Tommy Rocket and the Goober Patrol

Tommy Rocket and the Goober Patrol by Thomas Kuhn

Reviewed by Teri Takle Nate lives a reasonably everyday life for a 10-year-old boy. Along with his parents, little brother, big sister, and grandmother, life survives with little excitement. The school exists, but Nate’s standard is to get by doing as little work as possible and to tolerate his admiring little brother.   Nothing exciting has ever happened to Nate until he met Tommy Rocket.  Purchase Here. Tommy Rocket is your typical 10-year-old boy, except he only has one human friend. Life with a wheelchair can be confining, but Tommy has adjusted well by creating his social group with A.I. robots that he invented with his father’s help. Normal? For his one human friend, Nate Turner, this relationship can be challenging as Tommy really does not understand what it takes to be a friend.   Tommy doesn’t usually use the telephone to call Nate. How would you react to a robotic helicopter tapping at your window with a coded message? Yes, you have to use a decoder ring to decrypt the message. Have you ever been treated as an obedient robot?  That is how Nate feels when he plays with Tommy. Learning how to relate to others is not Tommy’s strong point, but his robots are fascinating. Tommy’s basement is his playroom which isn’t your typical playroom.  Functioning robots are everywhere.  Each one has their own purpose which Tommy created.  These are Tommy’s true friends, his Goober Patrol.  Also, his creations are extraordinary.  Sentient, meaning they can think for themselves, best describes them.  Due to a special chip Tommy’s dad created, called a Prometheus Chip, each robot has some degree of freewill.    Now you can begin to see what intrigues Nate with this unusual friendship. Tommy Rocket and the Goober Patrol is a wonderfully engaging adventure for boys aged 8-12. I strongly feel that most children would thoroughly enjoy this book either to read by themselves or as read out loud to them.  The adventures are fun, and yes, even dangerous.   As for characterization, the reader knows Nate and Tommy well.   You can easily visualize each boy as well as the various robots. The illustrations are perfectly matched and enhance the story line. Moral character and doing the right thing is woven within the storyline.   This often-overlooked development is expertly exhibited as problematic for the characters which is realistic. The illustrations perfectly match the text. These are needed to show that Nate is black and Tommy is white. Nate comes from a blue-collar family and Tommy from white. Tommy’s family is well-educated, Nate’s is not. Through all these differences the friendship grows through Nate’s compassion, patience and morality. My only complaint was the reference to Marlin Perkins who passed away in 1986. Do kids today have any idea who this renowned zoologist is?    I would suggest to the author to rewrite that section and either use Steve Irwin, who is still well-known although deceased, or the Kratt Brothers.    The challenges of Tommy Rocket and the Goober Patrol are vocabulary and the length of the novel. Vocabulary might be difficult for the younger readers, but the story is so engaging that readers are likely to want to know any unfamiliar word. The book length can be overwhelming to some readers, but this author expertly engages the reader with this captivating tale on the first page. Tommy Rocket and the Goober Patrol is difficult to separate yourself from the book from the beginning. Warning: This book is addictive. I adored this novel, and even though I am far from being a 10-year-old boy, I have purchased and am currently reading the author’s other book.
First Place: Science Fiction/First Place: Children/Second Place: Humor/Satire
Broken Pencils

