As a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, this gave me an opportunity to re-read this series, and bring my review to Goodreads.
This isCatching up…
As a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, this gave me an opportunity to re-read this series, and bring my review to Goodreads.
This is the second book in the Union Street Bakery series. It is best if you read the first book before reading this one. My review of book #1 is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show...
In this sequel, readers will find Daisy running the Union Street Bakery so that her father can finally retire. Her sisters are happily involved in the renovation when an old recipe box is discovered behind one of the walls.
So, what will these old recipes bring to the bakery? What is the mystery of Jenna who wrote the recipes? Why isn’t Daisy feeling well? Why is she dreaming about Jenna?
Are we having more ghost visions again?
Will Daisy finally find her happily-ever-after?
With interesting, amplified and fully developed characters, readers should find themselves satisfied with this easy-to-read, comforting sequel....more
As a donation to my Little Free Library Shed it was such a treat when both Book #1 and #2 were dropped off for me to re-read, so that I coCatching up…
As a donation to my Little Free Library Shed it was such a treat when both Book #1 and #2 were dropped off for me to re-read, so that I could bring my reviews to Goodreads.
How does one describe this story? Is it a ghost story? Or a book about finding oneself? Or, a story about connecting dreams to reality? Or a story about family, love and life?
Or, maybe it is about a run-down-business that deserves a second chance of life, too?
When Daisy finds herself moving back home and living in the attic above, The Union Street Bakery, her family’s business, little did she realize that this may be what she really needed to recover from her disappointments of losing her job and boyfriend. Even though it seemed like starting over felt like going backwards (home again). Something about being home was going to open doors in a whole new different way, including introducing her to a past she didn’t realize existed.
And, even though this story will give readers a lot of back story into Daisy’s beginnings (how she was adopted), it will also give readers a taste of history, mystery, and…maybe a bit of haunting, too that leads to book #2, “Sweet Expectations,” which my review is here: https://www.goodreads.com/review/show.......more
I remember how much I enjoyed this author’s book, “The Coincidence of Coconut Cake,” so much so I asked my husband if he would be willing Catching up…
I remember how much I enjoyed this author’s book, “The Coincidence of Coconut Cake,” so much so I asked my husband if he would be willing to make her actual recipe coconut cake. He did. After all, he is the baker in our family. And, it actually was very good.
So, when I received this book as a donation to my Little Free Library Shed, I was hopeful that maybe this one may also be a delicious addition. Of course, it did have recipes, Anniversary pie (lemon), lemon syrup and whipped cream. ...more
I use to keep all my books. And I had thousands of them. Those were the days it was just me in my little insulated world. Before having a husband or cI use to keep all my books. And I had thousands of them. Those were the days it was just me in my little insulated world. Before having a husband or children. Just me and my books and my cat, Patches. And every time I would move, it would be me and my books and Patches. And the moving would be quite the “heavy” adventure.
After years of hauling books, I began to wonder what I was holding on to with these memories. I had read the books over and over again, or sometimes I was just finished with the book after one reading. Eventually I began to let go. Of my books.
But there were some books I kept. Mostly children’s books because I loved reading them with my grandchildren. And now, I just love looking through them now and again. For whatever reason, children’s books have a way of maintaining a special place, don’t you think?
The other day I received a large donation of children’s books to my Little Free Library Shed and this one was included. I thought, oh how fun it would be to imagine the type of foods that the various characters in Peter Rabbit’s world would love to eat.
And that is really what this book is about, except with recipes included. In this book!
There are buns, and vegetables and cabbage and carrot coleslaw and blackberry pudding and biscuits, and tea-time drinks, and so much more, hitting on all the types of meals that would include…breakfast and lunch and dessert.
What is special about this lovely little book, is that the recipes are laid out so that parents or teachers can easily prepare them with children. Which opens the adventure of reading and cooking with kids!
The other part of what makes this book so accessibly precious is that those that are into The Peter Rabbit stories, can appreciate that the characters are beautifully illustrated in this book, as well.
I would recommend reading a Peter Rabbit character story and then making one of the recipes from this book with the child/ren. It would make for a fun learning and teaching experience.
Reading Level: Age 3 – 7 years – Pre-school – 2nd grade...more
To be honest, I was looking for a light read. And the title appealed to me. Having facilitated a book club for 12 years, this sounded like something tTo be honest, I was looking for a light read. And the title appealed to me. Having facilitated a book club for 12 years, this sounded like something that would be a delightful experience. I wondered if I would meet a group of interesting women who love to read and talk about books.
Well, the theme of the summer book club was secondary in that they read mysteries one summer, old-time science fiction the next and 80s romances, in the last one. It really didn’t play much into the storyline other than what they were reading.
This was really a story about second chances in life and love. And what the women did with it.
