A couple days ago, Nicole at Starry Steps, surprised me with her delightful review of Cora’s Quest. But before I lead you to her review, I want to share about her beautiful books:
I loved this poetry collection and gave it 5 glowing stars:
“Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara is the author’s debut poetry collection, but you wouldn’t know it. Reading through this stunning gathering of poems is like strolling through an enchanted forest, which ties into Nicole’s words, “…the magic of nature’s rustle and long dreamy flights of imagination…”
You can read the rest of my review on Amazon and Goodreads or here.
I also just recently finished reading her latest release, The Blues and the Beautiful, which felt like another stroll through an enchanted forest. I’ll share my review along with others before Christmas. Date TBD. 🙂
Both of Nicole’s beautiful books are must reads, so I encourage you to add them to your holiday shopping list! And now, for her delightful review of Cora’s Quest:
“Cora’s Quest” is a sweet story about a baby fawn who loses her way in the woods when she notices a caterpillar and being fascinated by it, she stops to say hello. Suddenly finding herself alone in the forest, Cora has to overcome her feelings of fear without the company of her parents, and find a way to stay calm in order to gather her courage and strength.
This lovely children’s book by Lauren Scott is beautifully illustrated, so little children will be able to enjoy the story being read to them while looking at very cute colorful images of Cora’s little adventure…
Additionally, Nicole shares her fabulous review of Too Much Fun to Be Legal by Nolcha Fox and Barbara Leonhard, which I also recommend! Please visit her blog to read the full reviews of both books. And I invite you to write down these titles on your holiday shopping list, or type them into your cell phone. On Cora’s adventure, she learns a valuable life lesson that will resonate with all ages, even adults! 😊
A huge thanks again to Nicole for her lovely review and big heart in supporting fellow Indie Authors! ❤️🙏
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Thanks for popping in today, and Happy Friday! Wishing you a fabulous weekend too! ❤️🎄
We miss Copper this holiday season, but we’ll find comfort in the photos of him by the tree, wearing a Santa hat, or snoozing by the fire. If you’d like to order a copy, or know someone who would find comfort in this special collection, please click on the link. Thank you. xo
I’ve read some amazing books lately, and though I love writing reviews to support the talented authors, many who I consider friends, the process turns out to be slowly but surely. Well, ‘surely’ has finally arrived! I hope you enjoy this diverse group of books…
Rhyming Dreams by Nicole Sara is the author’s debut poetry collection, but you wouldn’t know it. Reading through this stunning gathering of poems is like strolling through an enchanted forest, which ties into Nicole’s words, “…the magic of nature’s rustle and long dreamy flights of imagination…”
Nicole takes the reader on an uplifting ride through worlds where “stairs of stars” transport into light, beauty, and joy. I was enamored by the company of “Mountains in the Sky” “Bloom and Butterfly” and “Lavender Scent.” When the last page was turned, I wondered if the sublime poetry had been a dream. No, Nicole’s poetry is real; her lyrical words prompt the reader to view the world through feel-good lenses. I had too many favorites to count, so I’m sharing a part of “What if…”
If there was a together made of forever we would beam our feelings like two pure beings
through life or through dream, a pathway of gleam on wings made of flames, of love and of games you, uttering fields, mountains and hills, me, rustling flight, restless and bright
with smiles like rays and cuddling days soft dusks like a kiss…a time full of bliss
through seconds a vision remains deeply hidden in the rain and reflections, clouds, recollections…
And a few verses from “Never-ending Song”
You live in my every streak of a star, ray by ray you revolve drawing lines into space… then you touch and you reap, meek murmur of moon you embrace
You live within my every color, I don’t understand how you throb through raw waves of light gems… but the brightness, I feel it softly rising through stems…
Gorgeous color photographs also accompany each poem, radiating richness from the first dreamy step to the last. If your heart and mind crave more soothing songs, if you need a dash of magic, let Nicole’s poetry be the stardust that transports you into a fabulous fantasy. Highly recommended for all poetry fans, and readers who will never stop dreaming.
Embracing the Power to Live by Marsha Ingrao isn’t only a poetry collection, and that in itself, would be lovely. No, Marsha includes sprinkles of faith throughout the 206 pages, along with honesty and humor. In her words, “…this isn’t a self-help book. It is a book of reflections on my life of more than seventy years, expressing the enjoyment I experience creating with words.”
