyone knows exactly what you mean. We all get that image in our minds of women with the black and white uniforms, always neatly pressed, elegant looking and yes, often scary, as are all things we don't understand. It doesn't help that too often in books and movies we are given the stereotypical nun who is unbending and harsh, especially when dealing with orphans.

Within the pages of this book are the images that will shatter those stereotypes and bring a strong message that nuns are more similar to you and I than we expected. Picture a convent and imagine if you will for a moment, their recreation room. What do you expect to see in there? I am pretty sure you aren't thinking of a snooker or pool table with the nuns happily playing a game or two. This image, along with images of nuns with rifles, nuns frolicking in the sea, practicing dancing for a charity show and much more, will surprise and delight any reader.

There are of course more traditional images such as the nun kneeling in prayer, teaching orphans and laying prostrate on the ground which have a certain calm and beauty about them. Sprinkled in with the images are numerous literary quotes and brief histories of the most notorious nuns, all of which add a little something to this quick and entertaining read. I would even call it the Sister Act (Whoopi Goldberg movie) of the book world.

Naturally, being a fan of photography, I loved this book. It's not only fun to see the nuns in various settings but also to see the changes in dress, through history and, being pocket-sized makes it perfect to share with friends.

The Hour of Bad Decisions by Russell Wangersky

Published by Coteau Books

Canadian Journalist, Russell Wangersky brings us his debut book of short stories. The stories themselves are filled with strong emotion and a descriptive style which I rarely come across.

In the first story Burning Foley's, we meet Roy and Tony Meade as they burn down various properties and face the consequences. The vivid descriptions make it possible to immerse yourself into the story on such a level that you can almost smell the smoke, see the flickering glow of the flames dancing and hear the crackle of the fire as it destroys all in its wake. Wangersky also has an almost eerie way of being able to crawl into any of his characters and make them stunningly real, regardless of sex, age or other factors.

In Mapping - one of my favourites - we meet John Hennessy and are treated to a haunting look at the life of a firefighter and his memories. The author writes with such emotion and detail that as the character's emotional state changes, it draws the reader along for the ride too. I have rarely read stories which left me with the impression of having my mind and emotions teased and toyed with but that's exactly what the author achieves in most of his tales.

Musical Chairs is another of my favourites in which a quiet factory worker, who often feels like an outsider, loses 2 fingers in an accident. This results in him being treated very differently, feeling welcomed and embraced by those around him for a while at least. Time passes and things seem to return to normal. What happens next is both shocking and disturbing and gives us a glimpse into the darker side of humanity.

These are just three of the seventeen stories, all of which are very different - the only similarity I personally noticed is the recurrent use of the surname Hennessy - and very original. It's a great read and one of my favourite short story collections.

Change the World For Ten Bucks: 50 Ways to Make a Difference by We Are What We Do Inc.

Published by New Society Publishers

Change the World For Ten Bucks is filled with 50 ways to make a difference in the world around you. It sounds simple doesn't it? It is! While bringing ideas that will improve the environment, this book also brings many much needed ideas on how to make life better and brighter for those around us too.

Just imagine what a change it would make if more people were to smile. Getting to know your neighbours and your local store owners. How about thinking before we throw anything out and taking a couple of moments to research online to see if a use can be found for it? There are so many programs in place now for recycling reading glasses, computers and cell phones.

Even something as simple as two steps I have followed since reading this book.

• Declining plastic bags wherever possible (most stores sell canvas bags for a buck or less these days and Loblaws where I do my groceries, even conveniently places them at the entrance to the store and at the end of each checkout).
• Taking the time to listen to those around us.

This book has many ideas and even more resources. There is also a contact email address inside to share your own ideas. Each way to make a difference comes with it's own photo or illustration and often with a little wit. It was a fun easy read and while the steps are very simple and obvious, they are often overlooked.

One of the best things about this book also, is it is such a quick and visually stimulating read that it makes a great book for giving to your kids to help them learn something new too.

