Glass Atlas®, LLC | Satellite map paperweights

Glass Atlas®, LLC

Satellite map paperweights

 

 

360° VIEW GLASS ATLAS PAPERWEIGHT

Authentic satellite imagery magnified through crystal dome can now be seen from all angles.

You can pick your special spot for birthday, graduation, retirement, promotion or any occasion. These creative accents will inspire and engage the imagination! The presentation box is handcrafted from the scraps of log cabin construction. Each Glass Atlas paperweight is 3 1/2" across, 1 7/8" deep and weighs 1 lb. 5 oz.

Order now for our SPRING SPECIAL

$39.99 (Reg. $49.99)

 
From the company: This year marks the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day- April 22nd - and here is a great new item that lets you look at the Earth in a cool new way! Glass Atlas is a glass dome on top of an artistic image of a specific region or area of the Earth from an outer space view. It comes in a variety of available images, from the sea surface to the Grand Canyon, Italy and many more. The authentic NASA satellite images provide a cool new way to enjoy the gorgeous view of the Earth. Each Glass Atlas is beautifully packaged in a unique eco-friendly wooden crate and comes complete with a small fact sheet about the specific image you’ve chosen. They can even engrave your Glass Atlas to make a great personalized gift for any Earth lover! Available online at www.GlassAtlas.com.
 
My take:  I love this idea - paperweights with a satellite view of my world - so I was thrilled to get my very own "Chesapeake Bay" Glass Atlas last week:

This gorgeous paperweight came with a little fact card all about the Chesapeake Bay too.  And beyond its beauty, I think these globes would be excellent teacher gifts too - especially for science teachers (this IS National Teacher Appreciation Week...and year end gift giving time is coming up too). 

They have quite a variety of satellite images available and I'm told they also have this one from Iraq (coming soon); I'm thinking if you have a loved one stationed in that area, this might be a good item to have on hand next time your kids ask "where is Dad (or Mom) at?" 

All and all, I love my paperweight globe - when I can get it back from my astronaut loving son who immediately took claim to it when I told him this was the view from space! 

This review was sponsored by Glass Atlas®, LLC who provided the glass atlas paperweight for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary paperweight.

Entenmann’s Coffee

From Entenmann's: Rich Frosted Chocolate Donuts…Ultimate Cinnamon Crumb Cake…Raspberry Danish Twist…

Entenmann’s has been a market leader and innovator in fresh, sweet baked goods for over a century. Today, the same brand that has brought delicious cakes, scrumptious donuts, and tasty cookies now offers 100% Arabica coffees. What could be better?

Following in the Entenmann’s tradition, Entenmann’s Coffee is made from superior quality Arabica beans in both non-flavored and flavored coffees, including an all time favorite-Cinnamon Crumb Cake! Entenmann’s Coffee, is now available at select retailers and on www.entenmannscoffee.com.


For over a century, Entenmann’s has been the market leader and innovator in fresh, sweet baked goods delivered daily to supermarkets and grocery chains nationwide. Today, the same commitment extends to Entenmann’s 100% Arabica coffees. Made from only superior quality Arabica beans, Entenmann’s flavored and non-flavored coffees capture the taste and aroma of Entenmann’s baked products. Entenmann’s coffee is the perfect complement to Entenmann’s baked products or can be enjoyed on their own any time of day.

Entenmann’s “Ultimate” Bagged Coffees

Entenmann’s Ultimate Café Blend: Not a morning person? Entenmann’s Ultimate Café Blend is the ultimate way to wake up in the morning. A medium bodied blend with a smooth lingering finish and hint of acidity, this coffee is sure to get anyone out of bed. Available in Regular and Decaffeinated. Available in a 12 oz. bag. Approx. retail price $7.99

Entenmann’s Flavored Coffees

Ultimate Cinnamon Crumb Cake Blend: The Ultimate Cinnamon Crumb Cake Blend is an Entenmann’s classic. This coffee has luscious cake flavors of vanilla and cinnamon. It is sure to grab the taste buds of any coffee drinker. Available in a 12 oz. bag. Approx. retail price $7.99


Ultimate Vanilla Bean Blend: Entenmann’s Ultimate Vanilla Bean Blend is the perfect mix of creamy vanilla with a hint of spice and sweet cake flavor. The Vanilla Bean Blend is a great way to get taste buds going in the morning. Available in a 12 oz. bag. Approx. retail price $7.99


