Category: Book Reviews

Christmas Fifteen First Times

Merry Christmas Time #Shameless Promotion – New Reviews for D.G. Kaye Books

Published on by dgkaye58 Comments

It’s Christmas Shameless promotion time! And it’s a busy time of year for most. So,here we go!

Is it extra shameless to share some new-er book reviews that I came across for my books at the same time I want to wish you all happy holidays? I hope not. But besides the thrill it is to receive each and every good review for our books, I also like to showcase the wonderful writers who’ve taken the time to read and review my books, as well as treasured regular readers. I know well how many good books we all have on our bottomless readers, and how easily it is for them to sneak down the pipe as we continue to squash in new books that catch our eye and attention. So I am always grateful when I learn another person has plucked out one of my books and enjoyed – and took the time to review.

Without any further ado, I hope you enjoy these reviews 💜

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Robbie’s Inspiration – Fifteen First Times by D.G. Kaye #bookreview

What Amazon says

This book is a collection of stories about some of Kaye’s first-time experiences with life’s most natural events. Told through the intimate conversational writing we’ve come to know from this author, poignant personal steppingstones to learning moments are revealed. She encompasses the heart of each matter with sincerity and sprinkled inflections of humor.

From first kiss to first car to walking in the desert with four-inch heels, Kaye’s short coming-of-age stories take us through her awakenings and important moments of growth, often without warning. Some good and some not, life lessons are learned through trial and error, winging it, and navigating by the seat of her pants.

Robbie’s Review:

Fifteen First Times is a memoir of fifteen significant moments in the author’s life. It is a very entertaining book as most of the experiences are fairly universal for women so I could easily relate to the author’s emotions, anxieties, and joys. It was enlightening to read about the same experiences I had in the author’s different environment and lifestyle. Such experiences are so huge and often devastating when they occur, but when we look back on them, they really weren’t that awful after all. Hindsight definitely helps in life.

My favourite story was when the author had a small accident in her father’s car as a result of a defiant response to her grandfather’s spoken and non-verbal critisism of her driving. I had a similar experience but I did a lot more damage to my mom’s car and I’ve also never forgotten it. I got such a horrible shock at the time.

The author’s experiences travelling as a young woman were intriguing for me. I was quite sheltered by my father and never did anything like she describes. It certainly helped her achieve independence and learn some important life lessons.

Fifteen First Times is a wonderful way to remember the highlights of young life from a humorous and witty perspective.

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Marian Beaman’s 5 Star Goodreads Review: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/65975556-fifteen-first-times

When I read D. G. Kaye’s books, I always get the impression I’m having a conversation with the author. In her latest, Fifteen First Times, the author once again gets up close and personal.

In fifteen chapters, Debby discloses her love affair with shoes, close encounters with boys, the fright of her first menstrual period, the glory of travel and much more. Brimming with chutzpah, the author divulges also how she engineered Christmas cheer in a home where Hanukkah was respected.

The vignettes come with lessons learned, takeaways for readers: “My big European vacation taught me many lessons about life—friendship, flirting, culture, how ridiculous I must have looked wearing four-inch spikes in the desert, consequences for not obeying laws, and how much my father had spoiled me.”

Growing up with a narcissistic mother, we are thankful for the presence of dear Aunt Sherry and a devoted Dad. As expected, the book concludes with an homage to her beloved husband: “My G was the first true love of my life. He loved me through all my war wounds unconditionally. We laughed our way through hard times and shared a most beautiful life together.”

You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, but most of all you will be able to relate to Debby Gies’ coming of age memoir and conclude with the author that “hindsight gives us insight.” This brief book with a stunning cover by Unicorn Cats Publishing gets five stars.

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Miriam Hurdle’s Review: – https://theshowersofblessings.com/2023/09/11/fifteen-first-times-by-dg-kaye-book-review/comment-page-1/#comment-470439

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Miriam’s 5-Star Review:

Fifteen First Times is Kaye’s delightful memoir. It feels like chatting with her about life over a cup of coffee. Some of her experiences remind me of my first times. These stories could be common to some people, but they are unique to Kaye. Some stories are cute, some serious, some happy, and some sad.

One cute story was that Kaye’s father gifted her a trip to Europe as her eighteenth birthday present. She had a fascination with shoes. She wore 4” spike high heels, carrying oversized luggage on her trip. I could visualize her dragging her luggage, trailing behind a group of young folks who were hopping and skipping in front of her. Her great outgoing personality came to her rescue. She made friends with the tour guides who always looked out for her. In Rome, Ricardo, the tour guide, carried her luggage to her room.

The story I considered as serious was about Kaye’s first boyfriend. At seventeen, she met a singer, Tony, at the nightclub. They seemed to click right away. She listened to Tony every Friday night and spent time together afterward. Tony would pick her up in his red Dodge on a date. She thought it was real love. Tony’s friend broke the bad news to her that his parents had pre-arranged his marriage.

One happy story was about Christmas. Kaye loved Christmas and all the decorations, toys, Santa, and reindeer. But they didn’t have a Christmas tree at their house. Her mother said, “Jewish people don’t have Christmas trees.” When she moved away from home, the first thing she wanted was her own Christmas tree. She was so excited that she “went overboard” with decorations.

The sad story that made me cry was about her best friend Al. Al was a happy-go-lucky friend, divorced, with two children. She jokingly said her painful leg might not support her body one day. Kaye and another best friend didn’t pay attention initially. By the time Al went to the doctor, she was diagnosed with a tumor close to her spine. Surgery couldn’t take care of it. It went downhill at a fast speed. She was put in hospice. Kaye wanted to visit her, but Al’s daughter said her mom was gone. Kaye mourned for her friend of her own age and realized “death has no age limits.”

Kaye wrote a beautiful tribute to her late husband, who was her first real love and will remain the greatest love of her life. I recommend this book to memoir lovers.

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Reading Through the Soul: Words We Carry By D. G Kaye

~ BRENDA MARIE FLUHARTY

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“Words We Carry” by DG Kaye is an emotional read.  You will be able to relate to this book in one way or another.  It is a wonderful trumpet read.

“Words We Carry” by DG Kaye is a thought-provoking and insightful book that explores the impact of words on our self-esteem and personal identity. In this memoir, Kaye shares her own experiences growing up with a mother who constantly criticized her appearance and how these words affected her self-image and confidence.

