Category: reviews

The Magic Maze Trilogy by Samuel Warren Joseph and Phil Proctor Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Twins Tyler and Tess must navigate perilous worlds within 12 mazes and stop a wicked queen and a nefarious wizard before finding a way home in the novels “The Magic Maze Trilogy” by authors Samuel Warren Joseph and Phil Proctor.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

THE MAGIC MAZE TRILOGY is about eleven-year old fraternal twins, Tyler and Tess Porter, who accidentally get sucked up into the bizarre world of the Magic Maze. Geared to appeal to children from seven to thirteen and older fantasy fans as well, the story propels the twins into an “Alice in Wonderland/Wizard of Oz” world. In order to return home, they must get through twelve separate parts of the maze. Each is its own world with strange rules, riddles and puzzles that the twins must solve using their wits, knowledge and athletic prowess. Tyler and Tess learn how much they mean to each other as they evade the evil QUEEN ZEBRA and her ZENTAURIAN GUARD of two-faced POLINERDS, and a duplicitous wizard, SIMON PERCIVAL. They form alliances with the rebel TRIDGETS (tiny trolls with Mohawk hairdos) led by the feisty BELKIN, and an assortment of other bizarre and funny characters. At the end, they must track down and put back together three parts of a MAGIC AMULET before they can be finally transported home, safe and sound.

The Review

What a powerful and memorable trilogy of middle-grade, fantasy-driven novels. Each novel’s pacing was superb, instantly capturing the reader’s attention with magic and action while delivering relatable, engaging character development from the two protagonists. The world-building and mythology the authors brought to life in these books were a unique blend of magical realism and sword and sorcery style fantasy storytelling, complete with magical beings such as the Tridgets and an evil queen who pits a full-blown rebellion against her nefarious ways. 

At the heart of this story is the bond and understanding each of the two protagonists holds for one another. The series starts with Tess and Tyler on opposite ends of the spectrum from one another. Yet as the series progresses, their shared bond and ability to see one another instill a sense of understanding and connection between the reader and the characters. The imagery and atmosphere of each book create a sense of wonder and awe that draws younger readers into the magic of that world, and the variety in the different mazes and worlds shows the creativity and depth of world-building that the authors brought to this series. 

The Verdict

A story of magic, adventure, and family, authors Samuel Warren Joseph and Phil Proctor’s “The Magic Maze Trilogy” is a must-read children’s and middle grade fantasy read. The twists and turns this series takes, and the open-ended nature of the final chapter of this trilogy, will stay with readers. As someone with a close bond with his sister, I find this book an excellent way of bringing siblings together and showing the importance of that bond in a magical way. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Authors

Samuel Warren Joseph – is a writer whose credits include DuckTales, Batman, Beast Wars, and the film Off Your Rocker. His plays and musicals, including Window of Opportunity, Campaign, and God Help Us!, have earned critical acclaim. He co-authored Ed Asner’s autobiography and teaches college English and Creative Writing.

Phil Proctor – is a founding member of the Grammy-nominated Firesign Theatre and a veteran actor with voice credits in Rugrats, Assassin’s Creed, Dr. Dolittle, and Pixar films. He has performed on stage, screen, and in video games, earning numerous theater awards. Phil co-wrote the political comedy God Help Us! and several books, including his autobiography Where’s My Fortune Cookie?

http://www.magicmaze.com/

Two Tales: Jamali Kamali and ZundelState by Karen Chase Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

In author Karen Chase’s ” Two Tales: Jamali Kamali and ZundelState,” two tales, one from the past and one from the future, showcase a love born of outsiders and the connections we share together.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

These two stories explore love and beauty in the context of fear and threats. Jamali Kamali is a book-length poem about two men who lived in 16th century India. Little about them is known but they are buried together in a small tomb in Delhi. For hundreds of years, the story that these men were lovers has been passed down through the generations. Jamali Kamali is a fictional account of their love, longing, separation, and death. ZundelState, a novella in verse, takes place a thousand years in the future in a repressive land where history is banned, and dreaming has vanished. Joe, a lover of history, is rebellious and secretive. Marianna is a model worker for the State where she works in the HistoryShit Apparatchik Division. They fall in love against all odds. These two tales of outsiders, one from the distant past and the other from the far-off future, echo and reflect upon each other in surprising ways.

