What do you think?
Rate this book
Ginnie West Adventures #3
Simply West of Heaven
Twelve-year-old BFFs are matchmaking geniuses. Sweet! Not long after they schemed to get Ginnie’s widowed dad to fall in love with Tillie’s divorced mom, Ginnie stumbled upon her late mom's journals, making life even more awesome sauce … until her dad confiscated the journals, determined to protect Ginnie from a danger he won’t name.Ginnie is counting on her future sister's help to make Dad change his mind, but Tillie's not so sure the ghost of Ginnie's mom will make a good addition to their new family tree. The girls' world gets flipped upside-down when a blast from the past shows up and makes Tillie go nutburgers. Ginnie is torn between helping her best friend and what could be the answer to her deepest wish.
- GenresChildrens
368 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
220 people want to read
About the author
Monique Bucheger
19 books399 followersWhen Monique Bucheger isn’t writing, you can find her playing taxi driver to one or more of her 12 children, plotting her next novel, scrapbooking, or being the “Mamarazzi” at any number of child-oriented events. Even though she realizes there will never be enough hours in any given day, Monique tries very hard to enjoy the journey that is her life. She shares it with a terrific husband, her dozen children, an adorable granddaughter, a son-in-law, three cats, and many real and imaginary friends. She is the author of several books and plans to write many more. You can find more about Monique and her works at: www.moniquebucheger.blogspot.com
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews
January 18, 2015
The author has developed this series beautifully. I found this book an equally emotional read. She has discussed a lot of sensitive topics which many adults fail to handle properly.
The journals of her mom Queenie were a really big deal for Ginnie but the author managed to turn them into a support and help for the family. The father Todd also finds that the journals brought a lot of emotion and drama for his family but in the end it all works out.
I found the novel very fast paced and it kept my attention glued. I can just imagine how interested the children will be in the adventures of Ginnie, Tillie and Toran. The adventures and the uncertainty of whether their parents will get together and the amazing proposal along with the big surprise at the end all add up to a wonderful read.
Monique has the amazing knack of writing about the most difficult situations and making it a breeze; maybe it is her experience with her children! She simplifies the situation and defuses the anger and tension making no one regrets their words and actions.
She has tackled a good issue of step-children and step-parents; how it is not easy for any party even when they are willing to get together. This is a good series for both children and parent to find out about life and learning to handle the challenges life throws at them!
Emotional and fun; I am excited to read the 4th Book “Being West Is Best!!”
Let’s see what the finale’ is all about!!
The journals of her mom Queenie were a really big deal for Ginnie but the author managed to turn them into a support and help for the family. The father Todd also finds that the journals brought a lot of emotion and drama for his family but in the end it all works out.
I found the novel very fast paced and it kept my attention glued. I can just imagine how interested the children will be in the adventures of Ginnie, Tillie and Toran. The adventures and the uncertainty of whether their parents will get together and the amazing proposal along with the big surprise at the end all add up to a wonderful read.
Monique has the amazing knack of writing about the most difficult situations and making it a breeze; maybe it is her experience with her children! She simplifies the situation and defuses the anger and tension making no one regrets their words and actions.
She has tackled a good issue of step-children and step-parents; how it is not easy for any party even when they are willing to get together. This is a good series for both children and parent to find out about life and learning to handle the challenges life throws at them!
Emotional and fun; I am excited to read the 4th Book “Being West Is Best!!”
Let’s see what the finale’ is all about!!
October 7, 2020
I fall in love with the West family more and more with each book! Out of the first three book in the series, Simply West of Heaven is hands down my favorite. The truth will always come to light would be my summary of this installment.
By the time to reach book three, you realize there are a lot of secrets being held in the West family. Ginnie finally gets answers to some of the questions that have been plaguing her about her departed mother, and there are several major events that occur within a 24-hour period that changes the West family forever, shaking their very foundation, that I quite enjoyed! It turned a rather mundane summer day into a major turning point! Talk about drama!!
Like the first two books, there is the typical teenage attitude from Miss Ginnie, complete with about a million eye rolls, but there is also a show of incredible growth, forgiveness, and healing not only for Ginnie herself, but for her whole family. I wish I could give more detailed examples, but that would be a spoiler, and I just can't do that to you. You'll just have to read it for yourself!
