Saturday, June 24, 2017

The Call to Search Everywhen, by Chess Desalls, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Calla is caught off guard when she’s unexpectedly knocked to the ground in an incident she can’t quite explain, even though she was there when it happened.  Equally as puzzling is the fact she seems to have agreed to dinner with a man who was there to help her after her fall, since she’s recently sworn off people in general.  But when the two are sitting together at dinner, things really start to get strange.  Valcas, her ‘date’, tells her to ‘RUN!” and run she does, and in short order the two are transported to an alternate time.  Thus, begins The Call to Search Everywhen series by Chess Desalls, an entirely gripping and utterly fascinating series of books.  Each book builds upon another with mind-bending layers and a back-and-forth-through-time sort of continuum.  With well-developed characters and a series of plots that keep readers coming back for more, The Call to Everywhen series is entirely addictive.  As the story progresses past (and simultaneously future) events come together to make this imaginative series of books a sure favorite with fans of YA and fantasy fiction.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Friday, June 23, 2017

Beauty & the Beast, reimagined by Rebecca Hammond Yager, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Many of us are familiar with the Disney adaptation of Beauty and the Beast.  Some have even read Jeanne-Marie Leprince de Beaumont’s 1756 version of the tale, but few are aware of the original title which dates back to 1740.  It is this version, in part, which inspired author Rebecca Hammond Yager to pen Beauty & the Beast, reimagined.  Some elements remain the same, as in the familiar story we all know and love, but this interpretation brings a fresh perspective and far greater depth than any of its predecessors.


Yager’s love of the written word is apparent throughout this captivating novel.  Those who yearn for poignant prose and vibrant imagery will no doubt delight in Yager's brilliant representation of this timeless classic.  Discerning audiences are sure to savor each delicious passage of this rendition of Beauty & the Beast.  Recommended for home and school libraries, Beauty & the Beast, reimagined by Rebecca Hammond Yager has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Terror in Ypsilanti, by Gregory Fournier, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



There’s nothing pretty about murder, and Gregory Fournier’s Terror in Ypsilanti is a testament to that fact.  A compilation of first-hand reports of the moments leading up to and following the gruesome deaths of Michigan co-eds, this book follows John Collins, the convicted mass murderer of Michigan, and explains the evidence leading to his arrest and subsequent conviction.

Extensive research has culminated in this ultimate reference guide for information on John Collins and the Ypsilanti murders. Told in narrative, each incident is detailed, including descriptions of the victims, crime scenes, witnesses, etc.  Each of the cases were quite complex, but Fournier presents the facts concisely and objectively.  Riddled with graphic detail, this book is not for the faint of heart. Regardless, for anyone wanting specific information on the Ypsilanti murders, or as a general case study, this book is an excellent resource.


To this day, John Collins maintains his innocence. Multiple interviews and witness reports are presented showing both sides of the case. After reading the book the reader is free to draw their own conclusion.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

The Seasons of a Giant, by Pamela Hartley, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Something's been picking off the cattle on Izzy's family farm.  They've lost one cow every full-moon for some time now.  But when Izzy tries to confront her parents about a beast in the woods, they just shoo her off, suggesting it's only her imagination.  Then one night she overhears them talking, and their hushed whispers confirm her suspicions.  There's a really big something lurking in the oaks just beyond their house and someone needs to take action before they lose their farm.  That very night Izzy sees a monster, up close and personal, peering into her bedroom window.  So, she sneaks out to get a better look at the elusive beast.

Pamela Hartley's The Seasons of a Giant is a delightfully imaginative tale that will entertain and inspire young audiences.  Izzy is a kind-hearted and brave protaganist who makes a great role model for youngsters.  When she befriends the giant her loyalty will be challenged. A unique plot twist keeps readers guessing right up to the suspenseful finish. Recommended for home and school libraries, The Seasons of a Giant earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.



LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Faeborne, by Jenna Elizabeth Johnson, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Following the death of his parents and sister, Brennon assumes the role of guardian for his blind nephew, Rori.  The boy and his uncle, living a solitary existence, both ache for a life that once was.  Brennon harbors guilt over his family’s death, the burden of which haunts him relentlessly.  One day, while on a hunting expedition, he hits a deer, only to discover it is actually a changling.  The deer morphs into a beautiful young woman, named Seren, and he offers to give her shelter over the winter to allow time for her to regain her strength.

As the story unfolds we are introduced to a skillfully layered tale of fantasy fiction.  In what ultimately becomes a wonderful love story, Seren introduces a beauty and light into Brennon’s formerly dark and somber world.  Author Jenna Elizabeth Johnson’s Faeborne is part of the Otherworld series, but reads well as a stand-alone.  This book earns our recommendation and has received the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

The Hidden City of Chelldrah-ham, by Stephan von Clinkerhoffen, has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.



