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Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated The Banana-Leaf Ball: How Play Can Change the World in Books
Jun 18, 2018
The Banana-Leaf Ball by Katie Smith Milway is book is based on a real refuge camp in East Africa and a boy whose life got better when the sport of soccer was introduced to the children. The coaches from the organization Right to Play taught kids how to get along by playing together.
The main character, Deo Rukundo, an East African boy is forced to flee his home because of a war in his country. He ends up separated from his family and keeps running deep into the forest for safety. After many weeks where he lives on dew drops, wild fruits and leaves he finds his way to a refugee camp in Northwest Tanzania. Frightened, homesick and alone, he prays for the well-being of the rest of his family.
With little resources in the refugee camp bullies emerge and vandalize those living there. They steal and intimidate everyone and they especially target Deo. Remy the gang leader is menacing and poses threats to all those he encounters.
One day a coach arrives and gathers up the children to play a game of soccer. He hesitates about joining in the game but his excitement overcomes him and he touts his excellent soccer skills in front of the coach. Very impressed, the coach makes Deo captain of the "shirts" team. As the game progresses brand new feelings of comradery and acceptance emerge from the players as they work together as a team to score that winning goal. The kids start to laugh, forget their worries and relax. They area transformed into" kids" once again.
In the following days the kids gather at Deo's house and he teaches them his soccer moves and how to make a ball out of dried banana leaves. Most importantly they open up to each other about their feelings and share their experiences both before refugee camp and the life they are living now.
This book is based upon a true story. It is heartwarming and inspiring. It points out that truly frightening, seemingly hopeless situations can indeed be turned around into something positive and bearable for those caught in such tragic circumstances.
The book is a perfect catalyst to get kids talking about others less fortunate and the social justice issues that surround refugees all over the world. It allows them to discuss the handling of bullies and the value of sports, teamwork, sharing with each other and acceptance.
I received this ARC book from Kids Can press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
The main character, Deo Rukundo, an East African boy is forced to flee his home because of a war in his country. He ends up separated from his family and keeps running deep into the forest for safety. After many weeks where he lives on dew drops, wild fruits and leaves he finds his way to a refugee camp in Northwest Tanzania. Frightened, homesick and alone, he prays for the well-being of the rest of his family.
With little resources in the refugee camp bullies emerge and vandalize those living there. They steal and intimidate everyone and they especially target Deo. Remy the gang leader is menacing and poses threats to all those he encounters.
One day a coach arrives and gathers up the children to play a game of soccer. He hesitates about joining in the game but his excitement overcomes him and he touts his excellent soccer skills in front of the coach. Very impressed, the coach makes Deo captain of the "shirts" team. As the game progresses brand new feelings of comradery and acceptance emerge from the players as they work together as a team to score that winning goal. The kids start to laugh, forget their worries and relax. They area transformed into" kids" once again.
In the following days the kids gather at Deo's house and he teaches them his soccer moves and how to make a ball out of dried banana leaves. Most importantly they open up to each other about their feelings and share their experiences both before refugee camp and the life they are living now.
This book is based upon a true story. It is heartwarming and inspiring. It points out that truly frightening, seemingly hopeless situations can indeed be turned around into something positive and bearable for those caught in such tragic circumstances.
The book is a perfect catalyst to get kids talking about others less fortunate and the social justice issues that surround refugees all over the world. It allows them to discuss the handling of bullies and the value of sports, teamwork, sharing with each other and acceptance.
I received this ARC book from Kids Can press via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Rachel King (13 KP) rated Year of Wonders in Books
Feb 11, 2019
Even though I don't usually read historical fiction, this one peaked my interest. I had no idea that the village of Eyam actually existed when I read it, but the idea of a village instituting a self-imposed quarantine seemed both plausible and intelligent. Watching the village through the eyes of Anna was a bit like the morbid attraction of a massive car crash. In addition, I knew so little about the Black Plague that I thought this would give me an imaginative recounting of living during such a tragic time in history.
I found the opening to the book to be confusing and seemingly irrelevant to the main plot - only at the end is the opening scene explained, but the complete scenario still seems disconnected from main plot and an added tool to simply move the main plot along by giving Anna a way to leave the village. At the same time, the faith and endurance that some of the characters exhibit is both profound and inspiring. I don't know that I could have had the same courage to face almost inevitable death as these characters did, or even with the same attitude of complete acceptance that Anna displays.
I found the opening to the book to be confusing and seemingly irrelevant to the main plot - only at the end is the opening scene explained, but the complete scenario still seems disconnected from main plot and an added tool to simply move the main plot along by giving Anna a way to leave the village. At the same time, the faith and endurance that some of the characters exhibit is both profound and inspiring. I don't know that I could have had the same courage to face almost inevitable death as these characters did, or even with the same attitude of complete acceptance that Anna displays.
Nicole Hadley (380 KP) rated Fish-Boy in Books
Jun 18, 2018
Fish-Boy: An Inuit Folk Tale by Vanita Oelschlager is very cute story with colorful and delightful illustrations. In this story, an old Inuit man tells the story of Fish Boy. The Arctic region of North America is a land of long days, icy cold, hardy people and peculiar creatures. The Inuit people there have made traditional use of remarkable folk tales to find truth and explain the mysteries of an astonishing world.