This exquisite book is divided into nine sections that offer subtle life lessons, even when we’re met with challenges: Language, Love, Laughter, Learning, Listening, Listing, Locality, Leisure, and Living. Marsha embraces each with intention and encourages us to do the same. Humor plays a significant role in my life. Sometimes we need to laugh and let go of the seriousness; humor also helps soften the blow when hurdles in our plans come out of nowhere. So, “Embracing the Power of Laughter” deeply resonated. From beginning to end, I smiled, laughed, became teary-eyed, and reflected on my own personal experiences.
I also believe that a good listener makes a better friend, and I agree with Marsha’s thoughts, “When we listen, we start to understand another’s worldview or perspective.” Life isn’t only about our viewpoints. There is so much to learn if we open our minds and hearts. So “Embracing the Power to Listen” resonated as well. Speaking of viewpoints, below is a poignant example – a few verses from a poem that was inspired by the news:
A Flood from the Perspective of a Bridge
I smiled down at the stream A mere babbling brook Bounding over boulders caressing the banks with butterfly kisses
This morning, I awoke in pain My limb, useless and shattered By my dear stream gone rampant Sticks and stones breaking my bones
I lay helpless in frigid waters Pouring over my cement skin Ripping and tearing at my guardrails I cried out a warning, my voice muted by turbulence…
I could go on because there is so much to absorb and savor in Marsha’s nostalgic reflections and writings. But instead, I invite you to not only dip your toes into her poetry but let the words and lessons flow over you like cool water on a sweltering summer’s day. Highly recommended for you who appreciate subtle life lessons and beautiful poetry that evokes reflections of your life.
The Mystery of the Pink Poodle is Dawn Pisturino’s first children’s book, primarily for middle grade youth. I’m familiar with Dawn’s lovely poetry and compelling short stories, but to read her new level of skill is truly impressive. The story centers around the main character, Alina, a young girl whose parents are divorced, which is difficult enough, not to mention, their celebrity status. Her dad is a prominent mystery writer, and her mother is a glamorous movie star. She lives with her father, but because his demanding career takes up most of his time, Alina often stays with the housekeeper. All Alina wants is a normal family. But what brings her joy in the midst of her abnormal life is Muffy, her pink poodle, and everything pink!
She is aware that her father is working on his next novel. And the best way for him to get the work done is to escape to a quiet place so he can isolate himself to write. Alina has no choice but to go with him, and she doesn’t hesitate to let him know how unhappy she feels about it. They head to The Ocotillo Inn in Conrad, Arizona, which looks like an old ghost town. But contrary to Alina’s trepidation, her complaining subsides when she meets the twins, Shiloh and Billie, and their wonderful mom, Megan, who manages the inn.
She learns about the ‘crazy old lady’ who happens to be 100-year-old actress Mimi King, living as a recluse upstairs with issues of her own. But after meeting Mimi, Alina and the twins find themselves in the middle of a mystery. Alina is thrilled to have a purpose during this trip, and her excitement jumps off the pages. I also found the relationship building of Alina, the twins, and Megan to be endearing. You can’t help but root for the girl who loves pink!
Dawn’s writing is superb and pulls the reader into the mystery with enticing storytelling and interesting characters with varied personalities. For the sake of avoiding spoiler alerts, I truly enjoyed this delightful book, which took me back to reading Nancy Drew mysteries. Highly recommended for mystery fans of all ages, adults as well!
Sam, A Shaggy Dog Story by Sally Cronin is told in the voice of a handsome Collie named Sam. I fell in love with Sam from the start. My dog, Copper, crossed over the rainbow bridge earlier this year, so ‘listening’ to Sam talk about his wonderful life with his mom and dad, Sally and David, was one way for me to get my dog fix.
I learned that Sam understood the English language, along with tones and emotions in voices. He was one smart canine! In the beginning, he tells of how his home came to be with his new dog parents, living in a gorgeous house in Ireland. Sam was intuitive, feisty, and entertaining. He met many friends in the form of foxes, feral cats, and rabbits. Henry was a ginger feral cat. We don’t think dogs can befriend cats, but Sam did, and Henry was one of his best friends. But when Sally found Henry, he was lying on death’s doorstep. It was heartwarming and emotional to read how she saved his life.
