Nate Rocks the World author: Karen Pokras Toz

 

Science projects can be a real challenge or a real drag. Poor Nathan got stuck working with Lisa Crane on his latest project. Not only that, Lisa loves to report his actions to her mother who repeats everyone to his mom too. Is there no privacy or loyalty among kids anymore? So, when Lisa comes over to start working on their project Nathan does what any potential super hero would do, enter his own imaginative world, solve world problems, even help the Phillies win the World Series and let the world know that he is not just a hazard waiting to happen when near him but a really great kid with tons of artistic talent.

 

The story begins with Nathan daydreaming and drawing pictures of himself helping the Phillies win the World Series when his mother brings him out of his revere. Going to school poor Nathan hopes for indoor recess where he can just doodle on his pad, create comic pictures and enjoy his time away from the classroom. But, unfortunately he gets stuck with football that day and he is not very good. Coming home he finds out his mother already knows about his science project, while eating her horrific dinner fit for no one and hoping she won’t pack if for his lunch the following day, poor Nathan has not choice but to escape back into his own special world where success comes easily and appreciation widespread. If only everyone could see him as he really is. Added to the story is a story who enjoys riding him, a father transfixed on his work and constantly recounts stories from his past reliving each event point by point, sending Nate off to dream world in order cope with reality. Poor Nathan gets stuck working on his science project on Saturday when he would rather spend time at the movies with his best friend Tommy. Captain Asteroid is the movie they want to see and he is totally disappointed that he is stuck at home working on his science project with Lisa who has already decided they would create a Prism much more. While taking notes about the subject something happens that takes Nathan into his own special plane of reality and he hears the voice of his favorite super hero Captain Asteroid who needs him to help with a serious crisis. The world is devoid of color and unless Nathan can figure out how bring it back there was no hope for the world. What would learning about prisms have to do with saving the world from being colorless, find out how Nathan does it and why Captain Asteroid thinks Nate Rocks for you!

 

 

When Nathan is called to the front of his classroom to present his project and poster it seems Lisa has blindsided him by recreating another poster in her own fashion claiming his was ruined. Voicing his opinion to her went on deaf ears. Going home he decided on his Halloween costume when a unique idea to become a cowboy came from his sister as a strange source and then Nathan reverts back into his dream world as he once again takes on the persona of whatever character or figure that comes into play. So, Nate thinks he is now in a western town and has to save a damsel in distress plus prevent the bandits from taking over town. Can this 10-year-old Nate do it?

 

Then his sister does something to embarrass him on Halloween and it is time to pay her back for all she has done. Why not get even on her birthday. Going to get his father’s rakes back from a neighbor Nate turns into a Rock Star guitar and all. Is there anything this ten-year old can’t do? Desmond Harper the real performer had a problem someone made his skin and hair look blue just because he criticized the way he created the lighting for his show. Back to reality he finds that he has drawn a picture someone playing the guitar and trying to explain it Tommy would wait. But sometimes payback is not as satisfying as you think even though Abby gets sort of what she deserves from Nate but their parents teach them both a lesson. Wait until you read what they have to wear and do. Finding himself in the hospital to give out gifts how does he turn into Santa at the North Pole? The best was yet to come as his parents surprise him and his sister with a special family Christmas gift. His next adventure will definitely surprise you as he saves a dog from a burning fire and gets stuck making Valentine’s Cards. But, to appreciate what his sister does you have to read it for yourself.

 

One plane ride to Florida brings about an adventure that he won’t ever forget. Did Nate really help the Captain of the plane move a meteor out of the way so they could continue their flight? What happened to everyone in the cabin? What happens on the vacation you won’t believe? Poor Nathan can’t seem to get a break at all. Tommy has an accident but what happens at the end will definitely let the reader know that ten –year old Nate really does Rock! Just how you have to find out for yourself when you read this outstanding book by author Karen Pokras Toz which brings to light so many important issues of friendship, loyalty, family values, understanding, and just plain fun. Some situations are real and not part of his imagination. What happens when someone really does need his help will he rise to the occasion? What will happen to Nathan next and let’s hope the author brings him back for some more adventures and more drawings that take him into other worlds kids would otherwise never experience.

 

Author Karen Pokras Toz has a definite five star winner right here. Nate more than ROCKS! Great book for kids of all ages and for parents too. Characters that are true to life and a story that will definitely make you smile, laugh and endear you to one smart and talented young man named NATE!

 

Fran Lewis: reviewer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Oath Of Office reviewed by Fran Lewis

Oath Of Office

Author: Michael Palmer

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

 

 

One man decides to take the lives of seven people in order to save his career. But, what finally happens will impact not only his actions but that of many others too. One doctor whose primary goal is to help his patients lose weight, stay healthy and give them the best medical care possible. But, this man’s patients cause him to lose more than just his patience when he overreacts, yells, berates and shouts at them when they don’t follow his instruction. End result: the first time his license was suspended the second time would yield a similar result. But, this doctor decided to take matters into his own hands in a more permanent manner. Rather than chance anyone finding out what the patient that just left his office had in mind he decided to permanently silence those still present. Killing his staff, two patients, his partner and then turning the gun on himself this doctor thought the situation was solved and his family would be spared. Enter Dr. Lou Welcome the man who asked to have this doctor’s license restored. Why blame him for the end result?

 

Anger can be a powerful prescription or catalyst that can send someone over the edge. Wrongly accused or threatened in some manner a person could so something bold and rash triggering a change or course of events that would change lives forever. Dr. John Meacham had a drinking problem and a short fuse. Angered easily using alcohol as his refuge he often berated and yelled at patients that did not follow his advice. Calvin Summers was told to stop smoking. He did not. Roberta Jennings was told to diet. She did not. Screaming and yelling at the doctor was not the answer. Yelling back at these patients was even worse. The steps he took to silence their concerns, threats and voices horrific. Overwrought, unable to think clearly and not wanting his medical license revoked for a second time he decided to eliminate any witnesses to his actions. Seven people would lose their lives that day. Seven innocent people because something triggered off in his mind and he went on a rampage killing everyone present in his office including his partner then turned the gun on himself.

