Dear Alex, Break Na Kami. Paano?! Love, Catherine by Alex Gonzaga

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I definitely enjoyed reading this book especially the bible verses that Alex mentioned especially Romans 8:18 and Ecclesiastes 3:1. While reading this, I was imagining that Alex was the one reading it to me. It was like I became close to her through this book because of the way she wrote it.

Just like what other reviewers mentioned, a lot of us knew those bits of advice already and it's just that the author reminded us of them. Now that I've finally read this, I'm thinking of sending a copy of this book to my friend in Dubai who broke up with her ex but still haven't finally move on yet she looks for a rebound recently.

Gap Creek by Robert Morgan

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I rated this 5 stars because of the way it was written and the twists in this couple's story. But if I have to rate the characters in this novel, I would definitely rate Julie 4.5 stars and her husband Hank only 1 star. This couple is two different souls who just hurriedly tied the knot without even has the slightest idea about each other. Hank was just strong in physique but not on the inside because of how he easily snap and breakdown during problems.

I know that other reviews on this book were not that good but for me, I enjoyed reading it. It showed us that marriage is not pure bliss and that couples must be headstrong and should help each other in times of struggles. And before I could forget, I was really amazed that a man written this because of how he portrayed women/wives stronger than them, guys.

Two Women by Marianne Fredriksson

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

What I love about this book is on it show that sometimes we meet someone or some people who unexpectedly help us along the way.

Both ladies, Inge and Mira, had a tragic or unpleasant past that they still haven't resolved. But with the help of each other and their families, they were able to settle and overcome what happened in the past.

The story of the friendship of Inge and Mira was broadened up to their sons and daughters. And they found not only friendship but a family among them.

Glitches by Marissa Meyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I read all of the books in the Lunar Chronicles Series and I was looking for a flashback of what happened to the moment when Cinder was adopted by her new family. I was happy that the author wrote this short novella so we could have a glimpse of what happened and this is really a perfect companion to the series.

Queen Moonlight & Other Royal Stories 月光王后以及其他王室的故事 by Esther Thien

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

A children's book but adults could also enjoy the fabulous stories in this book. I think adults just like me will greatly appreciate this and will be reminded of the moral lessons in this kind of books.

There are eight stories in this lovely book and are both narrated in English and Mandarin Chinese. Each story has beautifully illustrated drawings drawn by Jyn Yip, that makes it more appealing to readers, especially to young ones. And at the end of every tale, there is a brief explanation where it states about the moral of the story.

The Little Android by Marissa Meyer

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Even Star is an Android, she made a huge sacrifice for the person she loves. Even if it makes her alone or miserable, she thought it would be better to see that the one she loves would be happy. I'm very contented with this short novella and it just shows that there could be chances for Androids, like the case of Star and Miko, to feel just like an ordinary human being.

Tales of the Buddha’s Former Lives Stories 1-50 by Kong Meng San Phor Kark See Monastery

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is aimed at all ages especially those who are still new to Buddhism. The stories included here are common teachings such as filial piety, humility, and charity that sets as a reminder for everyone to remember and practice them.

Nick the Sidekick by Dave Whamond

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The story of Nick the Sidekick is a lighthearted read that will delight readers of all ages. I like how Nick's tale tells us that it doesn't matter what abilities we have; as long as we have the willpower to achieve our dream, we can make it happen. Also, about Super Fantastic Guy's personality of always taking the credit reminds everyone not to follow his example.

Sarah's Journal by Pittacus Lore

My rating: 2 of 5 stars

I never like Sarah's character because I find her too sweet, weak and easily smitten with John/Four. And this journal of hers proves my first impressions on her. Didn't like her then, and I still don't like her now either will on the ending of the series.

Random Illustrated Facts: A Collection of Curious, Weird, and Totally Not Boring Things to Know by Mike Lowery

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Love reading the random facts compiled by Mike Lowery in this graphic novel. Some of the facts are really shocking, for example, the urine facts that was once used to whiten teeth. Another surprising fact is about Hussein anonymously published a romance novel, which is so unlike his character because he is infamous for being a dictator.

