Deborah Baldwin

'The Year The World Had To Stay Inside' is a brilliant and comforting well written book of eight short stories.
There is a familiar sense of beauty in these stories that the entire world would respect.
The author charmingly conveys experiencing and appreciating the small wonders we usually take no notice of in our 'normal' hectic lifestyles. The book also shows how this year brought families together especially focussing on what it was like for children.
I would highly recommend this homely uplifting feel good book to all.… (más)

Do you remember those pre-teen years of angst? They are not my fondest memories, either. I don't believe there are very many adults who don't remember stupid and insipid things we did or said in those trying years. And then there's Beatrice. She's about to enter high school and she wants to do something important and be treated with respect. But here's the catch. When she opens her mouth, out comes "Bumbling Bea" saying things that are rude, hurtful, crazy, and sometimes just plain mean. Bea is wondering what is happening inside her.

The story "Bumbling Bea" is filled with examples of this monster within. Poor Bea is often left embarrassed, bewildered, friendless and wondering what has happened to her old sweet self. Will she ever get her old self back? Even her best friends Peter and Jerri are giving her weird looks these days.

The author makes good use of humor all throughout the book. I laughed at several twists and wacky circumstances that came up. Many of them were the inner Bea, the Bumbling Bea, causing confusion and chaos. Conflict among principle players and character development with inner conflict are the main driving force of the story line. I think teen girls would especially appreciate this story. That leaves us with the million dollar question: is Bumbling Bea here to stay? Why can't she transform into Wonderful Bea instead? Read the story to find out.

This type of book is not my usual genre, but I have to admit it was a painfully good read. It brought back some memories, good and not so good. I'm not certain who the targeted audience is supposed to be. It is mostly likely going to fit with youthful readers about Middle School age to Junior High. Or it could appeal to adults like myself who enjoy reading books for young people. In any case, I can genuinely recommend this read for young people.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a complimentary review copy of this ebook from the author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”… (más)