Book Reviews – Page 23 – Sassy Reviews

July 18, 2025

Building Self-Esteem for Girls

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Building Self-Esteem for Girls 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Paula Baker ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
This guidebook offers valuable insights for parents of teenage daughters. It equips them with practical tools and strategies to better support and raise their daughters during these formative years. Readers will gain a deeper understanding of how social media affects both the physical and mental health of teenagers.

Teenagers often face intense peer pressure, making it crucial for parents to actively nurture their self-esteem. Since social media can be highly addictive, the book provides actionable tips to help manage its influence effectively. Through real-life scenarios, the author highlights common parenting missteps and offers more constructive approaches for handling difficult situations.

By focusing on building their daughter’s confidence, parents can become a more positive and supportive presence in her life. The book also emphasizes the importance of unconditional love—reminding parents to reassure their teens that they are loved and accepted, no matter what.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and found it incredibly engaging. I even binge-read it and took notes along the way. I’m truly impressed with the author’s work and look forward to exploring more books by Paula. Hats off for such an insightful and impactful read!

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 17, 2025

Conquer Your Inner Demons

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Conquer Your Inner Demons 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Craig Marchant ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Conquer Your Inner Demons: The Ultimate Guide to Better Mental Health” by Craig Marchant is a compelling and insightful read. In this book, the author outlines what he considers the most vital aspects to focus on when facing mental illness.

The first part of the book is deeply personal, as Craig shares his own mental health journey. Through his story, he offers hope to others, showing that it is possible to overcome even the toughest challenges. He opens up about his experiences with depression, schizoaffective disorder, and short-term memory issues, making the narrative both relatable and inspiring.

The second part of the book is more practical, providing actionable steps to support better mental health. Craig offers valuable insights on the benefits of spending time outdoors, regular exercise, and mood-boosting nutrition, among other strategies.

This book empowers readers to reclaim control over their lives. Craig’s work is both impressive and heartfelt. I especially appreciated the storytelling, as it gave me a deeper understanding of his journey. I highly recommend this book to anyone seeking guidance or inspiration on their path to mental wellness.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 15, 2025

Five Men: The Transformative Power of Mentorships

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Five Men: The Transformative Power of Mentorships 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Dave Schmit ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Five Men: The Transformative Power of Mentorships” by Dave Schmit is a compelling and inspiring read. The book serves as a heartfelt call to recognize, seek out, and cultivate mentorships in our own lives.

The story begins when Charles is invited to give a speech honoring his former professor, Dr. Spencer P. Browning. This moment prompts Charles to reflect deeply on the influence Dr. Browning has had on both his professional and personal growth. As he looks back, Charles realizes that Dr. Browning is one of several key figures who helped shape his journey.

In total, five men profoundly impacted Charles’ life: his father Jerry, who instilled strong values; Dr. Browning, who nurtured his education; Father Pat, who provided spiritual guidance; Coach Mac, who offered lessons on relationships; and Jay Swaboda and Tom Fisherman, who helped him understand his vocation.

The book is not only thought-provoking and beautifully written, but also visually appealing—with a fitting title and a well-designed cover. It encouraged me to reflect on the mentors in my own life and the ways they’ve influenced me. More importantly, it inspired a sense of responsibility to give back by mentoring others.

I highly recommend this book—it’s a powerful, life-changing read that offers lasting lessons and a renewed appreciation for the transformative power of mentorship.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 15, 2025

The Ruby Cradle

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Ruby Cradle 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: James L. Hill ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
The Ruby Cradle by James L. Hill is the second installment in The Gemstone Series. After Aberash’s disappearance, no one knew whether she had perished in battle or gone into hiding. In her absence, Zabella had to prepare herself. With the outbreak of the Crimean War, Zabella is sent to her grandmother Rehema to learn the ways of dragons.

