Chris The Story Reading Ape

Biography

I don't so much read books as devour them, (sometimes re-devouring them several times), so I've set myself a long term task, to list all the books I've ever read, trouble is I've got the memory of a sieve and I must have read thousands of them!

After years of lugging books around with me when I travelled (pre-internet), or order them to be delivered to wherever I was (post internet), I got a Nook eReader, which enables me to support my local library, as well as giving me access to practically every EPUB & PDF format book ever published, via the internet. Then I found I had to get a Kindle as well, to enable me to read Amazon published books in comfort, instead of sitting in front of my mac. In hindsight it would have been cheaper to get an iPad, which would have covered everything!

Now all I have to do is spend the next several lifetimes reading them (I hope re-incarnation is true, although not having memories from previous lives might be a snag)

Where to find Chris The Story Reading Ape online

Chris The Story Reading Ape's favorite authors on Smashwords

Smashwords book reviews by Chris The Story Reading Ape

  • Witchlet on Jan. 07, 2013

    Have you ever noticed that when you hear the term 'Witch', you automatically think of a grey haired, gaunt-faced, warty, scary old woman who wears a black, long sleeved dress with an equally black, tall pointed hat, gets about by riding on a willow garden-brush type broom and is usually accompanied by a black cat? Paige is none of these things, she is 9 years old, has long blonde hair, dresses in normal clothes, travels by foot, or, if in a hurry, gets the wind to fly her and has a vegetarian Dragon called Daisy as a friend! This is a pleasant little introduction to the Magical Chapters Trilogy, well thought out and written in a descriptive, Hans Christian Anderson like, language children will understand and can use to allow their imaginations to take hold. Even though I am well past my sell-by date, the child in me is looking forward to reading Victoria's next book in the series, The Pineapple Loving Dragon.
  • The Blessing of Krozem on Jan. 21, 2013

    This story is like an onion, it has many layers (imaginative creatures, original names, a clear storyline, a moral, plus more) and may bring tears to your eyes if you put yourself in the place of the Priest Gilzara, his wife Javon and the petitioner Emtash.
  • Monster Is in the Eye of the Beholder: Report of the Anthropological Expedition to the Planet Known as Kal-Fa on Feb. 18, 2013

    In our present age of increasing intolerance of, and prejudice against, anything and anyone that is 'different', this is certainly a thought provoking story, not least because we are at the early stages of interplanetary travel. Will we meet Monsters, or, will WE be the Monsters that others will meet?
  • Inspector Zhang Gets His Wish (A Free Short Story) on March 06, 2013

    The first story with Singaporean Inspector Zhang is an enjoyable study in how to solve a Locked Room Murder by applying 7 basic scenarios. There are also 3 intriguing chapters introducing another book called Bangkok Bob and the Missing Mormon (I am not joking) which I intend to get.
  • Generation Next The Real Thing on March 06, 2013

    Lovely little story to read on a boring commute to work, and it reinforces the Galactic view that Humans are treacherous little entities.
  • Born In 1924 My Granny's Journal on March 06, 2013

    A little homespun story about life in a small USA town between 1924 and 1941.
  • The Dreamkeeper on March 06, 2013

    I know this is more for children but I find the best light reading is to be found in their books and this is a perfect little tale.
  • Aenima on March 06, 2013

    Part fantasy, part sci-fi, an interesting little story with an almost, but not quite, predictable ending.
  • The Hunt on March 06, 2013

    Lively little story.
  • The Carrier on March 06, 2013

    This story adds another aspect to the time travel theme. Instead of going back in time and doing something that changes the future of humanity, this tale explores what could happen by going into the future with a simple disease that had been eradicated by then.
  • Socks on March 06, 2013

    Books are knowledge and it is written, a child shall lead them.
  • Shafted Dreams on March 06, 2013

    Wow, Stephanie didn't hold back when she wrote this story about the way dreams and aspirations are being shattered by all the budget cuts in education and I have to admit she's spot on.
  • Four-Way Stop on March 06, 2013

    A spooky little story to read before setting out on a long car journey, through an almost deserted countryside, by yourself, during a rainstorm, NOT.
  • Build Your Own Galactic Empire on March 06, 2013

