I recently read a powerful book on coping with bullying — for both children and adults — and it truly stayed with me. So many of us have tender hearts for loved ones walking through this, or may have faced it ourselves. And yet, we often feel helpless or unsure how to offer real support — whether to others or to our own wounded places. What I appreciated most is how thoroughly the book approaches the topic. It begins by helping readers understand the culture of bullying — its roots, its ripple effects, and why it persists — and then thoughtfully moves into practical, empowering coping skills. But the chapter that struck me deepest was titled: “Are You a Bully?” That question alone opened an entirely new layer of insight. It gently invites reflection, accountability, and growth in a way that feels honest rather than accusatory — and that, to me, is where real change begins. If this resonates with you, please take the time to check out this book. https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Mask-Transforming-Culture-Bullying/dp/B0GMHBLLVN/

Just finished Friday Night Grace by Rose M. Johnson Friday Night Grace really brought the small southern town vibes with the real competition in schools. The story was very relatable and paced perfectly. The characters could have been my next-door neighbors, and there were points that I found myself self reflecting on things that were happening in the story. I really enjoyed this book and will definitely recommend this book as it's a great feel-good story but with substance as well!

I finished The Trilogy of Thalvannar: A Dark Fantasy of Moon Magic by Mariah Tyler Moore. It was a ride for sure with the different parts of the book from the magitech world to time traveling. 4/5 stars.

Just finished Harrowed Hearts by Beronika Keres. 5 stars Third book in the series and what a adventure it was! Just when I thought I knew what was going to happen there was a twist I wasn’t expecting. The author kept the pages turning and the ending has me looking forward to the fourth book! Currently reading Friday Night Grace by our own @Red Rose Johnson

My Rating: 👍👍👍👍 I wanted to read this book because I see the tremendous need that so many have, especially youths, to belong to a collective or group. In our divisive world, this is not as easy as it seems. And even when it is, there is often a negative side that comes with belonging, and that is exclusivity. The perspective that you’re one of us or not of us. Geoffrey L Cohen is a Stanford psychology professor, so I tended to give his words some serious thought and found that I agreed with many of them. I especially enjoyed section three of this book — Fostering Belonging in All Walks of Life. It offered a practical application for implementing situational arenas that touched on all ages, with school and work. It even discussed policing our communities and the political policies that are one of the most powerful and divisive elements in our society. This is a comprehensive book and one that isn’t conducive to skimming. So make the time to read it thoroughly. I think you’ll be glad you did. - I received a complimentary copy of this book from a Goodreads giveaway. However, my review is my own and reflects my personal thoughts and opinions.