We've Been Here Before
by Michael I Days and Angela P Dodson

ISBN979-8-8808-3737-4
Broadleaf Books. s
Published 2026

We've Been Here Before,
by Michael I Days and Angela P Dodson

ISBN979-8-8808-3737-4
Broadleaf Books. s

As we celebrate the Centiquintentennial 250 years of the Declaration of Independence this book landed at my doorstep. I am enjoying this historical book beyond words..It is masterfully researched and a book I can't put down. As I librarian, the endnotes are important. 

To quote ..."the overall message: "in this book, we aggressively explore the complex history of the United States, including the colonists quest for religious freedom, the displacement of Indigenous people, and enslavement and the responses to it, including rebellion, self-emancipation, the Underground Railroad, and the Abolition Movement. We trace the history of some of the most fundamental social movements that have shaped the nation: the struggles for rights-women's, labor and civil-as well as the movement for peace and environmental stewardship including climate change." 

This is a complex history of the United States, which at times can be quite disturbing as the reality of history as it happened is corrected. As most know,times (most times) much of the American History was buried,,conveniently omitted or misinformation published. 

In any case, I fine the book a riveting account of our country at this 250year anniversary. Where are we?

Have we learned from our past and which way is the republic headed? So many questions. Full review to follow with Library Thing, Early Reviewer program. 

Fool: A Tudor Novel by Mary Lawrence

Fool: A Tudor Novel

Jester's reckoning-betrayal,revenge and the power of perception 

by Mary Lawrence

Fool, A Tudor Novel, by Mary Lawrence
ISBN# 978-1-7347361-1-3

 

As soon as I read the book summary provided on the Early Reviewers website, Fool A Tudor Novel, became a must read. So, from that moment on the thought of reading this novel intrigued me. Mary Lawrence shows that she is a skillful storyteller as she captivated my attention from the beginning. With that said, should you be a person who perks up at the mention of a Tudor Novel, or King Henry VIII, his court and numerous wives, Lawrence will have you intrigued with her story, Fool. A Tudor Novel.
It is commonly known that Henry enjoyed entertainment. Live music and dance, jousting and hunting, great food accompanied by fools and other performances. Perhaps most important was his large ego and passion for women.
Therefore, when the character of Kronos appears, it is easily assumed that he would have been at the court of King Henry VIII. Kronos is a busybody, loves to eavesdrop and loves the ladies of the court. Kronos is a dwarf, not attractive, but the ladies seem to adore him. Unfortunately for Kronos, he suffers an unspeakable punishment for his actions.
Fool. A Tudor Novel, is laced with intrigue, mystery and unexpected plot twists. Kronos is a likable fool despite his hideous disfigurement and dwarf stature. Often underestimated. Is he a fool? Mary Lawrence pens this puzzling story of Kronos to ensure the reader is in questionable suspense till the end.
Highly Recommended~
~Donna W Edwards 6/18/26

Original posting on Library Thing Awarded Early Reviewer

Our Libraries and Freedom of Speech Need Your Help

From the American Library Association

Have you taken action for libraries yet today? There's no better way to celebrate #NationalLibraryWeek than by raising your voice to oppose censorship and show up #ForOurLibraries!

Take action with us and tell your House Rep to REJECT censorship and PROTECT the freedom to read: https://lnkd.in/gwzJSGHu

From The American Library Association 

Article by 

I had to share this fabulous picture and article by Cara Bertram.  Her full article is linked below. 

 It reminds me of the Book Fairs of today that travel to our schools to bring books to kids. I will always remember my mother telling me to list a few books I wanted. Well, of course I filled up the sheet. She would always buy me one or two of the books I selected. What I didn't know was that she would buy a couple of the other titles and hold them for my birthday or Christmas holiday. It was always a surprise and  my love of books has never wavered. 

How about you? 

150 YEARS STRONG

Books on Wheels

•                                     By Cara Bertram
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April 22, 2026

Meet My New Kitty, "Charles Dickens".

Charles Dickens

 

 

Charles Dickens is my new 6 month old kitten. He has has brought so much laughter and joy each day with his slick playful smart and curious adventures.  

He has had several names since I adopted him. Q-tip, because he is all black with a 1" white tipped tail. Then came Polaris-given due to the importance of finding your way in life.  Finally, he came to be known as Charles Dickens after one of my favorite authors. Plus, dickens can refer to an imp, which is perfect for Charles Dickens...my little imp. 

He is a big mush and loves to go for walks in his backpack.