Ultimate Hazelnut Coffee Cake Blend: In the mood for a tasty morning coffee? The Ultimate Hazelnut Coffee Cake Blend is the perfect blend of exotic cinnamon and classic hazelnut, a sure fix for any coffee drinker. Available in a 12 oz. bag. Approx. retail price $7.99

Entenmann’s Canned Coffees

Entenmann’s Coffee Shop Blend: Not a flavored coffee drinker? No need to fear. Entenmann’s Coffee Shop Blend is a medium bodied coffee with a mild smooth taste – great for any time of day. The Coffee Shop Blend comes in an 11.5 oz. or 34.5 oz. can. Available in Regular and Decaffeinated. Approx. retail price 11.5-oz Regular $3.99, 11.5-oz Decaf $4.99, 34.5-oz Regular $9.99

My take: When I found out that Entenmann's, the company that makes my very favorite coffee cake, had released a line of coffee, this coffee aficionado was first in line to try it out.  Like many of you, I drink coffee every.single.day and cannot imagine starting my day without it.  My coffee of choice is brewed at home - the darker the better - with one of those flavored creamers.  Cheaper than buying out, by far and it gives me far more control over calories.  Another way to control calories, at least for me, is buying flavored coffees - I use a lot less creamer so I can enjoy the richness of the flavor I brew. 

Entenmann's sent me three samples to try out: Vanilla Bean, Hazelnut Coffee Cake, and their Ultimate Café Blend; each bag made one 6-cup pot of coffee.  I can honestly tell you that I enjoyed each one - the flavors were subtle without being overwhelming in the Vanilla and Hazelnut.  The Café Blend was milder than I liked though - I can't wait to try their Dark Roast (and the Cinnamon Crumb Cake blend).  Paired with Entenmann's Coffee cake, I can't think of a better treat for Mother's Day, and every day after that!

For additional details on Entenmann’s including new flavors being released and purchasing details please visit www.entenmannscoffee.com

This post was written for Entenmann’s who provided the item [3 sample bags of coffee - made 6 (6 oz. cups) each] for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary product.

The review was sponsored by An Island Life;
I am proud to be part of Kailani's review team:

Justice Juels

 

 

Justice Juels

My take: I can hardly believe it's the end of April already.  Mother's Day is just around the corner on May 9th and if you've not decided on what to get your Mom yet (or what to tell your significant other to buy for YOU), have I got a company to tell you about!  Justice Juels makes some of the most beautiful pieces of jewelry I've ever seen.  Just take a look at the necklace below that was sent to me to check out - I've worn the Blessed Necklace several time now and have gotten many compliments.  I love the piece of scripture on it and I love the simplicity of the design.  And as the mother of a daughter, can I tell you what I love even more about Justice Juels?  The owner/designer sends more than 50% of her profits to help fight Human Trafficking around the world!  Beautiful jewelry AND support this worthwhile cause? Win-Win.  Spend some time yourself on her site and on her Facebook page - educate yourself on the evils of human trafficking - and you'll be ready to help her in the fight too simply by purchasing her designs.  Now THAT'S a Mother's Day gift I can really support. 

 

Blessed Necklace ($36.00)

(one of 6 special Mother's Day gifts being featured at Justice Juels right now)

Give your mother or grandmother something special with this gorgeous sterling silver washer necklace that says, "Her children rise up and call her blessed". The freshwater pearl in the center gives it that unique look that she is sure to love. This piece is handmade and like all Justice Juels jewelry the majority of the profit from this item will go to non-profit organizations who fight Human Trafficking.

About the company:  Justice Juels was founded by Chelsea Dischinger, a stay-at-home mom who had a desire to make a difference with her life. Once she learned about the horrific Human Trafficking Industry she decided to start a company to support her family and help raise money for this cause. Justice Juels is a for-profit company who donates more than 50% of their profits to organizations who are involved in the fight to abolish Human Trafficking worldwide.


Each piece of jewelry is hand-made with the finest materials and can be custom ordered in various sizes, styles and colors. Specializing in custom jewelry the options are endless. Do you have a favorite dress that you need to perfect necklace to match? Send me a picture of the dress and I will make a custom necklace for you. Did you see a design you really liked but could not afford it? Send me a picture and I will make something similar for a fraction of the price...(read more here) 

The giveaway: One lucky winner can pick any piece from Justice Juels that they want and it will be custom stamped for them!
 

