Reader Views

Poop, Butt, Booger & Snot: Poem Jokes You Will Like a Lot

“Poop, Butt, Booger & Snot” by L.W. Lewis is a collection of 89 short, funny and rhyming poems.  The poems are about things like being mean, sisters and brothers, silly names and leopard spots.  One of my favorite poems was “Rover.” It is about Rover who won’t do anything that a normal dog does, but it turns out that Rover is really a cat.  Another favorite was “Why Johnny Missed Church.”  It is about Johnny and all the animals that followed him to church.

Almost every poem has a drawing.  The drawings aren’t very detailed, but they are colorful and cute.

I wish that the author had picked a different title for this book.  Most of the poems aren’t crude or vulgar like the title might make you think.  There are a few poems about boogers and calling people brats, but most of them were silly in a nice kind of a way.  I don’t think that very many parents will buy the book because of the title, and that is too bad.

I would recommend this book to people who like silly poetry or who like to read rhyming things out loud.  “Poop, Butt, Booger & Snot” might inspire some kids to make up silly poems of their own.


Poop, Butt, Booger & Snot: Poem Jokes You Will Like a Lot
L.W. Lewis
Red Pumpkin Press (2011)
ISBN 9780971157224
Reviewed by Evan Weldon (age 9) for Reader Views (3/12)

An Obsession Called Pheasant: The True Story of a Pursuit of the Elusive

This true story began with a boy named Dan who loved anything to do with the outdoors. He was a happy, carefree child who had brown eyes, black curly hair and a bright smile.

From a young age Dan was enthralled with anything to do with nature; one time, he captured a hummingbird, using a tiny net, only to admire the hummingbird before releasing it back into the wild.
  
Dan’s family moved to the Washington countryside in 1972 when Dan was in the fourth grade. They had neighbors, but none of them lived very near to Dan’s family. Dan got to know and frequently visited a mink farmer who lived within bike-riding distance of Dan’s home. After a while, the mink farmer mentioned that his son raised pheasants and offered Dan a couple of pheasants; Dan eagerly agreed to take them. It took the pheasants a few weeks to arrive (which felt like months to Dan) but when they did arrive, he was overjoyed. Dan had been expecting to see Chinese Ringneck Pheasants like he had seen at the mink farm.  Instead, he got two Golden Pheasants, a male and a female, which were covered in vibrant colors and were much more beautiful than the Chinese Ringneck Pheasants.

Many types of pheasants are easy to raise and Dan had success with his Golden Pheasants.  As he got older he was able to find and buy more types of birds, including peacocks.

“An Obsession Called Pheasant: the True Story of a Pursuit of the Elusive” goes on to describe Dan’s adult life working with birds. His fascination with birds, especially pheasants, leads him to take jobs caring for birds and breeding some very rare pheasants.

This is a book for anybody wanting to learn a bit more about pheasants or is interested in the natural world and has the patience to deal with lots of detours and unnecessary details in the story.  (I would have given the book a higher rating if it had been more direct in the presentation of the story.)

“An Obsession Called Pheasant” inspired me to be more interested in pheasants.  When the book ends, Dan has received his share of money from breeding and raising numerous pheasants and decides to travel to Borneo in search of the Bornean Peacock Pheasant.  The next book by this author is called “Adventure in Borneo: The True Story of One Man’s Quest to find the Bornean Peacock Pheasant.”  It is about Dan’s trip to Borneo and I would like to read it.


An Obsession Called Pheasant: The True Story of a Pursuit of the Elusive
Jolan Durrah
Pheasant Tale Productions (2011)
ISBN 9780981700113
Reviewed by Chandler Dixon (age 13) for Reader Views (12/11)

Nuzzle: Love Between a Boy and His Service Dog

The book “Nuzzle” is about a dog named Chancer who is a service dog.  At first I thought the dog’s name was going to be Nuzzle because of the title but it wasn’t.  Nuzzle means that the dog kisses him and lays by him.  In the beginning, the dog went to a home where he was chained outside all of the time.  That was sad.  Then he went to a different place, kind of like a school, where they taught him to be a service dog.

He was given to a boy, Iyal, who needed him.  Iyal has a brain injury.  Chancer helps him do things.

I am glad that Chancer didn’t have to live with the family that just left him outside all of the time and never played with him.  Iyal needs him to help him and Chancer likes to live in the house much better.  I didn’t know much about service dogs and I learned a lot in “Nuzzle: Love Between a Boy and His Service Dog.”