The book is broken down into several chapters, each focusing on a different aspect of our relationship with words. Kaye delves into various topics such as the influence of childhood experiences, the power of negative words, and the importance of self-acceptance. She offers personal anecdotes and relatable stories that make the book engaging and relatable.

One of the strongest aspects of “Words We Carry” is Kaye’s candid and honest writing style. She openly shares her vulnerabilities and traumas, making the reader feel a deep connection with her. Her writing is accessible and easy to follow, making the book suitable for readers from all walks of life.

Kaye also provides practical advice and helpful tips for overcoming the negativity and self-doubt caused by hurtful words. She encourages readers to develop a strong sense of self and teaches them how to surround themselves with positive influences.

Overall, “Words We Carry” is a compelling and empowering read that sheds light on the often overlooked issue of the impact of words on our self-esteem. It serves as a reminder that the words we use towards ourselves and others hold great power and can shape our lives in profound ways. Kaye’s personal journey and insightful observations make this book a valuable resource for anyone who has struggled with self-esteem and wants to start the journey towards self-acceptance and self-love.

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Words We Carry

Lizzy

5.0 out of 5 stars Relatable, validating, and very well written Reviewed in the United States on April 3, 2023

Verified Purchase

This is the first book I’ve read by D.G. Kaye, but as soon as I read the first few pages, I knew it wouldn’t be the last. There was so much I could identify with in the blurb, so on a whim, I downloaded it.

The issue of self-esteem, which the author speaks so knowingly about, is one that affects more people than I believe most of us even realize. Low self-esteem manifests itself in many ways and that can make it more difficult for some to see. Yet, I believe it visits a preponderant number of people at some point in their lives, if not throughout. Reading this book was like talking to a new friend and sharing common experiences. Kaye’s uplifting yet honest writing style makes it very easy to turn the pages.

Even with the issues that I hadn’t personally experienced, I knew many who did (and still do), and I really appreciated Kaye’s down-to-earth approach to examining these issues and offering simple, relatable advice for those seeking to better their lives. As I especially connected to some aspects of the author’s relationship with her mother, I’m absolutely planning to read her book Conflicted Hearts. Our situations, while very different, are also very similar in ways.

Kaye discusses subjects in this book that took me back years and also resonated with me in the present. There are many reasons that I would recommend this book. Not only do I appreciate the common-sense advice, but I believe the author’s words are extraordinarily validating and will help many who feel alone in their pain. This book is also beautifully written. Excellent.

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Twenty Years

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Reviewed by Mary L. Schmidt – https://whenangelsfly.net/

Twenty Years: After “I Do”: Reflections on Love and Changes

Mary’s Review:

This book is a gem, a book that all couples planning to marry or already married should read. Personally, I found every word truthful. Why? My husband and I built our relationship on a strong foundation of friendship first, then love came along. Kaye writes about making sure the foundation your relationship is built is secure, secure enough to withstand anything, and everything thrown at it so the foundation doesn’t form a crevice. Part of a piece of mortar can fall off, but be right there and prepare it ASAP. Those couples who have a great foundation can weather any and all storms tossed at them. There will be many storms amid times of splendor, and if your foundation is strong, you will survive each and come out stronger and more in love than you thought possible. I know. I have this in my life. Without that strong foundation, we wouldn’t have made it, or if we did make it, the hard times would have been much worse. Both my husband and I’ve had desperate life-threatening issues, and each time, our love grew stronger. Even if you don’t think you can love a person more, that your heart already overflows, we find out how much more we love each other. Five stars.

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Thank you gratitude

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I am grateful for all the lovely reviews and hope you enjoyed. You can check out all my books on Amazon.

I want to take this moment to wish you all a beautiful Christmas and festive season. And hope you will all share with me for good wishes to all. I wish for the world to find a peace, revisit their hearts, look for the truth, and to keep our heartlights in the on position. May 2024 be a better year for everyone, and don’t forget to keep your dreams in the forefront to bring them to fruition.

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Merry Christmas

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Wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Very Happy and Healthy New Year! 💜

©DGKaye2023

Reblog and share

Smorgasbord Book Reviews from December 2022 – Memoir D.G. Kaye, #Romance Stevie Turner, #Food #Environment David Moscow, #SocialMedia Alex Craigie #Reblog

Published on by dgkaye42 Comments

This post is a reblog of Sally Cronin’s personal reviews for four books in her Book Reviews series. I was delighted to find my book reviewed by Sally and grouped with some other fantastic author talent – Stevie Turner, Alex Craigie, and David Moscow.

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 I will be sharing my previous reviews from 2022 in a monthly post and hope that if you have these books on your TBR already it might nudge them up the pile.. or encourage you to go across to buy them.

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My review for Fifteen First Times

The author has a natural conversational style of writing that draws you in as if she is talking to you personally. Her memories prompt the reader’s own experiences at similar ages, and raises a smile or two at the similarities between girls of a certain age, however many thousands of miles they live apart.

This is particularly true in this collection of stories as Kaye shares episodes from her childhood such as playing in her mother’s stiletto shoes which would fuel a lifetime’s love of footwear, a first kiss, and taking that first puff of a parent’s discarded cigarette.

With the smiles comes the tears, as we identify the moments of loneliness and isolation as a girl becomes a woman without the support needed from a mother, a dysfunctional family life, and the loss of a much loved friend who shared the formative years between teens and late twenties.

At the end of the collection is a wonderful tribute to her late husband, who made her laugh every day and was the first and last love of her life.

D.G. Kaye writes with poignancy but also great humour, which makes these first times all the more delightful and memorable. The experiences are not just relevant to girls growing up, as many are relateable to boys and young men coping with the cultural and social expectations of the day, and finding their way in life and relationships. Take a walk down the memory lane of your own life in very good company. Highly recommended.

Read the reviews and pick up a copy at your local Amazon: Fifteen First Times Universal Link

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My review for Falling

This is a riveting story of how dreams and expectations can be shattered in seconds and how rebuilding your life can be full of twists and turns.

The author has the great knack of exploring human nature with all its complexities in a creative way. She brings the characters to life so well you almost feel you have met them or someone like them in your own life.