Broken Pencils by J.R. Rice

Reviewed by Michaela Gordoni In Broken Pencils by J.R. Rice, 18-year-old Jonah is in for a whirlwind prom night when his emotions mount on top of drug use and alcohol. He has a personal recipe for disaster, and the ingredients are as follows: First, his best friend Keon suddenly died a few years ago, and prom night coincides with Jonah’s birthday and the anniversary of Keon’s death. Second, Jonah’s got depression and bipolar disorder. Third, he hasn’t been taking his medications. Fourth, his parents are getting a divorce and fight right before sending him off to prom. Fifth, his friends influence him with alcohol and drugs. Sixth, unfortunate events drive out incredible anger and violence in him that have very serious results. And eighth, well, let’s just say his dad letting him take his Mercedes wasn’t such a great idea. And let’s not forget the ninth ingredient—a trip to the strip club.  Purchase Here. Though the focus is on the events that Jonah is a part of, J.R. Rice found time to weave in elements about class, race, and humanness in unexpected yet poignant ways. The words out of his character’s mouths have a way of sticking with you long after you’ve read the book. And though no very detailed descriptions are given about many of the characters, Rice has made them seem very real from the way they talk and the words they say. It’s all around just incredibly authentic-feeling dialogue. Jonah’s tragic adventure is an extremely thought-provoking one. His story is the ultimate unbottling of pain. His friend’s death impacted him deeply, and he needs help, but he seems to believe himself beyond help. Jonah’s already struggling through life as it is, but on prom night, he drops to a point where he is completely devoid of hope. Rice wrote the story in such a way that it’s hard to know if everything Jonah sees and hears is reality, as he battles with mental illness and a body full of drugs and alcohol. It’s clear he just wants to feel something, to find some kind of comfort. But after a sad visit to the strip club, it seems comfort doesn’t exist anymore. Jonah’s spiral happens so fast, and it begs the question: is it even possible that this fall could have been prevented? This is an emotionally rough read. And as I flipped from page to page, many times all I could think was, “Jonah, no, no,” as he made terrible decisions one after the other. Broken Pencils is certainly creatively written and eye-opening. Though Jonah is technically still a teen, he’s a legal adult, and the choices he made could have easily happened years later instead of that night if he kept dwelling inside his hurt. All in all, this is a very serious book on an important topic and is perhaps best suited for adult readers.    
Third Place: Young Adult
V Life Cover

V-Life: So It Begins (Sugar Bernstein RV-Living Vampire Series, Book 1) by Honey Parker

Reviewed by Lily Andrews

In “V-Life: So It Begins (Sugar Bernstein RV-Living Vampire Series, Book 1)” by Honey Parker, a young Jewish woman discovers empathy and a method to put an end to her long-standing pain, self-loathing, and wrath after gaining insight into the adversary’s mind, whom she has always wanted to murder.  Purchase Here.

Sugar Bernstein, a vampire and a former creative director for advertising, has made the decision to live alone, away from friends and family. This follows the death of her lover, Curtis, whose memory now remains deeply etched in her mind. She has no desire to socialize with anyone and prefers to travel the world in a luxury camper van.

Throughout her travels, she meets and gets acquainted with a vampire couple. She now has individuals who are like her and whom she does not need to hide anything from. As she engages with them, she learns and develops inner superhuman abilities that she never dreamed she had. This may be precisely what she needs to get revenge on an adversary who appears to have no trouble penetrating her thoughts and dreams. She quickly learns, though, that she underestimated the intensity of her opponent’s bloodlust when two shadowy creatures abruptly appear to kill her, both brandishing sharp swords and long, emerald-green coats.

This is a terrific vampire thriller that will not disappoint, with a plot that effortlessly balances comedy and dread. A major plot point is the protagonist’s love life, grief period, self-discovery, and desire for revenge. The protagonist experiences several mental episodes, each of which heightens the suspense and mood of the story. Through time, she changes from a young woman who has been beaten to an unlikely heroine who triumphs over a binding enchantment and a terrible hate-fueled conspiracy. One of the many poignant scenes is where the antagonist informs her of a secret regarding her deceased boyfriend. Many readers will be caught between two extremes at this crucial juncture.

Parker’s writing style combines elements of horror and slow-burn romance to chilling effect, putting a unique spin on vampires in the process. Many of the scenes have a humorous tone, and the language-melding prose along with the vivid world-building accomplishes much. Vibrant descriptions draw you in right away and tease you with what is ahead. There’s so much in “V-Life: So It Begins (Sugar Bernstein RV-Living Vampire Series, read 1)” that feels fresh. If you are searching for a book that will captivate you and leave a lasting impression, this is the right place to be.

Bittersweet Fruit

Bittersweet Fruit by William LeRoy

Reviewed by Jacquelyn Tolksdorf

At its core, Bittersweet Fruit satirically explores themes of morality, the consequences of past actions, and the search for truth. Leroy delves into the gray areas of right and wrong, portraying characters who are neither wholly good nor entirely evil. This moral complexity adds richness to the narrative, making it more than just a straightforward mystery. The novel follows Maximo Morgan, a seasoned private investigator hired to investigate the suspicious death of a wealthy orchard owner.  He finds himself entangled in a web of deceit, betrayal, and long-buried secrets. The case quickly escalates, revealing connections to organized crime, corrupt officials, and personal vendettas.  Purchase Here.

Leroy depicts Maximo as a flawed yet highly perceptive detective whose personal demons add depth to his character. His interactions with other characters—ranging from a hard-nosed police detective to a grieving family member—are nuanced and believable. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, each with their own distinct motivations and backstories that enrich the narrative.