Nuzzle: Love Between a Boy and His Service Dog
Donnie Kanter Winokur
CreateSpace (2011)
ISBN 9781466411722
Reviewed by Cayden Aures (age 7) for Reader Views (1/12)

Discovery of the Grand Unified Theory: The Greatest Discovery of 21st Century Opening the Door to a New World- Essential Reading for All Human Beings, Young and Old

Article first published as Book Review Discovery of the Grand Unified Theory: The Greatest Discovery of 21st by Arkay Nair on Blogcritics

In his new book, “Discovery of the Grand Unified Theory,” chemist and devotee of the pursuit of the Grand Unified Theory, Arkay Nair proclaims that he has discovered the definitive model of the Grand Unified Theory. He further asserts that “All the great scientists of the last century (most notably Albert Einstein) missed out on it because they were traveling on the wrong path searching for it.”

This book is only twenty-nine pages long. The author intends that it serve as a preface for an expanded model on his theory and its potential impact on the world. Take note that this reviewer is admittedly a layman physicist. Grand Unified Theory (GUT) models are very complex. Even the definition of GUT in the Yahoo! Kids Dictionary is complicated, stating that it is “A theory of elementary forces that unites the weak, strong, electromagnetic, and gravitational interactions into one field theory and views the known interactions as low-energy manifestations of a single unified interaction.” No “GUTs for Dummies” has been published!

The book is actually a paper that presents the author’s theory in five discourses, each composed of a short Abstract, expanded Discourse, and reinforcing Summary. The first two discourses challenge current scientific thinking. The third and fourth discourses elaborate on these contrarian ideas, and the fifth introduces Nair’s model and invites readers to react. The author strongly urges reader to read the book straight through, uninterrupted and in the order in which the content is presented. He is equally emphatic about the importance of reading the twenty-nine pages again before noting questions. If the reader still has questions after the second reading, Nair invites them to send their questions to him.

Nair’s hope is that everyone, young and old, reads his book, gains a greater understanding of how his version of the Grand Unified Theory can help solve problems like global warming and energy shortages, and contemplate and incorporate their own version of his theory into their personal philosophy. To his credit, he has effectively dealt with the complexity of this subject in an approachable and straightforward style which seemingly should make this subject more accessible to more readers. Given the numerous new terminology related to his model proposed by the author, a glossary would have been helpful for quick reference.

One issue of some importance to me related to the book is that information about the author was incomplete. For example, his bio indicated that “I worked as a chemist for a few years before emigrating to the United States…I received an MBA from Plymouth State University in New Hampshire in 1985 and spent the next twenty-five years in business.” No specific business sector or industry is mentioned. In the Epilogue, it is stated that the author submitted his paper to the American Physical Society (the second largest professional society for physicists in the world), that refused to publish the paper. No further elaboration is offered.

Overall, I found the book to be engaging and interesting. Arkay Nair’s passion for the pursuit of the true Grand Unified Theory model permeates the twenty-nine pages of his “Discovery of the Grand Unified Theory.” He has the spirit of an explorer. To be sure, this complicated scientific matter will simply be too daunting for some readers to engage. But this citizen scientist enjoyed this introductory exploration.


Discovery of the Grand Unified Theory: The Greatest Discovery of 21st Century Opening the Door to a New World- Essential Reading for All Human Beings, Young and Old
Arkay Nair
AuthorHouse (2011)
ISBN 9781463487317
Reviewed by Joseph Yurt for Reader Views (12/11)

An Obsession Called Pheasant: The True Story of a Pursuit of the Elusive

Stories of obsession are intriguing. The diversity of human obsessions is vast. The range of intensity is from quietly passionate to utterly possessed. Now comes “An Obsession Called Pheasant: The True Story of a Pursuit of the Elusive,” written by Jolan Durrah. This book picks up the story of Daniel James beginning with recollections of his child leading up to his life-changing decision as a young man to pursue his passion for exotic Pheasants into the deepest jungles of Borneo. It was that trek which is the subject of the first Daniel James’ story, the award winning “Adventure in Borneo,” also written by Durrah. For those who have read that title, “An Obsession Called Pheasant” is a step back in time and provides background on James and the origins of his obsession which were lacking in the first book.

The book offers entertaining and informative anecdotes about Daniel and his family throughout his childhood. Dorrah also writes of James’ continuous observations of the birds and how his passion for them evolved beyond the birds themselves to affluent breeders and collectors throughout the United States. Sadly, the interior art in the book is in black and white. But, the striking cover art compelled me to go online and look for color photographs of the different species referenced by James.

