Book Reviews: #Unsung Heroes #Feel-good Historical Fiction #Booksforchildren

On April 16, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews, Books98 Comments

My amount of time to read lately can be equated to the size of a pebble! I’m still working on my ‘Copper’ book while trying to read your wonderful blog posts, so I’m continually searching for more time. If you stumble upon some, even a dash, please let me know. 🙂 I managed to finish two great books though, different genres, but so good! I hope you don’t leave today empty-handed!

Unfold the Stories of Unsung Heroes Part III by Ritish Sharma and Deepak Joshi (https://theblogera.com/blog/)

On the back cover it is written that “Not all heroes are known. Not all battles are seen” and after turning the last page, nothing could be truer. This encouraging book is compiled of ten incredible stories. My emotions stirred, and I was in awe of the heroes with fearless mindsets to help others. These human beings tested their abilities to achieve what might be assumed as impossible.

Each narrative was moving, but a few that stood out were “Chiune Sugihara, The Japanese Schindler” which tells of how one man provided an escape route for thousands of Jewish families during the Nazi regime. “Chen Si, The Guardian of the Bridge” speaks about a man who prevented many hopeless souls from jumping who saw suicide as their only option. “Babar Ali, The Boy Who Built a School” touches on a boy who believed that education should be a right and not a privilege. Lastly, “Dian Fossey, The Woman Who Spoke to Gorillas” tells of how a woman built a life-changing bond between her and gorillas that she found to be gentle and genuinely social.

Joy and sorrow both play a role in every experience – accounts of people who fought against all odds, persevering when moving forward seemed challenging. Sacrifices were required in order to initiate their ideas. These heroes weren’t wealth or fame chasers, and some circumstances were those that we can only imagine. Their accomplishments, tenacity, and passion to their causes demonstrate the goodness in humanity. These stories are life-changing, so I highly recommend this inspiring book.

A Beggar’s Bargain by Jan Sikes (https://jansikes.com/)

I follow the author’s blog, but A Beggar’s Bargain is the first book I’ve read by Jan Sikes. Now I know it won’t be my last. The story is told in post WWII era which depicts not an easy life, but one where simple pleasures are truly enjoyed. Sikes creates strong characters in Layken and Sara Beth. You will grow to love them and root for them. Layken has been discharged from the army and vows to save his family farm in Missouri. He’ll do anything to honor his late parents, but the odds are against him. This heartwarming tale begins with a preposterous deal that he is offered. Times are desperate, so he should accept it or cope with the dying fate of his farm spanning over 200 acres.

The story reminds us to persevere and not give up, to remain hopeful, and to not lose faith. A Beggar’s Bargain touches on what it means to be a family, hard work, and ‘keeping your eye on the ball.’ And family doesn’t necessarily mean by blood.

When I finished the book, my faith in humanity was restored. All readers will resonate with the concept of staying determined while overcoming adversity because everyone endures hard times at some level. A moving historical fiction and feel-good story that I highly recommend.

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And because I don’t post every day, I have to (shamelessly) share a new, amazing review for Cora’s Quest by Ritish Sharma.

5.0 out of 5 stars
Such a sweet and uplifting story
Reviewed in India on April 14, 2025
Verified Purchase

Cora’s Quest is such a lovely little adventure. Lauren Scott has written a story that’s both heartwarming and inspiring. Cora the fawn is so curious and brave that you can’t help but cheer her on as she faces her fears and tries to find her way back to her parents.

The writing has a beautiful flow to it, and it’s perfect for reading out loud with kids. The message about being brave, even when you feel small or scared, is something I think a lot of children (and adults) will connect with. The illustrations by Chris Mendez are full of life and add so much to the story. Knowing a bit about his background makes the artwork even more special.

Overall, this is such a sweet and meaningful book. Definitely recommend it for storytime or as a thoughtful gift.

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Thanks again to Ritish for his fabulous review! I am so grateful and I know Chris is too! Most importantly, it is great to know that Cora’s story is touching many readers. A children’s book, yes, but the message about ‘finding your courage’ is applicable to all ages.