Destined to be queen, Zabella finds herself at the center of a growing conflict. The dragons, now powerful and gathering armies across the globe, must be confronted. To stand against them, Zabella must seek help from men—though she belongs to both worlds. Upon arriving on Rehema’s island, she bristles at any criticism of Aberash. But when Rehema attempts to probe her thoughts, she discovers that Zabella possesses an unusually strong mind.

Meanwhile, Shabodun has been transformed into the Ruby Cradle. As Napoleon the Dragon Slayer sets out to build his castle, the Ruby Cradle must be sealed within its walls. Will Apollonia, a mysterious sorceress, play a part in summoning the dragon into the cradle? You’ll have to read the story to find out.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. James L. Hill has crafted a richly layered world with a wide cast of characters, all skillfully handled. The concept of dragons being transformed into a Ruby Cradle is both unique and fascinating. Fans of dragon-centric fantasy will find this an exciting and immersive read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 12, 2025

Detroit White Girl

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Detroit White Girl 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Constance McMurray ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Detroit White Girl: A Memoir of Growing Up in Detroit” by Constance McMurray is a compelling and heartfelt read. In Constance’s home, books held a special place. Her grandmother, a warm and nurturing figure, often read aloud to Constance and her brothers. She was also a talented cook who lovingly prepared holiday meals for the entire extended family.

In 1948, Detroit’s population was nearing its peak. The city was deeply segregated at the time, with Black residents confined to specific neighborhoods. Constance’s family doctor, Dr. Walter Reed, had his practice just a short walk from her house. On one occasion during her childhood, while she was out grocery shopping, the Reeds spotted her and kindly brought her to the safety of their home.

Constance inherited her love for cinema from her mother. Later in life, she revisited her childhood home with her husband Charles, reliving the memories that shaped her early years.

The photographs included in this memoir made me feel even more connected to the author. Reading this book sparked in me a desire to visit Detroit someday. It also made me reflect fondly on my own childhood home, with all its treasured memories. One of my favorite moments was when the Reeds took young Constance in and ensured she was safe—a reminder of the kind of caring neighborhood we all hope to be part of. This beautifully written memoir was an absolute joy to read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon and barnesandnoble.com

July 12, 2025

The Adventures of Spunky and Leonard

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Adventures of Spunky and Leonard 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: William Tirre ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Adventures of Spunky and Leonard” by William Tirre is an engaging and imaginative story. The protagonist, Leonard, is a curious nine-year-old boy whose life takes an unexpected turn when a small circular aircraft suddenly lands on his desk. Out steps a two-inch-tall humanoid named Spunky, who explains that he’s searching for Leonard’s father, Harold.

Spunky hails from the planet Quelle and once knew Harold when he was Leonard’s age. Upon spotting a blue toy boat on Leonard’s shelf, Spunky is instantly drawn to it and expresses a desire to stand on its deck. This sparks an adventurous journey as the two set off on a playful expedition aboard the toy ship.

Later, Leonard shares his worries about an upcoming baseball game—his thick glasses and asthma make him unsure of himself. But what will Spunky do to help? You’ll have to read the story to find out.

One of my favorite parts was the knowledge transmittal unit—I truly wish such a device existed! This story is packed with creativity and fun, and the author’s writing style is both vivid and captivating. I thoroughly enjoyed being swept into Spunky and Leonard’s world and found their adventures both heartwarming and entertaining.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 10, 2025

Miscarriage Heartbreak

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Miscarriage Heartbreak 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Tae Simeon ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Miscarriage Heartbreak” by Tae Simeon is a compassionate guide offering vital steps toward emotional healing after experiencing a miscarriage. The book begins by defining miscarriage as the loss of a pregnancy before the 20th week of gestation and goes on to address common myths and misconceptions, along with strategies to challenge them.

The author encourages readers to acknowledge their grief and embrace journaling as a therapeutic practice. Her insights on coping with insensitive remarks and fostering emotional resilience are particularly valuable. She also highlights meaningful ways to support others going through miscarriage, emphasizing the importance of a strong support network in restoring one’s emotional well-being.