That engaging and exotic cover art and design strongly suggest that what awaits the reader within is a vivid and exciting tale. For me it never fulfilled that promise, due primarily to the author’s writing style. Simply put, I found Durrah’s writing to be a bit too academic and his passion to be too much in check for the adventure genre at its best. But the tale was told well enough to keep me tagging along and the book does conclude with some strong emotional sparks that tweak my interest in continuing on the trail with reading similar adventures.

Among my internet research in preparation for this review, I noted that one unidentified source, writing about obsession, stated that “when you’re obsessed by something…it means that all you do is live and breathe for that thing…it’s the world to you and you will do anything to keep it and protect it.” If obsession intrigues you, if you have any interest in Pheasants in general, or you like quirky books about house pets, you will enjoy “An Obsession Called Pheasant.”

An Obsession Called Pheasant: The True Story of a Pursuit of the Elusive
Jolan Durrah
Pheasant Tail Productions (2011)
ISBN 9780981700113
Reviewed by Joseph Yurt for Reader Views (11/11)

Horse Camp

“Horse Camp” is a good book for any kids that are interested in horses and riding. The girls in this book are maybe 10 or 12-years-old at horse camp. Some parts in the book try to quiz you to see if you know the body colors, hoof colors and the head parts too. One part in the book showed a miniature horse named Royal the horse was 8 hands high. A big pony named Snip was 14 hands high, Snip is big! Did you know that a mule is a cross of a donkey and a horse? That is very cool to know! My favorite picture was with a horse with a fly mask. It was on its eyes, but the horse could still see from the inside. My favorite part was when the girls brushed the horse’s mane and tail. I also liked where someone fixed a horse’s horseshoe. There are many great photos showing lots of different things at the horse camp. My favorite horse was Royal, the miniature horse. I liked “Horse Camp” a lot because I did not know much about horses and I learned many cool new things.

Horse Camp
Kim Chatel
Guardian Angel Publishing (2011)
ISBN 9781616331450
Reviewed by Sophia McElroy (age 8.5) for Reader Views (10/11)

What Do You Use to Help Your Body?

In “What Do You Use to Help Your Body?” a girl whose name is Maggie and her mom go on a walk.  Her mom made it so that they would see different people who use different things to help them.  Sometimes people need help with things if they got hurt or something.  Sometimes people are born that way too and need extra help.

Some of the different things that the girl Maggie learns about are hearing aids, wheelchairs, canes, and walkers.  I have seen people with wheelchairs, and canes, and walkers before.

Some of the things in the book I didn’t know about.  I haven’t ever seen anyone who had an artificial leg before.  I also thought that the communication board was kind of neat.  It is good that the lady had one so that she could talk to people. She talked by pointing to pictures and letters on the board so people knew what she wanted to say.  If she didn’t have one of those, I don’t think anyone would know what she needed and that wouldn’t be very good.

I liked learning about all of the different things that help people.  It says in the book that they are called “assistive devices.”  I liked the pictures of the things in the book too.  I thought the walker was a wheelchair though because the lady was sitting on it.  But, it says that she sits on it when she needs to rest. “What Do You Use to Help Your Body?” is a good book; it helps kids learn about these things that some people need.

What Do You Use to Help Your Body?
Jewel Kats
Loving Healing Press (2011)
ISBN 9781615990832
Reviewed by Cayden Aures (age 6.5) for Reader Views (6/11)

Virtuepops Adventures in Virtueland

Frances Angelina has found a creative, fairytale-style way to teach, share, and model virtues through poems, songs, stories, and activities. The stories, broken down into brief chapters with illustrations, are based on a family yearning for quality TV programs, movies, and activities. The entire book builds on the premise that people truly want to live better lives, and make the world better in the process.

The poems throughout the book have various virtues that are illuminated in a positive way.  I particularly like that some of the poems talk about “real” life issues, such as heartbreak, sickness, and aging. Ms. Angelina is able to take hard realty and make it bearable for the sufferer, young or old.

I tested out one of the poems on my small class, reading them the poem “I Am Brave,” found on page 7.  After reading the poem, we discussed the meaning of the poem, using examples from our own lives to make connections.  The boys were able to recognize and learn that bravery is not just about soldiers at battle; rather, bravery is about facing the little battles in daily life with courage.  They really connected with learning experiences taken for granted, such as learning to walk and learning to talk.  It was easy to put falling down into perspective when thinking of a baby learning to walk.