In a land of great riches, with inhabitants who live to be centuries old, lives a boy, Stig.  Stig is quite good at inventing tools and gadgets with the use of clockwork mechanisms.  One fateful day though, his inventive tinkering leads him to a life-altering discovery.  While taking a test-run in his new flying machine, he experiences a crash-landing.  His accident, however, may prove to be a blessing in disguise as he soon learns his beloved city of Chelldrah-ham is in danger.  But returning home to forewarn the people of Chelldrah-ham proves to be a challenge far greater than he could ever have imagined.  Stig becomes embroiled in a sequence of riveting events all of which make for an engaging series of fantasy fiction for young readers.

Each of the three books in this magical collection are full of wonder and imagination with delightfully multi-faceted characters and a plot which keeps readers enthralled throughout this dynamic series.  With a background in engineering and art, author Stephan von Clinkerhoffen lends a unique perspective to this enchanting series which he both wrote and illustrated.  Imaginations will soar from one captivating page to the next as readers indulge in this fanciful set of books.  The Hidden City of Chelldrah-ham fantasy fiction series is highly recommended for home and school libraries and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Secrets of the Home Wood: The Sacrifice, by Julie Whitley, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval


Following an altercation with his father, Jonathon’s mom has left home, saying she’d return in a few days.  But later, hearing his dad engage in a heated phone call, Jonathon can’t help but wonder if there’s more to what’s going on.  Then one morning after seeing his father head toward the Home Wood, a patch of forest behind his grandfather’s farm that’s shrouded in mystery, he follows his dad.  All his life Jonathon has heard talk, hushed whispers of a family secret kept hidden for years.  So, the tension is nearly palpable when Jonathan sees his dad sitting near a large tree in the forbidden woods and then, suddenly, he disappears.

Secrets of the Home Wood: The Sacrifice, by Julie Whitley, is a spectacularly unique fantasy fiction novel that grips readers from the opening page clear through to the end.  With well-developed characters, a complex and exciting plot, and loads of suspense and drama, Secrets of the Home Wood is a riveting novel that is Recommended for home and school libraries.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Thursday, June 22, 2017

Eye of Charybdis, by Steve Wilson, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Marine Corps Captain Michael Neill and his team are on a quest to find answers in the mysterious case of a commercial airliner which went down with all its passengers still on board.  Meanwhile, in a possible related mission, they set out to find a tactical aerial weapon believed to be hidden off the coast of Russia.  Their goal is to covertly seek and destroy this enigmatic vessel.  Working together with a highly sophisticated team of men and women, united in their efforts to carry out this clandestine mission, they soon find themselves at the mercy of other team players in an internationally driven game of politics.  Neill relies on personal experience, the skill and wisdom of his team-members, and ultimately that of his faith.


Author Steve Wilson is a fluid and articulate storyteller whose background in military matters contributes to his ability to paint vivid pictures with scenes that spring to life.  He seems to possess an innate ability to dummy things down just enough that even the most non-technical person can still understand and enjoy each thrilling, fast-paced moment of this novel.  Wilson’s Eye of Charybdis is highly recommended and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Hooked, by Allen Wolf, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval


Because of Shawn's autism, he misses social cues most people would pick up on.  He's highly functioning and has a job creating algorithms at a dating service.  Living at home with his mother, he realizes she won't always be there for him and he dreams of finding the right girl with whom he might someday settle down.  He's gone on countless dates, putting his company's service to the test.  Only his tendencies to blurt out awkward comments doesn't bode well for any chances beyond the first date.  One night he attends a work party and is thrilled when a beautiful young girl invites him to leave with her.  Shawn is instantly smitten, only what he fails to understand is that the lovely Violet is actually a prostitute.  


Hooked, by Allen Wolf, is a wonderfully comedic and light-hearted read.  This book could easily be made into a movie, which is no surprise given that the author is also a film-maker.  Like a cross between Being There (the 1979 film with Peter Sellers) and Pretty Woman (the 1990 film with Julia Roberts), Hooked is just plain fun.  This feel-good read steers clear of any inappropriate sex scenes, and in fact has an entirely unexpected and refreshing hint of faith thrown into the mix.  Replete with comedy, action, drama and suspense, Hooked earns our recommendation and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Wednesday, June 21, 2017

Dream Butterflies, by P.M. Kelly, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Princess Alysia is spoiled beyond comprehension.  Whatever whim, whatever folly she wishes for, it is granted to her.  But alas, nothing is ever enough to satisfy the over-indulged royal who becomes quite easily bored.  One day, through a chance encounter, she learns that none of the girls in the kingdom have dreams, including herself.  Prior to this revelation Alysia had never pondered the act of dreaming, nor had she even realized that she too may have been missing out on such an experience.  But of course, now realizing her woeful state of deprivation, she demands that she must have dreams for herself immediately!  Post-haste Princess Alysia seeks assistance from her entourage of royal aides in search of a cure for her dreamless nights.  When finally, a solution is offered, Alysia is not entirely pleased with the proposed plan of action.  She is informed that with the assistance of dream butterflies she will be able to experience dreams.  But she must release the butterflies every day, allowing them to be shared with the other girls in the kingdom.  Alysia soon comes to learn a valuable lesson which changes her demeanor, along with her dreamless nights, once and for all.