You also have to consider how you would react under similar circumstances and it is fascinating to follow the paths Olivia and James follow after their life changing encounter. There are few choices for them it seems and they both carry the weight of regret, guilt, despair and a desire for revenge and atonement. Romance seems highly unlikely to be on the cards for this ill-fated couple, but you can never underestimate the human spirit and its will to survive.

There are some interesting bit players who are woven into their story who push the couple in and out of their relationship, but it is heartening to discover the strength and ingenuity of the human spirit as they towards a better understanding and respect for each other.

A thoroughly enjoyable read with plenty of elements, twists and turns to keep the reader turning the pages to the end of the book. Highly recommended.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

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My review for the book

This is a thought provoking and inspiring exploration of the food we eat, the complexities of the production processes to bring it to our tables, and its sustainability. It also looks at a number of the factors at play including cultural, environmental and political, as well as the demands of a rapidly growing population.

The author during his travels and his foraging missions around the world, shares the fascinating history of the people, the land and food sources available and current day challenges. He also introduces us to extraordinary people making a difference in terms conservation, food production and the provision of water to their local and wider communities, but also raises serious questions about the future.

For crops to grow water is essential, but on the island of Malta, will their efforts to manage the limited water supply be put at risk by the over building and massive increase in population, complacency, swimming pools and a possible rise in sea water?

As the number of those hunting for their food declines in the United States will the funding for essential conservation projects dry up? And is ethical and responsible hunting for food, more humane than mass farming, where animal welfare is not necessarily part of the process?

The book is also highly entertaining, as the reader becomes the spectator, watching the author sourcing the ingredients to create specific meals suggested by his award winning guest chefs. Not an easy task for the film crew following him by any means. For example being waist deep in a river to farm oysters, searching for allusive octopus in Malta, hunting wild boar in Texas and fishing for cigar fish in the South China Sea.

In Kenya there is the search for the sausage tree fruit accompanied with laughing hyenas at dawn and innovative local regenerative agriculture. Garnished with a lifetime inspirational interview with Richard Leakey.

Certainly heading in search of the best pizza in the world resulted in an interesting encounter with a mozzarella maker, having first milked an unwilling water buffalo by hand, then a search for ancient wheat, tomatoes and anchovies.

Many of the ingredients featured, are ones we usually take for granted, and do not necessarily prepare to make the most of their taste or nutritional value. The chapters are an eye-opener and inspiration to regard our food in a far more mindful manner.

There are some wonderful recipes created by the exceptional chefs that prompted this search for ingredients at the back of the book, offering an opportunity to put this mindfulness to good use.

Moscow believes this exploration of how different cultures grow, harvest and prepare their produce is an important part of becoming closer to the food we eat. In contrast to the distance and lack of appreciation for the food production process imposed by shrink wrapped steaks from the supermarket. It also instils an appreciation for the millions of workers who make a living putting food on our plates, often putting their lives in danger in the process every day.

The message I took from this remarkable book is that there is hope for the future of our planet, but there needs to be more action taken to preserve and to find innovative ways to grow the food we need now, and in the future. We have to start taking an individual and collective responsibility to ensure the long term viability of the food providing our nutritional needs.

I highly recommend this book to everyone who wants to have a clearer understanding of the complexities, sustainability and also the wonders of the food on our plates, and also enjoy an adventure story set in some of the more remote and less visited parts of the world.

Read the reviews and buy the book in print and Ebook: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK – More reviews: Goodreads

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My review for the book

A suspense novella that hits close to home for anyone who shares their life online, particularly if they have celebrity status.

For Emmie Hobson the nightmare has just become a reality. Her reputation as an  author and presenter has taken years to establish, and she is much loved by both parents and the children who read her books and watch her television programme.

The unscrupulous editor of a celebrity focused magazine, works on the principle of not letting the facts get in the way of a good story. Manipulation of events, photographs and hearsay are the weapons of choice, and a total disregard for the devastating consequences of the vitreol, are the spoils of this vicious campaign.

Unfortunately fame is not admired by everyone. There are those whose lives are not as fortunate, who see the glitter, but not the hard work required to reach this level of success, and take great pleasure in bringing that person down.

The story explores the devastation this kind of onslought can bring to an individual, their families and those close to them. It highlights how difficult it is to counter the allegations, especially when those responsible keep throwing more fuel on the fire.

As always the author has a wonderful grasp of human nature and paints a graphic picture of how quickly this kind of online bullying can escalate. The characters are wonderful, and whilst feeling empathy for those being victimised, those who are behind the campaign will certainly infuriate and anger the reader.

It is a cautionary tale for all of us who share our lives online. Is this a sobering read? Absolutely. However, the author has one or two solutions up her sleeves and there are very satisfying moments that will have you cheering for the good guys. And they are out there, attempting to make themselves heard above the noise of the mob.

I can highly recommend to anyone who enjoys an emotion stirring story that carries you along to a well choreographed climax.

Head over to buy the book: Amazon UK – And: Amazon US

Thanks for dropping in and I hope you will be leaving with some books.. . Sally.

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Thank you gratitude

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Original Source: https://smorgasbordinvitation.wordpress.com/2023/12/07/smorgasbord-book-reviews-from-december-2022-memoir-d-g-kaye-romance-stevie-turner-fantasy-food-environment-david-moscow-socialmedia-alex-craigie/comment-page-1/#respond

©DGKaye2023

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Thanks for dropping in and I hope you will be leaving with some books.. . Sally.

bitmo Sharing alert

Smorgasbord Christmas Book Fair 2023 – #Memoirs – #Motherhood #Relationships by D.G. Kaye, #Life #Relationships Cheryl Oreglia, #Teaching Pete Springer | Smorgasbord Blog Magazine

Published on by dgkaye39 Comments

Sally Cronin has opened up her Christmas Book Fair and I was thrilled to see my book featured today – P.S. I Forgive You, along with other greats reads by Pete Springer and Cheryl Oreglia.

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Welcome to the Christmas Book Fair where I will be sharing books by my recommended authors that I believe would make great gifts. If you are gifting someone a Kindle this year it would be a great idea to stock it up with some great books to be enjoyed.

Memoirs are written from the heart and when you reach a certain point in your life you find reading about another person’s life, challenges, loss, loves is reminder of how many such events we all experience. Whilst they can be heartwarming and sometimes heartbreaking, they also inspire and are a celebration of the human spirit.

