Category: Book Reviews

The Ultimate Guide to Castor Oil: Reviewing Kim Lewitt’s ‘The Castor Oil Bible’

‘The Castor Oil Bible’ contains time-tested remedies to address a wide variety of health conditions. Photo: Amazon

If you’ve found yourself intrigued by the huge potential of castor oil to transform your health and are eager to absorb more knowledge and integrate it into your life, then you’re about to embark on an enlightening journey. “The Castor Oil Bible” is the definitive guide to this remarkable oil by renowned chemist Kim Lewitt. This comprehensive resource explores the science behind castor oil, empowering you to harness its incredible healing and beautifying properties with confidence. It’s not just another castor oil book; it’s a science-based roadmap to unlocking your body’s natural healing potential. (Amazon, 2024)

“The Castor Oil Bible” is grounded in rigorous scientific research, ensuring you make informed decisions about your health and beauty. It contains over 100 research-backed recipes that have been tested and proven to deliver effective results. The simple, easy-to-follow instructions and readily available ingredients make it easy to incorporate castor oil into your daily routine. The author shares her expertise, providing you with insights and tips from a trusted professional.

I had heard about castor oil before but was interested in learning more about it, particularly its uses for beauty routines. I learned so much about it, including an extensive background on the history and cultivation of castor oil. This guide is all about castor oil, highlighting its amazing benefits and different applications. Its purpose is to share the many uses and benefits of castor oil. Lewitt begins with the historical significance of castor oil, including its modern-day revival in natural wellness practices. She then explores the extensive uses of castor oil, from skincare and haircare to digestive health and beyond. Skillfully blending scientific research with practical advice, this book is accessible to both new users and seasoned enthusiasts.

What I liked most about “The Castor Oil Bible” is its holistic approach to health and well-being. It covers the spiritual and emotional aspects of castor oil, acknowledging its role in holistic healing practices worldwide.The bulk of the book features easy-to-follow recipes and DIY remedies, empowering readers to incorporate castor oil into their daily routines. The writing style is engaging and authoritative, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in natural health remedies.

The book is divided into several chapters including:

Introduction
Properties and Storage of Castor Oil
Modern Evolution
The Benefits of Castor Oil: Scientific Studies on Castor Oil
Precautions and Safety Tips when Using Castor Oil
Introduction to Recipes
Chapter 4: Beauty Recipes
Health and Wellness Recipes
Relaxation and Stress Relief Recipes
Advanced Recipes
Castor Oil for Babies and Children
Castor Oil for Men’s Grooming
Castor Oil for Oral Health
Buying Castor Oil
Conclusion: Future of Castor Oil
Glossary of Technical Terms
References
Bonus

Overall, “The Castor Oil Bible” is a must-have resource for anyone seeking to take advantage of the power of this versatile oil for improved health and vitality. Kim Lewitt’s expertise, combined with her passion for natural wellness, makes this book an invaluable addition to any home library. Pick up your copy today and start reaping the benefits of this versatile natural oil.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Explore Tranquility and Creativity with ‘Bold & Easy Coloring Book’ | Review

‘Bold & Easy Coloring Book’ is fun for adults and kids. Photo: Amazon

Coloring books offer a serene escape into a world of tranquility and creativity. They allow for creative expression without pressure and provide a mindful reprieve from the chaos of daily life. Engaging in the simple act of coloring promotes focus and mindfulness, allowing worries to melt away as strokes of color fill the page and fostering a sense of calm and relaxation. Through the gentle rhythm of coloring, stress dissipates, leaving behind a peaceful mind and rejuvenated spirit. In this meditative journey, the canvas becomes a sanctuary for self-expression and inner peace. With a wide variety of themes available, from intricate mandalas to whimsical animals, these books cater to many tastes and can be enjoyed for short bursts or longer sessions.

Coloring books for relaxation and mindfulness activities have surged in popularity in recent years as a simple and effective way to unwind. The repetitive motions of coloring and the focus required to stay within the lines can induce a meditative state, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.