To win: Leave a comment here telling me the name of another beautiful Justice Juels product that caught your eye (essentially, tell me which piece you'd pick if you win).  Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST,  Wednesday, May 5, 2010.  Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 8 extra entries for a total of 9 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

• "Like" (used to be "Fan") the Justice Juels on Facebook and leave a comment on her wall that includes "CPA Mom sent me" (leave a comment here with your FB name-first name only is fine)
• Follow Justice Juel's blog using Google Friend Connect (lower left corner on her blog) and leave a comment on one of her posts saying "CPA Mom sent me"
• Blog about this giveaway (don't forget to leave the link in your comment here)
• Twitter, Stumble or Digg this giveaway
• Subscribe to my blog via RSS or Email (see top left sidebar)
• Add my blog to your blogroll or my button to your sidebar (leave your website address for verification)
• On Technorati - click on this link, then on Fan or Fav (or use the green link on the top left sidebar)
• Follow me on Blogger (see top left sidebar)

This review was sponsored by Justice Juels who provided the jewelry for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary necklace.

Mom Central's Mother's Day Gift Guide and Giveaways

Mother’s Day Gift Guide

This year's "Mom Central Mother's Day Gift Guide and Giveaways" runs from April 26 through May 9, 2010. Check back each week for your chance to win one (or all!) of the products!

To enter to win, click on each of the links of the products Mom Central has reviewed and leave a comment (make sure you have registered with Mom Central and are logged in).

Three of the exciting giveaways that I have my eyes on include:

See’s Candies: See’s Candies’ variety of mouth-watering sweets will satisfy any taste preference. Give Mom the gift of indulgence with the new line of chocolates from the Keepsake Collection. Featuring both classic flavors as well as the new Strawberry Truffle, this line perfectly coincides with Mother’s Day with pink, yellow and orange designs brightening up the boxes.

“L’Occitane Experience” Vivabox: Luckily for gift-givers (and receivers!) everywhere, Vivabox has revamped the traditional gift card with their gift box packages. Packaged by theme, each Vivabox includes gift items to use or taste as well as a gift card. With themes ranging from “Spa Beauty” to “Gourmet to your Door” and “Bar-B-Que,” Vivabox offers gift card packages catering to the hobbies and interests of both men and women.

Shark Cordless: Sometimes pulling out the big vacuum can be a pain in the neck…literally. Not only does carrying the weight cause stress on your body, but the constant bending and pushing to get into nooks and crannies can be time consuming. Help make cleaning easier for Mom with the Shark Cordless Floor and Carpet Cleaner, or better yet, offer to help with the chores yourself.

This review was sponsored by
Mom Central

(which means: "I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central. Mom Central entered my name in a random drawing to win a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate. I received no compensation for my post.")

This Is Me From Now On

This Is Me From Now On

by Barbara Dee

Price: $5.99

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Paperback: 272 pages

Publisher: Aladdin; Original edition (April 27, 2010)

Language: English

Product Description:  Sometimes your life just needs a little jolt. This is what Evie's new friend Francesca tells her, and soon enough, Evie's life has had something more like an earthquake. Francesca thinks life is dull unless you go after everything you want and say everything on your mind all the time--and sometimes that includes giving other people a little behind the scenes help to give them what she thinks they want.  Evie can't always tell if she's horrified or fascinated by everything Francesca convinces her to do, but ultimately, she comes to see friendship--and life--in a whole new light.

My take:   In this book, Evie is a rising 7th grader (we meet her in the last few days of summer before she begins middle school), whose life is a bit, shall we say, boring.  Suddenly her life gets a whole lot more interesting with the arrival of new neighbor Francesca and Evie ends up having to make some choices - stay on the boring but safe path or grab her opportunity to really live life and have some fun.  Of course, when you choose a new route through life, the people in your life aren't always terribly happy about that! I thought this book was delightful and that Ms. Dee captured pre-teen angst and their ever present "drama" very realistically.  The dialogue was true and the characters spot-on, allowing me to really visualize the scenes and re-live a little of my own middle-school days.  A perfect book for your tween - read below on how you can win it! 
 