The first memoir in this post is P.S. I Forgive You by D.G. Kaye. Debby is not only a contributor to Smorgasbord, but also supports so many other authors and bloggers every day by sharing them on social media, reviewing their books and sharing her understanding of relationships, the spiritual world, life and loss. This book focuses on one of the relationships that is so important to us all… with our mothers.

About the book

“I hurt for her. She wasn’t much of a mother, but she was still my mother.”

Confronted with resurfacing feelings of guilt, D.G. Kaye is tormented by her decision to remain estranged from her dying emotionally abusive mother after resolving to banish her years ago, an event she has shared in her book Conflicted Hearts. In P.S. I Forgive You, Kaye takes us on a compelling heartfelt journey as she seeks to understand the roots of her mother’s narcissism, let go of past hurts, and find forgiveness for both her mother and herself.

After struggling for decades to break free, Kaye has severed the unhealthy ties that bound her to her dominating mother—but now Kaye battles new confliction, as the guilt she harbors over her decision only increases as the end of her mother’s life draws near. Kaye once again struggles with her conscience and her feelings of being obligated to return to a painful past she thought she left behind.

One of the reviews for the book

Balroop Singh 5.0 out of 5 stars An eye-opener… This book is for all Parents!  Reviewed in the United States

Why forgive? Isn’t it extremely hard to do so? This question reverberates around me even after reading the most poignant account of D.G. Kaye who had nobody to turn to for love, care and affection.

When a child’s mother is selfish and self-centered, when she blames and threatens her own daughter, when emotional abuse almost breaks the spirit of a girl who tries her best to please her mother, forgiveness is a far cry.

Forgiveness is the most intransigent emotion, the most hurting feeling, rekindling the sensation of being victimized; highlighting the supremacy and the arrogance of our perpetrator yet Kaye emerges resilient, responsible, benevolent and at peace after she decides to let go all the grief that had eaten into the best hours of her life.

‘P.S. I Forgive You’ is the story of every child who is deprived of a loving childhood due to insensitive parenting. It could inspire a thousand mothers to be emotionally present, to be more understanding and loving and pay attention to the little concerns of their children.

My heart missed a beat when I read how Kaye is torn between guilt and duty to go and see her dying mother and decides to go to her father’s grave “to speak to my dad about current goings on in my life and update him on family matters,” she confides.

“I feel lifeless, I miss you, mama. I miss everything I didn’t have from you. Still I am sorry. I forgive you.”…That sums up the distressing memories of the author whose grief and guilt merge into each other at the death of her mother. 

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Books by D.G. Kaye

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Read all the reviews and buy the books and find out more about D.G. Kaye: Amazon US – and: Amazon UK – follow Debby: Goodreads – Blog: D.G. Kaye Writer – Twitter: @pokercubster – Linkedin: D.G. Kaye – Facebook: D.G. Kaye – Podcast: YouTube –   All Links: Linktree

Another book that I found I could relate to and also found highly entertaining is Grow Damn It! by Cheryl Oreglia. Cheryl is also inspiring outside of her writing as she accepts the challenges to explore the world in rather a unique way… on the back of a tandem and you will find many entertaining posts on her blog about her adventures, life in general and getting the most out of life..

About the book

Grow Damn It! is a captivating work by Cheryl Oreglia, who uses uncommon honesty and arresting humor to draw you into her cantankerous life, forty-year marriage, and revolving empty nest. She claims the space between past and future is where our potential is created or destroyed.

If you don’t like where your life is going, dig deeper, and write a new story. By weeding out the things that clutter her life, she invites you into a refreshing space with some of her most popular posts from her beloved blog Living in the Gap.

She surrounds herself with a gaggle of intriguing friends, along with a large and rambunctious family who challenge both her and the reader to live fully in an ever-changing world. Her provocative writing dares us to confront our lives not only with optimism, but courage, and uproarious laughter. Oreglia uses her experience to explore what matters most in life… the degree to which we love and are loved.

One of the reviews for the book

D.L. Finn 5.0 out of 5 stars A book that deserves to be read more than once. Reviewed in the United States

“Grow Damn It!” is an insightful and often humorous collection of essays that blend into an amazing memoir. It was like I was sitting with an old friend having a cup of coffee or a glass of wine, and Ms. Oreglia was sharing life stories with some lessons weaved into them. Subjects varied, some light and some not, like the drive to the hospital after her son was in a car accident.

There was an adventure on a tandem bike, which intrigued me as I have always wanted to try it. I laughed at the silly comment they got over and over when they rode. Clear Lake, where they bought a second home, was beautifully captured. I spent a lot of time there as a child, and the essays made me re-live my memories.

I appreciated the love of family plus an enduring marriage. The raw honesty was welcomed because things aren’t perfect all the time, but love is always there. We all need to learn life lessons and live life to the fullest. This book captures living and reminds us that each day is a gift to enjoy and, on those certain days… survive. A book I felt on many levels. I highly recommend this collection. I know I will read it again and add it to my bookshelf. 

Head over to buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Connect with Cheryl read the reviews and buy the book –  Amazon US – Amazon UK –  – Blog: Cheryl Oreglia – Twitter: @CherylOreglia – Facebook: Chery Oreglia

There is an old saying:

“Give me a child until he is 7 and I will show you the man.”
― Aristotle, The Philosophy of Aristotle

This memoir They Call Me Mom by Pete Springer is written following his over thirty years experience as a teacher. It is an interesting snapshot of the American education system, particularly the kindergarten and elementary school years. As Aristotle identified this is a key period in a child’s life and so important that the skills for learning and development are absorbed during these years.

About the book

Who Will You Inspire Today? Teachers face this challenge and responsibility each day, but in the process, the author discovers that his students can also have a profound influence on him. Pete Springer takes you on his memorable thirty-one-year journey in education as an elementary school teacher and offers the many valuable life and teaching lessons he learned along the way. Get ready to laugh out loud at some of the humorous and memorable experiences that all teachers face, feel inspired by the inherent goodness of children, and appreciate the importance of developing a sense of teamwork among the staff.