    Interesting Do and Do Not lists
  • The Medusa on March 06, 2013

    I really wish Lazo would write a full book, he has the talent. This story is on the theme of American College kids on a Greek vacation, find an unknown mountain with an open door into it, will they go in? Of course they will.....
  • Old Jack's Tale on March 06, 2013

    I'm really sorry to say that this story is a quick read with an unsatisfying end, Walter Lazo has written better than this.
  • It's Just a Job on March 06, 2013

    Like most of his stories, Walter has set the scene for a full blown book. A good and gripping story along the Research Facility goes suddenly quiet, what has happened there, let's send specialists in to check it out, theme, but starring a lone photographer!
  • Lamatsu on March 06, 2013

    If you deliver parcels for a living, DO NOT read this story, or you may get a sudden urge to change your occupation ..... On the other hand, it may just save your sanity .....
  • We Who Embrace The Night on March 06, 2013

    We all have choices in our lives, but are they the choices we think they are? Read and ponder....
  • The Punishment of Phoebus Apollo on March 06, 2013

    Ever wonder how sunflowers came into being? Here's one explanation.
  • A Pair of Creepy Shorts on March 06, 2013

    Liked both stories, even though the second one was a bit obvious. Will be looking out for more from this author.
  • Frank The Friendly Ogre on March 06, 2013

    This little story is perfect for when your children (or even you) are feeling in a 'Nobody Loves Me', or, 'I Don't Like Them' mood, just to be reminded that Someone, Somewhere, is a friend.
  • From Man to Man on March 07, 2013

    A thoroughly enjoyable introduction to the medieval type character of Draven and his efforts to do an honest days 'Villager' type work instead of resorting to his previous profession as a Mercenary, thereby breaking his promise to his wife. There is also a tasty preview of the next book 'It Began With Ashes'.
  • Let The World Die on March 13, 2013

    Disappointingly short story that could have been much longer and deeper, however, it was thought provoking insomuch as, do we say 'thank you' enough to our everyday heros?
  • The Old Mansion on March 13, 2013

    Fairytale characters may not all be as sweet and kindly, or even as beautiful, as they are portrayed, as three children find out in this little story.
  • The Magician on April 02, 2013

    A sad little tale about a magician who carries on performing, in front of an audience who are not all that they seem...
  • Detective Stephy Wephy Holmes in The Missing Cake on May 16, 2013

    This is a delightful little book with lots of great coloured sketches of the characters as they follow the investigations of Detective Stephy Wephy Holmes leading to the culprit. A must for kids learning how to read.
  • Sandy's Dream on May 17, 2013

    A great book from Jared Rader, full of little sketches of the characters (drawn by Sarah Meyers) as they progress through the story. Highly recommended for children (especially girls) learning to read.
  • It Lurks on May 25, 2013

    A good read for those who like to have the fear levels build up and then have the last few words at the end leave them with shivers running up and down their spine .... Tales of the Unknown stuff ....
  • The Pavement Gardener on May 28, 2013

    This was an excellent read. The heroine Mara, hero Callum and even the Villain of the piece, Spencer, are all very believable characters. The story grips and holds you as you wind your way through the ins and outs, ups and downs, of life in a London Eatery and a nearby housing estate. For those who like realism, topical themes and a darn good read, I have no hesitation in recommending this book.
  • Perry's Requiem. on May 30, 2013

    This short tale explores the issues faced by a badly wounded soldier as he lies dying on a battlefield. What will he choose and what would YOU choose ...
  • The Anthill on May 30, 2013

    What does it take to make a hen-pecked husband to turn on his tormentor? And what kind of friends will help him?
  • Cain's Apples on May 30, 2013

    An interesting, if predictable, short story. Sometimes you really must be careful of what you wish for, out loud, or inside your head.
  • The Weekender on May 31, 2013

    Next time you feel like leaving behind your comfortable, but busy and profitable, life in the Big City; to go Fishin' at the week-end. Be careful, very, very careful, of who you choose to keep you company ...
  • Song of Deerwoman on May 31, 2013