The Review

This was such a wildly creative and emotional read. The author did an incredible job of finding just the right balance between lyrical writing styles and engaging storytelling, with each story giving readers an emotional depth that instantly draws them in. The writing style was perfectly captured in the beautiful imagery capturing each scene between the two characters, from moonlit encounters between one another to the sounds of wildlife beckoning from the surrounding forest and so much more, and each verse touched upon the heartfelt connection not only between the characters, but the reader and the characters themselves.

The second story in this collection draws parallels between itself and the first story, while owning its own unique creative take on the genre. The exploration of what happens when public life is the rule of law and private individuality is oppressed felt very relevant to many of the issues facing our world. The themes of social conformity and oppression were intertwined beautifully with the character’s love story.

The Verdict

Author Karen Chase’s “Two Tales: Jamali Kamali and ZundelState” is a passionate, heartfelt, and engaging read. It is a unique yet memorable story that is a must-read today. The inclusivity and raw beauty of the author’s poetry and storytelling will stay with readers long after the final tale ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Karen Chase is the author of two collections of poems, Kazimierz Square and BEAR, as well as Jamali-Kamali: A Tale of Passion in Mughal India, a book-length homoerotic poem, published in India in 2011. Her award-winning book, Land of Stone, tells the story of her work with a silent young man in a psychiatric hospital where she was the hospital poet.

In her memoir Polio Boulevard, Chase brings the reader back to the polio outbreak of the 1950s that crippled our country. In her lively sickbed she experiences puppy love, applies to the Barbizon School of Modeling, and dreams of Franklin Delano Roosevelt. The Larooco Log: FDR on the Houseboat, a project that grew directly out of her memoir, follows Franklin Delano Roosevelt during a Florida winter when he lived on a houseboat, attempting to regain use of his paralyzed legs. History Is Embarrassing, her collection of essays, was published in 2024, and Two Tales: Jamali Kamali and ZundelState, in 2025.

Karen Chase’s poems, stories and essays have appeared in The New Yorker, The New Republic, The Gettysburg Review and Southwest Review, among others. Her poems have been anthologized in The Norton Introduction to Poetry, Andrei Codrescu’s An Exquisite Corpse Reader, and Billy Collins’ Poetry 180. Chase and her husband, the painter Paul Graubard, live in Western Massachusetts.

Home

Interview with Author Tricia Copeland

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

My writing journey began with penning a fictionalized account of my experience with and recovery from anorexia as a young adult. The process of creating that series catapulted me into the world of writing and publishing and I quickly jumped into my first love, the fantasy genre. 

Advertisements

What inspired you to write your book?

I was inspired to write To be a Fae Queen after seeing an invitation to submit short stories to an anthology with the theme of fantasy character with mental health challenges. The invitation included an image of a fairy hunched in a meadow with an anxious expression on her face. I began to brainstorm reasons she would be anxious, what her world was like, who she was, and where a story could lead her and the first ideas for To be a Fae Queen were born.

What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

Each of my books in the Realm Chronicles series have different themes. In To be a Fae Queen I hope that readers will find themselves examining their trust in their inner compass.

What drew you into this particular genre?

I’ve loved the fantasy genre from a young age. The first books I remember binge reading were Frank L. Baum’s Dorothy and the Wizard in Oz series books. I like believing that there is a layer of magic just beyond our sight or comprehension that sometimes we get to experience. 

If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

If I could sit down with any character in my book, I would sit down with the antagonist in this series and ask them why, why they are so focused on hunting vampires, and anyone who would stand in the way of their quest to destroy all those thought to be created by the fallen angels.

Advertisements

What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

I love interacting with readers and other authors on social media. My favorites are YouTube and Instagram.

What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

My advice to aspiring or new authors is to decide what your goals in writing and publishing are and to surround yourself with people who help you achieve those goals.

What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

My next release is the finale to the Realm Chronicles series, To be a Fae. This book will release July 29, 2025, and completes not only the Realm Chronicles series but the crossover Kingdom Journals series.