About the author: Barbara Dee is the author of Just Another Day in My Insanely Real Life, and Solving Zoe. Her third novel for tween readers, This Is Me From Now On, will be released in April 2010. You can visit her on the web at www.BarbaraDeeBooks.com.

The giveaway: FIVE lucky winners will win their own copy of This Is Me From Now On, courtesy of Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing! [US ADDRESSES ONLY PLEASE]

To win: Leave a comment here telling me something about Barbara Dee you learned from her interview here OR from her webpage here.   Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST,  Tuesday, May 4, 2010.  Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 10 extra entries for a total of 11 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

• "Like" (used to be "Fan") Barbara Dee on Facebook and leave a comment on her wall that includes "CPA Mom sent me" (leave a comment here with your FB name-first name only is fine)
• Follow Barbara Dee on Twitter (leave a comment here with your twitter id)
• "Like" (used to be "Fan") Simon and Schuster on Facebook (leave a comment here with your FB name-first name only is fine)
• Follow Simon and Schuster on Twitter @simonschuster or Simon and Schuster Teen @simonteen (leave a comment here with your twitter id)
• Blog about this giveaway (don't forget to leave the link in your comment here)
• Twitter, Stumble or Digg this giveaway
• Subscribe to my blog via RSS or Email (see top left sidebar)
• Add my blog to your blogroll or my button to your sidebar (leave your website address for verification)
• On Technorati - click on this link, then on Fan or Fav (or use the green link on the top left sidebar)
• Follow me on Blogger (see top left sidebar)

This review was sponsored by the Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing who provided the books for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary book.

Candy Fairies

Chocolate Dreams (Candy Fairies)

by: Helen Perelman

List Price: $4.99

Reading level: Ages 9-12

Paperback: 128 pages

Publisher: Aladdin; Original edition (January 26, 2010)

Language: English

Product Description: Cocoa the Chocolate Fairy is so excited. The fairy princess picked her to watch over the special chocolate eggs for the spring Egg Parade. But right before the parade, the eggs are missing from the nest! Can Cocoa and her friends solve the egg mystery before the big day?

Rainbow Swirl (Candy Fairies)

by: Helen Perelman

List Price: $4.99

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Paperback: 128 pages

Publisher: Aladdin; Original edition (January 26, 2010)

Language: English

Product Description:  Life in Sugar Valley is deliciously fun! Candy Fair is one of the biggest candy events in Sugar Valley. Raina the Gummy Fairy is serious about winning first prize. She follows all the rules to make the perfect new candy. Then a terrible storm blows through Gummy Forest, and all of Raina's dreams are washed away....

My take:   Unlike the recent book reviews I've been doing for Simon and Schuster, this series is definitely for the younger set of readers; the age level is 4-8 and I think that is fairly accurate.  As an adult, I struggled to finish these "sugary" sweet books.  That said, if I was in the target group, The Candy Fairies series would probably be books I would cherish and read over and over.  The stories are simple with good moral messages like loyalty, and keeping your promises (and I like that using your "smarts" is portrayed as a good thing for these "girls" - a message you cannot pass along enough times to girls these days, in my humble opinion).  I'm excited to hold on to these books until my daughter is old enough to read them for herself - in the meantime, I think they will make an excellent introduction to chapter reading each night when I read to her.  If you have a young girl (younger than tween age), be sure to check out the Candy Fairies - see below on how you can win them!
 
About the Author: Helen Perelman enjoys candy from all parts of Sugar Valley, but jellybeans, red licorice, and gummy fish are her favorites. She worked in a children's bookstore, and was a children's book editor but sadly she never worked in a candy store. She now writes full time in New York City where she lives with her husband and two daughters. Visit her at http://www.helenperelman.com/


The giveaway: FIVE lucky winners will win their own copies of the two Candy Fairies books reviewed above, courtesy of Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing! [US ADDRESSES ONLY PLEASE]
 

To win: Leave a comment here telling me something about Helen Perelman you learned from her from her webpage here.   Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST,  Monday, May 3, 2010.  Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 10 extra entries for a total of 11 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