    You really shouldn't walk through the woods at night! Especially if you've been drinking and flirting all night, making it necessary to take a short cut through them while you're trying to sober up ...
  • Show & Tell on June 09, 2013

    The building up of the scene and characters is very well executed, as are three of the nastier ones... The gift, as a reward for a kindness, is unusual in many ways, but is certainly life changing for Kevin ... Lovely little tale ...
  • Skylord on June 12, 2013

    A great little tale for children, there are flying, Dragons, battles in the skies between them, the hero is a young Dragon who learns a lesson about lying.
  • Visions of Magic - The Duel on July 01, 2013

    The characters of Farrel and his little flying wood fairy, Poppin, (who always sings or talks in rhyming verse) are well established during this short interesting tale, where they take on an evil Wizard who is determined to dominate and control the kingdom. I look forward to reading more from this Author.
  • Gabrin: The Avatar on July 01, 2013

    A great introduction to the character, Gabrin, son of the fiercesome Parrite Hordes Chief who has a deep, dark secret which could endanger his son. More please.
  • The Rats of New York City on July 30, 2013

    This is an amusing little story about how the ~Rats of New York City organise themselves for the annihilation of the Human Population and take over of New York - could there be some truth in this tale?...
  • Thief on Oct. 06, 2013

    The start of what promises to be a great series under the 'Thief' banner, this short but rivetting story, introduces Tirnam, a successful young thief living under the cruel rule of the all conquering Parr (see the prequel Gabrin: The Avatar).
  • The Coin Collector on Oct. 06, 2013

    What everyone wishes would happen to the much beloved Inland Revenue Inspector / Collector when he comes a calling - a great and witty little tale.
  • Ur'gavan on Oct. 06, 2013

    Having successfully taken control of the City from the Parr in the previous story 'Thief', Tirnam, Gabrin and a few hundred survivors, face ferocious and bloodthirsty enemies who number thousands in this sequel. But that is not the ONLY danger.....
  • Intruder on Oct. 06, 2013

    This exciting series continues with a tale that sees Tirnam & Co face another danger, but this time it is an insidious evil entity that threatens. I have to admit to being on the edge of my seat while reading it and refused to do anything else until I reached the story's last words. To say I'm looking forward to the next book in this series would be an understatement.
  • The Guild on Oct. 07, 2013

    Why has The Guild suddenly decided to threaten Prince Tirnam and his friend Innara? Why does it refuse to negotiate a settlement and release them now that they are no longer part of it, worse still, why is The Guild harming innocent people? This tale continues the excellent Thief series.
  • A Petition to Magic on Oct. 13, 2013

    A simple, but interesting little tale woven around a new young Queen, a Wizard who is afraid of doing magic and a greedy farmer.
  • In Night's Shadows on Oct. 28, 2013

    This story demonstrates the skill and range of this author's imagination and writings - from fantasy to science fiction and, in this case, the supernatural in the shape of vampires, but from a more sympathetic point of view than most writers of the genre. Excellent read.
  • To Sail The Dark Sea on Oct. 28, 2013

    A great tale in the style of the old sailing ships and characters of yesteryear, but instead of being on the high seas, the action takes place in space and the future. A nice easy read, characters that are easy to relate to, an interesting plot and a satisfactory ending. Perfect!
  • Seelie Heiress on Oct. 29, 2013

    What starts off as a 'Girl discovers her man has been cheating on her and throws him out' story, quickly develops into a fantasy tale worthy of C.S. Lewis.
  • Nglnd Xpx on Nov. 01, 2013

    For an adventure into the wonderfully colourful and no holds barred world of British Satire and Farce type humour, this is the book you've been waiting for. Paddle in the gentle sea of words lapping around your mind, swim strongly through the surfers waves of words as they build to a crescendo and run desperately to keep just ahead of the tsunami of words in case they engulf you. These stories have words like such waves and more - I enjoyed them immensely.
  • Adventures in Cottontail Pines - Goober's Cousin on Nov. 18, 2013

    A delightful, easy to read, tale about Goober, a VERY organised young rabbit, who has to cope with his younger cousin Waffle, who is too young to read and needs to be taught some lessons about other people's privacy. However, Waffle teaches Goober some life lessons as well.
  • The Pineapple Loving Dragon on Nov. 26, 2013