I must say there were quite a few surprises that seriously took my breath away, and one instance that made me audibly gasp and brought involuntary tears to my eyes. Talk about a touching moment! Wow! The sweetness and meaning behind these gestures was so sweet and so powerful, thanks to great writing from Monique Bucheger.
I devoured this book in hours and was sad to see it end on a cliffhanger, but thank goodness book four is already published, and I should be starting on it soon! I can't wait to read it, and find out how everything concludes. This has been such a fun series to read! Great characters, picturesque scenery, and a story so full of heart it is overflowing with love. What more could you ask for?
If you haven't read the first few books in the series, no worries! This can definitely be read as a standalone, but I highly suggest reading the whole series in order. I feel like you connect with Ginnie and the West family on a deeper level when you do.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
By the time to reach book three, you realize there are a lot of secrets being held in the West family. Ginnie finally gets answers to some of the questions that have been plaguing her about her departed mother, and there are several major events that occur within a 24-hour period that changes the West family forever, shaking their very foundation, that I quite enjoyed! It turned a rather mundane summer day into a major turning point! Talk about drama!!
Like the first two books, there is the typical teenage attitude from Miss Ginnie, complete with about a million eye rolls, but there is also a show of incredible growth, forgiveness, and healing not only for Ginnie herself, but for her whole family. I wish I could give more detailed examples, but that would be a spoiler, and I just can't do that to you. You'll just have to read it for yourself!
I must say there were quite a few surprises that seriously took my breath away, and one instance that made me audibly gasp and brought involuntary tears to my eyes. Talk about a touching moment! Wow! The sweetness and meaning behind these gestures was so sweet and so powerful, thanks to great writing from Monique Bucheger.
I devoured this book in hours and was sad to see it end on a cliffhanger, but thank goodness book four is already published, and I should be starting on it soon! I can't wait to read it, and find out how everything concludes. This has been such a fun series to read! Great characters, picturesque scenery, and a story so full of heart it is overflowing with love. What more could you ask for?
If you haven't read the first few books in the series, no worries! This can definitely be read as a standalone, but I highly suggest reading the whole series in order. I feel like you connect with Ginnie and the West family on a deeper level when you do.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from JustRead Tours. All views and opinions are completely honest, and my own.
October 14, 2020
The girls are back! And their ‘Secret Sister’ scheming is working! It’s just taking F-O-R-E-V-E-R!!! And trying the patience that neither of them has mastered!
And ALL.THE.SECRETS! It’s enough to make a person nutburgers! Even Toran is losing his normal Mr. Cool demeanor.
Simply West pits Ginnie and Tillie in a surprise [SPOILER,] which I did not see coming at all—even though the signs have been there from the first pages of the first book! In a sad twist, and not for quite the same reasons, I related to Tillie’s sense of worth very well. My heart hurt as she spilled hers, and I was happy Ginnie and Toran were there to reassure her.
Ms. Bucheger wraps her delightful stories around some deep life issues, bringing light to what is otherwise hidden—and exposing the secrets long kept in the dark!
Filled with more of the things this reader loves—friends and family, laughter and tears and truth, and BONUS! Twins!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Triple Book Review, Simply West of Heaven, Monique Bucheger, Ginnie West Adventure, JustRead Publicity
And ALL.THE.SECRETS! It’s enough to make a person nutburgers! Even Toran is losing his normal Mr. Cool demeanor.
Simply West pits Ginnie and Tillie in a surprise [SPOILER,] which I did not see coming at all—even though the signs have been there from the first pages of the first book! In a sad twist, and not for quite the same reasons, I related to Tillie’s sense of worth very well. My heart hurt as she spilled hers, and I was happy Ginnie and Toran were there to reassure her.
Ms. Bucheger wraps her delightful stories around some deep life issues, bringing light to what is otherwise hidden—and exposing the secrets long kept in the dark!
Filled with more of the things this reader loves—friends and family, laughter and tears and truth, and BONUS! Twins!
ROBIN’S FEATHERS
ALL | THE | FEATHERS!
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but was under no obligation to read the book or to post a review. I offer my review of my own free will. The opinions expressed in my review are my honest thoughts and reaction to this book.
#Blogwords, Tuesday Reviews-Day, #TRD, Triple Book Review, Simply West of Heaven, Monique Bucheger, Ginnie West Adventure, JustRead Publicity
October 16, 2020
Simply West of Heaven is part of an ongoing series of books called the Ginnie West Adventures. The key character is Ginnie West and she is a feisty young lady. Her life is filled with a lot of drama caused by her family and friends.