Advertisements

About the Author

Tricia Copeland is the critically acclaimed andaward-winning author of Kingdom of Embers, To be Fae Queen, Lovelock Ones, and Azreya, Aztec Priestess, as well as dozens of other titles. She is the host of the Finding the Magic Book Podcast who weaves magical stories about love, courage, and finding your passion.

Tricia Copeland believes in finding magic. She thinks magic infuses every aspect of our lives, whether it is the magic of falling in love, discovering a new passion, seeing a beautiful sunset, or reading a book that transports us to another world. An avid runner and Georgia native, Tricia now lives with her family and four-legged friends in Colorado. Find all her titles including contemporary romance, now penned under Maria Jane, young adult fantasy, and dystopian fiction at www.triciacopeland.com.

Author Link:

https://linktr.ee/triciacopeland

https://www.facebook.com/TriciaCopelandAuthor/

https://www.instagram.com/authortriciacopeland/

@triciacopelandauthor

https://www.youtube.com/@triciacopelandauthor

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/14055439.Tricia_Copeland

https://www.bookbub.com/authors/tricia-copeland

Fables from Villa Viva: The Stupid Goose by Lars Bo Appel Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

Author Lars Bo Appel discusses the dangers of losing one’s sense of self in the modern world and self-expression in the book Fables from Villa Viva: The Stupid Goose.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Step into Villa Viva, a world where fables aren’t just stories—they’re a reflection of the world we live in. A compelling and insightful tale, The Stupid Goose delves into the struggle for true freedom in a world where independent thought is often dismissed. Inspired by classic storytelling but deeply relevant to today, this book challenges the dangers of group behavior and the loss of self-expression in modern society.

Meet The Stupid Goose:

In this first tale, we follow The Stupid Goose—a character as insightful as she is misunderstood. While others turn a blind eye, she sees what they refuse to acknowledge. But rather than being praised, she’s dismissed as ‘stupid’ by those who prefer comfort over truth. Her journey is a reminder that seeing clearly and speaking up can be lonely—but it’s a path worth taking.


Why This Book Is for You:

  • A Thought-Provoking Fable: Blending humor, charm, and a touch of philosophical wisdom, The Stupid Goose invites readers to think for themselves and see beyond the surface of the world around them.
  • Relatable Characters, Real-World Parallels: The struggles within Villa Viva mirror real-world challenges—peer pressure, personal responsibility, and the courage to stay true to yourself.
  • For Readers Who Value Independent Thought: If you’ve ever questioned something that others blindly accepted, this book is for you.

Perfect For:

  • Fans of classic fables and innovative storytelling, where lessons bear real-world significance
  • Curious minds and lifelong learners who enjoy stories that entertain while stimulating deep reflection
  • Educational settings—whether in schools, homeschools, or one-on-one learning—as a valuable teaching resource.

…

Dare to think differently—step into Villa Viva and see the world through new eyes. Get your copy of The Stupid Goose today.

The Review

What a fun and engaging read! The author did a remarkable job of capturing the tone and heart of a fable, expertly crafting a narrative that felt fresh and unique in each tale while showcasing a unique theme or message. The warm and creative artwork accompanying each fable felt like a great way to harken back to one’s youth and explore essential messages for a more modern audience. 

The themes these fables played with were so thought-provoking as well. The idea of corporate overreach and how it impacts smaller businesses and individuals as well came to life perfectly in the first fable, while further themes of individuality versus conformity and how free thought and expression are so important in this modern and digital age, and allow readers to see how free expression is needed even in our literature in an age when censorship is at an all-time high.

Advertisements

The Verdict

Exciting, fun, and yet profound in thought, author Lars Bo Appel’s “Fables from Villa Viva: The Stupid Goose” is a must-read modern-day book of fables. The twists and turns each fable takes and the necessary and valuable lessons modern-day readers can take away from them will make a lasting impression while entertaining readers. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Website – https://wildernessstate.com/

Amazon Link – https://www.amazon.com/Fables-Villa-Viva-Independent-Responsibility-ebook/dp/B0DK5T6DPT/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2MEJ57Z25LDEW&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.T9zCaayV9QeQ6jM_AY0RIA.QAjM39Z7pvlquHixm4_dnUXwTzAYIvDxl1D60RfgwQA&dib_tag=se&keywords=the+stupid+goose+villa+viva&qid=1731938129&sprefix=the+stupid+goose+villa+viv%2Caps%2C338&sr=8-1