    What can I tell you, I love the idea of a Vegetarian Dragon, especially one who loves pineapples! Having already enjoyed 'Wirchlet' which introduced Daisy the Dragon, I Iooked forward to reading this second book in the trilogy and was not disappointed. I hope the Author does more stories featuring Daisy, Luke and Paige, they make a great team.
  • A Magical Storm on Nov. 27, 2013

    There are TWO battles in this third book of the series. One is inside Paige, but who is the other one with? Who is the uninvited stranger who won't even look at Paige? I'm not going to tell you, read this gripping tale yourself and get all the answers. This author has GOT to write more about Paige and her friends and adventures!
  • The Volunteer on Dec. 11, 2013

    The story starts with a snoring noise, progresses from a hen-pecked husband's side of a marriage, but the finish....oh, the finish is delicious.
  • The Goldfish Pond on Feb. 21, 2014

    Can YOU remember, when you were a kid, how deeply involved you got when playing some games? It always seemed that you'd just been playing for 5 minutes before your Mom was calling you to wash up before eating, or going to bed?
  • Why Birds Fly on Feb. 23, 2014

    What a great little story. It made me wonder what I'd do if I was hungry and thirsty and only had a friend with me. To eat or not to eat - that is the question.
  • Of Words and Water - 2013 on Feb. 26, 2014

    These high standard short stories covering an autobiographical extract from a Mother, literary fiction, science fiction, fantasy and interspersed with poetry are all quite different, even though the common theme is water. The contributing Authors have successfully showcased their formidable storytelling skills and deemed that all proceeds and donations go to support WaterAid. I, for one, will be looking out, not only for further such collaborations, but also for the other books written by each of the authors.
  • A.M. Radio on March 03, 2014

    A chilling little story in the manner of an Alfred Hitchcock movie trailer or a Tales of the Unexpected episode.
  • Ashes on March 08, 2014

    A thought provoking short story, in similar circumstances would I risk everything for a library? A good prequel to 'Socks', the authors 1000 words project
  • A is for Alpine: An Alphabet Book for Little Hikers on March 08, 2014

    An excellent little picture book, with great colour photos, to help adventurous young kids remember, not only the alphabet, but also the fun they had camping outdoors.
  • The Eye of The Universe on April 07, 2014

    A great little Science Fiction Romance story that explains how and why the world did not end on 21.12.2012 as predicted by the Maya.
  • Tale Of The Magical Bird on April 07, 2014

    A pleasant and charming little tale, told in the Arabic One Thousand and One Nights style.
  • Holliday's Gold on May 03, 2014

    This is a fantastic read! Don't for one moment think that this is just another fairy tale beefed up for adults - it is much, much more! It has action, funny and scary scenes, a mix of unlikely, but somehow right, characters playing their parts as heroes, villains and everyday folks. I definitely want to read more from this Author.
  • The Termite Queen: Volume One: The Speaking of the Dead on June 20, 2014

    About 1000 years from now, Earth and it's inhabitants have survived several apocalyptic events, climate change, religious and political wars and even a 'Dark Ages' type period, resulting in a future where politics, religion and people's mindsets/priorities are quite different from ours in many respects. Space exploration was revived, resulting in a first contact, which eventually introduced Humans to three other diverse types of intelligent beings who allowed Humanity to join their Confederation and accompany them on their exploration of other worlds. A new world is discovered. Unfortunately, the intelligence of one of its creature races was not discovered until after the death of one of them and the abduction and death of another. The reason was simple, unlike the Confederations four races, these creatures did not speak vocally, nor were they telepathic, they communicated in a completely different way. As well as creating a believable future Earth and four non-human extra-terrestrial races, the author cleverly explains how to surmise a language from a previously unknown form of non-verbal communication. Although the story involves all five races, the emphasis is on the discovery of intelligence, the building/understanding of a new language and the return journey to the newly discovered world (including a romance between two scientists who are polar opposites in every respect). This book enticingly paves the way for the next book in what promises to be a fascinating series
  • The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head: Volume One: The War of the Stolen Mother on June 20, 2014

