Wednesday, November 18, 2015

A Legacy Worth Preserving

Picture for on Amazon
Frida Kahlo: A Spiritual Biography
Received 4 out of 5 stars

Review:
The biography about well-known Mexican artist, Frida Kahlo, was very interesting. It took the previous stories that we learned about Frida as adolescents in school and transformed it into wells of information about her misfortunates and triumphs. It was interesting that in life she was a struggling artist, but in death, one of her self-portraits sold for $1.43 million dollars. This being the first time that a painting by an artist from that region had reached the million-dollar sales mark, as quoted by Jack Rummel, author of the book. The fact of her being a bigger artist in death in comparison to life immediately linked her with Edgar Allan Poe and Zora Neale Hurston. Both individuals were writers who reached ultimate fame after their death. Sounds similar to tragic abundance, but definitely something that happens to artist, writers, and others who pursue fame or fortune.

Something else very interesting about this book was the relationship between Frida and Diego. It seemed to be of a mother-child sort where she would run him baths, get him his favorite toys, and just take care of him. This seemed to work for both of them; Frida needed to take care of someone and Diego needed to be taken care of. Frida definitely had the ability to invoke courage and self-esteem among women, but her action of doing this often fell short, due to her living in the role in which her significant other wanted her to live.

Monday, November 9, 2015

The Adventures of Prada Enchilada: The Eight Planets

Picture Found on Amazon.com
The Adventures of Prada Enchilada: The Eight Planets
Received 5 out of 5 stars

Review:
The Adventures of Prada Enchilada seems to be a growing phenomenon that children just cannot get enough of. This children’s book series has helped fostered a company called ADC Kid, which is dedicated to the advancement of empowering and enlightening through literacy, fitness and animation. Initially, Mr. Davon Clark released The Many Different Balls and now he has released The Eight Planets. Although the discussion about the number of planets in the solar system is a very touchy subject, Mr. Davon did a great job educating readers about the order of the planets, characteristics of each planet, and things either found on or around the planet. I felt as though I was a participant in Prada Enchilada and Mimi Tortellini’s adventures. My excitement about learning something new increased as moons, volcanoes, and other vital planet information was discussed.

The book was very interactive by allowing the readers to count along, identify planets, and help Prada and Mimi with difficult situations. This book is a great read for your students and also adults who want to know the order and features of each planet. I am looking forward to the upcoming book release of Mr. Davon’s next book in the series.  

Friday, November 6, 2015

Freddie’s First Race Off to a Great Start

Picture found on Amazon
Freddie’s First Race
Received 4 out of 5 stars

Review:
Author Renaee Smith, Creator of the Independent Author’s Book Expo, put much thought and effort into creating her children’s book, Freddie’s First Race. Not only did it talk about the joys and pains of running a race, she also disclosed the strategies of getting prepared for the race, such as purchasing the right attire, training, and the commitment of running track. Although the book did not signify the grade level of Freddie, it can be assumed that he is in middle school, since this is generally when individuals start participating in track and field activities.


The book seems like a great read for children in elementary school, whether they are in kindergarten or third grade. I would even recommend your fifth grader read the book, so they can get an idea of what to expect in their possible pursuits to run track and field in the future. The book displays a dedicated individual who never gave up and was supported by his family. It also shows a great depiction of a two parent household and the techniques they use to support their developing son. 

Thursday, November 5, 2015

A Sweet Tale about a Sugar Glider and His Trusty Donut

Picture found on Amazon
Strawberry Dough
Received 4 out of 5 stars

Review:
Stawberry Dough by Aaron Southerland is a cute story about a sugar glider's pursuit to continue doing the thing he truly loves; indulging his sweet tooth by eating strawberry donuts. He will go to any limit to keep his trusty donut at his side, even if it is partaking in a staring contest with Dingo.

The book provided interesting ways not just to talk about donuts and eating healthy, but also about self-control, friendships, animals and their characteristics, and having the courage to stand up against fear. Definitely a book to get for your children, elementary students, adolescents, and adults who are into comic book type literature with thought provoking substance.