And yes, it was a light read with serious issues for the women to overcome and recognize their strength along the way. If this appeals to you, it will be a somewhat satisfying read....more
Jenny is 77. Bernard is 83. They have no children, but they do have “family” that are close to them. Jenny bakes. But there has always been something Jenny is 77. Bernard is 83. They have no children, but they do have “family” that are close to them. Jenny bakes. But there has always been something missing in Jenny’s life that she has never told Bernard about, and so she feels the need to strike out and try something for herself.
“It’s sometimes easy to feel left behind at my age, as if the world has a future and you have no place in it…but I hope to discover that there is meaning and adventure still to be found.”
UPDATE: I should have said this in my original review when I first posted this. But I feel the need to add it now. Books like this make me happy, because...
It is so lovely to see characters of a certain age being showcased in this way! We need more of this.... Moving on to the rest of the review...
And so, she applies to the show British Bakes, the infamous TV show that allows home bakers to compete. If this sounds like the actual ‘The Great British Bake Off Show,’ that has been popularized in Britian and plays throughout the United States and beyond, you are probably right.
This book also shares the grueling audition and baking process involved, before and during, that amateur bakers go through to be a part of the show. Although it is nice to see and experience, too.
But this isn’t the main crux of the story. Jenny has harbored a secret from Bernard throughout their near 60 years of marriage.
Interestingly, for any reader enjoying Jenny’s evolution, the story (both past and present) was easily predictable. It didn’t make it any less easy-to-read or emotional to experience as it played out through the pages. And as expected, it does come to a sweet resolution by the end.
But who wins British Bakes? Might that be a surprise for readers?
This is a charming, thoughtful, heart-felt story about love and loss and letting go and relationships, with a couple of recipes at the end to appreciate....more
I thought I had never read this series, but apparently when this book came after I ordered it from my local library, I realized, I had reaCatching up…
I thought I had never read this series, but apparently when this book came after I ordered it from my local library, I realized, I had read at least this one before.
This is part of the Claws & Paws mystery series.
And…
It also includes recipes for people and pets!
This is the 3rd in the series. It is about a town called Wagtail that features dogs and cats.
Besides…
Having a focus on pet adoption, it also is a cozy that includes murder and mayhem.
Although you can read this as a stand-alone, it probably is best to read them in order so you can get a sense of who the characters are, even if they aren’t always featured in current books, like this one. They are mentioned, and if you haven’t read previous books, you wouldn’t understand their importance to the town or the people completely.
It is a cute story…
With pets to love, eccentric characters and delicious and pet-friendly recipes. Who wouldn’t love to visit an entire town devoted to pets and their persons even if it is just between the pages?...more
You are probably wondering how I was able to read 1125 books this year, right?
Let me explain. It might take a minute.
This is…
My first real year oSo…
You are probably wondering how I was able to read 1125 books this year, right?
Let me explain. It might take a minute.
This is…
My first real year on Goodreads…
Even though I officially joined in 2022. I have been learning how to navigate this site this year. I didn’t realize how much I would enjoy Goodreads until this year, when I decided to become friends with you.
When you asked me to be your friend…
I was so grateful.
And…
When you accepted my friend request, I felt so appreciative.
This experience with you has been so thrilling at so many levels because of you. I always look forward to our shared comments under each other’s reviews.
And…
Your recommendations for books have enhanced my reading experiences immensely.
Also…
I have met some amazing authors, been offered some incredible books to read, and made some lifelong friends through this community.
So…
Thank you for accepting me into your reading world.
This year… as of December 31 I have read and re-visited 363,921 pages, 1125 books.
The shortest book I read was 16 pages – Frog and Toad Alone by Arnold Lobel. The longest book I read was 1,376 pages – Les Miserables by Victor Hugo. It says that my average rating was 3.8, although it would be nice if the rating system here on Goodreads actually showed more than a 1-5 rating.
When I first started the reading challenge, I put in that I was only going to read 200 books.
But…
I surpassed that number rather quickly…
And…
I was told by one of my friends that I needed to up that number…
So…
I did, to 850.
Which…
I obviously surpassed again.
But…
I need to be clear that the reason that this number of books is so high is because I am catching up with all the books, I have read over the past several years. All I am trying to do is to get all those past books I have already read (by revisiting them) and then providing written reviews for Goodreads.
And…
At the same time be able to read current books…
And…
Review them, too.
I know, quite the workload, right?
This may take a while. At some point, I may give up on those past books, who knows!
I am not going to list the books I have read (here), I encourage you to go to my page, if you are interested to check them out. I am rather an eclectic reader. I will read anything and everything…from children’s books, to YA novels, to mysteries, to historical fiction to magical realism to non-fiction to memoirs and more.