    Having read both volumes of The Termite Queen series, I was looking forward to getting started into this second series about Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head, his smaller twin A'zhu'lo, Di'fa'kro'mi the Remembrancer, plus others on their great adventure towards the sea and the twelve wonders that Ki'shto'ba had to perform. I was not disappointed! This is a wonderful start to an epic series in the style of Jason and the Argonauts (minus ship), combined with heroic feats in combat and a tricky little Loki type worker called Za'dut to spice things up and ...... but that's enough, I refuse to give any more clues away except to say I thoroughly enjoyed it and looking forward to the next volume. Don't be deterred by the strangely pronounced names or conlan (constructed language) terminology, it is well worth getting used to and added to my admiration of the author's ability to interject it in such a way that it added to, rather than detracted from, the story
  • Jinx And The Faerie Dragons on July 02, 2014

    Jinx is a fairy trickster whose sister Ayla tries to keep out of trouble. They meet and befriend two faerie dragons, Caia and Draco. Jinx and the dragons decide to explore some forbidden caves, armed with a treasure map, but unknown to them, danger awaits. I love the quality and colour of the cover which actually does reflect the quality and colour of the characters and the story. Recommended!
  • The Termite Queen: Volume Two: The Wound That Has No Healing on Aug. 01, 2014

    I found this to be a fascinating continuation of Book 1, covering much more than just the Science Fiction aspects. Kaitrin has managed to interpret and understand enough of the Shshi language to make a return to the planet viable. On the way there, her relationship with Entomologist Griffen Gwidian intensifies. Landing on the planet, making first contact properly with a recognised intelligent insectoid life form and even befriending their Shaman, who helps Kaitrin become even more proficient in the Shshi language, is all very plausible and could easily form the basis of how we Earthborn should approach future First Contact situations. The way the author describes the language interpretation method is exceptionally good and believably true regarding how it may be done. Like us humans, every non-Earth civilisation we are likely to meet, will probably have good and bad representatives, each of who may have their own agendas, leading to situations similar to those described in this story. But that is only the Science Fiction aspect. The author includes certain character flaws in both Human and Shshi, which are similar, but at the same time different. I regret not being able to describe things better, but I don't want to spoil anyone else's enjoyment of this great story. Yes, it is a long story, but I found it to be interesting and thought provoking all the way through. I disagree with other reviewers regarding having the Shshi and Human stories separated - I felt that they both complemented and contrasted each other - plus, gave a very satisfactory end to the two book series, with little or no loose ends left dangling. I also liked the way the next series of books were introduced near the end of this story - can't wait to get into those!
  • The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head: Volume Two: The Storm-Wing on Aug. 01, 2014

    If, like me, you have a fondness for ancient Greek Mythology, Science Fiction stories from the 'Aliens' perspective and Fantasy (in this case, non- magical), I can wholeheartedly recommend this series (and the preceding two volume introduction 'Termite Queen' series). Look out for great 'Intelligent Termite' parallels to the Hydra, Pearseus & Medusa and even a nod to a Termite version Beowulf.
  • The Tree Thing on Aug. 02, 2014

    An excellent and gentle introduction to the longer story 'Earth Legend'
  • The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head: Volume Three: The Valley of Thorns on Aug. 14, 2014

    As I progress through this mighty and thoroughly engaging epic I find myself looking forward more and more to the next book to see what happens next and I can happily say I have never been disappointed. This volume starts where volume 2 ended and, Oh Boy, there are some surprises and revelations in store for both the Band of Champions and the reader. I'd love to tell you more, but I know I'd get too carried away and may inadvertently give too many details. So if, like me, you've already been caught up by the story in the previous books, I CAN say, you'll enjoy this one as well!
  • The Lost Tales of Mercia on Aug. 20, 2014

    The author has used real historical figures and possible scenarios to create ten mini-masterpieces that not only give the reader a strong taste of the 'Dark Ages' period, but also great insights into their characters.
  • The Third Lost Tale of Mercia: Aydith the Aetheling on Aug. 21, 2014

