Christina Francine

Crown Hill is a labor of love that feels deeply personal, likely because it was inspired by the author’s own experience renovating a hilltop farmhouse over the course of two decades. It is a thoughtful exploration of how our environment reflects and influences our personal growth. For readers who enjoy stories that blend history with a touch of the ethereal, and if they’re interested in how physical spaces can hold the resonance of the lives lived within them, this novel offe

Chivares and the Toothy Surprise, Khadidja M’hamdioua delivers a heartwarming and visually engaging story that turns a common childhood milestone into a magical adventure. Perfectly paced for the 3–6 age range, this book is an essential tool for parents and educators looking to navigate the 'surprises' of growing up with comfort and joy. A must-read for anyone with a little one about to lose their first tooth or a mature family member about to get false teeth!

For readers who enjoy finding and experiencing a blend of science fiction and romance done well, Lord of the Dark Sun is one to pick up. I found mine in a used bookstore. Though published a while ago (Dec. 2002), an excellent story never expires.

Although Joan Didion’s Slouching Toward Bethlehem and Truman Capote’s In Cold Blood are considered literary or new journalism, their work has some differences. Of course, there are other similarities, such as observations about human nature, seemingly trying to solve a life mystery about people, and creating a grim atmosphere. Both play with facts using the lens of their opinions, which should be considered when reading their work. Authors should be careful; otherwise, fact

God & Monsters R. M. Gayler Cover Design by Melissa Williams Design Interior typesetting and Layout by Melissa...

Christina Francine's review of Rooted in Dreams by Sam Hertz

A fanciful story about a good-hearted witch named Morag who saves children from bad witches. Hutton based her adventure on one of Sir Walter

Brief Book Review of RUSH by Megan Matthews

by Christina Francine Being human is complicated but doesn’t have to be. People long to be accepted for who they are even though they don’t fit into societal roles. Humans want acceptance in areas such as making a living, or in becoming part of a group, and then cloak themselves with personas to attain those goals. They don’t trust others, however, because they know others sit behind a mask as well. Everyone says they want the truth, want others to be themselves,

by Christina Francine What is it that captures children’s interest about Chris Van Allsburg’s work? His ideas are only part of his ingenuity. The other part is his flare with illustrations. They appear alive and authentic. It’s as if characters and objects moved moments ago out of the corner of the eye. Allburg has published many children’s picture books and they all have an ability to blur the lines between real life and art, to take readers’ hands and coax them into an ex