Archive | September 2019

Smoky The Brave by Damien Lewis

Sep14

Yorkie Doodle Dandy

Smoky The Brave by Damien Lewis is the true story of a brave and loyal Yorkie called Smoky who was found dirty and starving in a foxhole in a New Guinea jungle during World War II.

This is an inspiring story of the bond between Smoky and her new owner serviceman Bill Wynne. It is a story of love and loyalty, of going beyond the call of duty together.

Smoky became the mascot of the 26th Photo Recee Squadron. She and Bill Wynne were inseparable. Where he went, she went too. Along the way he taught her tricks that enthralled everyone they met. Together they faced death, disease and disaster. Together they loved with huge hearts.

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Saving Buddy by Nicola Owst

Sep12

Of Love And Loyalty

Saving Buddy by Nicola Owst is the heart-warming story of the rescue and recovery of a young Staffie named Buddy who was abused.

Staffie’s get a very bad press but they are loyal and loving (I have known a few). Buddy was rescued by Nicola Owst and with her love and care he was nursed back to life. Buddy gave joy to all those around him – he also has his own Facebook page. Buddy is an ambassador for rescue dogs everywhere.

We also hear Nicola Owst’s own story. Hers was similar to Buddy’s in that she needed to be rescued from her situation. Together Buddy and Nicola Owst came back to life. They rescued each other.

I loved the inclusion of photos of Buddy. It enables the reader to make a real connection with him. I only had the photos in black and white on the kindle. I imagine the paperback version will be even better.

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The Children’s Train by Jana Zinser

Sep11

The Bravery And Horrors Of War

The Children’s Train by Jana Zinser is a heart wrenching historical novel focusing on the years 1938-1945 in Germany. It is written from the point of view of the Jewish people. The novel zooms in on a small group of individuals. They are a microcosm for what affected millions and not just in Germany.

We follow the plight of several families from their homes and lives where liberties are eroded to the kindertransport to the ghetto to the gas chambers. The reader witnesses the full horror of what life was like when you were Jewish in Nazi Germany.

There is both bravery and desperation of parents relinquishing their children on a train to a better life in England. The reader ‘travels’ to England and also remains behind in Germany.

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The Book Of Joe B by Michael Winn

Sep11

Bringing Him Home

The Book Of Joe B by Michael Winn is a contemporary retelling of the Old Testament story of Job.

Michael Winn has bought the story bang up to date whilst retaining the familiar structure of the Biblical tale. It is set in America around school teacher Joe B.

As with the original story, Joe B finds himself in the middle of a wager between God and the devil.

Michael Winn writes in such a way that he engages the modern audience. You do not need to be a Christian in order to enjoy and relate to this book. Michael Winn injects a large dose of humour into his novel, as well as imparting godly wisdom. “When the world is dark, you are called to be the light.” He also debunks the myth “If you follow the rules, good things will happen.” We are all aware that bad things happen to good people and that Christians are not immune to bad stuff happening.

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