• "Like" (used to be "Fan") the Candy Fairies on Facebook and leave a comment on her wall that includes "CPA Mom sent me" (leave a comment here with your FB name-first name only is fine)
• Follow  the Candy Fairies on Twitter (leave a comment here with your twitter id)
• "Like" (used to be "Fan") Simon and Schuster on Facebook (leave a comment here with your FB name-first name only is fine)
• Follow Simon and Schuster on Twitter @simonschuster or Simon and Schuster Teen @simonteen (leave a comment here with your twitter id)
• Blog about this giveaway (don't forget to leave the link in your comment here)
• Twitter, Stumble or Digg this giveaway
• Subscribe to my blog via RSS or Email (see top left sidebar)
• Add my blog to your blogroll or my button to your sidebar (leave your website address for verification)
• On Technorati - click on this link, then on Fan or Fav (or use the green link on the top left sidebar)
• Follow me on Blogger (see top left sidebar)

This review was sponsored by the Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing who provided the books for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary book.

Organically Grown

ABOUT ORGANICALLY GROWN (from the company): Driven by our positive spirit, and heartfelt commitment to a healthy planet, we founded the Organically Grown Group. We were raised to believe that we could make a difference, and affect real change in the world. As a young and innovative company, we believe in your right to affordable, safe, stylish, high-quality organic products from apparel and home décor, to personal care items.


Organically Grown has begun to play an active role in the organic revolution. Our apparel is made from organic cotton, which is grown by safe, pesticide-free methods from plants that are not genetically modified. We support the organic farming community and organizations worldwide that are committed to a green, sustainable environment.


There is a direct connection between what we wear and the effect it has on the earth. According to the Organic Exchange, an estimated 170 million pounds of pesticides, and 25% of the world's insecticides are used in the production of conventional, non-organic cotton. 7 out of 10 of these pesticides are on the EPA's "known" list of "likely" or "probable" carcinogens. These chemicals result in work-force illnesses, water contamination, and the devastation of farmland. All of the problems are eliminated though organic farming practices. Organically Grown is proud to be a part of the solution.


Organically Grown acts as an educational collective. We sponsor fund-raising events and through the media, we teach consumers about the benefits of living an organic lifestyle.


We are about balance and taking baby steps. We do the best we can today, knowing we will grow with innovation tomorrow. Together, we can make a difference by creating products we are proud of and you are proud to purchase. We hope this will be our green legacy.

WHY ORGANIC (from the company)? As the awareness of the effect that pesticides and toxins have on the environment and individual health grows, more and more families are realizing the importance of choosing organic products. Making this choice is not only good for our earth; it is good for all of us. With your help, organic textile production will increase, becoming more of a standard in the clothing industry.


If you haven’t already, now is the time to choose organic fabrics for you and your family. Organic cotton has all the high quality, soft and cuddly texture with none of the harsh chemicals to irritate your child’s delicate skin. Our products are not only breathable and cuddly; they are also recyclable, renewable, and biodegradable. With products by ORGANICALLY GROWN, there is no need to compromise between your budget and your conscience. As well as being ECO-FRIENDLY, our clothes are AFFORDABLE and STYLISH.

My take: Originally, I was contacted to review and offer a giveaway of Organically Grown. Unfortunately for ya'll, the giveaway offer was resciended (due to inventory levels). However, I did receive a beautiful one piece sleeper (Organic Ladybug - it's not a product they sell anymore so I do not have any other information in it, or a picture) for review (that I will pass along to my cousin who just had a beautiful baby girl).   In style, it looks a lot like this sleeper ("Love Birds Girls Coverall"). 

Let me tell you, this is an absolutely gorgeous sleeper and so soft, I wish there was one adult size for ME to wear.  And I was checking out their website and found all these adorable nursery decorations and wall décor - sure makes me wish I had known about Organically Grown when I was pregnant all those years ago.  "Eco-friendly", "affordable" and "stylish" indeed - you can't go wrong with Organically Grown (almost makes me want to have another baby...almost!)  What a great way to celebrate Earth Day - head on over today!
Bonus: The company recently added Organic Toddler Clothing to their collection. The collection is comprised of adorable two-piece outfits for boys and girls in sizes 12-24 months, and 2T-4T. With the cute and eco friendly slogans on each of the sets’ t-shirts, your toddler can wear their heart on their sleeve with a new message every day of the week!


Also, be sure to check out the Infant Collection! Some of their best sellers include three-piece sets with baby gowns, body suits, jackets, pants, blankets and hats, all on padded hangers and priced between $12-38.

This post was written for Organically Grown who provided the item for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary infant outfit noted above.