Simeon urges readers to make informed choices when considering future pregnancies. While choosing to stop trying can be a difficult decision, the author underscores that it is sometimes necessary for the woman’s health and emotional safety.

This book gave me a deeper understanding of the emotional journey faced by those who have endured a miscarriage. Readers will gain powerful tools to navigate their grief and begin to rebuild their sense of normalcy. The author’s writing style is gentle and empathetic, and the content will surely aid many couples in their healing process. I also found the book’s cover photo to be especially touching.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 10, 2025

The Sloth & His Friends

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Sloth & His Friends 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Michael Zanetti ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
I enjoy reading stories that stand out, and this time, I picked up The Sloth and His Friends by Michael Zanetti. The story introduces us to Sal, a charming and instantly likable sloth. While sloths are often labeled as slow and lazy, Sal dreams of breaking that stereotype. He wants to prove that sloths can be productive.

When Mr. Jenkins spots two men from the MG company attempting to cut down trees in the Amazon rainforest, he becomes frustrated. Having dedicated his life to protecting this precious ecosystem, he believes there’s more than enough space for logging, farming, and ranching outside the rainforest. Destroying such a delicate environment for short-term gain is simply wrong.

Jenkins offers the two workers, Alberto and Luis, a chance to switch sides—to help protect the rainforest instead of contributing to its destruction. But the question remains: will Sal and his forest friends be forced to leave their home?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book. It’s a delightful, engaging story that also carries a powerful environmental message. The characters were memorable, the pacing was just right, and I would gladly recommend it to fellow readers looking for something both fun and meaningful.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 10, 2025

The Twin Flame

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: The Twin Flame 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: K.T. Anglehart ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“The Twin Flame” by K.T. Anglehart is the second installment in The Scottish Scrolls series. It follows Mckenna O’Dwyer, a witch who keeps reincarnating — a mystery only her mother, Abby, can truly help her understand.

A powerful High Priestess is determined to use Mckenna as a means to reach Abby, believing that only by harnessing both their powers can she fulfill her purpose. To protect her daughter, Abby placed an enchantment on Mckenna as a baby — one that ensured only Mckenna could find her when the time was right. Frustrated with Cillian, the Priestess performs a dark ritual to break not only the enchantment on Mckenna but also the protective magic surrounding Ballycastle.

Mckenna embarks on a journey to find her mother and ultimately reunites with her. But will she be able to warn Abby in time about the Priestess’s intentions? You’ll have to read to find out.

Book two was well worth the wait — the storyline is captivating, the pacing well-balanced, and the cover design is beautiful. I especially enjoyed the characters of Mckenna, her dads, and Abby. The world-building is rich and immersive, making for an engaging read.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon

July 9, 2025

Germs Are Not Our Enemy

𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: Germs Are Not Our Enemy 📚
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Marizelle Arce ✍️
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🚀 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰:
“Germs Are Not Our Enemy: Why the New Terrain Medicine Is Best for Optimal Health” by Marizelle Arce is a compelling and enlightening read. In this book, the author explores the contrast between the traditional germ theory and the emerging terrain model of health.

Arce challenges the conventional notion that germs are the primary cause of illness. Instead, the germs are present where illness occurs. The author’s central message is that microbes are not our enemies. Rather than waging war against harmful invaders, terrain medicine emphasizes creating balance within the body and fostering overall well-being. This is achieved through practices such as proper nutrition, hygiene, adequate sleep, regular exercise, and detoxification.

Rooted in traditional naturopathy, the terrain approach focuses on supporting the whole person—physically, mentally, and emotionally—to enhance the body’s natural ability to self-regulate and maintain homeostasis.

Arce’s writing is engaging and accessible, making complex concepts easy to understand. The book is thoughtfully designed, with an eye-catching cover that complements its message. It’s a truly insightful read that offers a fresh and empowering perspective on health. The guidance on maintaining a healthy internal terrain is particularly impactful. I found the knowledge shared in this book to be both valuable and thought-provoking.

𝗠𝘆 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 5/5

★ Book Is Available On Amazon