Learn valuable tips for working with children, parents, fellow staff members, and administrators. This book is ideal for young teachers, but also a reminder to all educators of the importance and responsibility of being a role model. This book is a must-read for all new teachers and those teachers that need a reminder they are human! Mr. Springer educates others in his easy-to-read, story-like, first-hand manuscript. You will laugh, cry, and get motivated to be the best educator you can. After reading this, I have a better outlook on relationships with my colleagues and am reminded to savor every moment. -Tami Beall (Principal, Pine Hill School)

One of the reviews for the book

Jacqui Murray VINE VOICE 5.0 out of 5 stars Teachers are friend, advisor, mentor, mom, and so much more  Reviewed in the United States

Pete Springer’s memoir about his first years teaching is a delightful story for new teachers and will have experienced educators nodding along with him. His early experiences remind all of us of the joy inherent in teaching:

“This job required about as much brainpower as my tree planting experience.”
“This is the story of how I fell in love with teaching and the joys and challenges that this noble profession provided to me over the course of thirty-one years.”

He breaks the book into chapters every teacher will understand:

How did i get here
Setting up your classroom
Working with students
Working with colleagues
Working with your boss
Discipline

…and more. Aside from grading, parents, lunch duty, conferences, and yard duty, these are the biggest issues we teachers face. I’m a veteran teacher of thirty years and still I couldn’t wait to read Pete’s take on these timeless issues.

“Instead of saying, “Do everything my way, and you can become a successful teacher,” she was giving me her permission to find my way.”
“…storytelling was one of the most successful methods to get my students to pay attention.”
“…when we lose our calm, we are teaching them that it is okay to behave in this manner when something is not going right.”

Every new teacher will benefit from Pete’s daily experiences of what in the end results in a journey well traveled with more importance than most of us would car eto admit. Educational philosophies change. Favorite tools like iPads and Chromebooks change. What never changes is the fundamentals that Pete covers in this book:

“…tell the kids when I made similar mistakes growing up.”
“I do think that it is possible for parents or schools to provide too many rewards for kids.”

Overall an excellent book. If you’re a new teacher, I’d call this an essential read prior to your first day.

Read the reviews and buy the book: Amazon US – And: Amazon UK

Read the reviews, buy the book and discover more about Pete Springer: Amazon US – and:Amazon UK – Read more reviews:Goodreads – Website: Pete Springer WordPress – Twitter: @OfficerWoof

Please hop over to Sally’s original post and say hi.

Thank You Sally for all you do!

©DGKaye2023

Original Source: Smorgasbord Christmas Book Fair 2023 – #Memoirs – #Motherhood #Relationships by D.G. Kaye, #Life #Relationships Cheryl Oreglia, #Teaching Pete Springer | Smorgasbord Blog Magazine

D.G. Kaye's books reviewed

New Reviews Still Rolling in for Fifteen First Times

Published on by dgkaye79 Comments

It’s that time again for a shameless promotion. I’m happy to share some of the new reviews that have come in for Fifteen First Times. As authors, we know that every new sterling review we receive for our books is like a tonic of feel good when we know our writing has connected with readers. I also enjoy sharing reviews to give the reviewers some recognition for taking the time to leave their thoughts after reading. So with no further ado . . .

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From United Kingdom

Terry Tyler

5.0 out of 5 stars Days Gone Bye…

Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 26 July 2023

4.5*

I so enjoyed reading these snapshots of D. G. Kaye’s life, growing up in the 1960s, 70s and 80s – partly because I discovered that she is just two months older than me, so it’s a world I know about … mostly!*

I love the conversational aspect of the essays; the way Kaye writes is so readable, so down-to earth that it’s like she’s talking just to you, from the first kiss to the first love, to the first car and apartment, and, more seriously, the first bereavement of someone her own age. This one was so heartrending that I found myself missing Alba too, a woman I know only from this one short story.

I think the piece that made me smile and nod the most was the ‘first diet’ – years of yo-yo dieting and obsession with what is put in one’s mouth, the bane of many a young (and not so young) woman’s life. The daft things you try to lose weight. Definitely a generational thing; I remember my mother (born in the 1920s) telling me that when she was a young woman, you were just the shape you were, and you didn’t give it a great deal of thought. Before advertising got serious!

Anyway, this is great, definitely recommend it to anyone. It’s not that long; you could probably read it in a couple of afternoons. Ideal for a nice bit of holiday reading, too 🙂

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Lauren Scott

5.0 out of 5 stars Delightful and poignant memoriesReviewed in the United States on June 23, 2023

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I’ve always enjoyed D.G. Kaye’s conversational writing style. This book is no exception to her honest and entertaining narrative. She has compiled a collection of ‘firsts’ from her teen years relatable to all readers. I felt so at ease that I read this collection in one sitting, feeling like we were comfortably chatting over a glass of wine. These memories invited me to stroll down memory lane, recalling crazy crash diets, first kiss, first boyfriend, and first broken heart that felt like it would never mend. Her amusing fascination with shoes made me chuckle; how she managed those heels is beyond me. I laughed out loud when I read about the first hair dye episode. Her first car was a Ford Mustang given by her wonderful father, and while my first car wasn’t, her story evoked memories of when I bought a blue Mustang a few years later with equal excitement.

Kaye’s anecdotes are witty, engaging, and poignant. She has no trouble sharing her vulnerability. Low self-esteem plagued her in those years, but with her outgoing personality and wild sense of fashion, she rose above it, growing into the confident woman she is today. Being a teenager isn’t easy. Those years are about finding ourselves, figuring out who we are, and Kaye succeeded with spirit!

Kaye ends the collection with an emotive tribute to her late husband, her only true love. My heart still aches for her loss. She writes in her dedication, “To those who’ve been there, done that, and learned from. And for those who’ve yet to venture out and overcome.” She couldn’t have expressed the purpose of this delightful book any better. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys a heartwarming memoir and a stroll down memory lane.

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Lawrence Joseph

5.0 out of 5 stars An Enchanting Tour of LifeReviewed in the United States on March 1, 2023

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I might be in my sixth decade of life, but DG Kaye’s memoir, Fifteen First Times, brings me blissfully back in time as if I were reliving my youth. She includes tender moments, budding independence, and painful firsts. I felt as if I were sitting across the couch from Kaye, sipping crisp white wine and exchanging stories of our beloved but challenging past.

She draws you in with our commonalities as women, from our first love to menstruation, a hysterical shoe obsession, bad hair decisions, first apartments, and broken hearts. As I read through each story, I laughed, cried, and empathized with Kaye’s Fifteen Firsts. It is a bold, funny, and touching read about life’s endearing moments. An enchanting novel for fans of delightful memoirs.