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wildernessstate/

Amanita Virosa: The Destroying Angel by Barry Harden Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

In author Barry Harden’s novel Amanita Virosa: The Destroying Angel, a band of citizens rises up to fight against the corruption of 1980s London.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

It’s the 1980s, and London is crumbling under the weight of political corruption while the have-nots are further victimized by unfettered rogue gangs. Children are lured into the dark, lurid chambers of Whitehall, some never to be seen again. Citizens are coerced through intimidation and threats of harm against their families. Utter chaos reigns. Amanita Virosa, a courageous Roma fighter who fled the horrors of war-torn Bosnia, sought refuge in the heart of North London, only to discover that the specter of corruption and injustice haunts her adopted home. Forming an alliance with Everard, a young, homeless firebrand, and Doris, a feisty pensioner, the group embarks on a daring mission to sever the insidious grip of Whitehall’s corruption and the extortion and violence perpetrated on the innocent. Sedition, conspiracy, murder and betrayal all have a voice; some are quickly silenced, while others persistently challenge the very existence of those bold enough to defy the status quo. Loosely based on actual sociopolitical events in eighties London, Amanita Virosa is a riveting warning about the perils of government overreach and the indomitable power of the individual to resist oppression. Will their collective courage be enough to shatter the chains of oppression, or will they become casualties in a war that demands the ultimate sacrifice?

The Review

This was a compelling and intriguing read. The author established a visceral, gritty atmosphere and tone that set the stage for a unique setting that has not been widely discussed in modern history. The action and graphic violence the book depicts highlight the narrative naturally, allowing these relatable and impactful characters to grow and evolve at an even pace as the story and the stakes escalate. 

This fast-paced read prominently displayed the themes of greed, power, control, and fighting against corruption. The way the author stepped into this grim reality immediately allowed the reader to feel the desperation and how these characters became fed up and disillusioned with how those living on society’s fringes were treated. The personal connections these characters form with one another and the emotional bond they form with one another, especially Amanita and Richie later on in the book, keep the reader engaged and invested in this growing and dangerous world the author has brought to life on the page.

The Verdict

Author Barry Harden’s “Amanita Virosa: The Destroying Angel” is a must-read thriller that is memorable, engaging, and chilling. The real-life connection to historical events in London during the 80s and 90s and the adrenaline-fueled action gave readers a unique perspective and thrilling narrative that is nearly impossible to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Barry Harden is the author of a memoir, five novels, two books of poetry and a collection of short stories in the genres of political thriller, satire, Gothic fantasy poetry, and allegorical short stories. An animal rights, environmental protection, and civil rights proponent, he often injects his affinity for such in his writings.

“Words can be like gems or sticks. A coalition of words can become a diamond necklace or a broken picket fence, whichever way one wishes to use them, and as such, I use them for my works of fiction and poetry. Dark fantasy can be alluring but dark reality is sometimes unavoidable and can cascade one’s imagination deep into the hollowed skulls that litter the subsoil beneath our feet, to be returned once again to the world in the voice of a poet.” ~Barry Harden

Some of Mr. Harden’s poetry can be viewed in video format on YouTube: Dark Gothic Poetry and Stories.

www.barryhardenauthor.com

The Hungry Bear: A Story of Courage and Compassion by Ronnie J.C. Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A bear learns the power of self-love and acceptance in author Ronnie J.C.’s children’s book, “The Hungry Bear.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Version 1.0.0

A very hungry bear searched the forest for something to eat when he bumped into a few mean critters along the way. Bear’s spirit was broken after he was called a few mean things. He tried to hide in his cave until his friends came to cheer him up and gave him some advice. Bear learns a valuable lesson in courage and self love thanks to the power of friendship.

The Review

What a moving and heartfelt read. The author perfectly captures the trials and hardships that so many children face in their formative years, allowing younger readers to easily see themselves in the main character’s life. The powerful imagery (both the warmth of the illustrations and the symbolic nature of the book’s themes) allowed the reader to engage with the story while allowing parents to have honest conversations with these young readers simultaneously.