    See my review for the 'Lost Tales of Mercia (Lost Tales of Mercia #1-10 omnibus)'
  • The Second Lost Tale of Mercia: Ethelred the King on Aug. 21, 2014

    See my review for the 'Lost Tales of Mercia (Lost Tales of Mercia #1-10 omnibus)'
  • The First Lost Tale of Mercia: Golde the Mother on Aug. 21, 2014

    See my review for the 'Lost Tales of Mercia (Lost Tales of Mercia #1-10 omnibus)'
  • The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head: Volume Four: Beneath the Mountain of Heavy Fear on Sep. 12, 2014

    What can I say without my enthusiasm inadvertently giving away the juicy bits (and there are lots of them). Za’dut (surnamed 'The Tricky Lizard') does some more inventing - and excells itself! Ki’shto’ba literally goes into Termite Hades and faces Monsters, several deceased enemies and the King of Hades. Di’fa’kro’mi keeps his audiences, including the reader, enthralled with his tales. New Companions are found. I am totally smitten by the world and characters created by Lorinda J Taylor. In my opinion, this is a epic that Homer (and other like storytellers) would thoroughly approve of and enjoy.
  • The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head: Volume Five: The Wood Where the Two Moons Shine on Oct. 01, 2014

    Sadly this book completes the epic of 'The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head'. But happily, it commences Is’a’pai’a's Quest for the Golden Fungus and joy of joys, none of the twelve companions is leaving - in fact, they are joined by additional intrepid companions, so there are lots more adventures to be had. Za'dut is still contributing to the New Times with it's inventions, speaking of which, throughout the series the author has given excellent examples of how Mankind may have developed its technologies, although it must be said that Za'dut is obviously a greater genius than Leonardo Da Vinci and deserves every surname it has been given so far. I highly recommend this entire series to anyone who enjoys Science Fiction and Greek (with a smattering of others) Mythology because in it you will find them very cleverly combined.
  • The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head: Volume Six: The Revenge of the Dead Enemy on Nov. 09, 2014

    Of all the books in this series, this is the one I dreaded reading. Why? There are a lot of prophecies fulfilled, resulting in the loss of great companions and it is the last book of the series. However! The final few chapters not only gripped me with sadness, they helped me reconcile with the losses (Ki'shto'ba's final moments were an astounding fulfilment of a prophecy AND achieved the 12th and final Wonder in a way that is unparalleled by any Shi'Shi) AND gave me hope that another remarkable series may be penned by the author.... I certainly hope so...
  • Kero Goes Walkies on Feb. 03, 2015

    A smashing little tale (or should that be tail since Kero loved to wag his a lot) about the author and her dog going walkies in the park and by the sea. Great for little ones (with or without dogs) - but be warned - they might want a Kero for themselves.
  • Mr. Pumpkin-Head And Other Poems on Feb. 03, 2015

    What a great book to help kids understand and learn to love poetry. The range of topics and poem lengths gives a good mix, plus, the author often gives unexpected little twists that will give pause for thought and may generate good discussions between the child and older reader. Highly Recommended.
  • Toby's New World on Feb. 03, 2015

    If YOUR little one has, or is developing, a sight problem, this first of a series of stories about Toby, a completely blind boy, may help you and your child cope better and your child become independent faster. Written by the author, who is blind herself, from Toby's aspect. Highly recommended.
  • Snowball The Oddball Kobold on Feb. 03, 2015

    A great story to help kids understand that just because someone looks different, it doesn't mean that they are useless or bad.
  • The Black Fairy and the Dragonfly on Aug. 04, 2015

    Having read the authors book 'Kipp the Copper Coast Kid' and enjoyed it, I decided to read this one and I was not disappointed! This is a wonderful story for kids of all ages (and adults like me who refuse to grow up) Gentle, but having a vibrance and storyline that keeps the readers interest, I thoroughly enjoyed it and look forward to reading the follow-up story 'The Black Fairy and the Dragonfly: Escape from the Black Queen' Meanwhile, I intend to read the other stories he has published!
  • Kipp The Copper Coast Kid on Aug. 04, 2015