No one should be denied proper medical care according to one nurse in the ICE at Deland Regional Hospital. Why did one doctor decide to dig deep into this man’s brain to hunt for the bullet that would eventually take his life too? Why didn’t the staff administer the right care? Dr. Lou Welcome ER doctor wants those answers too as he witness much of what happened before Dr. Meacham died.

 

The first lady of the United States is attending an event to support the new Boys and Girls Club in D.C. Why wasn’t the President there? The first lady covers for the President and he refuses to come out since his approval rating declined. Rather than face the public head on he decided to hide. Russ Evans was set up. He was said to have committed a crime against a young girl. After explaining what he think happened to the First Lady and asking that certain bills be passed in order to help schools prepare nutritional school lunches for kids will the President pass them anyway?

 

Author Michael Palmer once again created a plot so intriguing which envelops the reader into two separate worlds that will eventually blend into one. Lou Welcome becomes suspicious of what caused Meachem to go berserk. Seeking answers would lead him into a volatile territory so explosive it will send shockwaves all the way up to the White House and even further.

 

 

When Lou Welcome finds Carolyn Meacham he realizes she is in shock and decides to accompany her home. What happens alerts him even further that something is not right as she accelerates the gas pedal in pursuit of another driver. Causing a slight accident, frightening Lou, the police arriving she manages to get away with just a warning. What caused her strange and erratic behavior remains to be seen.

 

Then Lou meets with Walter Filstrup and the air turns cold when they discuss the events of the shooting. Questioning his caseload and his handling of his patients Lou could feel the tension mounting in his neck. But, as we say at times this was only the calm before the storm as Filstrup skirted the issue and then lowered the boom. After finding out his fate Lou went to share his information about the murders with the Chief of Police of Kings Ridge.  Events unfolded as Lou spoke with the only living witness, met his father for lunch at a restaurant called Millie’s and other incident happens. One young man slices his thumb off while chopping vegetables. One minute he is working and the next he loses control. More incidents of what Lou refers to as Flawed Judgment. One car accident, one finger, medical procedures gone awry, 7 murders and one irrational President of the United States who loses it when confronted by his wife about a simple meeting. How will all of these incidents blend into one world? What is behind the irrational behaviors?

 

A group of women get together for drinks at a bar. One receives a note from the bartender that she hesitates to think might be real. But, what if the sender is telling the truth and Russ Evans was set up. Why meet with the President’s wife? Just what is really going on in this town? Then, another incident happens and a recording is sent to the Chief of Staff and told to give it to the First Lady. The message is clear, the evidence is there but what will Darlene Mallory decide to do? Will she meet Double M and learn the truth about Russ Evans or will she ignore the message?

Then the situation becomes tense, as Darlene has to decide how to handle this note and whether to meet with this man or not? Learning more about what happened to Russ and hearing the tape that is sent to Kim she learns what really happened to Russ, hears the voice of the supposed victim and needs to decide whether it is true or false.

Events move really fast and with the help of a good friend Lou finds out that he’s being watched. Hoping to foil them brings unusual results. Riding with two others and then finding the men following them brings about three more deaths. But, did they really happen? When telling it to Chief Stone their stories do not check out as the victim’s bodies have disappeared, the ground not disturbed and all that they find is floodlight glass. Approaching the owner of the field where the assault took place brought forth a strange reaction. Wealthy landowner William Chester and his son Edwin definitely have something to hide. What still remains to be seen as the search for answers continues.

 

Darlene Mallory the President’s wife is doing some sleuthing on her own compliments of Double M her mystery contact whose trying to have the Secretary of Agriculture reinstated and not allowing the President’s nominee to be confirmed. Why? There is definitely a link to the frame up but when the girl’s name found and with the help of an unusual ally and source the truth about the girl is found but she can no longer help. What do the strange behaviors of one young man, one woman’s car accident, one man who killed seven and the bad medical practices have to do with the President and what is happening in Kings Ridge? Wait until you connect the dots and find out how all of this blends together.

 

As the President’s wife becomes more involved in clearing Russ Evans she decides to enlist Lou’s help and here is where the two worlds begin to blend into one.

 

How will all of this come together and what part does a lab have in creating mutation corn? What could be controlling the minds of so many that they snap?

 

What is the link between termites, frankencorn and genetically modified organisms and will Lou be able to stop what is happening for more lives are lost? A President who has taken the  Oath of Office and one first lady brings it all to light. What happens and who is behind this conspiracy and what is the real reason so many people have died? What happens when one man decides to create something and not care about the end result? Author Michael Palmer has once again penned a novel, which brings to light so many important issues. Just how far will one businessman go to get what he wants? Just how far will one President go to stay in office? Just how far will one doctor go to find the answers? How many more lives will be lost and will the end finally justify the means? Just who else behind this and what happens at the end you won’t belief. What would happen if food can be genetically mutated? Read this spellbinding, thought provoking novel to find out what happens too many have a lapse of judgment and one fortunately does not. Once more Michael Palmer has written a five star novel that will definitely send readers to the bookstore. Lou Welcome: a definite character for another novel.

 

THIS BOOK GETS FIVE HEALTHY GOLDEN EARS OF CORN

Fran Lewis: reviewer 

One Moment One Morning

One Moment One Morning

Author: Sarah Rayner

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

 

 

Observations can often be startling when what you see changes the course many lives. Starting her day in the usual manner, Lou enters one of the carriage cars of a train, sits down and begins taking note of those around her. One girl is trying to perfect her look using every makeup too she brought with her. Another couple sitting directly opposite from her and trying to be discreet in his actions, the husband using a slight gesture of affection when stroking his wife’s hand is quite touching. A third seems to her primary focus on a magazine filled with articles about fashion, gossip and tons of glossy pictures. Each person preoccupied with his/her own private thoughts when they are brought out of their own personal reverie when the unthinkable happens- a man collapses- falls over and a chain of events so fragile, so realistic and heartbreaking following reminding everyone that things can change in a flick of a second or as the title so aptly states: One Moment One Morning.

 

Anna is still transfixed on the articles and pictures in the magazine when they guard makes startling announcing stating that one passenger needs medical assistance in Carriage E. As several people run by her in a hurried state Anna wonders what caused the fuss and broke the usual silence and calm of her morning compute. The train is halted and that annoys her since she does not want to be late for work. Stopped before her scheduled departure stop she verbalizes to no one in particular that perhaps they should remove the person and let the train go in its way. Learning the reason behind the delay she rebukes herself for her inconsiderate thoughts but is still primarily concerned with getting to work on time.

