Glow in the Dark: A Streak of Light Blog Tour: Review and Prize Pack Giveaway

Aliens, space, sparkles...if words like these excite you, then Glow in the Dark: A Streak of Light is a book you don't want to miss. Find out more about T.J. Scripps' debut novel, the first in the series, and then enter to win a fantastic Glow in the Dark prize pack!

My Review:

Full of magic and wonder, Glow in the Dark: A Streak of Light follows fifth grader Ruby's mesmerizing space adventure in the shining world of Starland. The moment Ruby is gifted grandmother's mystical dreamcatcher marks the turning point in her life. Not only is she transported outside planet Earth, but she also gets to discover the shocking secret of her true identity, which sends her on a mission to save both Starland and Earth from losing their light to dark forces. Will she unlock the power of her special talent just in time?

With fantasy and reality woven neatly together, the book appeals to readers who appreciate a nice blend of magic, mystery, adventure and science fiction. The fascinating alien world is brought to life through vivid, meticulous, and nuanced descriptions. The use of colorful, dynamic prints adds to the fun of reading while reflecting Ruby's multi-faceted personality. As they witness Ruby's growth and root for her victory, young readers are inspired to embark on their own journey of self-discovery, finding their inner light and gaining confidence. The story encourages them to discover signs from the universe, feel connected to nature, and adopt a positive attitude toward life.

In addition, the story relates to tweens and teens by touching upon issues they often face in real life, such as quibbles with siblings, peer pressure to fit in, and intolerance of differences. It uses Ruby's experience to deliver important messages about family, friendship, kindness and social responsibilities.

Entertaining and empowering, Glow in the Dark: A Streak of Light promises great potential for the series as a new favorite among lovers of nature, space, and all things that shimmer, glitter, or sparkle. Looking forward to reading the sequel when it comes out!

About the Book:

Ages: 8+ | 202 Pages
Publisher: Skybok Press | ISBN: 979-8991217477

Ruby, a regular 10-year-old girl with fiery red hair and wild green eyes, has her life turned upside down when her grandmother gives her a magical dreamcatcher. One night, it transports her to the dazzling planet of Starland, where she discovers The Aura Embassy, a magnificent glass castle floating in space. There, she meets alien kids and Royal Light Beings, who welcome her as one of their own. Excited to unravel Starland’s mysteries and connect them to her own world, Ruby faces danger as sinister Dark Beings threaten to extinguish all light, both on Starland and Earth. With thrilling challenges ahead, Ruby must maintain her disguise, uncover secrets, and stop the dark forces before it’s lights out forever. Join Ruby on her daring quest to save the world’s light!

Purchase Links: Amazon | Barnes and Noble

Average Joe in Theaters 10/11! Amazon Gift Card Giveaway!

Based on the true story of Coach Joe Kennedy, new movie Average Joe is set to release in theaters this Friday, October 11. Get your tickets today here and enter to win an Amazon gift card!

Synopsis:

High school football coach Joe Kennedy had no other choice but to fight. A childhood in foster care followed by 20 years in the Marine Corps was nothing compared to his biggest battle: his commitment to stand for God publicly by taking a knee in prayer after each game. When he was fired, Joe and his wife Denise knew this battle for religious freedom, freedom of speech, and the rights of all Americans was one they would have to fight—no matter the cost. From the director and producers of God’s Not Dead and the producers of The Blind comes AVERAGE JOE, in theaters beginning October 11.

My Review:

Starring seasoned actor Eric Close and actress Amy Acker, Average Joe retells Joe Kennedy's life experience as a foster child, a Marine and a high school football coach who keeps fighting for his freedom all the way up to the Supreme Court. The movie entertains and engages the viewers using a humorous postmodernist approach. Expect to get a behind-the-scene sneak peak of the filmmaking in the middle of a scene. A character may unexpectedly turn to the screen and talk to you directly, sharing their secret thoughts or reminding you that some elements of the film are fictional rather than factual for the sake of dramatic effects.

The movie is amusing, relaxing and thought-provoking regardless of which side you are on for the highly contentious case. Joe's courage to stand up for his belief and his commitment to his promise are touching. As he points out repeatedly, his fight for freedom is for the benefit of everyone, not just those who share his religious beliefs. His story inspires ordinary people to make extraordinary achievements through determination and persistence.

White Bird in Theaters Now! Win an Amazon Gift Card! #BeBraveChooseKind #Giveaway

From the studio that created Wonder comes White Bird, adapted from R. J. Palacio (bestselling author of Wonder)’s graphic novel with the same title. The movie is now playing in theaters nationwide. Get your tickets here and enter to win an Amazon gift card below!

Synopsis

From the world of Wonder, which sparked a movement to "choose kind," comes the inspirational next chapter: WHITE BIRD. Struggling to fit in at his new school after being expelled for his treatment of Auggie Pullman, Julian (Bryce Gheisar) is visited by his grandmother (Helen Mirren) and is transformed by the compassionate and heroic story of her attempts to escape Nazi-occupied France during WWII. From the director of Finding Neverland, WHITE BIRD reminds us to be brave and choose kind.

My Review:

With a charming cast and a riveting story, White Bird impresses me as a deeply touching and inspiring film about love, kindness, bravery and humanity. Transitioning back and forth between the present and the 1940s, it recounts the heart-wrenching yet miraculous experience of young Jewish girl Sara, who gets hidden away by a boy and his family in Nazi-occupied France during World War II.

Everything about this movie, from acting and directing to music and cinematography, is beautifully done. The young actors in particular have done a spectacular job of portraying the main characters with subtlety, letting viewers feel their complex emotions, their struggle for survival and their growth over time. My favorite scenes are those that involve the romantic pair traveling together through imagination.

What makes the movie most memorable is its message regarding the power of kindness and the courage it takes to remain kind during the darkest time in history. The little white bird that frequently appears in the movie serves as a symbol of hope, peace and freedom. It reminds us of the importance of keeping the light in our hearts and never giving up the fight for justice. The incredible sacrifice made by all the kind and brave people in the story to protect Jews from persecution inspires us to bring light to those trapped in darkness.

Win a $10 Amazon Gift Card or PayPal Cash! #Giveaway

Welcome to the annual Howl-o-ween Giveaway Hop! Here's your chance to visit different blogs, discover fun products, and enter to win spooktacular prizes right before Halloween.

 

 

I'm giving away a $10 Amazon Gift Card to one of my lucky readers! The winner can opt to receive $10 cash via PayPal instead. Please submit your entries below. Good luck and happy hopping!