“Bold & Easy Coloring Book” by Inkers Fun contains large print designs that both adults and children can enjoy, but the thick lines are suitable for beginners. The theme is ‘Food & Snacks’ and it features 50 food and snack images. On one page is the numbered image with a description and the image to be colored is on the opposite page. I like that the description guides us regarding which colors to use, for example, image 34 “A bottle of refreshing water with lemon slices and mint leaves” Of course, they’re just suggestions, you can always be an original and use unique colors. The designs are big so it doesn’t take too long to finish. The blank pages at the end are an excellent way to make sure the color ink doesn’t bleed through, just cut and place the page behind the design you’re working on. The overall size is not too big or bulky, making it easy to handle, especially if children are using it.

Overall, this “Bold & Easy Coloring Book” is an excellent way to relax and be creative, regardless of age. So next time you need a break from the daily grind, grab some crayons, or markers, and let your worries melt away. Hopefully, it won’t make you hungry looking at all those snacks.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Poetic Dystopian Fiction: ‘Autumn Blooms Red’ by L Cuzidora

Poetic Dystopian Fiction: ‘Autumn Blooms Red’ by L Cuzidora
‘Autumn Blooms Red’ by L Cuzidora Photo: Amazon

L Cuzidora is a proud rat mother from Transylvania, Eastern Europe. She studied Sociology and Environmental Sciences and wishes she’d had started writing at an earlier age. Now she’s determined to make up for all the years spent jumping from one passion to another and devotes herself to exploring even more flawed characters. Her book “Autumn Blooms Red” (Red Gladiola Book 1) centers around Avril and Irina’s relationship in a dystopian society.

Synopsis: It’s been a decade since Avril’s family was exiled to Ordea’s smallest province. While not entirely stripped of power, her mother’s bitterness blinds her to Avril’s needs. So when an old friend of her mother’s shows up with plans of rehabilitation, Avril is quick to join. As months pass and no concrete steps are taken, her own approach becomes ever more reckless. After all, she can count on her parents’ support. But what’s the weight of family in a society striving towards equality?

Orphaned at a young age, Irina clings to her family’s traditions in a secular world. She finds little comfort in the State’s promises of safety, determined, despite the risks, to help those unable or unwilling to live by the party directive. To her, Avril is a special sort of circumstantial victim, one who’s not even aware of her imprisonment. But when her faith revolves around leading others onto the right path, who’s to watch that she won’t lose herself? (Amazon, 2024)

Review: “Autumn Blooms Red” by L. Cuzidora is an intriguing story that explores the elements of romance, mystery, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of a militaristic society complete with parades, soldiers, one child policies, and food rations, it follows the journeys of Avril and Irina. Avril’s family has been exiled and her mother has selfish motivations that don’t include Avril. Irina was orphaned at a young age and struggles to survive emotionally in a repressive society. They seem like polar opposites, but they find each other.

The narration is in the first person point of view and the chapters are short and alternate between the two, so readers get an insight into their specific mindset. While the main characters are deeply developed and relatable, the secondary characters have their own compelling stories and motivations, adding depth and dimension to the narrative.

The author’s prose is rich and beautifully poetic, filled with vivid imagery, which paints a picturesque landscape that effortlessly transports readers into the heart of the narrative: “Orange light knives through the shutters of our bedroom. I’ve exhausted every corner of my pillow, searching for a cool spot.” She expertly weaves twists and turns that keep the suspense alive and make the action flow effortlessly through the pages.

Overall, it’s a poignant and compelling story about resilience and the power of human connection. It will no doubt linger in the hearts of readers long after they’ve turned the final page. It is an easy read and recommended for readers who enjoy dystopian fiction filled with flawed characters amid unique worlds and settings.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

Airbnb Investment Guide for Beginners: Tips and Strategies

Airbnb Investment Guide for Beginners: Tips and Strategies
“Perspective Investments in Airbnb for beginners” by Oscar Ray.

Airbnb revolutionized travel accommodation by connecting travelers with unique lodging options worldwide. Founded in 2008, it allows individuals to rent out their properties, offering diverse choices from cozy apartments to lavish villas, often at competitive prices. Hosts can monetize their spaces while guests enjoy personalized experiences beyond traditional hotels. Airbnb’s platform fosters cultural immersion, enabling travelers to live like locals and discover hidden gems. However, its rapid expansion raised concerns about housing affordability, neighborhood disruption, and safety. Despite controversies, Airbnb continues to reshape the hospitality industry, catering to adventurous spirits seeking authentic stays and forging connections across borders.