Tiny Cool from Princess Katie & Racer Steve

Tiny Cool

Princess Katie and Racer Steve
Rocket NYC
$15.00
ages 2 - 8
38 minutes

From the artists: Straight from “The Kingdom” -- where a feisty princess who’s inclined to rock out joins a local racecar driver who creates blazing guitar solos when he’s not blazing around the track -- Princess Katie and Racer Steve bring their one-of-a-kind combination of drop-dead great singing, sterling musicianship, and sparkling, kid-oriented comedy to their third studio CD, Tiny Cool.


Tiny Cool uses hip lyrics and cool music, punctuated with plenty of laughter, to bring home messages about honesty, individuality, acceptance, kindness, helpfulness, the power of love, and the amazing capabilities kids will exhibit, if they’re only given a chance. Princess Katie is a strong, self-possessed, modern princess, who wears her gown and tiara as a work outfit, but kicks back in her jeans when work is done. Katie O’Sullivan’s former life as an improv and sketch comic stands her in good stead when she takes on this role for the skits in Tiny Cool. Steve Borne’s real life hobby is racecars, and he’s performed in bands for many years, so the guitar-playing “Racer Steve” is a natural for him.


Children’s music authority Bill Childs wrote in his syndicated column, “Even if you resist all things ‘princessy,’ you'll enjoy Princess Katie: she and her talented band are all about individuality, fun, fairness, and humor. Katie's voice is a dead ringer for Natalie Merchant's, and the music - ranging from poppy alt-rock to bossa nova - will have your whole family dancing.”


Christopher Healy wrote in Cookie magazine, “This is one kids’ band that really knows how to rock … these guys are a serious rock-and-roll band–one that wouldn’t sound out of place opening for any current chart topper.” Cookie named Princess Katie and Racer Steve’s previous album, Fast and Feisty, among the Best Kids’ Music of 2008.


You can visit Princess Katie and Racer Steve at http://princessracer.com/.

My take: We have the first Princess Katie and Racer Steve CD (Songs for the Coolest Kids) and it remains one of my daughter's favorites so we were excited to get a copy of "Tiny Cool" in the mail to listen to.   Let me tell you, Tiny Cool did not disappoint, having all the elements of what we love about Princess Katie and Racer Steve CDs - my daughter loves the beat of the music ("cool guitar riffs, rhythmic drums, booming bass...") because she loves to dance to it - her favorite was "Clelia's Party" because it just like an entire FIESTA in a song!  As her mom, I love the lyrics and messages they give - dealing with bullies, celebrating our uniqueness (like shyness), and really, that kids can pretty much do anything they set their minds too!  This CD also includes 4 skits between the songs - I'm sure of their purpose though except to fill up space - neither of my kids, nor I, thought they were funny or relevant.  Princess Katie and Racer Steve should stick to the music - for that is where they ROCK! 

This post was written for Princess Katie and Racer Steve and Waldmania! PR who provided the CD for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary CD.

The review was sponsored by An Island Life;
 I am proud to be part of Kailani's review team:

31 Bond Street

31 Bond Street

by Ellen Horan

List Price: $25.99

Hardcover: 368 pages

Publisher: Harper; 1 edition (March 30, 2010)

Language: English

From the publisher: 31 Bond Street, an unforgettable literary debut from Ellen Horan, is based on the true story of a brutal murder, a desperate mother and mistress, and the vicious constraints of 19th century society. When the brutally stabbed and nearly decapitated body of a society dentist is is found in this town house in lower Manhattan, all evidence points to his elegant and mysterious lodger Emma Cunningham. Set in 1857 New York, Horan vividly re-creates a tumultuous era characterized by a sensationalist press, aggressive new wealth, a booming real-estate market, corruption, racial conflict, economic inequality between men and women, and the erosion of the old codes of behavior. A tale of murder, sex, greed, and politics, this spellbinding narrative transports readers to a time that eerily echoes our own. Check out the fabulous website and book trailer for the book here.
 
Book Description:  Who killed Dr. Harvey Burdell?


Though there are no witnesses and no clues, fingers point to Emma Cunningham, the refined, pale-skinned widow who managed Burdell’s house and his servants. Rumored to be a black-hearted gold digger with designs on the doctor’s name and fortune, Emma is immediately put under house arrest during a murder investigation. A swift conviction is sure to catapult flamboyant district attorney Abraham Oakey Hall into the mayor’s seat. But one formidable obstacle stands in his way: the defense attorney Henry Clinton. Committed to justice and the law, Clinton will aid the vulnerable widow in her desperate fight to save herself from the gallows.