In Fish-Boy, An Inuit Folk Tale, Vanita Oelschlager retells a tale passed down by a wise old Inuit. It's an origin story involving a little magic and a very odd boy with a large heart for friendship. On a journey with his new father, he must confront misfortune and the malice of cold hearted villagers. But he has a way and a lesson for all in the virtues of kindness and hospitality.
This book as it teaches kindness and a folk tale about a region that covers most of Canada. It can be used as a tool to teach children about folk tells and about different cultures and acceptance.
I received this ARC from Vanita Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
In Fish-Boy, An Inuit Folk Tale, Vanita Oelschlager retells a tale passed down by a wise old Inuit. It's an origin story involving a little magic and a very odd boy with a large heart for friendship. On a journey with his new father, he must confront misfortune and the malice of cold hearted villagers. But he has a way and a lesson for all in the virtues of kindness and hospitality.
This book as it teaches kindness and a folk tale about a region that covers most of Canada. It can be used as a tool to teach children about folk tells and about different cultures and acceptance.
I received this ARC from Vanita Books via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I give this book 4/5 stars.
Bong Mines Entertainment (15 KP) rated For, Lost Thoughts by Ballad in Music
Jun 17, 2019
Ballad is a rising singer-songwriter from Luanda, Angola. Not too long ago, he released a groovy contemporary R&B tune, entitled, “If”, produced by Jay Muse.
“‘If’ is the first track on my ‘For, Lost Thoughts’ EP, which touches on the themes of joy, love, depression, and acceptance. Also, ‘If’ represents joy.” – Ballad
‘If’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and neo-soul elements.
The likable tune is featured on Ballad’s latest EP, entitled, “For, Lost Thoughts”. Also, you can get acquainted with the artist’s music by streaming his project via Spotify.
“This felt like therapy for me, like I needed to get out all of these emotions that life has taken me through.”
Ballad’s soulful sound is reminiscent of Maxwell and Prince, all wrapped up in one. Also, his music has amassed over 200K streams online.
His “For, Lost Thoughts” EP is his most personal project to date because it’s laced with vulnerability. Also, every word uttered from Ballad tells a story, his story.
The 5-track project highlights a transitioning period in Ballad’s life where he ultimately learned some of his biggest lessons in love. Also, it includes his “Wondering” single, which is dedicated to love lost.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/ballad-if/
“‘If’ is the first track on my ‘For, Lost Thoughts’ EP, which touches on the themes of joy, love, depression, and acceptance. Also, ‘If’ represents joy.” – Ballad
‘If’ contains a relatable storyline, ear-welcoming vocals, and lush instrumentation flavored with contemporary R&B and neo-soul elements.
The likable tune is featured on Ballad’s latest EP, entitled, “For, Lost Thoughts”. Also, you can get acquainted with the artist’s music by streaming his project via Spotify.
“This felt like therapy for me, like I needed to get out all of these emotions that life has taken me through.”
Ballad’s soulful sound is reminiscent of Maxwell and Prince, all wrapped up in one. Also, his music has amassed over 200K streams online.
His “For, Lost Thoughts” EP is his most personal project to date because it’s laced with vulnerability. Also, every word uttered from Ballad tells a story, his story.
The 5-track project highlights a transitioning period in Ballad’s life where he ultimately learned some of his biggest lessons in love. Also, it includes his “Wondering” single, which is dedicated to love lost.
https://www.bongminesentertainment.com/ballad-if/
BookwormMama14 (18 KP) rated A Refuge Assured in Books
Jan 2, 2019
First...WHY has it taken me so long to read one of Jocelyn's books? Incredible...Simply incredible.
The choice of setting for this story is one that I am not very familiar with at all. It was refreshing and captivating to learn about the time in America during the French Revolution. SO.MUCH.HISTORY. is packed into this book. It totally satisfied my nerd girl heart. But packed snugly in between all the history, you will find a story of identity, love, acceptance...
Vivienne has fled everything she had ever known for her safety. Her life is in shambles, but she is determined to move forward and succeed in life. Liam is torn in multiple directions. But his heart for truth, justice, and Vivienne and Henri will make your heart melt instantaneously.
I encourage everyone to get their hands on this book! You will be swept into the story and learn so much. You will also get to see a very practical application of our Father's love for us and finding our identity in Him.
I received a complimentary copy of A Refuge Assured from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
The choice of setting for this story is one that I am not very familiar with at all. It was refreshing and captivating to learn about the time in America during the French Revolution. SO.MUCH.HISTORY. is packed into this book. It totally satisfied my nerd girl heart. But packed snugly in between all the history, you will find a story of identity, love, acceptance...
Vivienne has fled everything she had ever known for her safety. Her life is in shambles, but she is determined to move forward and succeed in life. Liam is torn in multiple directions. But his heart for truth, justice, and Vivienne and Henri will make your heart melt instantaneously.
I encourage everyone to get their hands on this book! You will be swept into the story and learn so much. You will also get to see a very practical application of our Father's love for us and finding our identity in Him.
I received a complimentary copy of A Refuge Assured from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.
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