Ginnie is a twin and lost her mother at a young age. This young lady is very eager to learn more about her mother. Her father takes away a set of journals that the mother wrote, because there’s something he doesn’t want her to see.
Ginnie battles with her father over the journals. She is best-friends with Tillie, who is the daughter of her father’s girlfriend. Tillie and Ginnie are opposites, but want to be real sisters, anyway. They are continually begging their parents to hurry up and get married.
The book is very long and goes into a lot of detail. I enjoyed the story, but it's a little slow. This is part of a series, The Ginnie West Adventures.
Ginnie is a twin and lost her mother at a young age. This young lady is very eager to learn more about her mother. Her father takes away a set of journals that the mother wrote, because there’s something he doesn’t want her to see.
Ginnie battles with her father over the journals. She is best-friends with Tillie, who is the daughter of her father’s girlfriend. Tillie and Ginnie are opposites, but want to be real sisters, anyway. They are continually begging their parents to hurry up and get married.
The book is very long and goes into a lot of detail. I enjoyed the story, but it's a little slow. This is part of a series, The Ginnie West Adventures.
December 30, 2014
This installment in the Ginnie West Adventures focuses primarily on Ginnie, with some side spotlight on Tillie and Toran. With all the hoopla of Ginnie discovering their mother’s journals and Todd taking them away, Toran is a little on edge…but Ginnie is totally overboard. She yearns to know her mother through her written words, and she can’t see any reason as a good reason why Todd would take them away.
That reasons shows up in the flesh on the West doorstep. It’s like seeing a ghost for many, including Uncle Ben’s children Vi and Buzz. It causes a major upset, most of all between Ginnie and her dad when he arrives home with Toran. Ginnie wants her mother back, in any form she can get her, and that knowledge causes Tillie to seriously question how she and her mother will fit in the picture of the West family…or if they still do.
Tillie’s fears are valid in her mind, because Ginnie is on that dangerous precipice of wanting the past and having to live in the present.
To add fuel to the fire, Ginnie is roped into keeping a secret. She overhears a conversation late one night between Uncle Jake and her dad…and get stuck in the misery of keeping it, from Tillie and Toran. She is torn, and more than once is clustered behind closed doors with her father and Uncle Jake. She’s between a rock and a hard spot. Uncle Jake is almost to the point of raving (quite understandably) and even though Todd is his younger brother, he pushes Jake to buck up and take charge.
Uncle Jake’s secret is like a haunting from the past, and Tillie and Ginnie are the spearheads to help him keep it together, right behind Todd, who is insistent Jake take care of his business. The girls learn about Uncle Jake’s life before Ginnie’s mom and Aunt Sadie died, and the impact both of their deaths had on Jake. The care-free, light-hearted man they know as Uncle Jake has his own moments of pain that he hides.
After all of these “secrets” keep being revealed and Toran is the last to know, he is quite hurt that his sister – his twin – would keep these things from him. It causes a bit of tension between the two that must be overcome when Ginnie really needs Toran’s help – for Tillie’s sake.
Tillie does indeed go nutburgers, and needs the love and support of not only Ginnie and Toran, but the whole West family. I loved that at the first sign of a problem, her thoughts immediately went to Uncle Ben. He is the patriarch of the family, a man of strong moral character and faith in people. Tillie’s thoughts speak highly of the man Uncle Ben is and the importance he plays in the lives of the Wests.
That reasons shows up in the flesh on the West doorstep. It’s like seeing a ghost for many, including Uncle Ben’s children Vi and Buzz. It causes a major upset, most of all between Ginnie and her dad when he arrives home with Toran. Ginnie wants her mother back, in any form she can get her, and that knowledge causes Tillie to seriously question how she and her mother will fit in the picture of the West family…or if they still do.
Tillie’s fears are valid in her mind, because Ginnie is on that dangerous precipice of wanting the past and having to live in the present.
To add fuel to the fire, Ginnie is roped into keeping a secret. She overhears a conversation late one night between Uncle Jake and her dad…and get stuck in the misery of keeping it, from Tillie and Toran. She is torn, and more than once is clustered behind closed doors with her father and Uncle Jake. She’s between a rock and a hard spot. Uncle Jake is almost to the point of raving (quite understandably) and even though Todd is his younger brother, he pushes Jake to buck up and take charge.