 

Let’s return to Lou who is our narrator of events and whose observations will help the reader get a better inside view of the events at hand. Witnessing the event Lou observes the two nurses trying to resuscitate the man in question. Watching the events unfold, hoping to bring him back to life, time stops for many of these people and unfortunately the end result is tragic.

 

The guard rather than comprehend the events demands that everyone leave the carriage and the train. Passengers disembark to a dark sky filled with rain and quite cold. Buses are not available making transportation difficult. Some decide to go home but Anna cannot. A taxi pulls up and the driver offers to take her for a fee wherever she wants to go. Joining her on her journey will be our narrator Lou who agrees to share the fare with Anna and now our story truly begins as a result of a sad tragedy on a morning train ride.

Anna and Lou connect as they share a ride in a cab. Then, something happens and the connection becomes even deeper. Receiving a phone call from her best friend Karen brings a new perspective to her own urgency to get to work learning that Karen’s husband Simon was the man who died on the train. Forgetting her meeting, finding her way back to stay with her friend Anna proves that she is more than must superficial. But, Lou feels something else when she is with Anna and that relationship has yet to develop.

 

Anna is concerned about Karen and is going to the hospital to be with her and give her some support. As the reader learns more about the situation we get inside the inner thoughts and character traits of Lou who is dealing with her sexuality and feelings of rejection from friends. Anna who wants to be there for Karen and Karen who has not dealt with the grief, hardship and heartache of losing a spouse and having to tell her young children. Added to that the hospital still needs to investigate the death, perform an autopsy and release the body. Karen at this point still on Day One or Monday of the tragedy seems to be walking through life in a fog and not really focused on anything. Anna is trying to help yet she too can’t seem to come to terms with Simon’s death. Lou on the other hand succumbs to her mother’s wishes and whims as she agrees to help out with an Aunt and Uncle’s visit to with her mother instead of standing up for herself and saying no.

 

The author through the narrator reveals the inner thoughts of Lou as she recalls the day’s events as well as Anna’s inner feelings as she guides Karen to collect her children and tell them about their father. Young children have a different perception of life and death is often not a true reality to them. Neither child really comprehends that Simon is not coming nor can Karen carry out many of her daily routines. With the help of his parents his final arrangements are handled as the author has Karen remembering some touching moments from the past with Simon. Getting to know the characters better as author Sarah Raynor flashes back in time before Simon’s death, to Lou and her inner conflict with dealing with her preference for a partner and Anna who needs to decide whether Steve is right and permanent.

 

The characters begin to blend together as the author flashes from Anna to Karen then to Lou and back again. Karen deals with the funeral arrangement, saying goodbye with her children, Anna and her mother in law to Simon and then Lou deals with her mother, her demands, and questions from those she counsels about her private life and finally breaking plans because her mother demanded her help. Each character lost in her own private thoughts, world and insecurities. The story takes place within one week from start to finish as Simon dies on the train and the end result after all is said and done still remains to be seen.

 

The story reverts back and forth between Karen dealing with her grief, remembering wonderful times with Simon, dealing with her children and their lack of understanding that their father is gone and trying to coordinate her life. Anna and Steve seem to be drifting apart and his drinking interferes with their relationship yet he comes through when Karen needs him to help prepare the food after the funeral. Lou is torn between her anger with her mother, relenting to her demands, hoping to meet another woman and coping with her own demons and past. Next train that Lou takes is to meet Sofia and her friend Vic. Will it work out or will someone else interfere?

 

The final two days. Relationships come out of nowhere and sometimes are cemented when least expected. Lou begins a new relationship, Anna is rethinking hers with Steve and Karen now has to face her final moments with Simon. As Lou becomes part of the group joining Anna for support at the funeral but a sudden outburst following the service at Karen’s reveals more than Anna can stand. Steve is an alcoholic dependent on her but this time has gone too far.

 

Anna comes to a startling decision while Lou finds herself dealing with her family. Karen must face her life without Simon and the ending will definitely bring tears to your eyes, sadness in her heart as two young children must face life without a dad, one young woman makes a drastic change in her life, and one single moment in time changed the world for so many. Truths told, honesty, family ties revealed and some things finally made crystal clear as Lou comes to terms with her mothers feelings toward her, Anna makes a decision about her relationship with Steve and Karen finds some meaning in life.

 

 

Characters that you can embrace and vividly described. A plot that is realistic and honestly delivered. Events described by the narrator as they happen. A plot that envelops the reader from start to finish.

 

Life is precious and you never know what will happen and when your time will come. Things can change: One moment in time. Friendship, loyalty, understanding, kindness and three women so different, so divergent and yet so alike needing each other for friendship and more. The 7:44 train will always hold a special meaning for them. To think one morning commute would change so many lives. Simon would have been so proud of Karen, his children, Anna and would have loved Lou. Great read with so many important issues brought to light. Karen blames herself but should not. Doctors that tried but failed in her own mind. Anna who thought maybe it should have been Steve and Lou who was just there. One Moment One Morning: Outstanding Novel by author Sarah Rayner.

 

Fran Lewis: reviewer

 

 

 

 

 

I Don’t Wear A Suit

Author: Victoria A. Seitz

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

Everyone has his or her own style when going to work and the dress code has drastically changed. What is your Executive Image? Do you need to wear a suit in order to feel or be an executive? Why has the image changed? The author states economics, cost or expense. Relaxed dress codes allow for individuality and accommodate the worker. Women has had much influence in the work place and often set the tone with that basic black or blue suit. The author states Don’t Wear A Suit is the must have handbook for men and women for dressing great in TODAY’S workplace!

Someone walks into a room and you immediately check them out. You can’t help it. For some reason it is a gut reaction or just something most people do. You check out the person’s clothes, hair, makeup, stance, and mannerisms and in five minutes or less you have created your own assessment of the person whether a potential boss, co-worker or someone you encounter in a store. What are the factors that you look at? According the author most people are influenced by the person’s or your visual signals that you emit. The clothing, body language, mannerisms and body type are some factors you size up at first glance. Sometimes were judging a person who has disabilities as someone that might not be able to do the job and yet they are more qualified than others. Physical appearance should not denote the person’s capabilities but everyone often judges a book by its cover and a person too.

