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The Holey Land by Laura Koerber- Review by Heather Goodman

The Holey LandThe Holey Land by Laura Koerber
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This book is a breath of fresh air. It gives you new perspectives on things and shows you how to enjoy the simple things. It teaches you how to stop and smell the roses and enjoy the beauty around you. The main character is going on a trip by herself and she doesn’t really know why but just knows she needs to go. While there she is introduced to all kinds of unique characters and is reminded to be content in every season.

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese – Review by Ashley Phillips

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book was a great pleasure to read. At the beginning it seemed as if it would only be a self help book but with every short story I could feel my growth transcending to a higher height. I was emotional while reading this book, and felt this book was and it’s very useful for my life. This is a book that is great for reference on the shelf! I think you’ll really enjoy it and invite you to keep turning those pages! Great set of stories from a great author.

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese – Review by

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I think we can all relate to not feeling like we are where we should be in one aspect or another, and this book is all about that. One of the things that I loved about it, is how the author tells us right up front that there is nothing new in this book, this is just his telling of advice and tips that have been told countless times over the years.
I really enjoyed reading this, and found it helping me to feel less anxious about how my life is turning out. I hope others read this, and find some peace knowing that it’s ok that they “haven’t arrived” yet.
I’ll definitely be looking up more by this author, his wit and insight into every day life puts a refreshing spin on old advice.

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese – Review by Jenni Bishop

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 stars
Michael shares in part his journey in life through many avenues such as quotes, poetry, musings, hopes, dreams, reflections, tips and so much more. He offers it all up so that others may resonate, pursue and find their own journey.
It is a guide for you to embrace your own personal reflection and growth in life if you so choose. Only you know where you are in your life, where you want to be and if you have arrived and Michael is offering some tools to help you there.
“You are exactly where you are supposed to be” is the mantra I would tell my friend every day when she would get mad sitting in peak hour traffic and surprisingly, she adapted that to her whole life.
It is a personal journey that is never a straightforward road and what works for one may be different for another but there is definitely something for everyone within these pages.

Reviewed by @jennadb

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You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese – Review by Angela Hayes

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

 

3 – 3.5 Stars

 

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations For those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese is a motivational book made up of many short stories, poetry, musings, anecdotes, reflections, observations, and messages to encourage the reader. The human condition means that we are always striving to find where we belong, striving for more, and to ‘be’ more- and when we don’t achieve ‘more’ we look at it as some sort of failure. Here, Mr. Albanese help to give us a different perspective. To perhaps see things from a different angle, and to affirm that you/me/we are not alone in this.
A very though-provoking read.

Thank you, Michael Albanese!

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese – Review by Samantha Cleaver

You Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet ArrivedYou Are Not Here: Stories and Inspirations for Those Who Have Not Yet Arrived by Michael Albanese
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

I really enjoyed this book more than I first thought I would! Super easy read (even for a slow reader like me). Michael did a really good job writing this. It was inspirational and had some humor throughout as well. This book shows that even though we might not feel like it, we are exactly where we are supposed to be. Each obstacle and challenge in life happens for a reason and shapes us into the person we’re supposed to be.

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You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese

•*•📖•*• BOOK SPOTLIGHT SHOWCASE •*•📖•*•
You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese
Hosted by Itsy Bitsy Book Bits
Genre – Inspirational, Non-Fiction
Page Count – 196
Cover Designer – J.J. Richards
Are you where you thought you’d be at this stage of your life? No? Then this book is for you. “You Are Not Here” explores the timeless concept that life’s journey is its own reward. This collection of stories, reflections, and inspirations, partly autobiographical and inspired by the beloved poem Ithaka, is for those who have not yet arrived. It is an invitation to discover the beauty in the struggle, find hope in the quest, and embrace growth as you move forward on your own life’s journey. Written by Michael Albanese and beautifully illustrated by JJ Richards, this book is a love letter to dreamers. It offers an approachable and encouraging reminder that, wherever you are on this adventure called life, you are exactly where you are supposed to be.

~ AMAZON ~

Click here to view the Book Trailer for You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese

Click here to experience a Chapter Reading of You Are Not Here by Michael Albanese

A native of New York City, Michael grew up in Marietta, Georgia.

