Category: Book Review

Expect a Miracle written by Sandy and David Petrovic gives a comprehensive account of a mother and son’s journey to conquer countless challenges in various stages of David’s life. Diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder/Asperger’s, David’s journey had never been an easy one. It was something that demanded everything he and his family could ever give together with the support of friends, mentors and teachers who all provided the assistance David needed every step of the way.

Parents and educators could learn so much from this book as it gives a very detailed account of the different methods applied to help David develop his full potential.

Written from both the perspective of David and his own mother, the reader gets to see the broad and complete picture of managing life when one needs to face it using a different approach and set of tools. I found the summary of tips/lessons learned at the end of each chapter very helpful, especially for those who take care of their autistic child.

There are so many lessons that can be learned from this book that can be useful even for people who do not suffer from autism. From assisting one’s children in school to dealing with bullying, one can relate and pick up practical advice and wisdom from David’s life.

As David grows in maturity and independence, the reader can also have more insight into his inner growth and strength. It is so humbling to learn from someone who has overcome so many hardships in life and still continues to face so much more, persevering through it all with a strong faith and unwavering hope.

What truly makes David different? What makes him similar to most of us? If you ever need a book to help you see yourself better, it may just be this one. It would help you accept who you are and at the same time, to do everything in your power to develop into a happy and fulfilled person with a deep purpose in life.

We’re all searching for a miracle somehow. Many times, we think that miracle is cheap, something that would magically solve all our problems. If you seek that kind of miracle, you would not find it here. What you can find instead is a miracle that comes from perseverance and love. It is a miracle that urges one to go on despite falling down again and again.

The truest kind of miracle is something that does not only change the situation or the people around you. It is the one that changes you into the kind of person who can turn the darkest parts of one’s life into wonderful rays of light.

Originally published at Reedsy Discovery.

Cory Q Tan’s books have always left me wanting to read more. I’ve always considered them “classics” in the making, and I’m just fortunate enough to be among those who were first able to read them.

His latest book, “A Family Dinner” is no exception. Although the events include elements of fantasy, the story itself is very much grounded in real life. This authenticity gives me a certain feeling of nostalgia, like I’m entering a portal back to my childhood. Reading this story also relaxes me and takes away my stress.

The illustration is superb, I wish I could draw like that! Meanwhile, the story is told in a simple yet very effective way. There are even lessons one can learn here and there told in such a natural and easy manner that makes it all the more memorable. I’m also fascinated that in this story, it is the father that goes in a wonderful adventure!

This is a highly recommended book!

Hey Baby – Deja’s New Adventure by Lucy Sams is a great book to introduce a new member of a family, especially to an older sibling. Sometimes, parents can worry when a new baby arrives. Will he be accepted by his brothers and sisters? Will there be jealousy among them? This book teaches us how such an event could not only be welcome, but fun and meaningful as well. Instead of triggering trouble, the birth of a new baby can trigger excitement, hope and a greater bond of love for the entire family.

Children and parents alike will enjoy reading this colorful book. It is short but very engaging. It leaves a lasting message that can help older children cope with the responsibility of caring for their younger brother or sister. In today’s world where superheroes are celebrated, this story makes us realize what superpowers are truly all about.

Vincent van Gogh Starry Night Dreamer by Alesandra Weekley is a wonderful combination of story and art that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike! Using words that rhyme and attractive illustrations that leave you spellbound, you can’t help but dream a little as you read this book. Great for reading before bedtime! This will be especially appreciated by children who have a passion for painting and the arts. A great inspiration for kids to enhance their talents and pursue their dreams.

Sometimes, it’s the simplest kind of stories that make a lasting mark in our hearts. That’s just what happened when I read “Theodore The Unfortunate Bear” by Cory Q Tan. The story began quite so simply. Soon I found myself laughing like a little child. Later, I found myself caring for Theodore and for the various characters that touched his life. Was he really an unfortunate bear? Had I been a child, this book would have been one of those I’d always remember. It is a work of art not only because of its marvelous illustrations but because of the story itself. In a way that’s all its own, it teaches kids and adults alike what it means to care and to be a true part of a family.