Looking good and creating your own professional look will definitely lead to a more successful career and respect in the workplace. The author continues by breaking down the type of clothes appropriate for work into three separate categories: Suits required, jackets required and finally jeans permitted. ON pages 8-15 she describes in detail when suits and jackets are required and when for both men and women. In certain situations at work more formal attire is the norm and at times Jeans are permitted. Where, when and why are described in detail on these pages in order to help you the reader determine which type of dress is required. If your company or boss does not have a dress code policy you might want to check out what others are wearing, your boss is wearing and decide which one fits you needs. Your appearance at work does count.

Chapter three is quite helpful and I will give you some of the tips that she shares with the reader in the chapter titled: Workplace Dress 101: Getting Started. Step one: Organize. Great advice to make sure your closet is properly organized, your hangers in one directions, clothes that you have not worn in a year, give them away and if something is too small or big it’s time to get rid of it. Goodwill or Salvation Army will be happy to take your clothes and someone else will be even happier to have them. Take it from me I just gave away over 25 bags of clothes for the above reasons and for lack of closet space. Taking care of your clothes, keeping them in shape and ridding yourself of those metal hangers might be another way to keep your clothes protected and taken care of. You might even organize according to colors, texture and style. Other valuable tips are Stick to Classics; Buy for Investment, Choose Great Fabrics and Accessorize for Impact. Elaborating on each of these things would negate having you read and learn these great tips for yourself. One important tip that I found, as well as the rest extremely important is that skin care is not only essential but also vital. Makeup should be optional. Mix up patterns, fabrics, creates an outfit that is solid and if you are like me most of my wardrobe is dry-cleaned. My Dad was a dry cleaner and I rarely had anything washed except those delicates that require hand washing or can be placed in a machine. Personal hygiene goes without saying. The rest of the chapter defines how to choose your wardrobe for work, when to wear pants and how to match it with shirts, shoes, jackets and more. The author even helps the reader learn what type of dresses to wear, shoes, accessories and more. If you are not sure what jewelry to wear she has helpful tips to guide you. The chapter is broken up into what women need to know and men too.

Color palettes have always been something that I love work on when creating a look or a specific wardrobe. After reading this book the reader will definitely be able to create your own palette of colors in order to define a look that is you.

The great part about this book is it covers all occasions whether work related, after five, casual or formal occasions and just plain having to decide what to wear for a specific event. This author covers it all and I think it is great. Formal whether White or Black Tie or Business Formal you need to look and act your best and never let your guard down. Defining White Tie, Black Tie, Formal, Casual, Daytime/Evening Formal and Semiformal will help the reader understand what is appropriate for every occasion. You do not want to make a fashion error nor do you want anyone to say that you made the list for What Not To Wear.  What really impressed me is that the author includes the correct attire if you are visiting a foreign country, times to wear a uniform, charity golf classic attire and when you are invited to the home of your Boss. If you need a refresher all you have to do is open the book and the answers are right there.

For anyone who spends a lot of time traveling by car or in the air Chapter 6 will save you time, stress, money and energy when planning what to take, how much to take the right wardrobe, accessories and much more. Here are some great tips. First check out the weather where you are going to decide what you might need. You are not going to travel with a parka or winter coat if you are going somewhere warm and sunny. Buy luggage with wheels. Make sure the handles are easy to hold, manipulate. Check whether the bag has lots of side pockets. A great point is making sure that your luggage has a TSA approved lock and look for luggage where liquids can be stored. Make sure that your phone has a GPS and bring a folded umbrella. There are many other tips that you can find on pages 45- 49. Page 49 will definitely save you embarrassment, time and stress by explaining how to deal with TSA security in a better fashion. She defines the kind of shoes to wear, wear your blazer, website for packing more efficiently and according to TSA guidelines, information on liquids, and much more.

Chapter 7 deals with Foundation of Style, which includes, space, texture, form, proportion and more. Chapter 8 explains how you can make color work for you. Page 60 defines each color and its meaning it might even explain your moods as each color has its own mood, feeling and texture defined. Pages 60 -61 defines the colors again and when you should consider wearing these colors, how they enhance your complexion, skin tone, where and when to wear them and more. For example: White is best to accessorize with other colors. Dark, cool and dull colors make forms appear smaller. Light, warm and bright colors do the opposite they make objects look larger. She even includes a guide as to what to wear during each season, relating it to your skin tone, hair, eyes and suggests colors that would work best for you. In other words as she states: “Color is light and affects our moods.”

The final chapters will help you decide what is best for you according to your body type, figure flaws, separating men and women. She discusses these differences and include how to create image that looks right in pants, skirts, stomachs that stick out, wide hips and even heavy thighs to make you look the right way in clothes at all times doing the same for men. The best part of the chapter starts on page 73 which will help you wear clothes that will make you longer slimmer. When and how to accessorize is next followed by taking care of your clothes or your investment. If you spend the money you need to take care of your wardrobe as if it is a precious stone or diamond. Important to care for what you buy as it is your ticket to success in the workplace and she includes tips in Chapter 11. Expanding on skin care and skin care products in chapter 12, plus buying quality items, how and when to shop and with whom, trying things on and where to look to see if you look good or not. How to check that everything you buy is made correctly and how to check for buttonhole quality and much more. The next chapter is directed to employers and the final chapter sums it up. How you are going to have to find out the rest for yourself or how else will you learn what I have learned by reading this great book. Following Chapter 15 is a glossary that will definitely help you understand fabric, style, color and much more.

Read this book. Remember: One size does not fit all. Create your own style. Remember never to forget that looking your best is your ticket to success. You need to feel great about how you look, have a positive outlook and learn the foundations of good style and design.

After reading this book I will definitely redo my closets, chuck out some more clothes and get rid of those wire hangers for starters. Author Victoria A. Seitz really says it all in this unique guide to looking better.

This book gets: FIVE PERFECTLY STYLED OUTFITS

Fran Lewis: REVIEWER

FIVE PERFECT OUTFITS

I Don’t Wear A Suit

Author: Victoria A. Seitz

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

 

Everyone has his or her own style when going to work and the dress code has drastically changed. What is your Executive Image? Do you need to wear a suit in order to feel or be an executive? Why has the image changed? The author states economics, cost or expense. Relaxed dress codes allow for individuality and accommodate the worker. Women has had much influence in the work place and often set the tone with that basic black or blue suit. The author states Don’t Wear A Suit is the must have handbook for men and women for dressing great in TODAY’S workplace!