Synopsis: Oscar Ray “Perspective Investments in Airbnb for Beginners” is an essential guide for anyone looking to dive into the world of short-term rental investments using Airbnb. Authored by seasoned investor Oscar Ray, this book offers a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap tailored for beginners. It details the newest strategies to not only get started but also to thrive in building a profitable short-term rental business.

From understanding the basics of Airbnb and real estate investment to mastering the complexities of property management and guest relations, this guide covers all the crucial areas. It is packed with practical advice, useful tips, and industry tricks that are designed to help readers navigate their way through the competitive market. Readers will learn how to identify promising properties, set competitive pricing, enhance guest experiences, and manage bookings efficiently. The book also discusses the importance of online marketing and how to use social media to boost your property’s visibility. (Amazon, 2024)

Review: This extremely useful guide is aimed at investors and homeowners who want to learn about the history of Airbnb and gives “insights and strategies needed to navigate the exciting world of Airbnb investments.” The main objective is to help readers learn all about Airbnb and how to use it to create passive income by providing key strategies for maximizing rental income. Readers will learn how to create a high quality detailed listing that draws traffic, how to provide an exceptional guest experience, and, most importantly, how to handle challenges and regulations such as zoning laws, and management duties.

Who will benefit from this book? Beginners get the basics of Airbnb and how to get started in their successful investment journey. Seasoned Investors get advanced strategies such as market analysis techniques and insights on optimizing operations. Entrepreneurs get advice on building their rental business, whether it involves single or multiple properties.

This guide also includes tools and resources such as checklists, the software needed, and case studies and real world examples of successful investors – their strategies and lessons learned. There’s also a glossary of terms related to Airbnb and real estate investment in case some of terms used seem unfamiliar.

It is divided as follows with chapters that include:

Introduction
Chapter 1 – The History and Growth of Airbnb
Chapter 2 – Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Chapter 3 – Criteria for Choosing Profitable Properties
Chapter 4 – Designing and Furnishing Your Rental for Comfort and Appeal
Chapter 5 – Providing Exceptional Guest Experiences for Positive Reviews
Chapter 6 – Methods for Acquiring Additional Properties
Chapter 7 – Handling Difficult Guests and Resolving Conflicts
Chapter 8 – Long-term Strategies for Building a Sustainable Rental Business
Chapter 9 – Emerging Trends in the Sharing Economy and Short-Term Rental Market
Appendices – Resources for Airbnb Hosts (Websites and Platforms, Community Support and Learning)

Overall, “Perspective Investments in Airbnb for Beginners” is an outstanding user manual for readers interested in using Airbnb to create passive income or as an investment option. Standout chapters include Chapter 4  – Setting Up Your Airbnb – how to create a listing by using high quality photographs and how to create a welcoming atmosphere on the property; and Chapter 7 – Navigating Challenges and Risks –  dealing with difficult guests and preventative measures to take that will ensure a smooth transaction. I highly recommend this book for anyone who is considering going into the Airbnb business. The material is easy to understand and the chapters are conveniently organized to make it easy to reference as needed and the resources listed in the appendix provide much needed support. It is a definite must have for investors of all levels.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 5 out of 5.

New children’s book release: ‘Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio’ by Lucille Newton Cascos

New children’s book release: ‘Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio’ by Lucille Newton Cascos
‘Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio’ is the new children’s book by Lucille Newton Cascos about a father and son opossum. Photo: Amazon

Children’s books are magical portals to worlds where imagination knows no bounds. From the whimsical tales of talking animals to fantastical adventures in far-off lands, these books ignite curiosity and foster creativity. Vibrant illustrations breathe life into characters, captivating young minds and sparking endless wonder. Through stories of friendship, bravery, and discovery, children learn valuable lessons about empathy, resilience, and the power of imagination. Whether it’s the comforting familiarity of bedtime stories or the thrill of exploring new realms, children’s books serve as timeless companions on the journey of growing up, leaving an indelible mark on both hearts and minds.

Brownsville native Lucille Newton Cascos has a new children’s book that centers around a young opossum named Tikito titled “Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio: Father and Son’s Life Lessons of a Brownsville Native Opossum Who Dared to Dream.” I attended a book signing she had on Friday at Surge Mobile Physical Therapy in Olmito. Lucille took the time to sign copies of the book and take pictures with guests and children. There was a costumed opossum greeting visitors and entertaining the children and guests were treated to fruit, cheese, and other snacks. The atmosphere was celebratory and cheerful as those in attendance were excited to have a book all about a common sight in the valley, an opossum. The author is looking forward to more book signings in area schools and libraries and confirmed that there could be more books in the future as a series.