Uncle Jake’s secret is like a haunting from the past, and Tillie and Ginnie are the spearheads to help him keep it together, right behind Todd, who is insistent Jake take care of his business. The girls learn about Uncle Jake’s life before Ginnie’s mom and Aunt Sadie died, and the impact both of their deaths had on Jake. The care-free, light-hearted man they know as Uncle Jake has his own moments of pain that he hides.
After all of these “secrets” keep being revealed and Toran is the last to know, he is quite hurt that his sister – his twin – would keep these things from him. It causes a bit of tension between the two that must be overcome when Ginnie really needs Toran’s help – for Tillie’s sake.
Tillie does indeed go nutburgers, and needs the love and support of not only Ginnie and Toran, but the whole West family. I loved that at the first sign of a problem, her thoughts immediately went to Uncle Ben. He is the patriarch of the family, a man of strong moral character and faith in people. Tillie’s thoughts speak highly of the man Uncle Ben is and the importance he plays in the lives of the Wests.
October 29, 2020
The third Ginnie West Adventure gets off to a comfortably familiar start as Ginnie grows ever more impatient to read her mother's journals, but surprises are in store as she learns more than she bargains for when eavesdropping on her father and uncle.
With Ginnie and Tillie still looking forward to becoming sisters, though they have jealousies and insecurities to deal with, this is a mix of continuing storylines and characters with those that are new. There are surprises for the reader as well and the "blast from the past" who makes Tillie "go nut burgers" is not the one you might expect and not the only new character to upset the 12 year old best friends and their family.
As with the other books in this series, each emotional upheaval is met with guidance and understanding from the adults in the family. But Author Monique Bucheger doesn't shy away from more including increasingly difficult personal and family issues, as a new member of the family leads to some difficult conversations for Uncle Jake. Fessing up to behavior that goes against the morals the family upholds, Jake takes responsibility and begins to realize that his brother is right in say it is "time to grow up, Peter Pan" and deal with the consequences of his past actions.
Simply West of Heaven is perhaps the most emotional of the Ginnie West Adventures so far, while retaining the spirit of a series filled with 12-year-old drama and schemes and with a wonderful multi-generational family dynamic, fun and horseback riding, a touch of faith, a good dose of adult drama as well, and consequences for poor choices.
This third in series middle grade book ends on a positive note followed by a bit of a cliff-hanger, leaving the reader ready to dive into book four, Being West is Best.
This review is based on a digital copy I voluntarily received from the author. A positive review was not required and it contains only my own, honest opinions.
With Ginnie and Tillie still looking forward to becoming sisters, though they have jealousies and insecurities to deal with, this is a mix of continuing storylines and characters with those that are new. There are surprises for the reader as well and the "blast from the past" who makes Tillie "go nut burgers" is not the one you might expect and not the only new character to upset the 12 year old best friends and their family.
As with the other books in this series, each emotional upheaval is met with guidance and understanding from the adults in the family. But Author Monique Bucheger doesn't shy away from more including increasingly difficult personal and family issues, as a new member of the family leads to some difficult conversations for Uncle Jake. Fessing up to behavior that goes against the morals the family upholds, Jake takes responsibility and begins to realize that his brother is right in say it is "time to grow up, Peter Pan" and deal with the consequences of his past actions.
Simply West of Heaven is perhaps the most emotional of the Ginnie West Adventures so far, while retaining the spirit of a series filled with 12-year-old drama and schemes and with a wonderful multi-generational family dynamic, fun and horseback riding, a touch of faith, a good dose of adult drama as well, and consequences for poor choices.
This third in series middle grade book ends on a positive note followed by a bit of a cliff-hanger, leaving the reader ready to dive into book four, Being West is Best.
This review is based on a digital copy I voluntarily received from the author. A positive review was not required and it contains only my own, honest opinions.
October 27, 2020
Simply West of Heaven is book three in Monique Bucheger’s Ginnie West Adventure series. The book starts soon after the ending of book two which readers will enjoy.
I found this book to be a little more intense than the first two books in the series. Bucheger tackles some difficult topics - abusive husband/father (although most of this is in the previous books, it does surface in this title again), single parents dating, an unknown relative coming for a surprise visit (and all the emotions involved there), and more I won’t mention here as they could be considered spoilers.