The theme of self-love and acceptance is widely felt throughout this book. The author showcases how cruelty and meanness can seep into everyone and anyone’s life at any turn, but having the courage and strength to rise above their words and embrace what makes a person special and unique will ultimately pay off and make life much more enjoyable. 

Advertisements

The Verdict

Author Ronnie J.C.’s “The Hungry Bear” is a must-read children’s book. Its heartfelt, thoughtful, engaging themes, strong imagery, and fun and relatable nature will speak to modern audiences and keep parents and children alike engaged. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

BEELITZ-HEILSTÄTTEN: Where Ghosts Never Die by Marina Osipova Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A Russian-American writer on a journey of discovery unearths dark secrets tied to WWI and WWII in author Marina Osipova’s “BEELITZ-HEILSTÄTTEN: Where Ghosts Never Die.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

What if rediscovering your birthplace unearthed a secret so powerful it could rewrite history—and your own identity?

A Russian-American writer obsessed with her birthplace – a ghostly derelict German military hospital near Berlin

Her Austrian husband, who pines for the father he never met

A passionate young doctor destined for darkness

A demonic figure who changed the course of history

Interrogation reports stolen from the Soviet secret police

What mysterious force connects them all?

This genre-bending time-slip narrative bridges 2018 to the haunting eras of WWI and WWII, interweaving together the ghosts of history and a shocking secret that threatens the present.

The story will appeal to fans of Kate Morton’s The Forgotten Garden and Kristin Hannah’s The Nightingale.

The Review

What a profound and moving read! The author did a remarkable job of finding a unique balance between the rich history set during both world wars and the thriller and romance settings with a paranormal time-bending twist. The characters feel dynamic and vivid, harkening back to eras long gone yet familiar in their motivations and emotional depth, drawing readers further into the narrative. 

The almost rhythmic nature of the author’s writing style was a significant draw into the story more and more. The imagery brought these settings to life so eloquently, highlighting the stark contrast between the desire of the protagonist to understand her birthright and the horrors of war and the growing hostility that grew for certain marginalized groups amongst the people of Germany at the time. The honesty and depth for which the author explores both teh highs and lows of humanity as a whole, from the emotional connection the protagonist and narrator forms with the figures of the past she comes into contact with, to the haunting realities of Nazi experimentation and heinous acts they committed during WWII, allowed the reader to connect with the protagonist on a more personal level.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Marina Osipova’s BEELITZ-HEILSTÄTTEN: Where Ghosts Never Die is a must-read historical fiction meets thriller and paranormal mystery novel. The narrative’s twists and turns and the complex emotional journey the narrator finds themselves on speak to the questions of identity, being honest with oneself, and learning from the past that this book’s themes explore easily. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Marina Osipova was born in East Germany into a military family and grew up in Russia, where she graduated from the Moscow State Institute of History and Archives. When she was five, she decided she wanted to speak German and, years later, she earned a diploma as a German language translator from the Moscow State Institute of Foreign Languages. In Russia, she worked first in a scientific-technical institute as a translator, then in a Government Ministry in the office of international relations, later for some Austrian firms. For many years, she lived in New York, working in a law firm, and then in Austria for several years. In the spring of 2022, after spending ten months in Russia, some unfortunate world events brought her back to the United States.

A long-standing member of the Historical Novel Society, she is dedicated to writing historical fiction, especially related to WWII. Her books garnered numerous literary awards, including a 1st Place WINNER of the 2021 Hemingway Book Awards novel competition for 20th Century Wartime Fiction (a division of the Chanticleer International Book Awards). At some point or another, all her books hit the Amazon Top 100 lists in Historical Russian Fiction and Historical German Fiction and How Dare the Birds Sing even #1 or #2 in War Fiction in Canada, the UK, and Australia.

Her readers praise her books for “emotional realism,” for “taking on a subject that few authors have touched,” for “writing with heart and compassion while not holding back from hard cold realities of war,” for “giving an authentic and in-depth look at a culture that tends to baffle westerners.”

To learn more about Marina Osipova and her captivating books, visit her website at marina-osipova.com.