The book is recommended for older children and is both entertaining and educational. It has colorful illustrations and plenty of reading comprehension words to help young readers improve their language skills. The glossary of vocabulary terms in the back comes in handy in case there’s a word or two they need to look up. The story is poignant and inspiring and explores the themes of family, culture, and the importance of being true to yourself. Thank you, Lucille, for shining a light on this often misunderstood marsupial. Congratulations – it was a pleasure meeting you.

“Tikito el Tlacuachito del Barrio” aims to make learning fun and engaging for children around the world, introducing them to animals, cultures, and the Spanish language. By combining these elements, Lucille hopes to inspire a sense of discovery and foster curiosity and a love for learning in young readers.

Tiko and his rascally son, Tikito, live in the alleyways of Brownsville, Texas, where they escape the assault and dangers of the outside world. Having lived among humans, Tiko tries to shield his young son against the treachery around them, ultimately sharing the life lessons Tikito will need to survive. (Amazon, 2024)

For Kids Ages 7-9, 10-12. Grades 2-8
Educational, 70+ Target Reading Comprehension Words

“As the seasons changed, Tikito always remembered one thing that stuck in his head from all of his father’s wisdom: even within a short time, everyone can leave a lasting impact and create a legacy worth remembering.”

With Tikito and author Lucille Newton Cascos
Author Lucille Cascos with Tikito
Snacks for guests

Book review: ‘Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles’ by Laura Garrett

‘Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles’ by Laura Garrett celebrates America’s best decades with 150 word search puzzles. Photo: Amazon

Word search puzzles offer a blend of challenge and relaxation for young and old. With a grid of letters hiding a selection of words to be discovered, they ignite the thrill of exploration. Engaging both hemispheres of the brain, they stimulate cognitive functions such as pattern recognition, attention to detail, and vocabulary recall. Their versatility spans from educational tools for language learning to leisure activities for down times. As eyes scan the grid, the satisfaction of uncovering a hidden word brings a sense of accomplishment.

Laura Garrett’s new puzzle book “Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles: 150 Large Print Puzzles That Celebrate America’s Best Decades (1950s – 1990s)” celebrates America’s best decades with 150 large print word search puzzles. Embark on a nostalgic journey through the golden decades of American culture with this engaging collection designed specifically for seniors, offering hours of entertainment and mental stimulation. Iconic Themes from the 1950s to the 1990s cover everything from the birth of rock ‘n’ roll to the rise of pop culture. (Amazon, 2024)

These puzzles cover a wide range of nostalgic themes, including:

  • Classic movies and TV shows
  • Popular music and legendary musicians
  • Iconic celebrities and public figures
  • Memorable events and historical moments

With 150 carefully crafted word search puzzles, this book provides ample variety and challenge to keep your mind engaged and sharp. Each puzzle offers a fun and rewarding experience, perfect for puzzle enthusiasts of all skill levels. The large print format ensures a comfortable and enjoyable solving experience, making it perfect for seniors or anyone who prefers easier-to-read text. Say goodbye to eye strain and hello to hours of puzzling fun. Whether you’re a baby boomer reliving your youth or a younger generation curious about the past, “Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles” makes a thoughtful and entertaining gift for any occasion.

Step back in time and immerse yourself in the nostalgia of America’s most memorable decades. This collection is the perfect companion for anyone looking to unwind, relax, and celebrate the best of American culture.