Set in 1857 New York, this gripping mystery is also a richly detailed excavation of a lost age. Horan vividly re-creates a tumultuous era characterized by a sensationalist press, aggressive new wealth, a booming real-estate market, corruption, racial conflict, economic inequality between men and women, and the erosion of the old codes of behavior. A tale of murder, sex, greed, and politics, this spellbinding narrative transports readers to a time that eerily echoes our own.

My take: It's hard to believe this is a debut novel from Ms. Horan - it's that good.  Meticulously researched, her descriptions made me feel as if I was right there in the book with the characters.  I'm a huge fan of historical fiction - when it's done well through research of the time period.  Apparently this story is based on a true murder mystery from 1857 and copies of the real life newspaper headlines pepper the pages of the book, giving a real feel of the era to the story.  The tale bounces back and forth between the murder and ensuing trial, with the account of how Emma and her daughters ended up at the dentist's house in the first place.  Did she do it? You'll have to read the book to find out - I certainly did not arrive at that conclusion myself - which is the mark of a great mystery book to me.  I like being surprised at the end - it keeps me interested throughout the book (indeed, I started 31 Bond Street around 1 in the afternoon on Saturday and stayed up until after midnight just to finish it - I could NOT put it down!). 

The giveaway: One lucky winner will win their own copy of 31 Bond Street, courtesy of Harper Collins Publishers [US ADDRESSES ONLY PLEASE].

To win: Leave a comment here telling me the name another Harper Collins book that looks like a good read to you. Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST, Saturday, May 1, 2010. Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 7 extra entries for a total of 8 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

• Follow Harper Collins on Twitter (leave a comment with your twitter id)
• Blog about this giveaway (don't forget to leave the link in your comment)
• Twitter, Stumble or Digg this giveaway (leave a comment with a link)
• Subscribe to my blog via RSS or Email (see top left sidebar)
• Add my blog to your blogroll or my button to your sidebar (leave your website address for verification)
• On Technorati - click on this link, then on Fan or Fav (or use the green link on the top left sidebar)
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This review was sponsored by theHarper Collins Publishing who provided the book for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary book.

The Mapping of Love and Death

The Mapping of Love and Death

A Maisie Dobbs Novel

By Jacqueline Winspear

Price: $25.99

On Sale: 3/23/2010

Hardcover: 352 pages

Publisher: Harper; 1 edition (March 23, 2010)

Language: English

Book Description: In the latest mystery in the New York Times bestselling series, Maisie Dobbs must unravel a case of wartime love and death—an investigation that leads her to a long-hidden affair between a young cartographer and a mysterious nurse.


August 1914. Michael Clifton is mapping the land he has just purchased in California's beautiful Santa Ynez Valley, certain that oil lies beneath its surface. But as the young cartographer prepares to return home to Boston, war is declared in Europe. Michael—the youngest son of an expatriate Englishman—puts duty first and sails for his father's native country to serve in the British army. Three years later, he is listed among those missing in action.


April 1932. London psychologist and investigator Maisie Dobbs is retained by Michael's parents, who have recently learned that their son's remains have been unearthed in France. They want Maisie to find the unnamed nurse whose love letters were among Michael's belongings—a quest that takes Maisie back to her own bittersweet wartime love. Her inquiries, and the stunning discovery that Michael Clifton was murdered in his trench, unleash a web of intrigue and violence that threatens to engulf the soldier's family and even Maisie herself. Over the course of her investigation, Maisie must cope with the approaching loss of her mentor, Maurice Blanche, and her growing awareness that she is once again falling in love.


Following the critically acclaimed bestseller Among the Mad, The Mapping of Love and Death delivers the most gripping and satisfying chapter yet in the life of Maisie Dobbs.