As a whole, this compilation is a good way to learn more about other things we are not aware of and a great to entertain ourselves.

The Oceanic Times by Stella Gurney

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The Oceanic Times is a fun and interactive children's nonfiction picture book that will captivate not only children but as well as adult readers. What caught my attention when I request this digital copy of the book is the cover. It looks like a frontpage of a newspaper and when I checked out the book, the layout and content was in newspaper form.

The format of this book made a great contribution to how appealing and enjoyable to read the content. Aside from that, there are also a lot of fun activities such as word search, spot the difference, and connect the dots. This picture book is a fantastic read that should not be missed and highly commendable.

Honolulu by Alan Brennert

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

From the beginning till the end, this book will surely captivate any readers by heart. It is filled with stories on how women live during the early 19th century and how they were to able to cope with every struggle they've encountered. If you like reading stories about women empowerment, then you must not miss adding this book to your to-read list.

The Debt-free Lifestyle: Ten Principles That Can Revolutionize Your Life by Andrew Liuson

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I received a free copy of this book through 700 Club Asia. This is very helpful especially for young professionals who struggle with managing their money. The stories included in this book are not only interesting to read but also quite inspirational. If you are looking for something that can be read in one seating and can you help with your finances and faith, you should try to read this paperback.

A Gift of Peace and Happiness by T Y Lee

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This 2 in 1 compilation of T Y Lee's books are a good companion to those who want to learn about Buddhism or even those who are Buddhist already. This book is a compilation and reminder of some of Buddha's teachings and concepts. If you have the chance to see a copy of this book is distributed free in temples, you better not miss the chance to grab a copy.

Anyone can go to Heaven Just be Good! by T Y Lee

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a must-read for everyone who is new to Buddhism. Concepts such as Nirvana, Karma, Rebirth, Heaven, Dharma and the likes were introduced and explained in this book. Basic meditation practice was also tackled in the latter part. So if you have the chance, grab a free copy of this book from Buddhist temples.

Ivy in Bloom: The Poetry of Spring from Great Poets and Writers from the Past by Vanita Oelschlager

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I wasn't able to notice that Vanita Oelschlager is the author of this book; that is why I didn't anticipate that the poem is for kids. Nonetheless, I still liked the poem written by Oelschlager and the cute illustrations done by Kristin Blackwood. The bibliography is where I like best because there are poems written related to spring by some of the famous poets such as the likes of Dickens, E.e. Cummings, Walt Whitman and Robin Browning.

Teachers: There is No Such Thing as As a Hot Coffee & Other Teacher Truths by Bored Teacher LLC

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

While reading this graphic novel, I remember that I was offered thrice to be a teacher/instructor before. I can handle teaching just not the baggage teaching has like being patient to your students; I was born without an ounce of patience that's why being a teacher is way out of my league.

I have a lot of respect for our teachers because teaching and handling students at the same time is quite an arduous task. I know that several of them got a lot of sense of humor, they just don't show it especially while in class, and it is apparent in this book. Usually, a teacher's salary isn't enough for all the workload and stress they have to endure; so maybe they just made a good laugh about it rather than moping in the corner. I like several anecdotes in this book and one of them is: My students call me teacher, but I like to think of myself as "Breeder of tomorrow's leaders." Just sounds more precise.

Honey Moon Dog Daze by Sofi Benitez

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

If you are a dog lover like me, you will also love this book by Sofi Benitez. Honey Moon rescuing the dog she later named Stormy is the start of her and her friend Becky to start a dog walking business. Along the way, they also met Isabela who happened to be a volunteer at the animal shelter, where Honey Moon and her mom has to surrender the dog Storm.

The story of friendship and the funny antics of the dogs the Sleepy Hollow Howlers have to walk are just a few of the reasons why this book made a worthwhile reading. Not to mention that young readers will also get learn a lot from this including being responsible, compassionate and helpful.