I have always loved word search puzzles and nowadays, I still pick one up every now and then to help me relax. If you enjoy the challenge of a good word search puzzle, consider “Nostalgic American Word Search Puzzles.” It is specifically designed for seniors due to the mental stimulation they provide, but anyone can benefit from them. I like that there’s 150 puzzles, all in large print, to minimize eye strain and make it easy to find the words. The theme is nostalgia, so they are divided by decade and with themes such as Classic Cartoons, Slang Words, Cultural Movements, and Fashion and Style. It’s fun looking back at what made each decade special while challenging your mind and unwinding. In a world of constant stimulation, word search puzzles provide a serene escape. So take a break from the constant screen time and exercise your mind. If you get stumped, the answers are in the back of the book. Looking for a unique gift idea? This puzzle book also makes an excellent gift for anyone who enjoys puzzles.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies’ by Jesse Roberts

‘Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies’ is a comprehensive guide to getting the most out of your Baofeng Radio. Photo: Amazon

Jesse Roberts is an experienced prepper, outdoor enthusiast, and licensed amateur radio operator. With over a decade of experience in emergency communication and survival strategies, Jesse has dedicated his life to helping others prepare for the unexpected. As a founder of a successful survival training academy, he has taught countless individuals the skills needed to stay safe and connected in any situation. Jesse’s passion for Baofeng radios and his commitment to empowering others make him the perfect guide to navigating the world of emergency communication. His new book “Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Radio” is a comprehensive guide to mastering the art of using Baofeng radios to stay connected and safe during any crisis. (Amazon, 2024)

“Mastering Baofeng Radios For Emergencies: A Comprehensive Guide to Your Radio”
A Baofeng radio is a handheld two-way radio that is designed to be used by both amateur radio enthusiasts and commercial users alike. It has become a must-have tool for preppers, survivalists, and anyone who wants to take their emergency preparedness to the next level. As someone who lives in a hurricane prone area, I admit I hadn’t thought about including one as part of our hurricane preparedness checklist until I picked up this book. In an emergency, communication is essential to survival. This comprehensive guide gives readers everything they need to know to stay connected and safe during an emergency or crisis.

Some of the topics covered include the essential features and capabilities of Baofeng radios, legal considerations and licensing requirements for operation, step-by-step instructions for setting up, and programming and maintenance of Baofeng radios. Once you have your radio up and going, there are some terms you need to know, so the author shares communication protocols including callsigns, the phonetic alphabet, prowords, q-codes, and radio etiquette. There are also tips for troubleshooting common issues and strategies for building an effective emergency communication network.

The book is divided as follows:

Introduction
Chapter 01 – An Overview of Baofeng radios
Chapter 02 – Legal considerations and licensing
Chapter 03 – Getting started with your Baofeng radio
Chapter 04 – Mastering communication protocols
Chapter 05 – Programming your Baofeng radio
Chapter 06 – Operating your Baofeng radio in the field
Chapter 07 – Troubleshooting and Maintenance
Conclusion
Glossary

Overall, this is an excellent guide to everything you need to know about Baofeng radios, from the basic features, to programming and learning the necessary codes to ensure you get the most out of your radio, it is a must-have for your emergency preparedness kit. In a world where being prepared means making sure you are able to communicate in a crisis or emergency, they come in handy since they don’t require a cell phone network or power grid to function. So pick up your copy today and learn all about this essential survival tool.

*The author was contacted for an honest review of this book. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘Revival’ by Stephen King

‘Revival’ by Stephen King. Photo: Amazon

Stephen King is the author of more than sixty books, all of them worldwide bestsellers. His recent work includes the short story collection “You Like It Darker,” “Holly,” “Fairy Tale,” “If It Bleeds,” “Sleeping Beauties” (cowritten with his son Owen King), and the Bill Hodges trilogy: “End of Watch,” “Finders Keepers,” and “Mr. Mercedes” (an Edgar Award winner for Best Novel and a television series streaming on Peacock). He is the recipient of the 2020 Audio Publishers Association Lifetime Achievement Award, the 2018 PEN America Literary Service Award, the 2014 National Medal of Arts, and the 2003 National Book Foundation Medal for Distinguished Contribution to American Letters. His 2015 book “Revival” is a dark and electrifying novel about addiction, fanaticism, and what might exist on the other side of life. (Amazon, 2024)

Synopsis:
“Revival” – In a small New England town, over half a century ago, a shadow falls over a small boy playing with his toy soldiers. Jamie Morton looks up to see a striking man, the new minister. Charles Jacobs, along with his beautiful wife, will transform the local church. The men and boys are all a bit in love with Mrs. Jacobs; the women and girls feel the same about Reverend Jacobs—including Jamie’s mother and beloved sister, Claire. With Jamie, the Reverend shares a deeper bond based on a secret obsession. When tragedy strikes the Jacobs family, this charismatic preacher curses God, mocks all religious belief, and is banished from the shocked town.

