books.

Cookbook Review: 30-Min. Low-FODMAP Cookbook

Posted by

0

The 30-Minute Low-FODMAP Cookbook by Colleen Francioli
The 30-Minute Low-FODMAP Cookbook: 101 Delicious Recipes to Soothe IBS and Other Digestive Disorders
by Colleen Francioli

5 out of 5 stars


This cookbook begins with an introduction section that explains what FODMAPs are- specific types of carbs, sugars, and fibers that can trigger IBS symptoms. Some foods are naturally low in these types of carbs, and are easier on the gut, leading to better digestion and overall health. There is a lengthy list of types of foods to avoid and foods to eat more often. You can still eat small portions of FODMAP foods, and gradually reintroduce them into your diet as your gut heals. I really love the balanced diet portrayed in this health plan. There are pantry lists and lists of ingredients to watch out for on food labels.

Then the recipes are divided into sections for Smoothies, Breakfast, Sides and Salads, Meatless Mains, Fish and Seafood, Poultry and Meat, Snacks and Desserts, and Broths and Sauces. Each recipe has nutritional labels, and labels to say whether it is dairy-free, vegetarian, nut-free, vegan, one pot, or a quick recipe. Continue reading →

Picture Book Review: Bo the Brave

Posted by

0

Bo the Brave by Bethan Woollvin
Bo the Brave
by Bethan Woollvin

5 out of 5 stars


Bo’s brothers go out monster hunting, and won’t let her come along. She decides to do some monster hunting by herself, and ends up befriending some creatures along the way.

This book is so cute! Bo is truly fearless and kind and smart, and I loved her sweet character. The story is interesting and funny, with a repetitive plot that is perfect for little readers. Children love repetition and this book has just the right balance in the writing.

The illustrations are captivating! The contrasting colors really focus the attention on key characters and items in the artwork, and the rest of the background is in black and white. It’s beautifully done, and I love the art style.

The messages of kindness and self-reliance are wonderful, and teach children a little lesson in a fun way. The whole book is perfection, and I enjoyed it so much!

Disclaimer: I received an ecopy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for a free and honest review.

Non Fiction Review: Real Chemistry Experiments

Posted by

0

Real Chemistry Experiments by Edward P. Zovinka PhD
Real Chemistry Experiments: 40 Exciting STEAM Activities for Kids
by Edward P. Zovinka PhD

4 out of 5 stars

This one is for the problem-solvers, the explorers, and those with curious minds! This book begins with an introduction to the different areas of chemistry, and the types of chemists who study biochemistry, organic chemistry, inorganic chemistry, even green chemistry which studies how to reduce waste.

The experiments are divided into chapters by Matter, Gases, Chemical Reactions, and Polymers. Although the book talks about atoms, protons, density, noble gases, air pressure, and other scientific terms, a child doesn’t have to understand the complexities of the science in order to do the experiments and have fun! Continue reading →

Non Fiction Review: The Migraine Diet

Posted by

0

The Migraine Diet by Denise Potter
The Migraine Diet: A Ketogenic Meal Plan for Headache Relief
by Denise Potter

5 out of 5 stars

This cookbook begins with a section about how food can heal the body, and what causes migraines. It explains how a ketogenic diet might help migraines by cutting out carbs. Other therapies and medications are also mentioned to possibly be used alongside the ketogenic diet as a way to treat and prevent migraines. The reader is encouraged to keep a migraine diary and keep a record of their migraines as a way to determine the type, length, and stressors that impact their migraines.

The second section gives general instructions about what ingredients to buy for the most common recipes, what foods to avoid, and what vitamins to take. Gentle exercise and meditation are also recommended as a way to reduce the stress and emotional upset which can lead to migraines.

There is a weekly meal plan and a shopping list for 4 weeks, as well as a weekly page to keep a migraine diary.

Continue reading →

Non Fiction Review: Horses! A Coloring and Activity Book for Kids

Posted by

0

Horses! by Valerie Deneen
Horses!: A Coloring and Activity Book for Kids
by Valerie Deneen

5 out of 5 stars

Featuring dozens of different horse breeds, this book has mazes, puzzles, word searches, dot-to-dot, and of course, coloring pages. I really liked the variety of activities and the beautiful coloring pages with lovely designs of horses.

I really liked how the information is presented in this book, giving some interesting facts about horses, riding outfits and equipment, and the types of breeds. Each page has an activity or coloring design, and a small text box to the side giving some interesting information. Continue reading →

Non Fiction Review: Healthy Family Cookbook

Posted by

0

The Healthy Family Cookbook by Brittany Poulson MDA RDN CDE
The Healthy Family Cookbook: 100 Fast and Easy Recipes for the Whole Family
by Brittany Poulson MDA RDN CDE

5 out of 5 stars on GoodReads

With simple and quick recipes that the whole family will love, this cookbook makes it easy to eat healthy meals every day! There are simple recipes that have only 5 ingredients, quick recipes with only 15 minutes of prep time, and recipes to cook in one pot.

This book begins with some “Time-Saving Tips” and “Tips for Raising Adventurous Eaters” to get your children involved in choosing and preparing healthy meals, and gives many family-friendly recipes that are simple enough for kids to help with the cooking. Continue reading →

Non Fiction Review: The Mindfulness Journal for Teens

Posted by

0

The Mindfulness Journal for Teens by Jennie Marie Battistin, MA,...
The Mindfulness Journal for Teens: Prompts and Practices to Help You Stay Cool, Calm, and Present
by Jennie Marie Battistin, MA, LMFT

5 out of 5 stars on GoodReads


This beautiful guided journal prompts the reader/writer to answer questions, contemplate quotes about peace and mindfulness, practice meditations, focus on the breath, embrace personal affirmations, and write down their thoughts.

The best thing about this book is the beautiful design and calming colors on each page. It makes me want to open the book and notice every little leaf and fruit design around the edges while I do the meditations.

The prompts begin with a simple noticing of your emotions, your body, and surroundings, and then move into more deep contemplations and journal instructions about your insecurities, your strengths and fears. Continue reading →

Non Fiction Review: Quick and Easy Healthy Cookbook

Posted by

0

The Quick & Easy Healthy Cookbook by Carrie Forrest
The Quick & Easy Healthy Cookbook: 125 Delicious Recipes Ready in 30 Minutes or Less
by Carrie Forrest

5 out of 5 stars on GoodReads


Beginning with a color chart of vegetables and colorful foods, this cookbook encourages guilt-free healthy eating that nourishes your body. The recipes include labels for nut-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, soy-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

There are also recipes that are extra quick and can be made in 20 minutes or less, recipes that are kid-friendly, and recipes that are freezer-friendly to make the most of your leftovers. There is a list of recommended ingredients to keep on hand in the pantry. Continue reading →

Non Fiction Review: Awesome Robotics Projects for Kids

Posted by

0

Awesome Robotics Projects for Kids by Bob Katovich
Awesome Robotics Projects for Kids: 20 Original STEAM Robots and Circuits to Design and Build
by Bob Katovich

5 out of 5 stars on GoodReads

This book begins with a general introduction to robotics answering the question, What is and isn’t considered a robot? There are instructions about using caution and safety while creating the robotic projects, lists of common tools and materials that will be needed, and common places online where parts and supplies can be bought.

The first projects are simple, building a circuit with a battery, and creating a nightlight that looks like a mini robot. Then each chapter is divided by Robots for Entertainment, Robots in Space, Robots on the Job, and Robots in the Operating Room. In these chapters, the reader can build a small magnetic motor, a solar-powered dancing robot, a solar-powered propeller, and a dozen other projects!

Continue reading →