Every child deserves to see him/herself represented in children's books - no matter their situation. There are several "types" of children represented in this story. However, if any of these situations are a part of a reader’s history, it might be good to read the book with an adult. Bucheger does handle each of these situations tastefully but the amount of "trauma" and surprise situations in the story may be hard for some to handle. There were times I felt like there was soooo much was going on in the lives of the characters - how much can they handle. Bucheger does give her characters a strength that many seventh graders don’t have. Then comes the ending - don’t want to spoil it, but there sure is a surprise at the end leaving me wondering where book 4 is going.
I do love this series. I’d compare it to the Heartland series (haven’t read the books but have watched the TV series). As a librarian I always enjoy seeing new to me fiction for kids that is well written.
Because of some of the sensitive issues handled in this book I highly recommend that librarians and other adults read this title before sharing it with children. I think Simply West of Heaven is appropriate for most middle school students. Elementary children may need an adult to read the book with them due to some of the topics covered in the book.
I received a complimentary copy of Simply West of Heaven. This is my honest review.
I found this book to be a little more intense than the first two books in the series. Bucheger tackles some difficult topics - abusive husband/father (although most of this is in the previous books, it does surface in this title again), single parents dating, an unknown relative coming for a surprise visit (and all the emotions involved there), and more I won’t mention here as they could be considered spoilers.
Every child deserves to see him/herself represented in children's books - no matter their situation. There are several "types" of children represented in this story. However, if any of these situations are a part of a reader’s history, it might be good to read the book with an adult. Bucheger does handle each of these situations tastefully but the amount of "trauma" and surprise situations in the story may be hard for some to handle. There were times I felt like there was soooo much was going on in the lives of the characters - how much can they handle. Bucheger does give her characters a strength that many seventh graders don’t have. Then comes the ending - don’t want to spoil it, but there sure is a surprise at the end leaving me wondering where book 4 is going.
I do love this series. I’d compare it to the Heartland series (haven’t read the books but have watched the TV series). As a librarian I always enjoy seeing new to me fiction for kids that is well written.
Because of some of the sensitive issues handled in this book I highly recommend that librarians and other adults read this title before sharing it with children. I think Simply West of Heaven is appropriate for most middle school students. Elementary children may need an adult to read the book with them due to some of the topics covered in the book.
I received a complimentary copy of Simply West of Heaven. This is my honest review.
October 30, 2020
After reading the first two in this series, I was really looking forward to reading this third book (I know, I know, it's written for young adults...I guess that means I'm still young at heart, right?!). There is a bit of a mystery running through the entire series, and this book is supposed to (finally!) give me some answers!
Continuing the story of Ginnie and her BFF Tillie, and Ginnie's twin Toran.
Ginnie is still bound and determined to find out what secret her dad is hiding from her by hiding her Mom's journals.Ginnie is precocious and stubborn, and at times, even a bit of a brat. All of these do seem quite typical for a twelve year old girl. (I'm always happy and a bit relieved to read books where kids are portrayed realistically!)
I greatly enjoyed reading this book, and think it written well, and dealing with issues head on that young adults are facing.
Tillie has had some really hard things happen in her life, and she is dealing with understanding love, and how good people could love her. There are so many lessons that can be learned from reading this book.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Continuing the story of Ginnie and her BFF Tillie, and Ginnie's twin Toran.
Ginnie is still bound and determined to find out what secret her dad is hiding from her by hiding her Mom's journals.Ginnie is precocious and stubborn, and at times, even a bit of a brat. All of these do seem quite typical for a twelve year old girl. (I'm always happy and a bit relieved to read books where kids are portrayed realistically!)
I greatly enjoyed reading this book, and think it written well, and dealing with issues head on that young adults are facing.
Tillie has had some really hard things happen in her life, and she is dealing with understanding love, and how good people could love her. There are so many lessons that can be learned from reading this book.
Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255
Read
November 1, 2020Simply West of Heaven is book three in the Ginnie West Adventures. I have been reading them out of order, and strongly recommend that you read them in order. While I did not have a problem following along, it will make more sense as the knowledge of each character will build up with each book. In this story, it focuses a lot on Ginnie. Ginnie's dad has taken away the journals that Ginnie's mom has written before her death. Ginnie enlists the help of Tillie to help her get them back. Tillie is not 100% sold on the idea. Ginnie knows that the West family has been harboring some secrets and she was hoping that the journals will uncover them.