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Reviewed by Jaye Marie and Anita Dawes on their blog, and Amazon below.

https://jenanita01.com/2023/05/19/fifteen-first-times-beginnings-a-collection-of-indelible-firsts-review-personaltransformation-pokercubster/comment-page-1/#comment-86967

Anita Dawes

5.0 out of 5 stars a most fascinating read…Reviewed in the United Kingdom on 19 May 2023

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A Collection of Indelible Firsts

My First Car

I share many memories of my first times with Debby and the most memorable for me, was my first car and learning to drive it. This was my first taste of independence and I loved every minute of being behind the wheel.

For The love of Shoes

Shoes struck a different note with me, however, as being tall, I apparently have rather large feet. Finding shoes that fit has always been a nightmare for me.

First and Last Love

Although I share many of Debby’s Fifteen First Times, I never did find the love of my life, although there were plenty of almosts. I am envious of the love she shared with G and very sad that she must mourn him with every single day…

This intriguing book is so many of our lives in a nutshell…

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Darlene Foster

5.0 out of 5 stars Easy to read and relatable stories

Reviewed in Canada on April 26, 2023

We have all had our firsts in life; first kiss, first love, first death etc. These events are typically unforgettable and shape who we are. This easy-to-read, relatable collection of short stories brings our own firsts to mind. Reading a book written by D.G. Kaye is like having a chat with a good friend, reminiscing about the past and sharing tears and laughter. I enjoyed reading about the author’s European trip as a naive and enthusiastic teenager, her excitement of moving into her own place and the horror of a hair-dying disaster! An enjoyable read along with a loving tribute to her dear husband.

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Art Gown Designer Resa McConaghy at Graffiti Lux Art & More

Fifteen First Times – by D.G. Kaye

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Thanks again to you all for your reading! Happy readers make writing so rewarding. ❣

©DGKaye2023

Let's Have a Look - series

Let’s Have a Look – Eat, Pray, Love author has a Publishing Conundrum

Published on by dgkaye90 Comments

It’s been a while since I shared a ‘let’s have a look post’. I named the series this for when I come across something that makes me go hmmm. This article about an author’s dilemma makes me wonder what side of the argument I stand on when there are pros and cons on both sides of the argument. I always tend to put myself in someone else’s shoes, and I can only imagine our blood, sweat, and tears going into a book, only to discover that the political climate of the world will affect distribution in order to appease reader’s sentimental and political values.

So, I came across this article on NBC news, where author Elizabeth Gilbert – famously known for her book then movie, Eat Pray, Love, had to face a dilemma of whether or not to publish her new book, Snow Forest, set for February 2024. The story takes place in Russia and her Ukranian reader fans are not happy about her choosing Russia for the setting.

“It is not the time for this book to be published. And I do not want to add any harm to a group of people who have already experienced, and are continuing to experience, grievous and extreme harm,” Gilbert added.

Gilbert’s book is set in the 20th century, Siberia, Russia. The book is about a group of people who wish to remove themselves from society to resist Soviet government.

The book has been on pre-order, now taken down and reimbursing purchasers after more than 500 reviewers gave it one star, citing Gilbert with accusation that she is ‘romanticizing Russia’. And this is ALL without even reading the book!

“We hope Gilbert might reconsider and we urge others to rally around the on-time publication of her book, and the principle that literature and creativity must not become a casualty of war,” CEO Nossel continued.

Suzanne Nossel, chief executive officer of the free expression group PEN America, called Gilbert’s decision, both “regrettable” and “well-intended,” 

As an author myself, I honestly don’t know how I would handle this situation. What would you do? If you read the article, the setting of the book is Siberia, Moscow, about Soviets who disagree with their system, yet, readers are saying Gilbert is romanticizing Russia. Are these readers just against writing anything about Russia, jumping the gun because of their politics, or are politics over-ruling the whole meaning of her story? That’s a toughie.

Read the full article about what Elizabeth Gilbert had to say about why she decided not to publish her new book.

©DGKaye2023

Thank you gratitude

New Reviews for Fifteen First Times: Beginnings – A Collection of Indelible Firsts by D.G. Kaye

Published on by dgkaye86 Comments

Okay, this could be another shameless promotion for my latest book, Fifteen First Times, but what it really is, is a humbling share for the many of you who had the interest to read, and read and reviewed my latest tellings. I have caught up with some lovely new reviews that came in while I was on winter break, and I am thrilled to share them here with you today. Thanks again so much for reading and reviewing, and I’m so glad that many of you could relate to my stories with some of your own experiences.

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Blurb:

This book is a collection of stories about some of Kaye’s first-time experiences with life’s most natural events. Told through the intimate conversational writing we’ve come to know from this author, poignant personal steppingstones to learning moments are revealed. She encompasses the heart of each matter with sincerity and sprinkled inflections of humor.

From first kiss to first car to walking in the desert with four-inch heels, Kaye’s short coming-of-age stories take us through her awakenings and important moments of growth, often without warning. Some good and some not, life lessons are learned through trial and error, winging it, and navigating by the seat of her pants.

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Cheryl Oreglia

5.0 out of 5 stars An Enchanting Tour of LifeReviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 1, 2023

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I might be in my sixth decade of life, but DG Kaye’s memoir, Fifteen First Times, brings me blissfully back in time as if I were reliving my youth. She includes tender moments, budding independence, and painful firsts. I felt as if I were sitting across the couch from Kaye, sipping crisp white wine and exchanging stories of our beloved but challenging past.

She draws you in with our commonalities as women, from our first love to menstruation, a hysterical shoe obsession, bad hair decisions, first apartments, and broken hearts. As I read through each story, I laughed, cried, and empathized with Kaye’s Fifteen Firsts. It is a bold, funny, and touching read about life’s endearing moments. An enchanting novel for fans of delightful memoirs.

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Pete Springer

5.0 out of 5 stars A Story of Familiar FirstsReviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on February 2, 2023

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Fifteen First Times was such a comfortable and almost conversational read that I cranked it out in one setting. While a few of the memorable firsts involved topics that pertained more to women (period, menopause, shoes), there were plenty of other subjects that involved either gender. Written in her usual honest style with moments of sadness and humor embedded, Kaye will connect with most readers. While reading about a young woman finding her way, I found myself reminiscing about my first kiss, car, heartbreak, cigarette, and many other subjects.