He loves poetry, coffee, basketball, and all expressions of art.

Michael lives and dreams in Atlanta with his wife, actress Wynn Everett, and their two daughters (and two cats).

Author Interview with Michael Albanese

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Rita White

Andrew’s Armor is a cute little book that teaches about the Armor of God. The illustrations are fantastic, making the book very colorful and eye-catching.
Andrew has had a chest for his toys his whole life. As he grows, the toys change, and he learns some valuable, wholesome lessons through little notes left for him. This is a great little book for young boys.

Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Dawn Daughenbaugh

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars
Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco

Andrew’s Armor is a well written children’s book that children of any age can enjoy. It teaches children how important Christ is and how we are viewed in different people’s eyes. How to be strong and courageous. Don’t stop believing in yourself. Shows children of any age they can be brave and about forgiveness. My son loved this book and it has become his favorite at the moment. I highly recommend reading this book to your children or grandchildren, niece’s and nephews it’s a a great start. This may be a fairly new author to me but we are definitely fans and look forward to reading more from them.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Micalah Weatherholtz

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Andrews Armor was a book that shared about God’s love and how that’s all the armor you need in life. Young Andrew and his friend were dressing up in armor, slaying dragons, and saving the day when he fell, his friend made a comment about how Andrew might not be so tough after all. Although he knew better he didn’t feel so tough either. After a little cajoling from his dad and a few well worded notes Andrew began to realize all the armor he needed was God’s love and strength behind him to accomplish anything he set out to do. I liked the list of activities and Bible verses that were listed in the back of the book.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Shannen Kern

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Although I hadn’t read anything by this author before, I picked it up because the cover was cute. I’m always looking for more books to read with my kiddos, and this one took me by surprise. It’s a heartwarming and inspiring children’s book that beautifully blends spiritual guidance with storytelling. We all remember how fun childhood was, but it was also confusing with a number of highs and lows. My kids said this made Andrew very relatable because they both brought up experiences that made them feel not so brave as well. The illustrations are wonderful and add depth to the narrative as well. While I’m not a religious person, I enjoyed reading this book to my kids and teaching them about kindness, vulnerability, and forgiveness. I think this would be a great book to share with the younger ones in your life.

Reviewed by @shannlynn

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Jaimie Salmon-Colburn

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is such a great book for growing young boys. There is another book (Miranda’s Mirror) that is more catered to girls, but both are great reads for kiddos! This children’s book teaches about spiritual armor but also about being strong, brave, and courageous. You follow young Andrew with a toy chest his parents got him before he could even walk. As he gets older the toys change. One day there is armor in the chest. He puts it on and feels brave and strong. His parents even say so. He and his friends have great adventures wearing their armor. They climb trees, they fight a dragon, they rescue a princess, and they even have a fort! Andrew feels like a warrior. One day he falls and hurts his knee. This causes him to start questioning everything. Is he really brave? What about strong? He’s not so sure anymore so he puts his armor away. His dad helps him learn about the armor of God and trusting in him. He gets his armor back out and he is kind, forgiving, and helpful. It’s such a wonderful book!! The end is super cute too as Andrew has his own family and he passes down his armor! I can’t wait to get the other book for my daughters! There are activities in the back of this book as well as some scriptures to help teach young children more about God’s truths (Example: You are fearfully and wonderfully made. Psalm 139:14).

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@jaimie0459

Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Tara Johnson Barnes

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Andrews Armor is a children’s book designed for children between the ages of 4 to 13 years. It is a story of a little boy named Andrew who has a toy chest filled with toys. Each toy takes him on a new adventure and transports him to new wonderful worlds. When Andrew discovers a suit of armor in his toy chest, he puts it on, and it makes him feel courageous and strong. One day he is having a bad day, and he does not feel brave or strong. That is when the notes start to appear on his mirror each day with a new bible quote. As Andrew reads each one of the new notes, he is reminded that strength comes from within, and from God. This was a heartwarming story about forgiveness, kindness, finding strength from God, and that serving others is where true courage, strength, and bravery come from. The illustrations are bright and colorful and really helped bring the story to life. I love how at the end of thew book Andrew has grown up and is now passing on the armor and valuable lessons to his own child. The quotes from the Bible are beautiful and included at the end of the book is an activity guide as well as scriptures suggestions to make sticky notes for your child.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Darian Vester