This book will take you on an emotional journey as Ginnie and family have to deal with some of the pain from the past. You will not want to put this book down once you start it. The book ends in a cliff hanger - and you will want to seek out Book 4 (and the finale in the series) right away.
I received a copy of this book through the author and publisher - all thoughts are my own.
This book will take you on an emotional journey as Ginnie and family have to deal with some of the pain from the past. You will not want to put this book down once you start it. The book ends in a cliff hanger - and you will want to seek out Book 4 (and the finale in the series) right away.
I received a copy of this book through the author and publisher - all thoughts are my own.
November 2, 2020
The third book in Monique Bucheger's Ginnie West Adventures continues right where we left Ginnie last!
I enjoyed this story although not as much as the first two I will admit. But I did enjoy it and loved the new twists that Monique Bucheger gave Ginnie, Tillie, and Toran. I also enjoyed the dynamics between stepparents/ stepchildren that Monique Bucheger continues to display in this book; its very sweet, real, and covers issues that are apparent in most stepparent relationships. I thought Ginnie (and her family) learned some valuable lessons in this book and that the lesson have real world applications.
Overall, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars for Ginnie 😊, the good/engaging story line, and for the lessons within the pages.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
I enjoyed this story although not as much as the first two I will admit. But I did enjoy it and loved the new twists that Monique Bucheger gave Ginnie, Tillie, and Toran. I also enjoyed the dynamics between stepparents/ stepchildren that Monique Bucheger continues to display in this book; its very sweet, real, and covers issues that are apparent in most stepparent relationships. I thought Ginnie (and her family) learned some valuable lessons in this book and that the lesson have real world applications.
Overall, I give this book 4 out of 5 stars for Ginnie 😊, the good/engaging story line, and for the lessons within the pages.
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
October 11, 2020
Thus far, Simply West of Heaven is my favorite of Monique Bucheger’s Ginnie West Adventures books for middle grade readers. But full disclosure, I have not yet read book four.
Ginnie is as tenacious as ever about getting to read her mother’s journals she found in book one of the series. Her dad said he needed some time before he gave them back, but Ginnie’s patience is at an end. And that’s just were this book begins.
The rapid series of events that take place over a few days’ time kept this story moving at a brisk pace. When her uncle asks her to keep a secret, Ginnie gets more understanding of the position some of the adults in her family are in. And Tillie, oh, this girl has some brokenness in her that tugged at my heartstrings. Then there’s the unexpected (and for the kids, unheard of) guest who shows up.
Not only will readers discover the secret in those journals, they’ll also learn about friendship, forgiveness, and the love of family. And while what’s in the journals was discovered, Bucheger ends this third book with another dropped bomb that makes me ready to get to book four as soon as possible.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
Ginnie is as tenacious as ever about getting to read her mother’s journals she found in book one of the series. Her dad said he needed some time before he gave them back, but Ginnie’s patience is at an end. And that’s just were this book begins.
The rapid series of events that take place over a few days’ time kept this story moving at a brisk pace. When her uncle asks her to keep a secret, Ginnie gets more understanding of the position some of the adults in her family are in. And Tillie, oh, this girl has some brokenness in her that tugged at my heartstrings. Then there’s the unexpected (and for the kids, unheard of) guest who shows up.
Not only will readers discover the secret in those journals, they’ll also learn about friendship, forgiveness, and the love of family. And while what’s in the journals was discovered, Bucheger ends this third book with another dropped bomb that makes me ready to get to book four as soon as possible.
Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.
September 28, 2020
This was quite an interesting story. I eagerly followed Ginnie's struggles to understand her father, and wondered with her what the mystery was about her mother. This was a good glimpse into the heart of a child who has lost a parent and the struggles they have, especially since there are things she has not been told about her past and her mother. The one thing I did not appreciate about the story was that a divorced woman is dating and planning to remarry, which is not Scriptural, according to the way I read the Bible. The cliffhanger at the end of the book did make me want to read the next one!
I received a free copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
I received a free copy of this book from JustRead Publicity Tours, and these are my honest thoughts about it.
December 6, 2020
I was hopeful that this series would be something that my daughter and I could read together, but found that it deals with topics that are a little more mature that we are ready for. That said, she isn't in middle school yet, which is the age group that these books are geared towards. I think that Monique Bucheger does a great job of tackling some of the difficult topics that middle schoolers deal with, like divorced parents, secrets, and bullying, to name a few.