Leroy’s descriptions of the setting—a small Oklahoma Dust Bowl town with dark undercurrents—are vivid and atmospheric, immersing the reader in the story’s world. The small-town setting, with its secrets and undercurrents, enhances the story’s tension and intrigue. The mystery is well-constructed, with enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing until the very end. The Grapes of Wrath tie-in is an entertaining narrative device for the avid reader.

While the plot is generally well-crafted, a few twists might be anticipated by seasoned mystery readers. There are moments where the story’s pace slows down, particularly in the middle sections. Some readers might find these parts less engaging compared to the more action-packed sequences.

Bittersweet Fruit: A Maximo Morgan Mystery is a compelling read that will appeal to fans of the genre. William Leroy has created a memorable detective in Maximo Morgan and a story that combines intrigue, emotion, and moral complexity. Despite some minor pacing issues, the novel is a strong addition to his mystery genre and promises more exciting adventures for Maximo Morgan in future installments. This book is recommended for readers who enjoy character-driven mysteries with a strong sense of place and moral ambiguity. Leroy’s ability to weave a complex narrative with engaging characters makes Bittersweet Fruit a noteworthy read.

I Love You Grandpa

I Love You, Grandpa by Jillian Harker (Illustrated by Daniel Howarth)

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

Little Bear showed grandpa how he catches fish. He would run into the water and catch the fish. Grandpa explained that he was once able to fish that way, but he cannot run so fast now. He has found an easier way to catch fish. He stands on the rapids and waits for the fish to jump into his mouth.   This really impressed Little Bear.  Purchase Here.

An eagle swooped down.   They noticed his sharp claws.   Little Bear ran up a tree.   Grandpa told Little Bear he used to be able to do that but now his arms are not as strong. Grandpa said in order to scare the eagle away he would let out a large ROAR. This worked every time.

Little Bear showed Grandpa how he could dig a good hollow to sleep in the winter. Grandpa told Little Bear that his claws are not as sharp now but had a better way to find a hollow. He would look for a hollow tree. He found a large tree. In the middle was a huge trunk with a snug hollow.

Little Bear was very impressed and told his grandpa that he loved him and that he knew so much.   Little Bear asked his grandpa if he would ever be as crafty, brave and wise. Grandpa assured him that he would. He asked Little Bear if he wanted to start learning now. Little Bear nodded. Grandpa showed Little Bear how to catch a fish, how to scare a bird away and how to hollow a tree big enough for two. Little Bear told his grandpa that he loved him. Grandpa replied, “I love you too, Little Bear”.

I Love You, Grandpa is a wonderful book that shows the close bond between a child and their grandfather.   Grandparents are like role models to little children. I know I always looked up and respected everything my grandparents would say to me.   This is a terrific book to read aloud to your children and/or grandchildren. Each page has cute illustrations that bring the story alive as you turn the pages. As I read the reviews of this book, many people have said they used this book to announce a pregnancy. Some have said they gave it to their child’s grandfather as a gift to show how much he is appreciated. What great ideas!

I Love You, Grandpa is part of the “I Love You Series” from Parragon.