Most subjects were pretty light until the author shared some poignant and touching memories about experiencing the death of a close friend and then, later, her husband. Those chapters will stay with me the most as Kaye openly shares her private thoughts. I felt like I was listening in on a phone call with someone sharing their feelings with a close friend.

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JanS

4.0 out of 5 stars Relatable Personal StoriesReviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on December 31, 2022

This recollection of fifteen events in the author’s life that shaped her entire future is an entertaining and relatable memoir.
We’ve all had those first moments of an experience we could never forget. In a personal and conversational style of writing, Ms. Kaye shares fifteen of her firsts, from a fascination with shoes to getting her period, her first car, heartbreak, apartment, learning to drive, and to her first experience with grief.
When we are kids, we have so many questions and search for answers. And while this author had an insatiable curiosity, sadly, she had no one in which to confide when she first got her period, and she had no idea what was happening to her. Thank goodness we have come forward in a time where these things are more openly talked about. I love the humor the author interjected into the stories, and many made me chuckle. The last entry in the book gripped my heart as she shared the loss of her husband, her one true love. The anguish comes across in her words. I highly recommend this personal memoir to women of all ages. There is a sprinkling of sage advice that would benefit younger women, and a feeling of camaraderie older women can experience when reading this book.

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Harmony Kent

4.0 out of 5 stars A quick and easy readReviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on January 19, 2023

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I have read and enjoyed books by this author previously. So when Fifteen First Times released, I grabbed a copy right away. At 92 Kindle pages, this is a quick and easy read.

‘We live, we experience, we learn, we become, and we overcome.’ I loved this quote in the opening pages, which spoke to my own life truths.

In this book, the writer shares fifteen firsts–or, in some cases, almost or kind-of firsts–with the reader, along with what she learnt from each experience. Many of these, I couldn’t connect with so easily, as I didn’t need to diet as a child but, rather, struggled to get enough to eat. The same with the shoe fetish, where I used to stuff the soles with cardboard as new shoes were nowhere near my horizon. Neither did I have my father buy a new car for me or have an aunt and father who could rent me a flat. What I did connect with was the narcissistic mother, who had more concern for her own life than that of her daughter. The lack of knowledge of that first period, I could relate to strongly, as my mother failed to mention this major event completely, and I had many of the same fears and shame as did D G Kaye, which she expressed wonderfully.

While I might not have connected fully with each experience, I loved the raw honesty of this short memoir, told in a slice-of-life fashion. And the final chapter, where the author shares her utter anguish at the loss of her husband–lifelong partner and best friend–moved me deeply. The author’s outgoing personality shone through in this small book, as did her ability to make friends easily, which came through in her chatty, easy-to-relate-to style of writing. I believe that this little memoir will appeal to women of all ages–both as a cautionary tale and as inducing poignant memories of ‘the good old days’.

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Deborah Jay

5.0 out of 5 stars Open, honest, poignant, and funny all in oneReviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on February 8, 2023

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‘Fifteen First Times’ fully describes this short, entertaining read in D G Kaye’s inimitable open and honest style – no subject is too difficult to approach or describe.
As with some other reviewers, there were several experiences I didn’t relate to, but found Kaye’s explanations of them engaging and sometimes eye-opening. The one that amused me most was ‘From Blonde to Wrong’. I began experimenting with dying my own hair quite early in my teens, and also chose to go red – a colour that both my cousins have by nature, and I coveted. Unlike Kaye, my first foray into hair colouring was using henna, and I was pleased with the results, so I have continued to dye my own hair, and the only time I ever got it done at a salon was the one time it turned out so dark it was almost black and I hated it – just as happened to Kaye with her first home effort!
No matter how painful the memories of some of these ‘firsts’, Kaye does not shy away from sharing the depths of feelings she experienced, and still manages to highlight the humour that characterises her welcome positive approach to life. I’m sure everyone will find some ‘firsts’ applicable to them – well worth the read.

Jane Sturgeon

5.0 out of 5 stars Another lovingly observed collection of stories from Kaye’s gifted writing talent …Reviewed in the United Kingdom 🇬🇧 on March 16, 2023

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I love Kaye’s books and this one does not disappoint. A loving collection of ‘firsts’ and the stories are all warm, witty and keenly observed by a writer who writes from a wise viewpoint. I was right there with her on First Broken Heart, From Blond to Wrong, First Loss Of A Friend, through to the heartbreaking tribute to her beloved G. We will all find a part of our history in her stories as they help us to feel seen and understood. Please keep writing!

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Alex Craigie

January 1, 2023

In her opening thoughts, Ms Kaye writes “We live, we write, we experience, we become, and we overcome.” It’s this acceptance of what life throws at us, and using it as a way to move forwards, that gave me huge respect for the author. Her candour, her vivid recollections of these first landmarks in her life, and her bubbly nature offset with a deprecating humour, all contribute to the magic, poignancy and heartbreak of these revelations.
The book is written in a conversational style that brought the experiences closer to home for me. Her first kiss (“Yuck!”) and her first broken heart were so natural and relatable, and I could picture them so clearly, sympathizing with her sadness whilst smiling at her recollections. The story of her first period, though, was shocking. As she says, she was “sheltered and uninformed” and dealt with the worry and practical problems on her own until others realized what was going on. Her mother’s brutal humiliation was painful to read about.
There’s a wit and wisdom about all of these pieces. During her time on a kibbutz, she refers to herself as ‘a spoiled brat’ but her good-natured responses and ability to laugh at herself completely took the sting out of the situation and earned my admiration.
The last ‘time’ is entitled When Friends Die and was the most poignant and moving of these for me. She writes “Death doesn’t bypass the kindhearted”. There is a tribute to her beloved husband who died recently and I found it incredibly touching.
In the epilogue she concludes that we have to experience these things for ourselves and that they provide the ‘compass’ for life. Without these incidents we would never learn or have anything for comparison.
I think it’s inevitable that we remember our own encounters when we read this book and this does add to the overall appeal of the book for me. It made me reflect on my own life whilst providing an entertaining, humorous and emotional read.