You can find her also on

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marina.osipova.14/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4701687.Marina_Osipova

Twitter: https://twitter.com/marosikok

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-osipova-65b81418/

Skibidi Ohio Rizz: The Gen Alpha + Gen Z Dictionary by TM Daliggr Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author TM Daliggr shares the definitive guide to generation alpha and z slang and terminology in the book “Skibidi Ohio Rizz: The Gen Alpha + Gen Z Dictionary.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Lost in the Lingo? Fear not! Skibidi Ohio Rizz is here to save the day! This ultimate guide is your ticket to navigating the wild, wacky world of Millennial, Gen Z, and Gen Alpha slang. Packed with playful and hilarious terms like “clapback,” “menty b,” “delulu,” “salty,” and “swag,” this book will turn you into a slang-savvy superstar faster than you can say “bet!” Whether you’re a curious boomer, a baffled parent, or just trying to vibe with the younger crowd, this dictionary and guide will have you chatting like today’s youth in no time!

Perfect for parents, educators, grandparents, or anyone looking to connect with Gen Z and Alpha. This book makes a fantastic gift for birthdays, Christmas, and holidays. It’s also an epic stocking stuffer or a fun way to close the generational gap—no cap!

Key Features:

  • Fun and Informative: Dive into a full-blown dictionary that decodes terms like “Rizz,” “Thirst Trap,” and “Glow Up”—say goodbye to sounding like a total boomer!
  • Interactive Shenanigans: Test your newfound slang skills with quizzes and activities that will have you flexing your knowledge like a TikTok star—let’s get lit!
  • LOL Commentary: Enjoy witty explanations and examples that will keep you rolling with laughter while you level up your vocab game!
  • Epic Glossary and Acronyms: Your complete cheat sheet for mastering words, phrases, and acronyms, so you can chat like a total pro in no time!
  • Bingo Game Extravaganza: Join in on a Gen X-style bingo game that’s sure to keep the vibes high and the laughs flowing!
  • Certificate of Completion: That’s right! Your kids will award you a certificate once you crush all the tests in this book. Get ready to flex those new skills!
  • Premium Quality: Crafted with a durable matte cover and vibrant full-color interior, because your slang game deserves the best!

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your copy of Skibidi Ohio Rizz and become the ultimate slang master of your crew!

The Review

What a fun and entertaining read! The book reads like a dictionary, yet is presented in a funny and relatable way for younger generations. It also provides the information older generations need to connect with these younger generations. The book is a perfect companion to the growing drive towards phone apps like TikTok, and in much the same way as the phone app, the book serves as a unique way of forming connections and bonds that help traverse the divide often found amongst generations.

Language is a unique and authentic means of communication, highlighting the beauty and wonder that comes from sharing information and culture and serving as a living history of the people who have come before us and how they spoke with one another. While hilarious and entertaining, this book is a fantastic reminder of this fact and will easily draw readers of all generations in. 

The Verdict

Thought-provoking, engaging, and fun, author T.M. Daliggr’s “Skibidi Ohio Rizz” is a must-read book. From terms like glow up and no cap to delulu, this book is the perfect guide and hilarious stocking stuffer or small gift, young people and older generations alike will laugh out loud at and bond over simultaneously. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

T.M. Daliggr: Writer – Author – Kid at Heart

Life is full of stories—some we live, some we create, and some we just laugh about. T.M. Daliggr’s diverse collection of softback books, journals, and notebooks blends humor, creativity, and adventure, making it easy to capture thoughts, track passions, and embrace everyday moments with joy.

📚 Explore the Full Collection!

Skibidi Ohio Rizz

The Gen Alpha and Gen Z Dictionary captures the ever-evolving world of internet culture. With humor and insight, it dives into the language, memes, and trends that define these tech-savvy generations. This book isn’t just a dictionary—it’s a cultural guide that bridges the generational gap with a wink and a nod.

☕ Beverages: Coffee, Tea, and Wine

Coffee Chronicles: Roast and Record – A journal for coffee lovers to document their brewing experiences and favorite flavors.

All You Need is Coffee: A Coffee Lover’s Logbook – Track your favorite roasts, record flavor notes, and discover new blends.

The Official Tea Diary – The perfect companion for tea enthusiasts to document their tea adventures.

Wine Diaries: Sip and Savor – Capture your wine experiences, from subtle flavors to memorable pairings.

The Boozy Book of Beer – Log brewery visits, seasonal releases, and tasting adventures.