Pigs in Paradise

Pigs in Paradise: A Fairy Story Most Absurd by Roger Maxson

Reviewed by Jacquelyn Tolksdorf Roger Maxson’s Pigs in Paradise: A Fairy Story Most Absurd is a satirical novel that delves into the complex interplay between religion and politics in America. Drawing inspiration from George  Orwell’s Animal Farm, Maxson crafts a narrative that is both absurd and thought-provoking, tackling serious themes with a blend of humor and literary critique.  Purchase Here. The story is set in a world where animals are anthropomorphized, engaging in behaviors and dialogues that mirror human societal and political interactions. The protagonist, Mel, navigates through a series of events involving various animals, each representing different facets of society and religious sects. The narrative is divided into two books, encompassing a range of episodes that highlight the absurdity and contradictions in religious and political practices. Maxson’s novel is an unabashed critique of American evangelicalism and the influence of religion on politics. Through the use of animal characters, he explores themes such as freedom of expression, the nature of belief, and the often hypocritical stance of religious leaders. The author does not shy away from controversial topics, aiming to provoke thought and discussion among his readers. The use of satire is central to the book’s appeal. Maxson employs a witty and sometimes biting tone to expose the irrationalities and abuses within religious institutions. The dialogue between characters often serves as a vehicle for the author’s philosophical musings, questioning the very foundation of organized religion and its role in shaping societal norms. The characters in Pigs in Paradise are richly drawn, each symbolizing different aspects of society. Mel, the protagonist, represents the everyman, caught in the tumultuous currents of political and religious ideologies. Other notable characters include: ● Boris, a charismatic leader (a boar) whose actions reflect the manipulative tendencies of political figures. ● Ezekiel and Dave, ravens who provide a cynical commentary on the events unfolding around them. ● Julius, a parrot whose artistic talents and subsequent recognition serve as a metaphor for the struggle for individuality in a conformist society. Maxson’s writing is both engaging and intellectually stimulating. His prose is marked by sharp wit and a keen eye for detail. The narrative flows smoothly, with each chapter building upon the previous one to create a cohesive and compelling story. The dialogues are particularly noteworthy, often laced with irony and dark humor that underscore the book’s satirical nature. Roger Maxson’s Pigs in Paradise is an exceptional piece of satirical literature that not only entertains but also provides deep insights into the complexities of religious and political life. It stands as a testament to the power of satire in addressing and critiquing societal issues. For those interested in exploring the intricate world of Pigs in Paradise, the book promises a journey filled with laughter, reflection, and a deeper understanding of the absurdities that pervade our world
First Place - Adult Fiction/First Place - Humor/Satire
The Joy Divisions

The Joy Divisions by Scott Dimovitz

Reviewed by Lisa Brown Gilbert An intense portrayal of personal evolution in contemporary life, Scott Dimovitz’s The Joy Divisions, offers an immersive literary jaunt back to a time and place where drugs, angst, history, art, music, literature, blue collar woes, and consciousness cult idealism, intersect through surprising events, in 1990’s Allentown, Pennsylvania, creatively explored through the eyes, minds, and interactions of its varied characters.  Purchase Here. This insightful historical narrative is a work replete with the many facets of life, which focuses on the many aspects of the human condition. In fact, this book brings so much to the table in terms of demonstrating an intellectual expertise in a variety of cultural elements as well as history prevalent during the 1990s. Furthermore, this narrative maintains the attention with smoothly flowing narrative, vivid detailing and seamless storytelling, including an additional bent for the humorous at times. The story instantly draws you in with gritty, complex characters and situations, which dutifully pique the curiosity as to the story’s overall path. Particularly interesting is Ed Pullman the central figure. Ed is an art school dropout, who returns to his hometown of Allentown, Pennsylvania, circa 1990s, he is coping with a great deal of angst; he lost his girlfriend, his mother, and his drive for life which in turn causes his overall faith in life to steadily wane. Ed, often caught up in his own emotions and thoughts, wants to connect with others but struggles. Moreover, as other characters come into focus within the story, each helms their unique back story and cultural perspective, which leads to many intellectually posed, multifaceted moments of analysis and insight, including philosophy, art, consciousness, religion, and alternative music references, as well as many literary references. Also, author Dimovitz does very well in illustrating the perspective of the working-class culture native to the locale of Allentown Pennsylvania in the 1990’s with brief historical accounts drawing out the economic and political template which affected the characters’ lives. Overall, The Joy Divisions by author Scott Dimovitz, made for an intellectually stimulating read. I enjoyed the edifying nature of the story which kept me enmeshed and immersed in a world I knew nothing about but wanted to know more of. Additionally, what I found to be riveting about this book was the sharply detailed descriptions of the setting steeped in colorful specifics. It was as though I was a denizen walking down the street. As well, I enjoyed the unique characterizations; The cult leader with a plan to save the world, the beautiful transvestite and the model who bucked the standard of beauty. Altogether this was a great read that I would recommend to those seeking a uniquely posed historical fiction read that truly stimulates the intellect.  
First Place: Historical / Third Place: Adult Fiction
What Can I Do?

What Can I Do? A Donkey-Donk Story (Donkey-Donk Series, Book 1) by Ellen F. Feld

Reviewed by Nancy Eaton

Donkey-Donk is a miniature donkey. She is moving to a new farm where there are many horses and ponies. After observing the many special things the horses and ponies can do, Donkey-Donk started wondering what she can do.  Purchase Here.

She saw a show horse, horses that could run very fast, one that could pull a cart, and another that could walk over a bridge. Other horses could jump and walk over tarps. As Donkey-Donk observed these special abilities in the horses, she wondered if she could do these things too. The answer was “Nope. I can’t do that”.