Someone walks into a room and you immediately check them out. You can’t help it. For some reason it is a gut reaction or just something most people do. You check out the person’s clothes, hair, makeup, stance, and mannerisms and in five minutes or less you have created your own assessment of the person whether a potential boss, co-worker or someone you encounter in a store. What are the factors that you look at? According the author most people are influenced by the person’s or your visual signals that you emit. The clothing, body language, mannerisms and body type are some factors you size up at first glance. Sometimes were judging a person who has disabilities as someone that might not be able to do the job and yet they are more qualified than others. Physical appearance should not denote the person’s capabilities but everyone often judges a book by its cover and a person too.

 

Looking good and creating your own professional look will definitely lead to a more successful career and respect in the workplace. The author continues by breaking down the type of clothes appropriate for work into three separate categories: Suits required, jackets required and finally jeans permitted. ON pages 8-15 she describes in detail when suits and jackets are required and when for both men and women. In certain situations at work more formal attire is the norm and at times Jeans are permitted. Where, when and why are described in detail on these pages in order to help you the reader determine which type of dress is required. If your company or boss does not have a dress code policy you might want to check out what others are wearing, your boss is wearing and decide which one fits you needs. Your appearance at work does count.

 

Chapter three is quite helpful and I will give you some of the tips that she shares with the reader in the chapter titled: Workplace Dress 101: Getting Started. Step one: Organize. Great advice to make sure your closet is properly organized, your hangers in one directions, clothes that you have not worn in a year, give them away and if something is too small or big it’s time to get rid of it. Goodwill or Salvation Army will be happy to take your clothes and someone else will be even happier to have them. Take it from me I just gave away over 25 bags of clothes for the above reasons and for lack of closet space. Taking care of your clothes, keeping them in shape and ridding yourself of those metal hangers might be another way to keep your clothes protected and taken care of. You might even organize according to colors, texture and style. Other valuable tips are Stick to Classics; Buy for Investment, Choose Great Fabrics and Accessorize for Impact. Elaborating on each of these things would negate having you read and learn these great tips for yourself. One important tip that I found, as well as the rest extremely important is that skin care is not only essential but also vital. Makeup should be optional. Mix up patterns, fabrics, creates an outfit that is solid and if you are like me most of my wardrobe is dry-cleaned. My Dad was a dry cleaner and I rarely had anything washed except those delicates that require hand washing or can be placed in a machine. Personal hygiene goes without saying. The rest of the chapter defines how to choose your wardrobe for work, when to wear pants and how to match it with shirts, shoes, jackets and more. The author even helps the reader learn what type of dresses to wear, shoes, accessories and more. If you are not sure what jewelry to wear she has helpful tips to guide you. The chapter is broken up into what women need to know and men too.

 

Color palettes have always been something that I love work on when creating a look or a specific wardrobe. After reading this book the reader will definitely be able to create your own palette of colors in order to define a look that is you.

The great part about this book is it covers all occasions whether work related, after five, casual or formal occasions and just plain having to decide what to wear for a specific event. This author covers it all and I think it is great. Formal whether White or Black Tie or Business Formal you need to look and act your best and never let your guard down. Defining White Tie, Black Tie, Formal, Casual, Daytime/Evening Formal and Semiformal will help the reader understand what is appropriate for every occasion. You do not want to make a fashion error nor do you want anyone to say that you made the list for What Not To Wear.  What really impressed me is that the author includes the correct attire if you are visiting a foreign country, times to wear a uniform, charity golf classic attire and when you are invited to the home of your Boss. If you need a refresher all you have to do is open the book and the answers are right there.

For anyone who spends a lot of time traveling by car or in the air Chapter 6 will save you time, stress, money and energy when planning what to take, how much to take the right wardrobe, accessories and much more. Here are some great tips. First check out the weather where you are going to decide what you might need. You are not going to travel with a parka or winter coat if you are going somewhere warm and sunny. Buy luggage with wheels. Make sure the handles are easy to hold, manipulate. Check whether the bag has lots of side pockets. A great point is making sure that your luggage has a TSA approved lock and look for luggage where liquids can be stored. Make sure that your phone has a GPS and bring a folded umbrella. There are many other tips that you can find on pages 45- 49. Page 49 will definitely save you embarrassment, time and stress by explaining how to deal with TSA security in a better fashion. She defines the kind of shoes to wear, wear your blazer, website for packing more efficiently and according to TSA guidelines, information on liquids, and much more.

 

Chapter 7 deals with Foundation of Style, which includes, space, texture, form, proportion and more. Chapter 8 explains how you can make color work for you. Page 60 defines each color and its meaning it might even explain your moods as each color has its own mood, feeling and texture defined. Pages 60 -61 defines the colors again and when you should consider wearing these colors, how they enhance your complexion, skin tone, where and when to wear them and more. For example: White is best to accessorize with other colors. Dark, cool and dull colors make forms appear smaller. Light, warm and bright colors do the opposite they make objects look larger. She even includes a guide as to what to wear during each season, relating it to your skin tone, hair, eyes and suggests colors that would work best for you. In other words as she states: “Color is light and affects our moods.”

The final chapters will help you decide what is best for you according to your body type, figure flaws, separating men and women. She discusses these differences and include how to create image that looks right in pants, skirts, stomachs that stick out, wide hips and even heavy thighs to make you look the right way in clothes at all times doing the same for men. The best part of the chapter starts on page 73 which will help you wear clothes that will make you longer slimmer. When and how to accessorize is next followed by taking care of your clothes or your investment. If you spend the money you need to take care of your wardrobe as if it is a precious stone or diamond. Important to care for what you buy as it is your ticket to success in the workplace and she includes tips in Chapter 11. Expanding on skin care and skin care products in chapter 12, plus buying quality items, how and when to shop and with whom, trying things on and where to look to see if you look good or not. How to check that everything you buy is made correctly and how to check for buttonhole quality and much more. The next chapter is directed to employers and the final chapter sums it up. How you are going to have to find out the rest for yourself or how else will you learn what I have learned by reading this great book. Following Chapter 15 is a glossary that will definitely help you understand fabric, style, color and much more.