The Caterpillar by Errol Fern

The Caterpillar by Errol Fern
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I received a message from the author, Errol Fern, asking if I'm interested in reviewing his children's book. My Goodreads friends and followers are aware that I regularly love to check out children's books, so I didn't hesitate to grab the opportunity being offered by the author.

Readers might have read a similar fable story but what I like in this book is that I assume some readers could relate to this fictional tale. The narrative is intended for younger kids but if we, older readers, could think beyond the story, there are several issues that were discussed in it. At the beginning of the story, having low self-esteem and depression were clearly talked about. Even the issue of eating healthy food was also mentioned; it could be associated with several eating disorders such as Selective Eating Disorder or Avoidant/ Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID) and bulimia.

Several of the millennials are experiencing one or some of these problems right now, and I like how the author, unconsciously or not, has incorporated them in this children's book. Trusting and having your friends (family and loves ones) around to help you during the dark times, which was depicted by the firefly, is the best way of dealing with these ordeals. Also, I love how the firefly helped and became the light, both literally and figuratively speaking, of the caterpillar in the story.

The author is apparently has a lot of potential as a writer and I really hope that this book and his future works will make it big.

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McElligot's Pool by Dr. Seuss

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Fascinating Marco's imagination is because he was able to imagine all those kind of places, fishes and sea creatures while waiting for a fish to take his bait in that tiny pool.

Plain and simple, the moral lesson is just about patience. But despite the simplicity of the lesson that it wants to convey, the entirety of the story is exceptionally good.

If My Moon Was Your Sun by Andreas Steinhofel

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I love this book because it tells about the love of Max to his grandpa who has dementia. He did what he thought will make his grandpa happy and to be able to help him also to remember always the momentous event of proposing to his wife, Max's grandma, in Blossom Valley. I recommend this to young readers, ages 8 and up because they are more mature to understand medical related stories than kids below the age of eight.

Coullian Cuill: Apprentice Ghost Guardian by Riti Bridie

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

The cover and synopsis of this novel both sparked my curiosity; hence, I immediately requested a copy. If you are into horror with a hint of comedic included, you will definitely enjoy this light-read book.

Or Best Offer: A Short Story by Beck Medina

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I've read this in just one sitting. It's a light read and I enjoyed reading it. I'm just a little unsatisfied with the ending because I think the author could have extended it. But overall, I will recommend this to anyone.

Dear John by Nicholas Sparks

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I had the chance to watched the movie version first and now that I've finally read the book, I must admit that the latter is much better. I felt that Savannah was impatient in the movie version. But in the book, Savannah's reasons and her story was further explained. For me, this is one of those books that tells us that some things are just not meant to be.

The Shipping News by Annie Proulx

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I understand why is that there are negative reviews about this book. I also had a hard time finishing this book because there are some parts that are dull or not that interesting. But overall, I enjoyed the 3/4 of the novel and I guess I could only recommend this to those who can devote a lot of time to be able to finish this book.

Miss Chopsticks by Xinran

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

The title of this novel piqued my interest, hence I made sure to add this to my to-read list. I could have finished this within two days if only I was not that busy during the time I decided to read it. What I love about this book is on how it showcases women spreading their wings in today's era and competing and making their own mark just like the opposite sex. I reckon any women out there could relate to one or two characters in this book just like I did. In my case, I see bits of myself on Three, Five and Six. How about you?

The Adventures of Super Diaper Baby by Dav Pilkey

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Dav Pilkey is a witty writer and followers of the Captain Underpants series already knew that. In this spin-off, there are undeniably funny scenes and names such as Starbutts and Deputy Doo-doo. If you want a good laugh, you must read this series as well as the author's other works. This is categorized under children's books, but I reckon that this is more appropriate for readers 12 and above.

May Powers Ka To Be #SuperEpic by Mighty Rasing

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

700 Club Asia sent me a free copy of this book. This paperback is intended particularly for young adults and to anyone who wants to be a leader in their field; may it be on school, work or even for those who want to lead an organization. The author tackles his points like he's just talking to you as a friend. He also used superheroes as his examples so readers can easily relate to what he was trying to convey. I highly recommend this to anyone who aspires to be a future leader, especially to our youth today.