Author P.M. Kelly’s delightfully enchanting Dream Butterflies will inspire young audiences to show kindness and compassion towards others.  The overall message is quite powerful in its simplicity; that happiness comes from within and can only thrive when shared with others.  Recommended for home and school libraries, and above all for bed-time reading, this book has earned our Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Black Lightning, by K.S. Jones, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Ten year old Samuel’s father disappeared years ago, and now his mother has passed away.  With no one to care for him and no place to call home his aunt vies to adopt him for all the wrong reasons. Samuel’s prayers are answered though when his mother’s will puts an end to that notion.  Now he’s living with his Grandfather.  Still grieving, and experiencing feelings of abandonment and insecurity, he dreams his father will someday return for him.  His Grandpa Tate’s interaction with the Apache natives leads him to learn of the legend of black lightning.  Samuel and his friend make a grand discovery and together they rebel against the rules and face possible death in the Last Land.  A talisman given to him by his father becomes a critical element for his survival.

Fantasy combines with tribal lore to offer an exciting spin on an entirely compelling story which will entice young readers.  Author K.S. Jones weaves an enchanting tale of lore and legend combined with a sci-fi element that will enthrall young audiences.  With well-developed characters and a magical component, Samuel’s journey is one that will not soon be forgotten by youngsters who enjoy reading fantasy or science fiction books.  Recommended for home and school libraries, Black Lighting has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Bombs Bursting in Air, by Lisa McCombs, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Americka is a typical teenage girl.  She loves hanging out with her dad, even if that means watching war movies with him at the theater.  But she can only take so much of the drawn-out battle scenes.  So one day, towards the end of a movie, she sneaks away to the ladies' room.  While there she meets a gal close to her age who is intent on escaping the chick-flick her sister begged her to see.  The two learn they have lots in common, and after an extended period of side-splitting laughter they discover, to their horror, that during their time in the restroom the theater has been the target of a terrorist attack.  

Author Lisa McComb’s Bombs Bursting in Air is a powerful depiction of the inherent struggles endured by those left to pick up the pieces following a senseless act of terror.  McComb addresses the physical and emotional effects of PTSD including the  pain, anger and frustration experienced by those left behind following the tragic loss of lives.  As Americka works through her journey of healing, both physically and emotionally, she comes to seek answers from God as she discovers a peace she never thought possible. Wonderfully penned, this emotionally-charged book is highly recommended and earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Tuesday, June 20, 2017

Pack-N-Go Girls Adventure series, by Lisa Travis and Janelle Diller, earn the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



Pack-N-Go Girls Adventure series for young readers is an outstanding collection of books which instill a sense of curiosity and a fascination with travel and adventure for a youth audience.  Authors Lisa Travis and Janelle Diller work in tandem to breathe life into this highly engaging and cunningly educational series.  Each book within the collection includes a mind-tickling mystery which takes place somewhere outside the United States.  As clues to the mystery unfold, readers are introduced to the unique sights, sounds, tastes and customs of the country in which the story takes place.  Intended for girls aged six through nine years, each book within the series is color-coded by country.  Yellow tabbed books take place in Brazil, Green books take place in Mexico, and so on.  Books are numbered sequentially for a story which progresses from one to the next.  Well written and enhanced with expressive illustrations, girls are sure to love this exciting literary offering which is recommended for home and school libraries.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

Monday, June 19, 2017

10 Little Monsters Visit New York City, by Jess Smart Smiley, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval



10 Little Monsters Visit New York City is a wonderfully entertaining and endearing children's picture book. With whimsical monsters, each one unlike the other, this book is one that kids will want to read again and again. Told in rhyme, children will anticipate the departure of each monster one by one until the final monster remains. Fun tidbits about New York City are interspersed throughout the book making this a fun and educational read.


Author Jess Smart Smiley's 10 Little Monsters Visit New York City is recommended for home and school libraries and has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.

LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org

5 Simple Questions to Reclaim Your Happiness, by Jacqui Letran, earns the Literary Classics Seal of Approval




Jacqui Letran's 5 Simple Questions to Reclaim Your Happiness, Book 1 of 3 from the Words of Wisdom for Teens Series, is an exceptional self-help book.  This book is full of wise counsel which can benefit audiences of any age or gender.  Valuable insight and unique perspectives allow readers to approach their concerns from a profound new angle in an effort to resolve issues and pave the way for a happier and more fulfilling life.  Included within the book are lined rule pages intended for jotting down feelings and assessing the deeper meaning behind unresolved issues, affording readers the opportunity to put life-changing steps into action. 

Multi-award-winning author Jacqui Letran has a way with words and speaks to teen audiences in a compassionate and compelling manner.  5 Simple Questions to Reclaim Your Happiness helps broaden an understanding of the human mind to harness one's happiness.  By helping readers break down barriers and channel their focus she helps enable them to find healthier ways of addressing the issues they've let come between them and their potential for true happiness.  Recommended for home and school libraries and for use in clinical settings, this book has earned the Literary Classics Seal of Approval.


LITERARY CLASSICS Book Awards & Reviews International Book Awards • Top Honors Youth Book Awards • Seal of Approval http://www.clcawards.org
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