We Are What We Do website: http://www.wearewhatwedo.org/

The Roads of Go Home Lake by Christina Kilbourne

Published by BookLand Press

The Roads of Go Home Lake is the sequel to Day of the Dog-Tooth Violets, an award-winning novel by Christina Kilbourne. In this book, the author shares with us the life of Winnie St. Pierre, alternating between the past and present.

The beginning finds Winnie making a new start in life with her children, their father recently deceased. Having very little education and confidence, she sets out to learn to read, learn to drive and find a job. Along the way she makes a startling discovery which leads her to write her life story.

Within the life story we learn about Winnie's childhood which was far from easy. Growing up with an alcoholic father was always hard to handle, but, when in the middle of the night, he comes home and the entire family is whisked off to an abandoned town where they will set up a new completely isolated life, she sees a new side to him. Maybe life won't be so bad after all....

I found this book really easy to read and impossible to put down. I loved the main character and her inner strength. In the circumstances facing her, many would have made different choices but remarkably, Winnie always finds the courage to make the tougher choices in life and take a step towards finding answers she longs for and the healing she needs.

The author holds nothing back as we see the characters dealing with love, loss, regret, domestic abuse and a host of obstacles. What could sound like a tragically depressing novel is actually far from it, thanks to the author's gift for balance. It was a great read and I will definitely be exploring more by this author.

As a side note: A portion of the proceeds from the sale of this book will go to supporting victims of family violence and promoting literacy in First Nations communities across Canada.

Author's website: http://www.christinakilbourne.com/

Homeland by Paul William Roberts

Published by Key Porter Books

The year is 2050 and life as we know it no longer exists. The media is tightly controlled, the identity of the President and the Administration are withheld as a security measure and war is rampant everywhere. People are led like sheep and in the newer generations the concepts of thought, freedom and consent simply don't exist.

David Leverett is 100 years old this year. He has been a government advisor for the longest time and he has watched the changes in the system between former President Carter and current President Bush. What he has learned along the way will shock the reader as much as it shocks David himself.

We first meet David as a young boy and we get to follow along as he finds his way in life. His life changes when he receives an invitation to join a secret society while in University. An invitation that will bring him many great opportunities in life along with a lot of pain and disappointment. What follows from there is a gripping tale of corruption, lies, plots and so much more that will leave you reeling and will certainly make sure you look at things a great deal differently.

The book has it's occassional dry moments, for me at least, but they are rare and I still came away from this book having totally loved it. It made my Everyone Must Read list. I found I had to keep reminding myself that this was in fact a work of fiction. The author has a very skillful way of weaving fact and fiction together that leaves the reader constantly wondering which is which. Indeed, the first thing I did when I closed the book upon finishing it, was to dash to my laptop and check some of the info.

I think what had the most impact was that like One Nation Under God by Vincent M. Wales, this is a work of fiction that can very easily become reality if people don't wake up and start paying attention. Looking around the internet at times and knowing the vast number of conspiracy theories out there, it's even possible some of it did happen. I think that adds a little something to this brilliant and controversial novel.

I haven't read anything else by this author but I am aware he has written a great deal including bestseller A War Against Truth. I do hope to review more of his titles in this blog in the near future. Homeland is definitely a book that deserves a space on any bookcase.

Author's website: http://www.paulwmroberts.com/

Author's Blog: http://paulwmroberts.blogspot.com/

The Walking Boy by Lydia Kwa

Published by Key Porter Books

In The Walking Boy, Lydia Kwa brings the reader a fascinating and unique novel that is set in early 8th century China. The book begins with Baoshi, a young boy who after being cast aside by his own father, is taken in by a man who becomes his Master. Baoshi is asked by his Master to embark upon a personal pilgrimage and what follows is a wonderfully descriptive journey that teases all of the readers senses.

Much of the book is of course based around Baoshi which is expected since he is The Walking Boy after all, but a great deal also explores the court of the female Emperor Wu Zhao. While Wu Zhao plays a very small part in this book, much is still learned of the character through the reactions of all who surround her in this novel and personally I thought that was wonderful.

