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Raisie Bay

review

Magical Underwater and Roman Adventure Activity Books

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Today I’m bringing to you two fabulous new books from Button Books. The Magical Underwater Activity Book and Roman Adventure Book.

The Magical Underwater Activity Book

front cover of book
  • Pub month: November 2019
  • ISBN-13: 9781787080447
  • Author: Mia Underwood
  • Price: £9.99
  • Binding: PB with flaps
  • No. of pages: 64 pages
  • Dimensions: 300 x 230 mm
  • Colour: Full colour throughout

You can purchase The Magical Underwater Activity Book for £9.99 on Amazon. (Affiliate link)

The Blurb

The Magical Underwater Activity Book is the second beautiful activity book created by Mia Underwood. Sumptuously illustrated with Mia’s Scandinavian-inspired artwork, this book incorporates a plethora of both real-life as well as some fictitious aquatic characters and is packed with a huge variety of imaginative activities for children to do wherever they are. The environmental impact of humans on the marine ecosystems is subtly referred to from time-to-time to help children understand how important it is for us to look after all things aquatic.

Activities in The Magical Underwater Activity Book include mazes, paper-craft activities, colouring in and scenes to create with help from the included stickers. All with a mystical and magical theme!

Our Verdict

This really is a delightful book that would please any underwater explorer or mermaids. The book is made of tough paper and is packed full of fun ideas and activities which teach children while they play.

Whether your child likes colouring, writing, puzzles, mazes, quizzes or putting in stickers this book really does have everything.

Big fish puzzle from the book
Big Fish Puzzle

Maybe your child wants to learn how to draw a mermaid, or make their own deep sea submarine. They can spot the difference or learn how to make sushi. In the middle of the book you will find pages containing over 150 stickers. They can use writing prompts to create fantastic stories or complete mazes and treasure trails.

treasure trail


This is a beautiful, colourful fun book that would delight any child, and even though it features mermaids it’s not only for girls. The book would be a big hit with children aged around 4 to 8 years old, although Boo thought it was brilliant and she’s 12 years old.

Roman Adventure Activity Book

front cover of roman adventure activity book
  • Pub month: November 2019
  • ISBN-13: 9781787080423
  • Author: Illustrated by Jen Alliston
  • Price: £6.99
  • Binding: PB
  • No. of pages: 64 pages + 4 pages of stickers
  • Dimensions: 295 x 220 mm
  • Colour: Full colour throughout

You can buy Roman Adventure Activity book on Amazon for £6.99 (affiliate link)

The Blurb

This fabulous Ancient Rome-themed activity book will keep children entertained for hours on end. The pages are crammed with all sorts of fun, including puzzles, anagrams, maths, codes, spot the difference, colouring in and other engaging activities. Absorbing and educational, the book features beautiful, bright illustrations that will draw children in and keep them busy. Also, while they are enjoying the mazes, matching and counting, the activities are helping them to develop a wide range of skills, including observational, conversational and motor skills. They’ll also find out more about the fascinating world of Ancient Rome along the way.

Our Verdict

This is another quality book from Button Books. The pages are thick and colourful and jam packed full of fun activities all related to the Romans.

pages from The Romans

From how to make a laural wreath to word searches and spot the difference. This is definitely a boredom buster with it’s fun packed pages.

PAGES FROM THE BOOK

The book comes with over 100 stickers and so much to do including how to make your own Roman weapons.

Either of these books would make a delightful Christmas gift.

See my previous book reviews under Our Library.

Disclosure: I was sent these books for the purpose of my review, all thoughts and opinions are my own. This post also contains affiliate links which if you use will not cost you anything but may earn me some money. Thanks for your support.

Estarer PU Leather Briefcase – Perfect for Father’s Day!

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I was asked to review the Estarer PU leather Briefcase which would make a perfect Father’s Day gift.