Read this book. Remember: One size does not fit all. Create your own style. Remember never to forget that looking your best is your ticket to success. You need to feel great about how you look, have a positive outlook and learn the foundations of good style and design.

After reading this book I will definitely redo my closets, chuck out some more clothes and get rid of those wire hangers for starters. Author Victoria A. Seitz really says it all in this unique guide to looking better.

This book gets: FIVE PERFECTLY STYLED OUTFITS

 

Fran Lewis: REVIEWER

 

 

 

 

 

 

TIMMY’S BEDTIME

Fears we all have them. Kids sometimes see shadows in the middle of the night and often get scared. Some think that monsters are hiding under their bed and get scared. Others run out of their room into their parent’s bedroom and climb in with them. I did. Actually, I used to kick my mom out and told my Dad to slide over and leave him for little me. My Dad was a big teddy bear and whenever I was around him I felt safe. Why are kids afraid to go to bed and what can parents do to make them feel safe? Toni and Tim Williams wrote Timmy’s Bedtime: A Monster Bear Tale hoping to help parent find the solution to this problem. The answers are not always easy but since they wrote this based on their daughter who 40 years ago was afraid of monsters, maybe their creative and innovative solution will help you.

 

Timmy did not want to go to bed and asked his father if he could sleep with the lights on. He tried to make him think that his dinner was squiggling around in his tummy and that he was not really tired. But, no matter what Timmy did to try and get out of going to bed his father had an answer for him. Instead of getting angry and not listening he asked Timmy what the problem was and he asked, “What do you know about monsters?” This is the all important question that he needed an immediate answer to and would not go to sleep unless he uncovered everything his father might know about this crucial subject. To show him he was paying close attention first his father raised one eyebrow but when he raised two Timmy knew he meant business. How cool is that to get a child’s attention! But, first his father put him to the test to make sure he was the real Timmy and not some imitation Timmy that was sleeping in his bed. Timmy thought this was funny but took the questions very seriously as his father wanted asked him for his driver’s license, his age and to ask his wife. Timmy finally told his father to tell him all he knows about monsters and what he learned when he was five. So, his father told him the source of his knowledge was his grandfather the smartest person in the world who always had the right answers. But, that’s not all. You see: They have a special family secret that only Timmy and his family know about how to deal with monsters, have to learn all about them and how to find out whether they are under your bed and dangerous. After checking with the only person, his grandfather about whether he learned anything knew about monsters he revealed this to Timmy. His brave grandfather caught a wild monster and gave it to his father for Timmy to train and tame. How amazing is that! But, there is much much more to this great story.

 

 

Timmy’s Dad had something special that he gave Timmy to help him sleep. The family, you see has a special secret that only members of his family are privy to and are allowed to know. Timmy’s father gave him something that his grandfather sent him that would help him to sleep. But, if I tell you what it is that would ruin the fun of reading this great book for yourself and finding out just how Timmy learned that Monsters are not so bad if they know you want to be their friend.

 

Timmy’s father even told him the special poem on page 19 of the book about monsters and what kids think about them. That my dear friends you will have to read for yourself to learn what to do with your monsters if you find one and get scared. What is the family secret and how does his father solve his problem? Can’t tell you that. It’s a secret and I promised Timmy’s grandfather and Dad I would never tell.

 

The illustrations are really great and the story says it all. The colorful pictures with their warm tones make the reader feel safe, warm and cozy. The father’s way of dealing with this situation was great and the fact that his parents took the time to listen and help Timmy try and overcome his fear is really important. The authors bring to light many issues in this picture book. Kids have fears and the way parents deal with them and help them overcome them is really what helps them grow into happy young adults. Toni and Tim have shared their family secret with Timmy and now of course you the reader can parents all over the world can learn how to teach their children to not be afraid of shadows, monsters and things they think are under their bed. Added at the end of the story are two great pictures that kids can color. I won’t tell you what they are or I will give away the family secret. But, being a kid myself I am going to get some crayons, markers and pencils and color them myself. I really hope that they bring Timmy back and his surprise new friend for some real adventures. Thank you Toni and Tim for sending me this great book to read. I wish I had it when I was growing up and saw monsters under my bed. By the way I would love one of those surprises that Timmy got too.

 

Well-written, great story and fun for younger readers, bedtime story, nonreaders who can look at the pictures and make up their own story and for grownups that are still afraid of monsters. Thank you to Timmy’s grandfather for teaching him how to tame monsters.

 

Fran Lewis: reviewer : This book gets FIVE FRIENDLY MONSTERS

 

Great Resource

Stop the Thyroid Madness

Author: Janie A. Bowthorpe

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

 

Misinformation is really hard to counteract when you don’t realize what you are being told is incorrect. Doctors have always been considered the be all and end all when it comes to patient care. Many people never question their doctors, research their medications or find out the side effects of what was prescribed. The story you are about to hear and the information that I will relate when reviewing this book will definitely be a wake up call to everyone. As the author takes the reader on a journey back in time when she could barely stand for any period of time, work a full day without getting tired and giving up many careers due to a rapid heart rate and other physical problems you will learn what happens when someone is not properly treated for thyroid issues that can prove to be more than just weight loss or weight gain.

Lab obsessed doctors, incorrect medications, medications used and given to camouflage the real symptoms and substandard treatment are just part of what happened to this author and members of her family and maybe you too. Retelling her own story and that of her mother wish paralleled hers you will learn just what happens to a person when he/she is misdiagnosed and given the wrong treatment. Imagine thinking that you are depressed and needing counseling when you really do not. Weight gain, constantly tired and napping all symptoms of thyroid disease but in her case not properly handled. If you want to learn more about the staggering amount of lingering symptoms while on T4 only medications read page 33 and you will definitely be alarmed what you will find out and much more. The author continues with the history of these medications and there is still much more to learn as author Janie A. Bowthorpe, M. Ed. takes the reader on a journey into the world of our Thyroid Gland, its malfunctions, treatments, history and host of other vital information needed to keep you the patient, consume properly informed.