Jamie has demons of his own. He plays guitar in bands across the country, living the nomadic lifestyle of bar-band rock and roll while fleeing from his family’s horrific loss. In his mid-thirties—addicted to heroin, stranded, desperate—Jamie meets Charles Jacobs again, with profound consequences for both men. Their bond becomes a pact beyond even the Devil’s devising, and Jamie discovers that revival has many meanings.

Review:
Like all the best novels from Stephen King, this story develops over five decades and follows Jamie Morton’s life from child to adult. His life is linked to Charles Jacobs right from the beginning and Jamie is thus destined to witness his chilling journey from minister to a madman obsessed with electricity and the afterlife. King masterfully weaves together elements of horror and psychological suspense to create a narrative that is both gripping and thought-provoking.

His vivid characterization and immersive storytelling transport readers into a world where the line between science and the supernatural blurs. True to his creative use of creature imagery, he doesn’t disappoint: “Now from the dead woman’s gaping mouth came a black leg with a flexing claw at the end of it. The claw was alive; it was a face.” The character development in both lead characters is impressive, which makes them highly relatable. Jacobs’ obsession with electricity is reminiscent of Victor Frankenstein, especially towards the end: “‘No heartbeat,’ he said. ‘Yet she lives. She lives!’”

“Revival” by Stephen King is a haunting exploration of obsession, faith, and the dark corners of human nature and is proof of his ability to entertain and unsettle his audience. With its eerie atmosphere and profound themes of family, death, and the afterlife, this novel is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who dares to venture into its pages. It is the author at his best, and this novel is recommended for longtime King fans who appreciate horror stories with flawed but fascinating characters.

“This is how we bring about our own damnation, you know – by ignoring the voice that begs us to stop. To stop while there’s still time.”

Book review: ‘JavaScript and jQuery’ by Jon Duckett

‘JavaScript and jQuery: Interactive Front-End Web Development’ by Jon Duckett

Jon Duckett has been helping companies create innovative digital solutions for over 15 years, designing and delivering web and mobile projects for small businesses and tech startups through to global brands like Diesel, Philips, Nike, Wrangler, and Xerox. During this time, he has written and co-authored over a dozen books on web design and programming. He has not only written his latest books “HTML & CSS” (design and build websites) and “JavaScript & jQuery” (interactive front end web development), but also designed the entire book from scratch. Dispensing with the traditional template of programming books, he wanted to present the information in a manner that is less intimidating and more relevant to those who have never tried to write code before. The result is a new, exciting way to learn about HTML, CSS and JavaScript presented in full-color, with plenty of info-graphics and photography that really make the title stand out from other books that cover the same topics. In “JavaScript & jQuery,” he give readers expert techniques to make their websites more interactive and engaging. (Amazon, 2024)

Synopsis 
“JavaScript and jQuery: Interactive Front-End Development”– best-selling author Jon Duckett delivers a fully illustrated guide to making your websites more interactive and your interfaces more interesting and intuitive. It starts by introducing basic programming concepts that assume no prior knowledge of programming beyond an ability to create a web page using HTML & CSS. You’ll use core elements of the JavaScript language and learn to recreate techniques you have seen on other web sites such as sliders, content filters, form validation, Ajax content updates, and much more.

Each chapter breaks subjects down into bite-sized chunks with a new topic on each page, contains clear descriptions of syntax, each one demonstrated with illustrative code samples, and uses diagrams and photography to explain complex concepts in a visual way. It is divided into 13 chapters, including The ABC of Programming, Basic JavaScript Instructions, and Error Handling & Debugging. By the end of the book, not only will you be able to use the thousands of scripts, JavaScript APIs, and jQuery plugins that are freely available on the web – and be able to customize them – you will also be able to create your own scripts from scratch.

Review
Programming books are valuable guides when it comes to learning how to code. They help readers understand programming languages, algorithms, and all coding related concepts. Whether you are new to coding, or seasoned coder, this book will help you learn JavaScript and jQuery, one line of code at a time. The eye-catching illustrations and diagrams make it easy to follow and understand the material. While it is a lot of information to take in, overall, it is presented in small doses with different colors and layouts. This is a quality textbook-style guide that uses appropriate language without sounding too technical or condescending to beginners. It is recommended for readers interested in learning all about JavaScript to complement their existing websites.