I would recommend “Virtuepops Adventures in Virtueland” for anyone looking to use a fairytale setting to teach and model virtues valued throughout the world.  I plan to continue to integrate Ms. Angelina’s poems and stories in my classes.

Virtuepops Adventures in Virtueland
Frances Angelina
AuthorHouse (2010)
ISBN 9781452069265
Reviewed by Christine Watson for Reader Views (5/11)

The Whole Youth Worker: Advice on Professional, Personal, and Physical Wellness from the Trenches, 2nd Ed.

“The Whole Youth Worker” is filled with practical pointers for the potential or practicing youth worker: professional or lay, paid or volunteer. Jay Tucker covers the entire spectrum of advice from personal and physical wellness and professional conduct, to dealing with difficulty, balancing family while creating a clear vision of ministry.

In his holistic approach, Tucker considers not only the ministry aspect of worship, teaching, and fellowship but includes the importance of personally living a Christ-honoring life. Jay notes that the job description of the youth worker includes being spiritual advisor, parent, friend, and therapist, a 24/7 type job.

The chapter titled “Lock-in 101” presents the pros and cons of sponsoring a lock-in event. The chapter includes unique ideas for games, activities and programming with a sample 12-hour lock-in plan. Another important chapter deals with “Senioritus” and the symptoms that accompany this transitional year prior to high school graduation.

Tucker maintains that success and cutting edge ministry differs among churches and generations. He discusses looking at traditional programming in light of changes in contemporary, culture, time constraints on students, and family lifestyles. He also encourages taking a realistic look at teen relationships within the youth group, the problems that arise when good kids make bad choices, and the importance of creating a parent-friendly ministry. He includes some keys for dealing with criticism, making the most of board meetings, the importance of creating friendships, and communicating with the congregation.

The author counsels the reader on the importance of staying healthy through diet and exercise as an important element to effective worship and ministry. He talks about health and diet. I found his menus and nutritional comparisons of fast foods informational, interesting, and helpful.

Jay looks at questions about ethics for the Youth Worker in light of both personal and professional standards. He talks about the “call to youth ministry,” the reality of the possibility of unexpected job change, and the interview process.

I enjoyed the format of the book, the organization of the material as well as Jay’s practical approach and realistic analysis of youth ministry today. This second edition of “The Whole Youth Worker” has been updated and includes an additional five chapters offering up to date “advice on professional, personal, and physical wellness from the trenches.”

This book contains highly practical advice. “The Whole Youth Worker, 2nd Edition” should be read and on the resource shelf of every youth worker, professional or lay, new or seasoned. This is a resource that should be on the reading list of every college, seminary, or Bible school for every student considering a Christian Education major, or considering a career in youth ministry.

The Whole Youth Worker: Advice on Professional, Personal, and Physical Wellness from the Trenches, 2nd Ed.
Jay Tucker
Loving Healing Press (2011)
ISBN 9781615990788
Reviewed by Richard R. Blake for Reader Views (4/11)

The Boy Who Conquered Everest: The Jordan Romero Story

“The Boy Who Conquered Everest: The Jordan Romero Story” by Katherine Blanc and Jordan Romero is the story of Jordan Romero, the thirteen-year-old Californian who made it to the top of Mount Everest in May 2010.  When nine-year-old Jordan first laid eyes on a mural at his school that showed all of the “Seven Summits,” the tallest mountains in the world, he knew exactly what he wanted to do.  He wanted to climb Mt. Everest.  But he would have to train hard and get permission from several of the countries in which the mountains resided and get enough money to do it.
 
After a lot of very hard work and intense training, Jordan was finally ready to take on the Seven Summits.  He started with Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania, Africa.  After three tiring days he made it to the peak of the mountain.  He had climbed his first of the Seven.  After Mt. Kosciuszco, Elbrus, Carstensz Pyramid, Aconcagua, and Mt. McKinley, Jordan was finally ready for Everest.  This would be his greatest challenge.  Could he make it?   
 
I would recommend this book to people who like true adventure stories.  The book was very short and could probably be read in about twenty minutes.  The book wasn’t written like a normal book, it was more of a scrap book.  It had lots of pictures and little notes that would make the book switch from third person to first person.  “The Boy Who Conquered Everest: The Jordan Romero Story” was very fun to read. 

The Boy Who Conquered Everest: The Jordan Romero Story
Katherine Blanc with Jordan Romero
Balboa Press (2010) - Reviewer
ISBN 9781401931179
Reviewed by Ben Weldon (age 14) for Reader Views (1/11)