    This tale is related in the deceptively easy tones of a Grandfather telling his grandchildren a story, however, this story not only reflects the old style classical tales, it also deals with difficult issues that most adults seem to avoid discussing with young people. Issues that need to be discussed. Like love, honour, courage and more. Highly recommended.
  • The Red Bearon on Aug. 04, 2015

    Follow the flying adventures of the little red bear as he visits places all over the world. The great pictures and maps will help you keep track of where he is. A beautifully crafted and delightful rhyming story for kids. Recommended.
  • Star Child: The Cosmic Birth on Aug. 04, 2015

    This is one of the most character in-depth science fiction books I've ever read! The author has put a lot of consideration into how the only human - Tamsin - would react to situations that occur throughout her growing up period while travelling through space to her final destination. A journey that was planned and started 800 years before her birth. Even how the various robots would act, taking into consideration how high level their programming is. The method of storytelling is reminiscent of the old masters of the genre, like Isaac Asimov, Greg Bear, Ben Nova, et al. This is a tale to savour and live in. I consider it to be excellent and my favourite read so far from this Author. My hope is he will write a sequel soon!
  • The Little Green Hen on Aug. 04, 2015

    This lovely little storybook is sure to entertain the younger reader (or listener) with its beautiful colour drawings and short, snappy rhyming tale.
  • Kipp The Kid on Aug. 04, 2015

    This tale is related in the deceptively easy tones of a Grandfather telling his grandchildren a story, however, this story not only reflects the old style classical tales, it also deals with difficult issues that most adults seem to avoid discussing with young people. Issues that need to be discussed. Like love, honour, courage and more. Highly recommended.
  • Escape From The Dark Queen on Aug. 04, 2015

    A great sequel to 'The Black Fairy and the Dragonfly' in which Lilly not only escapes the evil Dark Queen and meets fabled creatures from the Mystic Mountains, she also befriends someone even smaller than herself and learns the secret of the Dark Queens strangely shaped Minions. But this is not all, there are still tasks to be performed, secrets to discover and mighty battles to be fought. Thank you Mr. Day for a great, and inspirational, two book saga.
  • Children of Mars on Aug. 04, 2015

    This is the eighth book by the author that I've read, covering various genre, and I have yet to be disappointed. The story taking place on Mars, near the largest known volcano in the Solar System - Olympus Mons - gives the perfect setting for challenges to the settlers, each of which is resolved by ingenuity, not of the Scientists, but of their children. As the story progressed, I found myself imagining it in a cinematic way - the only thing lacking was the background music to highlight the tenser scenes... Like all his writings, the strength and resolve of humanity is highlighted, as well as providing valuable life lessons that could, if applied, make children (of all ages) better human beings.
  • Red Bearonaut: The Misadventures of Red Bear on Aug. 04, 2015

    A modern Teddy Bear rhyming tale about Red Bear who goes to the moon and back - perfect for today's Space Age younger readers. The colourful pictures, as well as the snappy rhymes, are bound to keep their attention.
  • Banjo & Angel on Aug. 13, 2015

    A charming little rhyming story with good quality photo graphics that are easy for young kids to follow as they listen, or learn to read.
  • The Misadventures of Red Bear: The Indian Chief and The Wild Cats on Aug. 14, 2015

    TWO fun stories for little ones, complete with good illustrations.
  • Lucky and Scratch: Day at the Bay on Aug. 14, 2015

    A charming little story for young kids, complete with good graphics to keep them interested.
  • Fathers and Demons; Glimpses of the Future on Aug. 15, 2015

    As with her series about Intelligent Termites, the author has researched deeply and given great consideration regards how to best use the knowledge she has gained. In this book (a precursor to her next story in this new series), the author has surmised how religions may have evolved by the 28th Century, particularly Catholicism and Judaism. Two characters, the Captain and the Chief Engineer, are survivors from a previous (failed) attempt to achieve deep space / intergalactic travel and the experience left them profoundly scarred mentally. However, with time and treatment, they have both been finally deemed fit to lead another attempt to conquer space. This book chronicles their individual journeys to understand and overcome their lingering fears regarding a malevolent 'something' they feel exists in deep space and is waiting for them. The Captain, who has no religious beliefs of his own, has already learned some things from Catholicism that have offered him limited comfort and he now attempts to learn from Judaism. I learned much from the wedding scenario being performed according to 'Judish' customs and beliefs, even more during the reception. The Chief Engineer, however, feels a strong need to meet and reconcile with his strong willed, opinionated Father and the Mother who ran away when he was in his early teens. It is true that there are no 'action packed moments' in the story, but that does not detract from the skill involved in building up the background of these two characters and help us understand their decisions and actions in the next book.
  • Till the Dark of Winter on Aug. 25, 2015

