Non-Fiction Review

Spirits in the Garden
by Joan Solomon
ISBN-10: 097861660X
Review by Heather Froeschl


If only we would take a moment to stop and not only smell but really see the roses, it may be revealed that the spirits of nature are beckoning to us to pay attention. Joan Solomon offers a spectacular look through her own eyes in her book, “Spirits in the Garden.” This award winning collection of photographs is a treasure and a promise to the planet.

Throughout time, cultures have embraced the spirits of nature, calling them fairies, gnomes, sprites and leprechauns and spreading tales of magic and mischief. Taking a closer look at our natural surroundings, evidence of familiar sights can be found, perhaps even proof of the myths. Solomon finds the faces of the Iris dragon, the Yarrow flying gargoyle, and the Wild Violet gnome. In untouched photographs, she points out what is waiting to be discovered. Sharing the homeopathic herbal properties of numerous plants, the author exposes her admiration and respect for nature’s gifts. From a stomach soothing dill tea to delicious violet jelly, readers will delight in several recipes for reconnecting with nature. And that is the whole point, this need to reach out and experience the joy of our natural world.

“Spirits in the Garden” is a reminder that all life is connected and if we open our eyes and our minds, we can find delight in the simplest, exquisite blossom. After pouring over the offerings in this book you will find yourself looking closer at your own garden, the trees in the park, the flowers on your desk, and you will be inspired. To my delight, a portion of all proceeds from the work of Joan Solomon is dedicated to environmental and animal concerns. Can it get any better than that?

Non-Fiction Review

Reflections: Personalizing Life, Nature, Man and God
by Radenko Fanuka
ISBN-10: 1571973958
Review by Heather Froeschl

In a collection of essays that depict one man's philosophies on life, nature and his god, there are some simple truths that will apply to everyone who reads them. "Reflections: Personalizing Life, Nature Man and God," is an interesting book that reaches out to us all in effort to relay the lessons that author Radenko Fanuka has learned throughout his very interesting and full life.

Some of the essays left me a bit puzzled as to their point and meaning, while others were quite clear and concise and well understood. In particular, "How Could She Survive?" touched me deeply and demonstrated how simply one could live life and be quite happy in it, for it was about an elderly lady who loved her animals and lived off the land, alone and content. Another story that was touching was about another woman who endured being alone for her husband had gone off to America to earn a living. When he returned, he shunned her, not even knowing the person she had become due to her years of hard living.

Whether portraying a difficult life, or sharing a lesson learned at the side of his mother, the author has answered the call to write out his thoughts and ideals. With respect to his beliefs and hope for the world, he has put together a collection that will surely touch the lives and minds of many readers.