 

Having had both hyper and hypo thyroid issues I can attest to what happens when the wrong medications are given even at the age of ten when Synthroid was prescribed. Your life changes and so did my moods. I never ever became agitated, nasty and restless until I started taking this medication. My thyroid was underactive and I was gaining weight by the minute and always so tired I could barely move. My headaches increased and my attitude was poor. Life changes when you have a desiccated thyroid. After reading this book I wish that I had the knowledge back then to have switches to a Natural Desiccated thyroid medication. The author shares her life experiences with the reader and how she became the new and improved person she is today. Writing this book, which she dedicated to patients having this problem and undergoing T4 meds only, or TSH or any other treatment by doctors and choosing to keep patients devoid of the right care. Many just look inside their medical journals or dictionaries for the right medications to match the right illness without considering side effects, meds that contradict each other or make the situation worse. Taking medication for both forms of thyroidism I can attest to the fact that the side effects equaled the illness at times and made me wish I never heard of that gland.

 

The book is clear, succinct and really interesting to read and provides in-depth information from someone who experienced it all. It is patient guide for those suffering from this disorder and it defines Thyroid Madness in simple terms, as any myth that doctors tell their patients will help them. The simple one on one approach is clearly defined in a way that the reader will now become something most doctors do not want to happen: Informed.

For those of us who have experienced Hypothyroidism let me quote what the author relates as the symptoms:

Tiredness or fatigue, depression, loss of libido, constipation and weight gain as well as dry and itchy skin.  But, on the flipside if you try as the author states natural treatment your energy level should increase, your libido will reignite, say goodbye to constipation, prevents insomnia help with stress management, promote weight loss and no more dry and itchy skin.  Why would you want to feel tired, sick and miserable everyday if you could feel energetic, lose those excess pounds and look in the mirror and see yourself with smoother skin and silkier hair?

 

The author provides alternatives that work to the programs most doctors recommend. With the right treatment your body will heal and you will not have to wake up with that dreaded feeling that the world is coming to and end for you as an active person and you can start to live again. Hashimoto’s Disease is the name given to this disorder. Simply put: Underactive thyroid which causes you to gain weight which is difficult enough to handle but the rest of the symptoms are even worse are not much better as we know.

 

In this book the author takes the reader on her a private journey into her life and the ups, downs and many trials and ordeals she encountered all because her doctor told her “the labs were normal,” and the treatment so traditional. So, what did she do? RESEARCH! She learned about a new natural medication called Armour and low and behold a real miracle happened. Information is powerful and the Internet proved invaluable as she learned by reading a simple message board about a natural thyroid medication called Armour. Describing the history of the medication, its composition and where it came from the reader learns a lot about Armour and its origin. The author shares her experiences with Synthroid, how she managed to restore her health and the many blogs and message boards that she encountered during her journey. Helping the reader understand the definition of TSH testing, why it is not always valid and what adrenal fatigue really means in regarding this condition, the book is a virtual goldmine of information and encouragement for anyone that has gone through what the author has. Understanding Ferritin and Iodine really helped me and I wish that I had this information when I was younger before being place on medication at age ten. Pages 42 to 43 define the meaning of desiccated thyroid followed by more information that will help you understand it better. Chapter three deals with what thyroid patients have learned and Chapter four will teach the reader more about TSH. Adrenal Glands. Do not ignore those precious Adrenal Glands you need them to be on a friendly basis with you. So, if you feel anxious, nervous, problems dealing with stress, impatient, irritable, feel light-headed, shaky and have a racing heartbeat to name a few of the symptoms you might have adrenal fatigue and you need to get it taken care of. One telltale sign is salt and sweet cravings. So, what should you do?  First, she sites information on why some doctors have not pointed this out to patients. Next, the author sites other factors that contribute to this problem and throughout Chapter Five she sites more information that the reader needs to learn for themselves to become informed. Page 78 is invaluable as it lists all of the symptoms of adrenal dysfunction followed by page 79which lists the tests most doctors prescribe. Added to this list is a checklist to help you assess whether you have this problem. Step Two pages 81-90 other indicators that might help you which follow. Chapter six provides outstanding suggestions for how to treat this gland and let’s not forget the Doctor Chapter, which should definitely enlighten the reader as to what not, to do and errors made. The next part of the book deals with why you might have this problem, understanding Hashimoto’s disease and different stories shared by many people having this same problem. The ten big mistakes that people make and finally putting it all together and more shared stories of people who have this disorder.

 

The author includes valuable information in the many addendums attached at the end of the book including resources to help the reader learn more about Armour and other treatments. The addendum that I found most valuable deals with how to understand your test results. This is an excellent resource for everyone that has ever had this problem and for doctors to read and learn from to understand that their way might not always be the right one.

 

Stop the Thyroid Madness: Thank you to author Janie A. Bowthorpe for sharing her knowledge, story and that of others.

 

I give this book: FIVE PERFECT THYROIDS: let’s stop the madness together.

 

Fran Lewis: Reviewer

 

Signs of War

Signs of War

Author: Gerard de Marigny

Reviewed by Fran Lewis

 

 

Undercover agent Felix Salazar is not one to take his job lightly. Observing actions instead of acting on them is not what makes him a great agent. His new boss has him watching Iranian ships and informing the agency only when they come to port. Told not board the ships and wait for further orders does not play well with this agent. Realizing that there was much more to what was happening he decides to follow one caravan one evening and learns much more than he thought possible. Realizing that the Iranians had just sent a huge shipment of medium –range missiles to Venezuelan port closest to the United States alarms go off and he decides to do something other than sitting back and waiting for something to happen. Cris De Niro, the main character of the Watchman of Ephraim and the head of the Watchman Agency are back in another geo-political thriller that will send author Gerard de Marigny once again to the top of the bestseller lists. Cris De Niro and his new counter terrorism team come back for more. But, not before hard decisions have been made, a friend is remembered after losing his life and Cris needs to decide whether to continue on with his agency or not.  Charley Santappia, De Niro’s agency’s Vice President of Operations lost his life in order to save others. At his funeral Cris announces that he might not want to continue on with his mission and his agency. Shocked and upset they hope he can be dissuaded. Attached to the Watchman Agency is a paramilitary team called Archangel, which played an integral part in helping to save the United States from a nuclear attack after September 11.