    An excellent short story that had be gripped the whole way through. I'll certainly be reading more by this author.
  • Becoming Whispers on Aug. 25, 2015

    If horror, suspense and sheer terror are your thing, this short tale covers them all.
  • The Labors of Ki'shto'ba Huge-Head, The Sequel: The Buried Ship at the End of the World on Feb. 06, 2016

    Reading this last book of a series, about a group of characters I've grown close to, was a bitter/sweet experience. Bitter because it's the last time I'll join in with their new adventures. Sweet because I met new characters, discovered one character who was lost and found out how all the loose ends were neatly tied up by the author. I was also reminded of some myths / legends I'd forgotten about. The highest accolade I can give this author is - I will definitely be re-reading the series from the start again, probably more than once, so I can learn more about the characters, the legends the stories are based upon and so I can yet again enjoy the work of a Master Storyteller.
  • The River Boy on July 10, 2016

    Nice little 'Coming of Age' story.
  • Down From the Mountain on July 10, 2016

    Would WE survive?
  • Children of the Music on Sep. 20, 2016

    Having read all this author's previous books, I found this realistic fantasy story (a departure from her highly enjoyable science fiction series about Intelligent Termites), to be every bit as compelling and engrossing. As with her previous stories, the author's worldbuilding skills made it easy for me to get immersed and alongside the characters in no time, even through the 300 year span covered in the book. An insight into what can (and often does) happen when two differing peoples meet. In this case, they have physical, belief and mindset differences. Injustice is rife. Fear is mutual. Result?
  • The Man Who Found Birds among the Stars, Part One: Eagle Ascendant on Feb. 21, 2017

    One of the many reasons I enjoy this authors work, is the skilful way she immerses the reader into the detailed world in which the story is based, regardless of whether that world is termite or human. This latest book about Captain Robbin H Nikalishin of 'Fathers and Demons' Fame, covering his childhood, teenage and early adult years, allows us to gain some insights to how his character formed and developed. Nikalishin, who seems to have the knack of constantly almost sabotaging himself, thus making his life more difficult, uses hard work and determination to achieve his dream of becoming a Spaceship Captain. Luckily, he gathers a few exceptionally good friends along the way, who help guide him out of his self-made pitfalls. I'm looking forward to Part Two of this series.
  • Ephemeral on Aug. 05, 2017

    Full of very short, but interesting, tales
  • The Princelings of the East on May 12, 2019

    A brilliantly imaginative and thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining fantasy tale about George and Fred, two hamsters who are Princelings in the Eastern Marshes Castle/City. This tale combines time travel, an island I’m sure everyone will recognise, and how strawberry juice could solve technological energy needs.
  • The Princelings and the Pirates on Aug. 20, 2019

    Another great story about the adventures of our furry friends, Fred and George. This time they get a LOT of action with, and against, pirates. Sadly there are some characters we won’t meet again, however, there are some we certainly will.
  • The Princelings and the Lost City on Sep. 01, 2019

    Fred, George (who is trying to regain his speech) and Kira take an unexpected detour in the tunnels, and discover a ‘lost’ city, which turns out to be not an uninhabited ruin.
  • Legends of Windemere: Beginning of a Hero on Sep. 02, 2019

    Having read and enjoyed a short story, 'Ichabod Brooks & the City of Beasts' by this author, I looked forward to reading this, the first book of his series about 'The Legends of Windemere'. I was not disappointed and found myself very quickly drawn into the world of Windemere with its myriad of characters, creatures and magic types I'd not read about elsewhere. The Hero is a half-elf which makes a pleasing change from humans; and his friends are unusual when I think of their usual relationships and interactions in other Fantasy themed books.