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Great book for Christian families. I like that he’s not told to grow up and get over things like his friend making fun of him, but to believe in himself and believe in the lord and he will find his bravery again. The illustrations in the book are great, I just wish the wording was a little large. The book also includes a list of activists you can do with your child and some uplifting scriptures.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Cindy Mayberry

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a beautifully written spiritual story. Andrew learns a very special message from his parents. A message we also find in our Bible. However, having parents spread such a great message. As well as letting Andrew discover the truths about himself. Makes for a grand story. The author did a great job, setting the parents with the tools needed to teach such a great message. I really enjoyed this spiritual story. The way it was written made is easy for children of all ages to follow. Two thumbs up for this children’s book.

Review@cinful

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Tausha Treadway

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco. This is such a cute book and my 6 year old nephew loved it. Its the story of a young boy named Andrew who has a toy chest full of fun stuff and his favorite is his “armor” which is a helmet, shield and sword. When he has these things on he feels like he can do anything and everything with any problems whatsoever! One day when he has his “armor” on he gets hurt and he no longer believes in the magic of his “armor”. This brings about the bible part of the story. It teaches kids that they have to believe with faith that they will be protected and God will protect them. I absolutely loved this book and the fact that it had a religious touch made it even more special! Go get this book for all the young children in your life. You will be so glad you did!

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Julie Johnson

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Andrew’s parents have a treasure chest for him from the time he’s just a baby. They are always encouraging him, telling him how strong and courageous he is. As Andrew grows, different toys appear in the treasure chest. One day, he finds some armor in there. He puts it on and runs around feeling stronger and braver than ever! Then, one day something happens and he puts his armor away. Nothing makes me feel strong or brave anymore. Notes start appearing on his armor, encouraging him to put it back on.

This book is very well written and describes the spiritual relationship of picking up our armor daily and fighting for the cause of Christ. It is a great way to encourage young children to be strong and brave, while also teaching them Biblical principals.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Crystal Brehant

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This was a cute story. It had beautiful illustrations. Andrew feels strong and brave until something happens and he gets upset. After being made fun of, he no longer feels like he is a brave and strong boy. He mopes around, feeling bad about himself. Will Andrew find his courage again? You must read to find out!

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Elizabeth Sanchez

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Andrew’s Armor was not what I expected, but I enjoyed reading it to my son. Andrew is a young boy, who has a toy chest filled to the brim. One of his favorite toys is his armor- dress up. He has a helmet, shield and sword. When he has those in hand, he goes on great adventures and feels brave and courageous. But then one day he gets hurt while wearing the armor, and it looses all its magic. It takes a while for him to get it back, and with the help of scripture. This is what I did not expect- I missed the God part of the book description. Despite not being religious, the book has good meaning behind it. Most of the illustrations are wonderful, but the beginning, I thought Andrew’s parents were siblings. They look incredibly young. There are a lot of activities at the end, that I didn’t read, because again- not religious.

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Reviewed by @way2gosmartguy

Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Ayla Phipps

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is the first book I have read by the inspirational Jill Monaco, and it was perfect. Even as an adult we need a reminder that just because we don’t have physical armor, we always have our spiritual armor. Beautiful illustrations complete the wonderful message that Andrew goes through.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Jennifer Reimer

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I will say that this was a really well-done children’s story, the illustrations were done very well, and the story had a great flow with the pictures, that my children really enjoyed. However, I didn’t realize this book was religious, which I have no problem with, but my kids had a lot of extra questions about it. but it is about how we can be brave, strong and courageous in everything we do. It was easy for my children to follow and understand and they still enjoyed the book.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Gillian Fawell

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This book is beautifully written and illustrated. The message behind it, that when we put on the armor of God, we can be brave, strong and courageous, is gently intertwined in a way that makes it’s point but also draws children in. Presented in a way that everyday children can relate to and understand, this book is one I would highly recommend to anyone reading to a child in their life!