🐾 Animals: All About Pets

All About My Pet – A must-have for pet parents to track health, habits, and favorite moments.

Animal Tales: Daily Animal Antics – Preserve your pet’s cutest and quirkiest moments with this fun journal.

Kitty Diary and Dog Tales – Tailored for cat and dog lovers to document habits and funny quirks.

Fantasy Animals: Unicorns and Mermaids – Whimsical journals inspiring creativity with magical themes.

🤣 Humorous Journals

Fart Diary – Keep a lighthearted log of life’s funniest moments.

The Hate Journal – A safe space to vent frustrations with humor.

Dad Jokes: A Journal for Recording Cringeworthy Jokes – The perfect place to store and share groan-worthy dad jokes.

My Uglies – Encourages embracing imperfections with quirky humor.

📖 Book Lovers

The Grim Reader – Log, rate, and reflect on your latest reads.

Kiss, Marry, Kill – A playful notebook inspired by the classic game, sparking fun and laughter.

🏕️ Outdoor and Adventure Journals

Climbing Journals – Designed for adventurers to track routes, progress, and victories.

Skiing and Snowboarding Journals – Capture powder-filled days and epic slopes.

Hiking Journals – Document trails and summit achievements.

🎨 Creative Journals for Kids

Superhero Journals – Perfect for kids to design their superhero personas and track their adventures.

Make a Comic Book – A creative outlet for budding artists and storytellers.

🍣 Specialty Journals: Food, Travel, and More

Sushi Diaries: Just Roll With It – Sketch and rate your sushi rolls while capturing every delicious moment.

Flower Pressing Journals – Preserve

No matter what you’re passionate about—books, pets, adventure, sushi, a great cup of coffee or a good dad joke—there’s a journal here for you. So grab a pen, jot down your thoughts, and make every page your own.

Cheers!~

TM Daliggr

Every Day Magic by Melanie Lane Durham Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

In Melanie Lane Durham’s children’s book Every Day Magic, a young girl learns the power of ritual in everyday life.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Edie is tired of her days all feeling the same.

Luckily, with the help of her Mother,

she soon realizes that she had the power

to make every day feel magical all along!

The Review

This was such a fun and powerful children’s story. The author did a remarkable job of captivating readers with thoughtful and relatable characters that children and parents could connect with. The story also helped illustrate the importance of teaching children to appreciate the small moments of everyday life that people often take for granted.

As someone who regularly investigates and talks about the paranormal community, I found it refreshing to see a children’s book that delved into holistic and magical elements of the story. The word ritual became a powerful theme in the book, often misconstrued as something “evil” by certain groups. Still, in reality, it speaks to the everyday moments that become part of everyone’s routines. I appreciated this approach to the idea and concept of both ritual and magic as a whole and its connection to the natural world. 

The Verdict

Fun, engaging, and thoughtful in its approach, author Melanie Lane Durham’s “Every Day Magic” is a must-read children’s book. The heart and passion the author poured into the story and the rich themes that readers will instantly connect with made this such a compelling children’s story to get lost in. If I am ever lucky enough to have children someday, I would want this to be a book I read to them nightly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Hi, I’m Melanie, and I’m so grateful you’re here! As a small business owner, mom of two small children, and lover of magic and mindfulness — the opportunity to share my book with the world is a dream come true. I have loved to write since I was a young girl and I hope getting my words out there shows readers, young and old, that it’s never too late to follow your dreams! When I am not writing or working in my business, you can find me chasing my two littles (and the dog!) around my Northern California backyard or spending time with family friends.

My Story: I believe in the power of life’s little wonders. Born out of a personal journey, Everyday Magic is one of those wonders! In 2023 I was met with the sudden onset of a chronic illness caused by unforeseen circumstances with roots going back to my early childhood. What felt like overnight, I found myself going from an active entrepreneur to a woman often stuck in bed.

I began dreaming up ways to engage with my kids and make meaningful memories, even when my energy was low. These ideas became the heart of this book, a story crafted with love, imagination, and the belief that magic isn’t something we find; it’s something we create! I believe every single one of us has the power within to bring that magic to life.

I hope this story sparks wonder, connection, and a little bit of magic for you and your family- just as it has for mine!