I appreciate your visit and hope you enjoyed the reviews. Also, please don’t forget to place your orders!
I ‘say’ this with a smile. 😊 Have a wonderful day! ❤️

© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com – All rights reserved.
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Available on Amazon, and Barnes & Noble,
but click on the image to purchase your
copy through Amazon. 💜

The benefit of children’s books

On March 14, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Book Reviews68 Comments

On March 7th, Brian from https://writingfromtheheartwithbrian.com/ wrote a post that will bring a smile. He talks about the wonder of children’s books and how they show us what is “right and good in the world, and what is real.” Brian was kind enough to include my book, Cora’s Quest, but because of Copper’s passing, I wasn’t in the mindset to share. My heart still aches, but today is a better day to reblog.

Thanks again, Brian, for including Cora and your amazing review in your inspiring post. I’m so grateful, and I hope the students in your wife’s class love reading about Cora too! 🙏

I’m sharing Brian’s review below, but please click on the blog link to read his full post. Other children’s literature is mentioned that will evoke great memories.

Looking for a little courage

For example, when police investigations into the New Orleans truck attack that killed 15 people and the Tesla Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas dominated the news in January, I found myself reading fellow blogger Lauren Scott’s children’s book Cora’s Quest. (Lauren can be found on her blog, Baydreamer Writes.)

In Scott’s wonderful little book, fawn Cora gets separated on a wooded trail from her ma and pa. When she looks up from investigating a fuzzy caterpillar, her parents are gone. She starts to worry about being in the big forest all alone. Of course it gets scary. The tree branches look like they’re reaching out to grab her. Have you been in the woods in the dark? It can be a scary place. She can feel her tummy rumble and fear “trickle from her nose to her hooves.” I was right there with her.

Despite everything, she stands firm and reminds herself that “My body may be small, but my courage is big.”

When she thinks she can’t bear it anymore, her parents come from behind a bush. Of course, the three kiss and celebrate. They hurry home to feast on apples and acorns. If we ever needed a reminder to be courageous in the world, now is the time. Everyday some new problem comes out of the woodwork and the world seems minutes from calamity. Despite it all, little Cora shows us the way. “My body may be small, but my courage is big.”

What a great reminder. I can’t think of better advice. Yes, you go Cora! Lauren’s writing is touching and the colorful images by her illustrator Chris Mendez jump off the page. It’s perfect for young kids and the young-at-heart like myself. Be sure to check it out.

Don’t judge a book by its cover

And if you don’t know Brian, check out his blog! He’s a wonderful writer who shares his thoughts and experiences in a way that entertains and engages, and usually prompts a giggle!

Thanks for stopping by, and I wish you a wonderful Friday and weekend! ❤️🙏

© Lauren Scott, BaydreamerWrites.com – All rights reserved.
This blog content cannot be used to train AI.

Click on the image to purchase your copy.
Thank you! 🙏

2025 San Francisco Writers Conference Update!

On February 11, 2025 By Lauren Scott, AuthorIn Poetry105 Comments

Dear Friends,

I had a blast at the San Francisco Writers Conference! For my first time attending and on a scale from 1-10, my experience was a 15! I came home with an abundance of information to digest, organize, and implement, and I made some great friends! The conference was held at The Hyatt Regency, which is a beautiful hotel with incredible architecture, right across from the Ferry Building.

What’s funny is I thought I’d have time to read in my room and write in my journal. But the book and journal remained in my suitcase fully ignored, yet unintentionally. Along with attending self-publishing, poetry, and business tracks, I was in the company of amazing women authors either lunching, wine-ing, or enjoying good conversation and laughter over a delicious dinner. I made 3 consultation appointments for pitching another children’s book to meet with an agent, editor, and publisher, and received valuable feedback. Once I do final editing, I was asked to send my manuscript in, which was a boost of encouragement!

By the time I returned to my room each evening, I was exhausted, falling into my comfy king bed and sliding immediately into a much-needed slumber.

I was also thrilled to have my books, Ever So Gently and Cora’s Quest, on display in the onsite bookstore, and to sell a copy of each! By the way, how could I pass up more books to buy? I came home with six! Obviously, I’ll have to interrupt life to read, read, read! 😁

Below are more photos that I hope you enjoy…