PU Leather Briefcase as viewed from the front
Estarer Mens PU Leather Briefcase 15.6 Inch Laptop Satchel Messenger Bag for Business Work Office

What Does this Briefcase Offer?

  • Tough and Water Resistant: Crafted from water resistant yet sturdy PU Leather for an exceptional long- term performance and durability.Finishing touches include a protective base feet and closed by a non-slip secure fastening.
  • Multi-functional Central Compartment:Dimensions:42.5x32x10cm.Inside equipped with 1 computer pocket for 15-15.6 Inch laptop,1 padded sleeve for 12.9“ iPad/tablets,1 x divided compartment for A4 folders, document and 2-3 books,2 easy access pockets for mouse and charger,1 inner 500ml water bottle pocket.
  • Extensive Business Accessory Organizer: Front pocket with self-healing zippers includes 2 pen slots,1 open top pocket for sunglasses,4 elastic pockets for usb,1 zip pocket for wallet,4 business card slots,2 mesh pockets for cables and keys.
  • Indispensable Luggage Strap: Rear exterior features 1 pocket for papers and files,1 trolley strap to the reverse that neatly hooks over your wheeled luggage.,1 back anti theft zip pocket for a passport.
  • Comfort and Versatile Option: Carry using the sturdy dual top handle and a fully-adjustable, detachable padded shoulder strap to wear on the shoulder or cross-body for complete versatility.Sharp and functional, this professional case is sure to become your favourite office and business trips companion.

My Review

Considering it’s not made of real leather it looks really great. It’s waterproof and stylish and has so many pockets you will never find yourself searching for anything again. (I call my bag the bottomless pit because I can never find anything.)

The briefcase is big enough to carry a full size laptop like my Asus 15″.

A full size laptop inside the briefcase

With a laptop inside there is still plenty of place for storing everything else you could need, books pens, folders etc. And even a special separate drinks holder.

There are pockets galore and I give this briefcase 10 out of 10 for storage and organisation. There are also pockets on the front and back, just in case you have any more stuff to pack into it. I like the back pocket, it would be great for popping in your business cards for super easy access. Or your passport if you were travelling, it is safer too as it’s on the back of the bag.

Back view of the briefcase

Another feature I love is the fastening. It looks like a buckle strap, but underneath there is a little clip that you can just slip loose to open. Safe and secure, but easier to open than unbuckling a clip.

The strap of the briefcase

For carrying around you can use the handle on the top or the attachable strap to throw it over your shoulder. The shoulder strap even has an extra padded bit for comfort. It also has a strap on the back so you can slip it over your suitcase handle when travelling.

Estarer make many products including backpacks, camera bags, women’s laptop bags and much more. You can view them on Amazon.

Disclosure: This Briefcase was sent to me free of charge, my review is my personal and honest opinion of the product. This post also contains affiliate links.

Posture Corrector for Men and Women

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I was asked to review this posture corrector which can be purchased on Amazon for £15.99.

As you can see from the front (the photo isn’t me by the way, just in case you were wondering,) it looks rather like a back pack.

At the back you have the straps and a small fabric disc that sits in the middle of your shoulder blades.

As you can see, it’s quite unobtrusive and can be worn over or under your clothes.

What is a Posture Corrector?

ELIMINATES SHOULDER, NECK & BACK PAIN – Slumped shoulders due to bad posture and hunching over can cause upper back pain. Incorrect posture and alignment can create muscular imbalances, which can lead to further imbalances below the upper body. Treating the pain with the Calibre Posture Corrector will noticeably reduce discomfort.


CORRECTS POSTURE – Calibre Posture Corrector will counteract your tendencies to round your shoulders and hunch over. Even just 15-30 minutes a day can help alleviate your muscles to get you back on track to having the natural posture you strive for. 


BENEFITS LONG TERM – Having good posture allows your muscles to work more efficiently, your body will then use less energy therefore, preventing muscle fatigue. It also helps prevent muscle strain, overuse disorders, and even back and muscular pain.