My take:  Before receiving this book, I had never heard of the literary character of Maisie Dobbs.  Now that I've read The Mapping of Love and Death, I want to "beg, borrow, or steal" ALL of the books with her as the protagonist.  Seriously.  It took me a few chapters to "get into" this book - primarily because it was set in England and I was seriously lost among the English colloquialisms, locations (since I've never been lucky enough to visit the Old Country) and the time period but I was quickly caught up in the mystery.  Who killed Michael?  There were certainly enough suspects.  Truly, I had no idea who the culprit was until Ms. Winspear revealed it (though I had guessed that interesting side twist to the story that she added to the end of the tale).  All in all, a delightful and satisfying tale for this mystery lover - I encourage you to check it out for yourself.  Now I'm on the hunt for more of Maisie Dobbs....

About the author: Jacqueline Winspear was born and raised in the county of Kent, England. Following higher education at the University of London's Institute of Education, Jacqueline worked in academic publishing, in higher education, and in marketing communications in the UK.


She emigrated to the United States in 1990, and while working in business and as a personal / professional coach, Jacqueline embarked upon a life-long dream to be a writer.


A regular contributor to journals covering international education, Jacqueline has published articles in women's magazines and has also recorded her essays for KQED radio in San Francisco. She lives in California and is a regular visitor to the United Kingdom and Europe.


Jacqueline's novels thus far—Maisie Dobbs, Birds of a Feather, Pardonable Lies, Messenger of Truth, An Incomplete Revenge, and Among the Mad are set in the late 1920s and early 1930s, with the roots of each story set in the Great War, 1914–1918. Her work has been nominated for numerous awards.

The giveaway: One lucky winners will win their own copy of The Mapping of Love and Death, courtesy of Harper Collins Publishers [US ADDRESSES ONLY PLEASE].

To win: Leave a comment here telling me the name another Harper Collins book that looks like a good read to you. Be sure to leave your email address with your comment if you are not a blogger or your email is not easily found on your blog. This giveaway is open until 11:59 p.m., EST, Friday, April 30, 2010. Good Luck!

Bonus entries: Get up to 7 extra entries for a total of 8 entries (please leave a separate comment for each extra entry):

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This review was sponsored by theHarper Collins Publishing who provided the book for review and giveaway. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary book.

Where the Sunrise Begins

Where the Sunrise Begins

by Douglas Wood

Illustrated by K. Wendy Popp

List Price: $16.99

Reading level: Ages 4-8

Hardcover: 40 pages

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing (May 18, 2010)

Language: English

Description: In the style that has made Douglas Wood a bestselling author, he asks the question, Where does the sunrise begin? He answers it by starting in the world of one child, and moving to another farther away, and then still to the far reaches of the world, before bringing the text back home again.  Stunning artwork adds a beautiful sweeping look at a complex yet simple world, one in which the sun always rises to dawn a new day, a new life, a new chance.

Then were does the sunrise begin? 

Because the world is always turning,

each day begins and ends

in every human heart, all around the world,

wherever there is a heart that greets light,

that holds a place for hope and understanding,

that is grateful for the gift of life each new day brings,

in this heart the dawn is never far away,

the sun is always rising.

The sunrise begins in you.

My take:  Visually, this is a stunning book.  The watercolors (and I am assuming they are watercolors - I have a limited knowledge of art) are simply breathtaking in their simplicity.  It made me want to rip apart the book and frame them.  But of course I won't do that - the prose is equally beautiful and together the words and illustrations make for a book you'll want to cherish for years.  As 5 and 7 year olds, the message was a bit "deep" for my kiddos to grasp, so they weren't terribly interested in the book even after we talked about what it meant.  So I'm thinking an older child, 8 - 10, might be more of the target audience.  In my humble opinion, it's a great book on the importance of  hope and self-worth and I'm glad to own it. 

About the author: Douglas Wood is the author of A Quiet Place as well as the New York Times bestselling Can't Do series. His books Old Turtle and Old Turtle and the Broken Truth were both international bestsellers. He lives in a cabin in the woods of Minnesota. A studied naturalist, Douglas shares his knowledge of nature as a wilderness guide.

About the illustrator: K Wendy Popp's pastels and drawings have been used to illustrate publications internationally for over two decades, and her artwork is held in private collections and galleries throughout the United States. Her previous books include Sister Anne's Hands by Marybeth Lorbiecki and One Candle by Eve Bunting. Ms. Popp lives and works in upstate New York with her husband, Bill, and two children, Zoe and Wynn.

This review was sponsored by the Simon and Schuster Children’s Publishing Division who provided the book for review. I was not compensated in any way except for the complimentary book.