Reviewed by @sparkinside

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Kelli Harper

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a wonderful book for boys!! You see all the “girl power” books out there about self esteem and being strong and overcoming, but, never have I have seen one for boys. This book is wonderfully illustrated and even references the Bible on many pages. I love how at the end there are even scriptures and more references to find in the Bible. An absolute joy to read this book.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Kerry Baker

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

I was a little unsure about reading this book with my kids as we aren’t a very religious family and I wasn’t sure how they would take it. However, they really seemed to engage with the story, especially my daughter who has been starting to learn about Christianity at school. This was the kind of book that led to a thoughtful and interesting discussion.
It was lovely to watch Andrew on his journey. The notes clearly meant to so much to him, and did so much for him. The author created them to be such a heart warming way to push him to believe in himself. The illustrations just made Andrew come to life even more. We all enjoyed this book in the end and we are all looking forward to more from this author.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Lorralei Hoerner

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

5 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Wonderful faith based children’s story. Andrew is a little boy who loves many adventures. As he gets a bit older, having a brave sword, helmet and all the things to be a warrior is meant to be. Being brave, big and strong is all Andrew holds dear. When not feeling so brave, Andrew learns that it will be ok and he is not alone…..

The illustrations are colorful and very engaging and the overall story is just lovely. I believe this is a great book for the littles and also the young at heart. This story truly made my heart smile.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Amanda Williams

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This children’s book was a delightful and uplifting read that encourages young readers to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams with confidence. It teaches valuable lessons on forgiveness, bravery, and the importance of community, while emphasizing God’s presence and support. Warm and vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, featuring a diverse cast of characters. A gem of a book that will leave a lasting impression on its readers!

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Amanda Williams

This children’s book was a delightful and uplifting read that encourages young readers to believe in their potential and pursue their dreams with confidence. It teaches valuable lessons on forgiveness, bravery, and the importance of community, while emphasizing God’s presence and support. Warm and vibrant illustrations bring the story to life, featuring a diverse cast of characters. A gem of a book that will leave a lasting impression on its readers!

 

Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Carrie Reed

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What a beautiful book. I love that Andrew’s family explains that the armor of God is like that of the arm you are putting on physically. You can still be courageous and brave as a God’s warrior. Having his old armor passed down to his own child is so sweet and he can teach his son the lessons his dad taught him about God. I love reading about the armor of God and teaching it to children early on is a wonderful idea.

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Angela Hayes

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

3.5 – 4 Stars

 

“This touching story…
– Teaches young readers important truths about their identity in Christ.
– Encourages children to see themselves and others as God sees them.
– Includes an Activity Guide including Scripture suggestions so you can create your own sticky notes for your child and keep the conversation going.
– Provides tips on how parents, grandparents, or other adults can discuss how God finds kindness, forgiveness, and serving as true strength, bravery, and courage.
– Makes the perfect inspirational gift for Christmas, birthdays, baby showers, and even graduations.
– For children ages 4-10 (or any age!)”

Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco is a cute, faith-based, and inspirational story aimed at children aged 4 to 10 years. The story is accompanied by sweet, colourful, and engaging illustrations which really help fire the imagination and bring the story to life.
Andrew loves to dress in his armor and play with his friends- setting off on many adventures… but what happens when his confidence is challenged? He is about to learn some valuable lessons-
While the story and illustrations were quite well done, I did notice that due to the illustrations being quite bright and detailed, and taking up the whole page in most instances, that the text/written story should have been a bit larger and darker/bolder so it can be more easily read -> because as it stands, the writing is quite faint compared to the images and at times ‘disappears’ into the illustrations/background- which could make it difficult to read for little ones, or at bedtime in dimmer light.
But, it is a cute little adventure story with some important messages and lessons.
Happy Reading…

 

Reviewed by @angelahayes

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Andrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco – Review by Jennifer Crain

Andrew's ArmorAndrew’s Armor by Jill Monaco
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Monaco’s writing is both engaging and educational, offering young readers valuable lessons about self-worth, bravery, and faith. The included Activity Guide is a thoughtful addition, providing parents and children with practical tools to discuss and reinforce the story’s messages. The book is a wonderful choice for fostering conversations about kindness, forgiveness, and spiritual resilience.

Ideal for children ages 4-10, Andrew’s Armor is an inspirational read that makes a meaningful gift for various occasions. It’s a tender reminder that true strength is found in faith and love, making it a must-read for families looking to instill these values in their children.

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