Donkey-Donk did find one special thing she could do. I will not mention it here. You will have to read the book to your children to find the special thing she can do.

The Donkey-Donk books are adorable. This book emphasizes there is always something special every person (or animal) can do. This book is filled with amazing photos done by photographer John Cebula. This book is recommended for ages 5-6.

 

Shapless Summers

Shapeless Summers by Hayden Thompson

Reviewed by Lily Andrews

“Shapeless Summers” is an intimate and touching story of William Greenwood, a middle-aged man from England, who retired from his lifelong career as a seafarer. William moves to the Pacific Islands and takes up data engineering positions and later begins working as a development program manager.  William hopes to regain his vibrancy and his happiness and forget the painful memories and experiences he left in England. “Shapeless Summers” is a tale of loss, pain, soul-searching, and self-discovery.  Purchase Here.

A rare gem, this book displays the picturesque descriptions of the Pacific Islands, its people, their history, and traditions. With Thompson’s artistic proficiency, the author does a remarkable job highlighting the indomitable spirit of locality and solidarity. While here, William learns how to endure human lights with lightness and simplicity.  The author manages to capture the richness of the local people while also some of the challenges in these islands in an all-embracing duality. This makes the story relatable and resonant as well.

Written in the first-person narrative, the book expresses the emotions of the main protagonist, and readers will find themselves rooting for him every step of the way. I particularly liked the infusion of woodcut illustrations, which are beautifully rendered and culturally evocative. This enjoyable read will make you discover the Pacific world without leaving your bedside. Thompson paints pictures as vivid as any photograph with his beguiling descriptions. Further, I appreciated how he uses the protagonist as a moral compass for the society cupped in the decisions he makes across the years.

The book is divided into four sections with each section following William’s journey to a point of self-discovery, fulfillment, and happiness. It ends in a joyous conclusion that was most satisfying. Readers who enjoy character-driven stories with island and beach settings will find “Shapeless Summers” by Hayden Thompson a fine tome. It is one of those narratives you find yourself going back to, to dig up the nuances you might have missed in the first reading. I highly recommend it!

Marvelous Days

Marvelous Days by Hayden Thompson

Reviewed by Jacquelyn Tolksdorf

Marvelous Days by Hayden Thompson is a poignant narrative that delves into the introspective journey of Kevin Brunner, a widowed biologist, navigating the early stages of his retirement. Set against the backdrop of picturesque European locales, predominantly in France, the novel explores themes of loss, self-discovery, and the quest for meaningful connections.  Purchase Here.

The story begins with Kevin (an American expat), who, after decades of living in Germany and following the passing of his wife and the relocation of his son, finds himself at a crossroads. Struggling with loneliness and a sense of purposelessness, Kevin embarks on a series of travels across France. Through these journeys, he encounters various individuals whose lives and experiences help him reflect on his own past, particularly the betrayal he felt upon discovering his late wife’s infidelity. These travels serve as both a literal and metaphorical voyage, helping Kevin to heal and find a new sense of purpose.

Thompson’s writing is richly descriptive, painting vivid images of the places Kevin visits. I would almost guess the author has a background in photography as this is evident in the detailed and picturesque descriptions of the locales, which almost serve as characters in their own right. The narrative voice is deeply reflective, providing a window into Kevin’s internal struggles and transformations. The novel is divided into two parts: “The Debut” and “The Unexpected.” The first part chronicles Kevin’s initial travels and his attempts to find solace in new environments.

The second part delves into the unforeseen events and relationships that significantly impact his outlook on life. Through Kevin’s eyes, readers are invited to explore the nuances of human connection and the process of healing from emotional wounds.

Kevin Brunner is a well-crafted character whose evolution is both believable and engaging. His interactions with other characters, such as his old friends and new acquaintances, are depicted with authenticity and depth. These relationships are instrumental in his journey toward acceptance and renewal. Thompson skillfully portrays Kevin’s emotional landscape, making his journey relatable and compelling.

Marvelous Days is likely to resonate with readers who appreciate introspective and character-driven stories. Its exploration of themes such as aging, loneliness, and the quest for meaning will appeal to those who enjoy literary fiction that delves into the complexities of the human experience.

For those seeking a reflective and heartfelt read, Marvelous Days is a commendable choice. It captures the essence of what it means to find oneself amidst life’s inevitable changes and challenges.