During our time in the Everglades, we had our first guest, Luke's lovely sister, Carol, joined us for three days.  Now, if you haven't been in the Everglades, it is a gorgeous spot in winter, where the sun is bright and the nature is varied. Seeing beautiful birds, fishes and yes, those gators is really something everyone should see. Just not close up and personal.  Walking the dogs, one of those green boys got a glimpse of our well fed pooches and decided to swim quickly toward us. We ended up taking the dogs quickly away from his eyeline, and back to the campground.  They aren't kidding when they put up those signs, I suppose. 

I spent my spare time reading Lauren Groff's book of short stories, Florida, while escaping gators and enjoying the sun.  If you haven't read Ms. Groff, please do, as her writing is beautiful and haunting. But don't expect this book to be a feel good read. The darkness of the stories was overwhelming at times, but still worth reading. Each of the stories has a Florida connection, even if some are based in Europe.  Not my favorite book, however the writing alone is worth savoring.  I recommend the book with four stars.  

​A small black dog is born to a chained dog  and eventually adopted by a loving family.  When he begins to grow from puppyhood , the family had little time for him any longer.  Once Toby was a pampered pet, but soon becomes a bored, neglected outdoor dog, looking for warmth in a flimsy doghouse. 

A book discussing  how many Americans treat pets, and dispose of them after the shine wears off,  this is a sad commentary on the human condition. Written as a first person account from the dog's view, it details the neglect and sadness of not being loved and cherished within a family.  I can't say I enjoyed this book, but it  an important book to help people understand the responsibilities of pet ownership.  As the mom of two rescue dogs, I am all too aware of how many dogs are euthanized each year. This book reinforces that awareness.  

Breed specific bans are dangerous and result in a fear for certain breeds, rather than taking animals case by case.  The author is a lawyer and advocate for animal adoptions, in particular, pit bulls and pit bull mixes.  

A book worth reading, although it is so sad.  Perhaps someone reading this will adopt, and not shop. 

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

What a wonderful book! As a pediatric speech language pathologist, I'm always looking for books for children to improve their language and communication skills. This book will fit the bill. 

How often have we had a child have difficulty with time, asking "how much longer" or "Is is Tuesday yet? " .  This book is about an owl who asks his mom each day if it is his birthday yet?  It counts down from 10 days, and has an activity they will do in preparation for his birthday. Beautifully illustrated, I believe that each young child would enjoy looking at the pictures, as well as listen to the text.  This would be a great addition to every parent's library to read to their young child. 

Thanks to the author and publisher for a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.