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Reviewed by Toni Pike

https://tonipike.com/2023/03/22/a-five-star-review-for-fifteen-first-times-beginnings-a-collection-of-indelible-firsts-by-d-g-kaye/

My Review

5 Stars – a pleasure to read

I loved D.G. Kaye’s new book and it even exceeded my high expectations. I’ve enjoyed books by this author before – she has a great talent for writing highly entertaining stories. This is a heart-warming collection of fifteen stories about significant firsts in her life, mainly from her early years. Kaye regarded these as “her compass for life, setting up the direction for whom and how I’d become me.”

Every story was so easy to relate to and touched a chord with me, bringing back memories of my own life. They all tugged at the heart-strings and were told with a great deal of humour and common sense, showing a wonderful zest for life. The author is not afraid to shy away from some very difficult subjects, such as her first, very traumatic experiences with menstruation.

I enjoyed all of the stories, but my special favourites were:

Crazy Diets

My First Kiss – Yuck!

First Broken Heart

My First Apartment.

Most touching of all was the final story – a heartbreaking tribute to her beloved husband.

This was a joy to read, and I give it a resounding five stars.

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xThank you again for the lovely welcome back and for reading!

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Thanks so much for reading and your lovely reviews 💜💙

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©DGKaye2023

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Bitmo Sunday book review

Sunday Book Review – The Winding Road: A Journey of Survival by Miriam Hurdle #Cancer #Memoir

Published on by dgkaye117 Comments

Welcome to my Sunday Book Review. Today I am thrilled to be sharing my review for Miriam Hurdle’s – The Winding Road: A Journey of Survival – surviving near fatal cancer. This book is both, a heartfelt and heart-wrenching journey, bravely told by Miriam, and miraculously she was gifted the opportunity to live. Not only is this book a tale of Miriam’s diagnosis and her physical fight for survival, but a testament to her diligence and being her own advocate to push through the medical system.

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Blurb:

In the summer of 2008, Miriam Hurdle was diagnosed with melanoma-an aggressive and invasive cancer in her internal organs. The survival rate before 2008 was low. Besides risking harsh treatments for a slim chance of survival, Miriam had hoops to jump through. By the time she received treatment at the beginning of 2009, her cancer had progressed from stage II to stage IV. It was a rough and uphill winding road. But alongside her was support and encouragement. Accompanied by the love of her family and community, this is Miriam’s journey of faith and miracle. It is a heartwarming story of resilience, courage, and the will to live.

My Five Star Review:

A courageous journey defying all odds, Miriam Hurdle is a true warrior woman.

Hurdle takes us through her journey of discovering an almost always fatal cancer. She’d already soldiered through several operations to remove fibroids and ultimately, a hysterectomy, when she thought she was moving on, only to be told they found a rare melanoma growing within her internal organs. It wasn’t enough what she’d already endured and her frightening future, but this woman fought all the way through the medical system just to get the experimental and low odds of life saving treatment she would need to live.

This book is a raw accounting with pure honesty and love, of the author’s journey and her unrelenting spirit to get the help she needed for just a chance to live longer. She fought the red tape of the system as her cancer was quickly progressing and her request for treatments remained in a pile of other requests, and her faith and love for her family and determination to live no matter how small the chances were of the horrid experimental treatments and their proposed side effects alone that could have killed her, did not deter her from.

Her story is not only about the journey through hell, but her thoughts and feelings as she approached each hurdle and roadblock along the way, as well as the financial burdens involved and finding willing and compassionate people in her field of teaching who aided in helping to fund her journey. Written with extreme courage and offering anyone hope to know that persistence is always worth it, despite the odds.

This book is not only about Miriam’s journey through cancer, but also, the importance of faith, family and community who came to the her aid and cheered her along, and the miracle that she is still here with us today.

©DGKaye 2023

Guest Day at Marcia Meara’s – The Write Stuff, featuring D.G. Kaye

Published on by dgkaye23 Comments

I was thrilled to be Marcia’s guest this week at her book promo feature series, Guest Day Tuesday, with my latest book – Fifteen First Times.

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#GuestDayTuesday – Featuring Author #D. G. Kaye

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Today, it is my great pleasure to have author D. G. Kaye (known to many of us as Debby Gies) as my special guest. I know you are all going to enjoy Debby’s very interesting post, so I will let her have the floor without further ado. Debby, take it away! 

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Thanks so much for having me over today Marcia to share my recent release of my new book, Fifteen First Times – Beginnings: A Collection of Indelible Firsts. After two years of no real production, I managed to get this book out just before Christmas 2022.

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Thoughts

Do you ever think back on past events which have left an indelible impression on you or your life, or find that the incidents you’ve endured through life have helped shape the person you’ve become? Are your formed perceptions and values developed from experience, and have they consequently become incorporated into your daily life? Our experiences are steppingstones for much of what feed our character. We live, we experience, we learn, we become, and we overcome.

 Nobody sent me the memo on life, and most of the time, I had zero confidence to broach the subject of my conflictions and situations with anyone. All these events I experienced and share in my stories happened with little to no guidance or knowledge, making much of my young life experiences processes of trial and error. I was like the proverbial child who grew up in the wild, except I had parents and a comfortable home.

In these fifteen short stories, I’m fessing up to some firsts in my life, some of which turned out to serve as monumental lessons. These weren’t life-altering moments, but rather, moments of teaching to move my life forward, leaving me with scars and awakening moments, confirming my curiosities, and leading me in new directions of growth.

I finished writing this book just over three years ago. When it was ready for edits, I left it to marinate since it was late 2019 and I was getting ready for my winter escape with my husband in early 2020. By the time we returned in mid-March, Covid lockdowns began and so did my husband’s deterioration of his health. The book was the furthest from my mind, as I had no head for edits and publishing. The year got worse as it progressed, and I lost my husband early spring of 2021. Needless to say, I was in no state of mind for publishing. I pushed myself to get back to it summer 2022, along with many other projects I’d left on hold. And I kept my promise to myself that I’d publish this book before 2022 came to an end. Mission accomplished.

These short stories are a reminiscing back to some of the firsts in my life. They are moments that left an imprint and propelled me forward through life. Nothing that happens to us is insignificant – everything that happens is for a reason or for teaching us something to take forward with us.

Please head over to Marcia’s blog to read more – reviews and excerpt.

©DGKaye2023