“To get the most out of this book, you will need to know how to build web pages using HTML and CSS. Beyond that, no prior experience with programming is necessary.”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.

Book review: ‘On My Way Back to You’ by Sarah Cart

‘On My Way Back to You: One Couple’s Journey through Catastrophic Illness to Healing and Hope’ by Sarah Cart with Glenn Plaskin. Courtesy photo, used with permission.

Sarah Cart was raised and educated in New York and New England. As a freelancer, she wrote for multiple local publications while she and her husband, Ben, raised four sons in northeastern Ohio. Upon becoming empty nesters, the two moved to the Florida Keys. Then in 2017, Ben was diagnosed with a degenerative autoimmune disorder and over time, their relationship evolved to that of patient and caregiver and by the beginning of 2020, Ben was dying. Sarah’s new memoir, “On My Way Back to You,” is a first-hand account of the rollercoaster world of lifesaving transplants and the unimaginable challenges Sarah faced as she struggled to manage her husband Ben’s devastating illness and to save his life, their marriage, and her own sanity. (Amazon, 2024)

Synopsis:
“On My Way Back to You” is the story of Sarah and Ben Cart. For the first 42 years they shared together, Ben was a successful entrepreneur and outdoorsman. Then the unthinkable happens. Not only was he battling an autoimmune disorder, but ten days into the Covid-19 pandemic lockdown, his kidneys crash, his heart was failing, and he ends up in the ICU at Cleveland Clinic Weston (FL). In suspenseful and heartbreaking detail, Sarah shares how Ben’s incurable autoimmune condition was manageable and under control one minute and threatening to kill him the next. Thanks to a heart transplant, they now have a future, and, more than ever before, relish time spent with family and friends.

Thrust into the role of nurse and caregiver, Sarah joined the ranks of 39 million Americans who champion and care for an ailing loved one. In addition to confronting doubts, fears, and endless setbacks, aggravations, and red tape, she also had to consent to daunting procedures on Ben’s behalf. She had to endure the months-long Covid-era restrictions on hospital visitations and the post-surgery snafus with home healthcare personnel. The ongoing heartfelt communication with family and friends sustained her through the darkest of days. It is divided into 18 chapters including Do Not Go Gentle into That Good Night, The Slippery Slope, and Battle Stations. She includes some of the email updates she sent out and sections such as Ben’s and his sons’ reflections on what was going on at the time.

Review:
Memoirs are windows into the lives of individuals, capturing their experiences, emotions, and reflections. These deeply personal narratives offer insight into the human condition, revealing triumphs, struggles, and moments of self-discovery. By telling her story, Sarah Cart connects with readers on a profound level, inspiring empathy, introspection, and a deeper appreciation for the complexities of the human experience.

It’s easy to say that we would undoubtedly become a caregiver to a loved one, but the reality can be sobering, as she puts it in the first sentence of the Preface: “Life is hard, messy, beautiful, unpredictable…and fragile.” Covid complicated matters because it affected his treatment and because of the restrictions, friends and family couldn’t help her as much as they ordinarily would. Writing this memoir was therapeutic for her because she shares what she went through, including the medical and personal struggles: “Documenting the details of his condition…provided a means of grappling with the fear.” Most importantly, readers can learn the questions to ask, the notes to take, the signs to never overlook, and the importance of self care. Stand out chapters include Chapter 7 when Ben finally gets the transplant and all the after care he requires and Chapter 14 when even after all she was doing to care for him, someone files a complaint with the department of human services about elder abuse.

Overall, “On My Way Back to You” is a profoundly inspirational account of one couple’s medical journey and the patience, determination, and love that ultimately helped them find their way back to one another. The focus is on the care Ben received and how it affected their lives, so it doesn’t come off as depressing or overly personal and heartbreaking. It is easy to read and offers lessons anyone can benefit from, so it is recommended for readers who enjoy medical memoirs and appreciate reading about the details of a patient’s medical treatment. It is also a testament to the importance of organ donation. 

“I offer you this story not because you will necessarily be interested in our particular saga but because life is hard and messy and unpredictable, and chances are high that ultimately each of us will face challenges we never imagined…”

*The author received a copy of this book for an honest review. The views and opinions expressed here belong solely to her.

Rating: 4 out of 5.