FULL ADJUSTABLE DESIGN – With Adjustable straps the Calibre Posture Corrector will ensure the most comfortable fit for all. The discreet design will fit snugly over or under your shirt while offering you comfortable support.


HIGH QUALITY PREMIUM DESIGN – From soft shoulder lining to the adjustable straps we use the highest quality lightweight materials, ensuring that the Calibre Posture Corrector will last long into the future.

My Review

I’m a sloucher! I always have been, even my Mum used to moan about my ’round shoulders’ from slouching all the time. For some people, correct posture doesn’t come naturally.

Now, I know that the posture issues are hereditary in our family, four out of seven of us have round shoulders, and two have spinal issues. Bad posture can cause all sorts of issues and back pain.

I have tried things like this posture corrector in the past but not had much success so I was a bit dubious that it would work.

At first I found it difficult to put on, it’s just a strap after all. It comes in a simple package with a single sheet of instruction. It tells you that you put it on like a back pack and the disc goes in the middle of your back. Then you tighten it to fit.

It also comes with these extra protector straps added on by velcro. I first had these on my shoulders, but soon found out they were for more comfort under my arm pits.

How to Use

It took me a little while but now I can use my corrector easily. First I undo the straps, then put it on like a back pack. I adjust the protectors to fit under my arm pits and ensure the disc is in the middle of my back. Then I tighten the straps as far as is comfortable, and then a little more. It needs to be fairly tight for you to feel the benefit.

Straight away your shoulders feel like they are being pulled back, but it’s not uncomfortable. You can still move as usual. Your body is being pulled into it’s correct position, so although it may feel strange at first, it doesn’t last.

My Personal Opinion

I used the corrector daily for a couple of hours for a week. The first thing I noticed was that my back pain eased a lot, especially the aching I get in between the back of my shoulder blades. It was also making me hold my spine straighter and I felt more comfortable in my sitting position. I was able to move around and do all the usual things I do.

I wore the corrector over a t-shirt and on colder days I was able to pop my cardi or jumper over the top. It’s barely noticeable from the front and if you wear black, even less noticeable.

I found it comfortable and easy to wear. After my initial confusion of how to use it I soon found it real easy to put on and take off.

I have experienced less back pain and I know my posture is better while wearing it. With continued use I am hoping that my body will adapt to this improved posture without the corrector.

I was sent this posture corrector to review, but I can highly recommend it to anyone with bad posture, prone to slouching and back pain sufferers.

The Gift, Cecelia Ahern. Book Review

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The Gift – Cecelia Ahern

book cover, black background with a gift tag attached to a snowdrop.

The Blurb

Everyday Lou Suffern battled with the clock. He always had two places to be at the same time. He always had two things to do at once. When asleep he dreamed. In between dreams, he ran through the events of the day while making plans for the next. When at home with his wife and family, his mind was always someplace else.
On his way into work one early winter morning, Lou meets Gabe, a homeless man sitting outside the office building. Intrigued by him and on discovering that he could also be very useful to have around, Lou gets Gabe a job in the post room.

But soon Lou begins to regret helping Gabe. His very presence unsettles Lou and how does Gabe appear to be in two places at the same time?

As Christmas draws closer, Lou starts to understand the value of time. He sees what is truly important in life yet at the same time he learns the harshest lesson of all.

This is a story about people who not unlike parcels, hide secrets.They cover themselves in layers until the right person unwraps them and discovers what’s inside. Sometimes you have to be unravelled in order to find out who you really are. For Lou Suffern, that took time.

My Review

I listened to this book on Audible, the narrator, Mark Meadows, had an Irish accent which fitted perfect with the Irish characters. In fact, I think Mark Meadows could become a favourite of mine, he’s so good to listen to.

The story revolves around the main characters Lou and Gabe, but their story is told to a young boy being held at the Police station after throwing a frozen turkey through a window.