I like that this story starts to bring the series full circle, with Ginnie starting to get some answers on why her dad doesn't want her reading her mom's journals. I feel for both Ginnie and her dad as they navigate their grief over losing her mom too soon (though, years before this series starts). I also sympathize with Tillie and her insecurities about their new relationships. This is a lovely series to pick up and enjoy!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.
I like that this story starts to bring the series full circle, with Ginnie starting to get some answers on why her dad doesn't want her reading her mom's journals. I feel for both Ginnie and her dad as they navigate their grief over losing her mom too soon (though, years before this series starts). I also sympathize with Tillie and her insecurities about their new relationships. This is a lovely series to pick up and enjoy!
I received this book from Celebrate Lit. This is my honest review and is in no way influenced by receiving a complimentary copy.
December 18, 2014
HoaP would like to thank Monique Bucheger for gifting us a copy of her book in exchange for an honest review.
This review was first seen on Heart of a Philanthropist blog.
Simply West of Heaven had some very serious issues that kids have to deal with in today's society. There is the abuse Ginnie's friend had to experience as a child at the hand of her drunken father. There is fighting among friends. There is a relationship that we've been waiting to see progress from the first two books. There is one secret after another. Without telling the whole story, I cannot go into much more detail. There are a lot of details, and it is not as easy of a read as the other two books because of the amount of detail, but it is a good read. This reviewer wants you to know that this is a good book with several subplots. The ending will cause you to want to immediately begin the next book in the series, so when you buy Simply West of Heaven, make sure to pick up Being West is Best at the same time. Beware, there are fights and a lot of drama in this book. It may not be an appropriate storyline for younger readers. We suggest reading Simply West of Heaven alongside your child. Our whole review (with spoilers) can be found on Heart of a Philanthropist's blog.
HoaP received a copy of Simply West of Heaven: A Ginnie West Adventure in exchange for an honest review. If you would like HoaP to review a book or product for you, please contact us at philanthropicHR@yahoo.com. Thank you for your support and God Bless!
This review was first seen on Heart of a Philanthropist blog.
Simply West of Heaven had some very serious issues that kids have to deal with in today's society. There is the abuse Ginnie's friend had to experience as a child at the hand of her drunken father. There is fighting among friends. There is a relationship that we've been waiting to see progress from the first two books. There is one secret after another. Without telling the whole story, I cannot go into much more detail. There are a lot of details, and it is not as easy of a read as the other two books because of the amount of detail, but it is a good read. This reviewer wants you to know that this is a good book with several subplots. The ending will cause you to want to immediately begin the next book in the series, so when you buy Simply West of Heaven, make sure to pick up Being West is Best at the same time. Beware, there are fights and a lot of drama in this book. It may not be an appropriate storyline for younger readers. We suggest reading Simply West of Heaven alongside your child. Our whole review (with spoilers) can be found on Heart of a Philanthropist's blog.
HoaP received a copy of Simply West of Heaven: A Ginnie West Adventure in exchange for an honest review. If you would like HoaP to review a book or product for you, please contact us at philanthropicHR@yahoo.com. Thank you for your support and God Bless!
October 30, 2014
This book was extremely emotional. I thought Monique wrote with feeling and was true to the emotions that went through each character, specifically Tillie and Ginnie, and they tried to deal with all the news, changes, and situations of which they never imagined they would be part.
I loved how Toran, Tillie, and Ginnie really stick together and have each other's backs through this story. Ironically my favorite part was when Tillie has her breakdown and the twins are the one's that help her and get her through it, rather than running to the adults for help. I felt it really gives kids confidence that they can deal with difficult situations that help them grow.
There was enough turmoil in this book to allow almost any person reading it to connect in some way to one or more characters, which brings a lot of life to this story. Also allows for sympathy and an eagerness to see the outcome. These conflicts also allow for a reader to understand where people are coming from and how their pasts affect their present lives, both inside and outside it's pages. And it brought to life the realities that people live with each and every day. Yet it ended with a good resolution and with the hint and the next book to come, which was definitely intriguing and exciting. I was very pleased with this book, as I was with the previous two books in this series.
Thanks to Monique for letting me read and review her books. It has been a true pleasure.
I loved how Toran, Tillie, and Ginnie really stick together and have each other's backs through this story. Ironically my favorite part was when Tillie has her breakdown and the twins are the one's that help her and get her through it, rather than running to the adults for help. I felt it really gives kids confidence that they can deal with difficult situations that help them grow.