Aside from making friends, Sam loved to eat, and a few dining favorites were sausage, cheese, and ice cream. When he played in the snow, he thought he was playing in one huge bowl of the cold, delicious treat! During the holidays, he kept his dog parents on their toes by getting into Christmas gifts. But he was kind enough to share his bones with David and loved cuddling with Sally on the floor. The cuddling part reminded me of when Copper and I used to share those special moments. Sam loved long walks on the beautiful beaches, feeling “sand between his toes.” I loved how Sally used to sing during car drives, and Sam loved to listen to his mom’s singing voice. Shania Twain was their favorite country singer.
When I read through this heartwarming account of Sally and David’s best friend in Sam’s voice, I had moments with tears, laughter, and cuteness overload. The photos of Sam are beyond adorable, and the family photos are so beautiful. I could feel Sally’s love for her shaggy friend in each chapter. She knew what Sam needed, what any animal needed to feel loved. So, if you’re a dog lover, cat lover, or if you have a heart for animals in general, this book is for you!
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Simple sidenote: When I enjoy a collection of poetry, my paperback turns into another dog-eared book in my bookcase. And a dog-eared book in my opinion equals five glowing stars, so each book in this post is throughly dog-eared. My reviews will also be on Amazon and Goodreads soon.
Upcoming November reviews for more wonderful books: Miracles & Ghosts Past by D.L. Finn Beyond the Fetters by Balroop Singh The Bush Devil Ate Sam by Curtis Mekemson
I hope you’ll leave with some great books in your armsor on your kindles! 🥰 Thanks for visiting my corner of blogland, and have a wonderful day! ❤️
Click on my daughter’s image to order your copy! 🧡
Lauren Scott Author – King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry Author – Cora’s Quest (a children’s book) Author – Ever So Gently: A Collection of Poetry Author – More than Coffee: Memories of Verse and Prose Author – Finding a Balance: A Collection of Poetry Author – New Day, New Dreams: A Collection of Poetry Co-Author – Tranquility: An Anthology of Haiku Co-Author – Petals of Haiku: An Anthology Co-Author – This Is How We Grow Co-Author – Poetry Treasures 2: Relationships Bi-Monthly Contributor on Gobblers by Masticadores Spillwords Author of the Month May 2023 Spillwords Publication of the Month October 2024 Spillwords Publication of the Month June 2025
To begin with, I want to offer a SHOUT-OUT to my dear friend,Maggie Watson. She was voted Spillwords Author of the Month for August! You can find her on the Spillwords sidebarfor the month of September. But she is not new to Spillwords. She has been awarded Publication of the Month as well, and had several pieces of her beautiful and evocative writing published. Congratulations, Maggie! You deserve this high honor! 🎉🎉🎉
Secondly, I can’t help but share some fabulous King Copper reviews from friends who have posted them on their blogs. I’m combining all into this one post by including an excerpt and the link to their beautiful blogs. So, I invite you to visit their sites to read the rest of their lovely reviews – and to learn more about these amazing author friends. 💖
‘King Copper: Our Dog’s Life in Poetry’ is a heartwarming tribute to a pet whose love shines through Scott’s poems. This handsome guy looks stunning in the pictures that the poet has shared. I am not a dog lover, but I can understand how much love and understanding these furry friends hold in their hearts. Copper’s unconditional love has been beautifully expressed in memorable poetry by his mom.
No less than a celebrity, the poet tells us that Copper was a show-stopper, a hugger, and a kisser. His graceful gait, his charming smile, his slobbery kisses, and his dedication to guard his loving family made him an adorable golden boy. The warmth that radiates from his amber eyes reaches your heart if you look at his pictures. Most of the poems celebrate Scott’s love for Copper, but there are a few that tug at my heart as they bring out the poet’s grief when she hears “a dog barking in the distance” or misses the sounds like “nails clicking on the kitchen floor.”