And…
I also prefer print books. I like the feel of a book in my hands. I am old-fashioned that way.
Mostly…
I want to thank you. Thank you for making this experience so meaningful. I look forward to reading and sharing 2024 with you.
Because…
You make this fun. I love discussing books with you. Without you…why write reviews?...more
This story is set in a South African town that features a columnist who serves up mouthwatering dishes while solving murder mysteries.
AndCatching up…
This story is set in a South African town that features a columnist who serves up mouthwatering dishes while solving murder mysteries.
And…
The recipes are right here in this book to enjoy and savor!
Interestingly enough, this book, has also been turned into a series on Acorn TV.
This is the first book in the Tannie Maria mystery series. Tannie Maria, the heroine, who writes a cooking column for the local newspaper is a 50-something resident of the fictional town of Eden.
The story…
Offers a mix of human drama, beautiful landscapes, yummy dishes threaded with domestic abuse, racial inequality and the legacies of apartheid.
The unfolding of the relationships between the people of different races, and a wide variety of “walks of life” makes this a very interesting read.
With murders and racial undertones, the story still provides a sense of warmth and subtle humor.
And…
We appreciate the quiet grounded character of Tannie Maria, with her empathetic, practical advice and recipes, in response to the letters she receives.
Which…
Makes this story, engaging, quirky and fun....more
More from the world of Sherlock Holmes. Which alludes to “recently” discovered letters and diary entries in an abandoned safety deposit box.
Of courseMore from the world of Sherlock Holmes. Which alludes to “recently” discovered letters and diary entries in an abandoned safety deposit box.
Of course…
That is all the imagination of the author, in a way that allows her to provide insights from the likes of beloved characters we have come to know and love from the original Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.
And…
These characters, Irene Adler, Solicitor Henry Wiggins, Inspector Lestrade, Stanley Hopkins, A. Davenport Lomax and famed housekeeper, Martha Hudson, have a lot to share.
Through…
Short story and novella format.
Which…
Makes this book a creative reading adventure for Sherlockians.
Relaxed cozy mystery that shouldn’t be read as a stand-alone.
If…
You want a better understanding of who all the characters are – back stor Catching up…
Relaxed cozy mystery that shouldn’t be read as a stand-alone.
If…
You want a better understanding of who all the characters are – back stories, and such.
Because…
If you start here, it might be difficult to bond with the characters.
So…
Having said that, this was a donation to my Little Free Library Shed. So, I ventured in here, not knowing everything that would make me feel connected to the continuing characters.
Thus…
It was a pleasant cozy with a pregnant, clever amateur sleuth, in a small town with a murder and many suspects.
It may have taken to the end to figure out the culprit, but, was this story winning enough to make me want to go the beginning of the series to connect better with the characters?
Let’s just say…
If there is another donation to my Little Free Library Shed, maybe, I’ll read it.
But…
The series is not at the top of my list.
Recipe for a cranberry oatmeal sandwich cookie at the end. Sounds yummy! ...more
I would like to share that this is one of six books that I won as part of the Little Free Library organization partnership with Simon & Schuster food-I would like to share that this is one of six books that I won as part of the Little Free Library organization partnership with Simon & Schuster food-themed picture book bundle.
I am excited to include this beautifully illustrated book in my Little Free Library Shed and appreciate this gift to our neighborhood.
Let’s talk Empanadas.
They are…
A Spanish or Latin-American pastry turnover filled with savory ingredients that are either baked or fried.
And…
They obviously play an important part in this story.
It isn’t only a story about passing down food traditions, it’s a story about community.
And…
How a community comes together to support each other.
And…
Don’t read this book with your kids when you are hungry...
Unless you already have empanadas cooked and next to you, ready to eat when you are finished reading the book together!
Recipe available at the end which is easy to follow and makes a wonderful activity to do with young child(ren.)
Interest age level 4-8 years – Pre-school – grade 3...more
What I appreciate about these creatively illustrated picture books, is that they teach. They provide an opportunity to introduce kids/families to foodWhat I appreciate about these creatively illustrated picture books, is that they teach. They provide an opportunity to introduce kids/families to foods that might be different than what they would normally eat!
And…
That is the beauty of diversity!
What is daal?
Dried and often split legumes, especially lentils or peas. It can also be a sauce or dish made from cooked lentils and spices, common in South Asian cuisine.
And…
Daal is also considered a vegetarian stew.
The author shares that it is a staple food in South Asia, including Pakistan, where the character Bilal’s grandparents grew up.
In this story, Bilal introduces his friends to daal and shows them how it feels and tastes, and the ways of cooking it.
At first…
It feels foreign to his friends.
But…
As they wait and play…
They come to appreciate a home-cooked meal…
Especially having the experience of being a part of making it.
Community. Friendship. Cooking. New-found tastes.