 

Guilt weighs heavily on Cris until one member of his team remind him of his true goals and the fact that if Charley had not done what he did many others would have died. But, Cris has to decide his course of action next and just what the future of his agency will be. Added into the mix again is Dr. Moriah Stevens who cares for him more deeply than he does for her.

 

Agent Felix Salazar boarded an Iranian cargo vessel and decided to look at the cargo. Realizing that this was not an ordinary shipment he decided to investigate on his own. What he learned would definitely put our country on high alert but his immediate superior you might say told him to stand down. When the Iranian ship made port it was met by a Venezuelan contingent along with two very high-ranking officers of the Iranian Revolutionary Army. Not wanting to stand down or wait until something tragic happens he contacts his former employer and boss at Langley, Michelle Wang. Wang is now part of the Watchman Team headed by Cris De Niro. Explaining to Michelle that he is positive that a shipment of Iranian medium-range missiles and received and tracked to a Venezuelan port which happens to be too close to the Unite States. Hoping De Niro will get involved. Solution: send Salazar back to Venezuela to do his real job of just watching for illegal shipments under cover for his agency but with backup from Archangel.  But, there is much more. Dangerous, deadly and definitely a force no one wants to come up against known as Scipio- man in black- was added to the family of the Watchman to replace Charley as head of Archangel. With his skills and his knowledge they hope things will get done but he states only his way. Which brings up what happens next as many other signs of war such as this one come to light in this outstanding second novel by the author the Watchman of Ephraim.

 

David Nicholls is a long time friend of De Niro who calls him with a pressing and dire situation. Explaining that two British citizens have been kidnapped by Somali pirates and unfound, he needs his help to try and rescue them. Ransom asked and would definitely be paid but the strange part is the kidnappers leave no way for anyone to contact them or pay it. Enter De Niro who does not want to sacrifice any more men but they volunteer and along with Ricci, himself and Golden would set out to find them but Scipio as the head of Archangel states he should be included and head the search. But, there is more. Unusual border infiltration and activity at the crossing leading to the Tohono O’odham Nation’s reservation and agent Bryan Ahiga is concerned and needs the help of De Niro’s watchman. His superiors need concrete evidence that this is happening and he does not trust him. He wants his sources revealed and brought in for questioning and with the massacre of the Shadow of Wolves too many of their best warriors perished. Infiltration of the Indian tribe, missiles and two men missing and much more to come as we try and tie all of this together and wonder if these are the only Signs of War to come or are there more.

 

Learning more about what is happening at the reservation’s border we learn that soldiers of Tuco Ramirez’s Pacifico Drug Cartel are the ones crossing the border into the reservation. As head of the DHS/ICE Shadow Wolves Bryan needs help and does not have the manpower to defend his position.

 

As decisions are made and discussions ensue the manpower is disbursed for each of the three missions they are to handle. But, then something changes it all and one man calls with an urgent message and ICE shows up at his ship’s door and things take on another complexion. Stating the reason they are going to Sells and that he was being made an honorary member of the tribe, De Niro does not realize, as yet, what Agent Strom’s true motives are and who he is working for. Lies, betrayals, deceit and greed are just part of the deception this man hides behind as Bryan’s life is on the line and how Cris and his agency have to try and safe his life and many others before it is too late. Tuco Ramirez is one powerful drug lord and with the help of certain people hopes to be able to cross the border without any problems. What they have planned for De Niro and his men you will have to read for yourself. Will they succeed? That remains to be seen as I continue my review of Signs of War.  Selling drugs for profit and using the reservation as his pipeline and selling drugs in large bulk in the United States would make this drug kingpin rich and those on the take too.

 

The Somali pirates would learn a lesson that they would not live to remember and one man on their crew just might come back to seek revenge as the man in Black handles the situation and eliminated a serious threat.

 

Felix gets transferred to the port at Punta Cardon and meets with the staff but their suspicions of him run high even though the Captain extends what appears as a hand of friendship. Returning to Bryan and his situation next. Dropping his phone caused many lives as he and another member of his tribe watched many total massacres of his people that he could not stop. As he contacted the Watchman and got Ricci on the phone he saw headlights coming toward him, dropped the phone and the end result was tragic.

 

As we now return to Felix and his job of infiltrating the port he enlists the help of others to find out more about Jetty One, why he cannot get access to it and how he will stop a possible missile attack of Shahab 4 missiles aimed at the United States. Those that are supposed to help him should not question him but did. Some doubt his knowledge and what he is trying to do and others would learn that he is not one to be crossed.

 

As De Niro and his men sat and waited patiently in their hotel room almost being held hostage until they decide to strike. How they saved the hostages you won’t believe and how they escaped the hotel was better than any episode of 24 or CSI. Descriptive, intense and hard nosed characters that are relentless in their pursuit of protecting America and their friends. Then the unthinkable happens and Salazar’s cover is blown. What happens you have to read for yourself as this one brave man chances his life in order to protect some many others? The missiles are discovered and how the Watchman move to protect our country is more than just heroic. Betrayals, loyalties, bravery, many lives lost and one objective in mind: America’s SAFETY and courses our freedom. Will they succeed? Will De Niro be released as those that betrayed our country are now holding him?

 

Will the drug cartel’s leader be able to get those drugs into America? What the end result will be you just won’t believe. The suspense is high the tensions run deep, the injuries are many and the what finally happens I will never reveal as I just inducted myself as an honorary member of the Watchman who makes sure that no reviews have spoilers and no one ever divulges the ending. The deal is made will stun you. The result well let’s just say one drug lord will learn whose in charge and a powerful much more. What will happen next and where will our outstanding author take his men? You will have to wait for the next in the series to come out but first I would recommend that you go to Barnes and Noble and buy this one.

 

This book gets: FIVE GOLD FLAGS OF FREEDOM

 

Fran Lewis: reviewer

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

My Reviews

Contrary to what some have been told, read or misinformed about my REVIEWS ARE FREE AND I NEVER CHARGE FOR THEM. I do not know how that information was made available on my website or blog but I am not the one who put it there. It is since been removed. My reviews are insightful, honest and written to help readers and authors learn about the wonderful books I have the priviledge or reviewing. Publishers, marketing directors and authors send me their books to receive an honest and well written review. I look forward to reading many more in the coming years and I will post my top picks for this year December 12. Thank you to all of the authors who have sent me their books to review and for their support and having me review their books and some more than one.