‘Loss is Loss’ perfectly captures the emotions of those who grieve, a feeling which can only be understood by those who know that mourning seeps into our skin, a constant reminder that our loved one will never return. However, ‘Rainbow Bridge’ breathes positivity and encourages acceptance…
Lauren has put together this tender collection in memory of her family’s Labrador, Copper. Each and every poem in this book feels like a precious gem and a keepsake, Lauren’s verse carrying along the joy of companionship, the ache of farewell and the warmth of cherished memories. The poems are also accompanied by cute photos, elegant too… of sweet handsome Copper, photogenically posing or playing with family and friends.
There are the funny and playful moments, the gentle ones, the nostalgia and the love, the warmth and the togetherness… all captured wonderfully by Lauren in her poems,so sweet… as is this endearingly cute memory she shares in “Copper Boy”, “When he smiles, his white choppers shine as if they’ve never caused any commotion…never mind the afternoon when he attempted to eat the barbecue!” or a reminder of the purity of unconditional love, and the way it can transform our life…
Anyone who’s ever loved a dog (or another furred or feathered family member) will be able to relate to this lovely collection of poetry about the author’s Chocolate Lab named Copper.
Copper’s transition over the Rainbow Bridge and the author’s immense grief provided the inspiration to chronicle the lab’s personality, relationships, and life in poetry. The poems are heartwarming, joyous, funny, loving, and sad. A few of them are written from Copper’s point of view. The style of poetry ranges from silly limericks to deeply emotional free-form pieces.
The collection is written in two parts, each beginning with a short section of prose. The first piece of prose describes adopting Copper, the love-at-first-sight experience of meeting the perfect pet. The second describes losing Copper after 13 years and the author’s devastating grief…
Lauren Scott’s beautiful new book, “King Copper – Our Dog’s Life in Poetry” stole my heart. Sadly, one of the common denominators in life is loss. When those I care about – friends, family, clients, former students – reach out and share their grief about losing a pet, there’s often a sense of shame about the depth and capacity of the torment. “After all,” (a dear one said recently, speaking about the unexpected passing of her cat), “she was just a pet”.
I saw what she was doing – attempting to minimize her pain with a reductive explanation. Self-talk intended to soothe, with words borrowed from a thoughtless one who used the phrase “just a pet” to offer consolation. For many of us, our pets embody the qualities we long for in humans, especially those who disappoint us. Caring, loyal and loving, they ask only for those qualities in return – delighted by belly rubs and extra kibble now and then.
I was excited/nervous to read Lauren’s tribute to her beloved Copper. Excited because I know it was a labor of utmost love for Lauren. Nervous because I knew “King Copper” would prompt tears. Lauren writes with powerful poignancy. I embraced every word…
King Copper: Our dog’s life in poetry is a beautiful tribute that deeply touched my heart. The words brought back memories I had of losing our sweet dog a couple of years back and of remembering the joy she brought us too. Our pets are such a gift, and this collection not only shows that but also offers comfort to all of us who have known the loss of a beloved pet. Here is an example of the depth of emotions: “A dog barks in the distance causing me to pause,/it sounds like Copper’s/ wild imagination longing for one more moment”—One More Moment. I can highly recommend this for all those who have loved and lost a pet family member.
Balroop, Diana, and Denise include other reviews of compelling books worth adding to your towering TBRs!
THANKS AGAIN TO EVERYONE WHO HAS READ MY BOOK AND WRITTEN BEAUTIFUL REVIEWS. I AM AMAZED AT HOW MANY HEARTS HAVE ALREADY BEEN TOUCHED BY COPPER’S LOVE FOR HIS FAMILY, AND HIS FAMILY’S LOVE FOR HIM. 🧡🤎
Lastly, some friends years ago offered to draw or paint Copperusing photos I provided, and I continue to be in awe of their extraordinary talent:
Barbara Soby
DM Denton
DM Denton
Resa McConaghy
Resa McConaghy
I know this is a long post, and if you made it to this point, your time is appreciated! I hope you will celebrate Maggie’s great news with me, and follow the links to read the full excellent reviews of King Copper. My deepest gratitude goes to Balroop, Nicole, Vicki, Diana, and Denise! Any other reviews that came in early and were posted on blogs, I have reblogged. These reviews came in within a few days from each other, which is why one blog post seemed like a better option. I truly hope I haven’t missed anyone!
Baydreamer Writes ~ Lauren Scott, Author 