There is also a recipe at the back of the book which provides a wonderful experience for parents and kids to participate together in.
Interest Level: Kindergarten – 3rd grade
I would like to share that this is one of six books that I won as part of the Little Free Library organization partnership with Simon & Schuster food-themed picture book bundle.
I am excited to include this beautifully illustrated book in my Little Free Library Shed and appreciate this gift to our neighborhood....more
In some traditions, it is important to follow in their father’s footsteps. That is why to Hiro, he wants to learn how to make ramen like his father.
S In some traditions, it is important to follow in their father’s footsteps. That is why to Hiro, he wants to learn how to make ramen like his father.
So…
He is determined to learn.
And…
He really tries.
And realizes it is not easy.
But…
That doesn’t stop him from trying.
This is a story of valuing tradition, appreciating food, family, and learning what is important in life.
And…
Not giving up.
Interest levels: Pre-school to 3rd grade – Ages 4 – 8 years
There is also a recipe at the back of the book and kitchen rules which are beneficial for learning how to be prepared before cooking.
I would like to share that this is one of six books that I won as part of the Little Free Library organization partnership with Simon & Schuster food-themed picture book bundle.
I am excited to include this beautifully illustrated book in my Little Free Library Shed and appreciate this gift to our neighborhood ...more
What I love about books is what great teachers they are.
And this one, is no different.
What is a bao?
For beginners, it is pronounced – “bow.”
The autWhat I love about books is what great teachers they are.
And this one, is no different.
What is a bao?
For beginners, it is pronounced – “bow.”
The author grew up in a Mandarin-speaking family.
So…
Bao was typically referred to as Baozi.
And…
Bao for short. A type of yeast-leavened filled bun in various Chinese cuisines. Soft, fluffy dough that is steamed with various fillings inside.
Are you getting hungry just thinking about it?
Yum.
This is the story of Amy.
And…
Amy can do many things…
But…
What she can’t do is make bao.
But then…
She decides she wants to end this by learning how.
So…
Her learning lessons begin.
And…
Guess what happens?
You don’t think I am going to give away spoilers, do you?
A wonderful recipe is provided at the end of the story for families and children to make perfect bao, too.
Interest levels: Kindergarten – Grade 2
I would like to share that this is one of six books that I won as part of the Little Free Library organization partnership with Simon & Schuster food-themed picture book bundle.
I am excited to include this beautifully illustrated book in my Little Free Library Shed and appreciate this gift to our neighborhood. ...more
In this gorgeously illustrated book, readers are introduced to Platanos.
And…
Love.
Platanos are not just bananas to this family. They are a scrumptious In this gorgeously illustrated book, readers are introduced to Platanos.
And…
Love.
Platanos are not just bananas to this family. They are a scrumptious sweet, ripe plantain fried to perfection which can be served as an appetizer or side dish for any meal.
But…
Most importantly the food represents love.
And…
In this story…
It is all about family and traditions and community and love.
And…
This is what the little girl in the story learns from her Abuela (grandmother).
The story also provides a glossary of Spanish/English terms and a recipe that allows families and children to participate in creating their own Platanos dishes, too.
Interest Level: Age 4-8 years – Pre-school – 3rd Grade
I would like to share that this is one of six books that I won as part of the Little Free Library organization partnership with Simon & Schuster food-themed picture book bundle.
I am excited to include this beautifully illustrated book in my Little Free Library Shed and appreciate this gift to our neighborhood....more
Tempest Raj returns, a little more settled in to her position helping her dad in his business at the Secret Staircase Construction company.
And…
They have just finished the job for their client Lavinia Kingsley who wants to perform a séance of her new room with sliding bookcases, trick tables and hidden reading nooks that is now her new book club room.
You see…
It use to be her husband’s writing room. (He was a famous author.)
But now…
This séance will get rid of her soon-to-be ex-husband Corbin Colt, who although not dead, will be cleansed from her life through this circle.
But…
What happens when his dead body actually appears?
And then…
Tempest’s grandfather Ash is accused of his murder?
How will Tempest prove her grandfather didn’t do it?
And…
Where are Corbin Colt’s notes (since he was a writer working on a final manuscript about Tempest’s Aunt’s murder and her mother’s disappearance)?
In typical Agatha Christie fashion, with many mis-directions along the way, many suspects emerge.
Will Tempest finally get it right, or will her grandfather be wrongfully convicted?
A storyline that seems to continue, is the secret history and past of the Raj family itself. In some ways, it detours from the case, at hand, until the last third of the book when it gets back on track to working on solving the murder.
Still…
There is much whimsy to the hidden rooms and secret staircases within the houses.
Which means…
I am still interested in this series and hoping that at some point they will resolve the family case, so we can move on from it....more
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