Lou first appears as a generous and kind character as he takes a homeless person, Gabe, off the streets and gives him a job in his office block. As the story progresses we see Lou as an uncaring, selfish and cheating character, trying to get to the top position in his office in whatever way he can. He has a beautiful wife and two little children, but he rarely makes time for them. He ends up upsetting most of his wider family members too when he takes over his Dad’s 70th birthday party, but passes the buck to his secretary.

Gabe, however, sees something good in Lou, and despite the fact that Lou is rude to him, he seems adamant to make him see the error of his ways and help him any way he can.

There is an air of mystery in the story as strange things begin to happen, reality has to be suspended as we see Lou getting his wish of being able to be in two places at the same time. It’s only by having the extra time this gives him that he realises just what he is sacrificing and what is really important to him.

Will he choose the big job or his family?

The ending of Lou’s story gives a twist that you may be expecting, or not. It all reminded me a little of ‘Tales of the Unexpected.’

Verdict

I really enjoyed this book, if mostly for the narrator. The story was based around Christmas time and we get a look at the joys of Christmas celebrations Dublin style. The imagery is just right and although the minor characters are not written in too much detail, it doesn’t really matter. The focus is mainly on Lou and Gabe.

The story was a little extraordinary but I’m not complaining about that. The ending did feel like I was being preached too, but I guess the point was a good one to make. I think you could probably cut all that out and people would still get the message. Because that what this whole story is about, delivering a message.

If you don’t wish to listen on Audible you can buy this book on Amazon for £7.99

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.

Mix It Up Linky

Last But Not Least Lola

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This week Boo was introduced to Lola Zuckerman

Lola Zuckerman’s name is a big problem because she’s always Z-for-Zuckerman last.

Lola always seems to be getting herself into trouble despite her best efforts not to. She’s a love able character that will appeal to all youngsters who are just starting to read independently. Aimed at 7 to 10 years old the books have short chapters with fun illustrations. 

We were sent three books to review.

Last-But-Not-Least Lola Going Green

Lola Zuckerman hates being last for everything. If only she were Lola Adams or Lola Appleby or anything but Z for Zuckerman. And she is having a particularly hard time right now. Her best friend Amanda Anderson is now her ex-best friend. Her grandparents have moved back to Texas, and her mother is launching a new career. Why is everything always changing? What would make things much, much better is if Lola were to win the Going-Green Contest at school and beat Amanda Anderson, who is determined to win first place too. How can Lola, who is always last, prove that she’s not least? This first book in the Last-But-Not-Least Lola series is a laugh-out-loud, heartwarming, and intensely satisfying story about the importance of friendship and creative problem-solving.

Last-But-Not-Least Lola and the Cupcake Queens

Lola’s mom is home but not home, because she’s frantically working all the time. Lola’s friends are here but not here as allegiances among the foursome change faster than you can forget your lines for a school play. Lola means well but can’t help acting on her emotions and getting into trouble. She’ll need to dig for bravery as she deals with a possible ghost next door, stage fright, and, hardest of all, making amends with her friends. In this heartwarming tale, Lola is braver than she thinks, and her friendships are stronger than she realizes.

Last-But-Not-Least Lola and the Wild Chicken

Lola’s back! She patched things up with frenemy Amanda Anderson, but it’s not happily ever after for these two best friends, at least not yet. Lola doesn’t want to share Amanda, especially not with Jessie, who seems to be around . . . all the time. Can there be more than two best friends? And what does a wild chicken have to do with anything? Hint: The answer involves a class trip to a farm. When Lola is around, you never know what will happen next. This second book in Christine Pakkala’s dynamic series is sure to capture the hearts of readers who love a spunky heroine and some unexpected antics.

Our Verdict

Boo has really enjoyed reading these books, they have captured her imagination and ignited her love of reading independently. 

Disclosure: We were sent these books for free in return for our promotion. The links in this post are affiliate links which will cost you no more but may earn me a little money if you use them. Thank you.