Those who have explored my previous reviews will have seen the one I wrote about "Empress by Shan Sa". While Empress was based primarily on Wu herself, this novel focusses intimately on others including Shangguan Wan'er (my favourite after Baoshi), a sculptor trying to rediscover the love for his craft, and of course fleetingly, the few characters who come together to try and remove Wu from the throne.

This book has so many things to love about it. I adored the attention to detail, the brilliantly woven tale, the colourful characters and the skill the author has for making each of them so real that you can't help but share their emotions and don't even get me started on the exquisite sprinklings of poetry throughout. This book has it all, love, lust, greed, pity, fear, sadness, happiness, mystery, it even has ghosts!

I loved this book and I think what I am most excited about is that Lydia Kwa will be working on a prequel and a sequel for this novel and I just can't wait. I know that if you read this book, you will feel the same.

Author's website: http://www.lydiakwa.com/

Creativity for Life: Practical Advice on the Artist's Personality and Career from America's Foremost Creativity Coach by Eric Maisel, PhD

Published by New World Library

Eric Maisel's book, Creativity for Life is an exceptionally great read. Whether you are a working artist, an artist in the making, or have an artist in your life, this book provides valuable insight into the artist's personality and the everyday challenges they face. All of these facts are explained in a way which anyone can understand.

In 4 sections, The Challenges of the Artistic Personality, The Challenges of the Work, The Challenges of Relationships, and Strategies and Tactics, Eric Maisel explores so much ground. While it is directed at artists of all kinds, there is much in this book that can be put to use in order to find and achieve balance and growth in all walks of life so I feel personally this book is a great read for everyone.

This book includes a number of exercises for the reader to put into practice which will aid in creating and retaining focus, removal of blocks and resistance as well as learning to discover ourselves with the help of guided writing, and so much more. One of my favourite topics that is touched on is silencing the negative self-talk and learning instead to think and act confidently. Visualization is also discussed and a couple of examples given which I know I will be trying.

I loved that the author included experiences from people he knew, in order to better share his messages. That in itself made his teachings more memorable to me as I could see not only the tools he was supplying, but examples of them in use. There are also countless ideas within the pages to inspire, or at least there were for me. I can't wait to get writing again!

This is my first book by this great author but I know it will not be my last. I am sure I will be hunting down his previous works (and there are many) and inhaling those with the same curiosity, excitement and enthusiasm as I did with this.

I highly recommend this book. If you only buy one book on this subject, this gem of a book is the one to go for.

You can learn more about the author at http://www.ericmaisel.com/

You can also visit his site at http://www.tenzenseconds.com (A book I hope to also review here in the near future).

Section K by Timothy Carter

Published by Burning Effigy Press

Timothy Carter brings the reader a comical and unique tale. Section K is the branch of the RCMP dedicated to all things paranormal and weird. It's two agents, Howard Plank and Johnny Tall are brilliant at what they do which would usually be a great thing. Unfortunately, about the only thing that Howard does well, is drink himself into a stupor and Johnny's only two talents seem to be getting the ladies into bed and being a complete jerk.

The section's only leads come from two main sources. A lonely old lady and a psychic who is constantly proven wrong, until now. It figures that the one time he predicts something perfectly, is the time when the end of the world is upon us.

The only thing standing between life as we know it and total destruction, is Section K. The agents have to try and solve the mystery of who is running around Canada stamping the number 666 onto people's foreheads, and why. This book is both funny and bizarre and had me laughing out loud more than a couple of times. It's another quick read at around 122 pages which is good since I didn't want to put it down.

This is my first book by this author but it won't be my last, I am sure.

Author's Blog: http://timothycarterblog.blogspot.com/

The Distance Travelled: A Little Slice of Heaven by Brett Alexander Savory and Gord Zajac

Published by Burning Effigy Press

In The Distance Travelled: A Little Slice of Heaven, we get to follow along as the main character 'Stu' goes on a bizarre journey. It all starts when he is in his home and receives a visit from a cat who wants to lead him somewhere. After wandering through a door he ends up at a huge house which is over-run with rabbits, a house with a totally unexpected and unbelievable owner.

Just when Stu thinks things cannot possibly become anymore strange, they innevitably do. This is a weird mix that reminds me of Alice down the Rabbit Hole but way more fun and definitely far more bizzare. This tale, short though it is - it's a chapbook - leads the reader on a wonderful mix of humour and food for thought. It really got my imagination going, that's for sure.

I think what surprised me about this book was that mixed in with everything else there are moments where the craziness and fun stops and the reader is hit with pure emotions: regret, sadness, anger and others. I hadn't expected that a story this small would have so large an impact.

It is the sequel to The Distance Travelled, also by Brett Alexander Savory but even if you haven't read the first book - like me - don't let that stop you from exploring and enjoying this wicked little book. At under 40 pages it's a very quick read.

A fun and different read. My first experience with chapbooks and definitely not my last.

Author's website: http://brettsavory.com/

Author's website: http://gordzajac.com/

Alexandra Orlando: In Pursuit of Victory by Martin Avery with Alexandra Orlando

Published by BookLand Press

Martin Avery brings us into the world of Canada's rhythmic gymnastics champion, Alexandra Orlando and shares with us not only her own view on her life, but the views of her friends, family and others. It covers the difficulties facing the sport as a whole. It is pretty amazing in itself that Alexandra Orlando achieved a record setting six gold medals but when you add to that, that she was up against athletes who have access to better training facilities, more financial support and one on one coaching it makes Alexandra's achievement all the more awe inspiring.

The book also touches on the subject of Alexandra almost going to the Olympics and being let down. This book says a lot about this athlete's incredible style and grace, both in the sport and in her personal life but it says much more about her that even in that moment of what must have been monumentally disappointing, she rose above it and trained harder and at higher levels in order to prepare for the next Olympics. It is clear from reading this book that Alexandra Orlando is an exceptional woman who gives 200% in everything she does and that she is respected and loved by all who come into contact with her.

I loved the information regarding this sport, that was shared in the book. I had actually enjoyed watching this sport on the TV in England as a child and I hadn't known what it was called, or that it still existed and now I know better. This is indeed an amazing sport but sadly, one that is not promoted or supported as well as it ought to be. It is a sport that is filled with grace, precision, beauty, style and a great deal of skill. A sport that can leave the audience breathless as they watch the athlete perform in a style that always reminded me of ballet.

I know that I will be keeping my eye on this athlete and sport alike and whatever your thoughts are on this, this book is definitely an eye opener. Alexandra Orlando is still so young and yet already shows so many admirable traits and qualities and especially her patriotism for this country, Canada.

This book was a joy to read and I loved the quiz at the end which was a fun way of checking what info you remember and I actually had remembered all of it. This is also the first in a series of books named "Celebrating Canadian Athletes". I know I can't wait for the next installment!

Author's website: http://martinavery.com/

Alexandra's Website: http://www.ritmika.ca/orlando.htm (includes brilliant images of her performing).

Orphan Love by Nadia Bozak

Published by Key Porter Books

Nadia Bozak brings us a dark and brutal novel that assaults the senses. The story revolves around two brilliantly written characters named Bozak and Dave. While Dave is running away from his life, desperate to make a new start, it isn't that simple, not when his past seems to be lurking around every corner. Bozak is also on the run, from something that has filled her with anger and shame and leaves her craving revenge, something which the author entices us with, until the very end.

After their paths cross, the two embark on a journey together in a beat-up canoe. A journey which will test their endurance on many levels and which gives the reader a fresh look at the beautiful and challenging landscape of northern Ontario, and beyond. With just two main characters this book is able to focus on each of them more closely. The reader gets to discover just a little more each time as layers are peeled away. While both Dave and Bozak have deeply saddening stories, it is impossible to feel sorry for them as they both ooze strength and courage that fills the reader with admiration.

I loved so many things about this book. The detail, the well developed characters, and the raw constant emotion that just pours off the page. A very intense read that will keep you guessing right until the last pages. This isn't a book that I will forget anytime soon and I can't wait for Nadia Bozak's second novel.