There was enough turmoil in this book to allow almost any person reading it to connect in some way to one or more characters, which brings a lot of life to this story. Also allows for sympathy and an eagerness to see the outcome. These conflicts also allow for a reader to understand where people are coming from and how their pasts affect their present lives, both inside and outside it's pages. And it brought to life the realities that people live with each and every day. Yet it ended with a good resolution and with the hint and the next book to come, which was definitely intriguing and exciting. I was very pleased with this book, as I was with the previous two books in this series.
Thanks to Monique for letting me read and review her books. It has been a true pleasure.
December 31, 2014
This saga is a highlight in 'The Ginny West Adventures. In Simply West of Heaven, it is a key part of the ongoing drama and is so well written, and definitely not boring! Each new paragraphI brings a new part of the adventure. I find myself eagerly looking forward to what happens next. It is sure to delight most children ages 8 to 14!
In this episode stress between the Twins - Ginny and Toran - increases. Tillie, uncharacteristically, "blows up". Her Mom's and Ginny's Dad's relationship moves way too slowly for her. The BIG secret that Ginny's Dad has harbored, keeping him from allowing her to read her mom's journals, is a shocking secret!
Uncle Jake receives his own shocking secret! Where is his sense of humor, now?
There are many new developments in Simply West of Heaven...Here's a hint,... the Title fits the story.
As always, this episode ends well, yet, leads the reader anxious to read the next one.
The only problem I had with the book..the series... is the conversations of the girls often sound more like a 9 or 10 year old and not as 12 year olds would converse and respond to situations. It is still a great series.
My review of this book offers a Four and a half Stars rating.
This was sent to me in exchange for an honest review, of which I have given.
In this episode stress between the Twins - Ginny and Toran - increases. Tillie, uncharacteristically, "blows up". Her Mom's and Ginny's Dad's relationship moves way too slowly for her. The BIG secret that Ginny's Dad has harbored, keeping him from allowing her to read her mom's journals, is a shocking secret!
Uncle Jake receives his own shocking secret! Where is his sense of humor, now?
There are many new developments in Simply West of Heaven...Here's a hint,... the Title fits the story.
As always, this episode ends well, yet, leads the reader anxious to read the next one.
The only problem I had with the book..the series... is the conversations of the girls often sound more like a 9 or 10 year old and not as 12 year olds would converse and respond to situations. It is still a great series.
My review of this book offers a Four and a half Stars rating.
This was sent to me in exchange for an honest review, of which I have given.
January 18, 2013
To me, this book was like a soap opera from a child's point of view. Ginnie's mom passed away when she was very little. She is, naturally, very curious about her mother so when she finds some old journals written by her mother she is desperate to read them. Ginnie's dad has other ideas though. He doesn't want to deal with all the secrets the journals hold. Meanwhile, Ginnie's uncle finds out he's a father and didn't know it, her aunt shows up to throw the whole family into an uproar, her best friend has a complete meltdown which stems from the abuse she endured from her father, her brother gets hurt, her aunt is getting married. I'm telling you it's a family drama.
Ginnie is a determined little girl. She is stubborn and impatient but she does care about other people. She is right on the edge of child and growing up. I really felt her desperation and need to know about her mother. Luckily Ginnie has lots of people surrounding her that love her. I guess that's the biggest message that I took away from this book. Family is important. No matter how that family comes together, blood bond or not. The people that love you can help you work through life's challenges.
Simply West of Heaven was a good MG book with a contemporary setting that kids will be able to relate to.
Ginnie is a determined little girl. She is stubborn and impatient but she does care about other people. She is right on the edge of child and growing up. I really felt her desperation and need to know about her mother. Luckily Ginnie has lots of people surrounding her that love her. I guess that's the biggest message that I took away from this book. Family is important. No matter how that family comes together, blood bond or not. The people that love you can help you work through life's challenges.
Simply West of Heaven was a good MG book with a contemporary setting that kids will be able to relate to.
November 27, 2014
I started reading The Secret Sisters Club a few years ago and really loved it!! The story was a great example of parents helping their children with the trials of life and how two best friends forever (BBF) can become as close as sisters.
Now I've read Simply West of Heaven which is the sequel to The Secret Sisters Club and the story continues of the adventures of Ginnie and Tillie and their life together on the West farm.
With Ginnie still dealing with the death of her mother and her Dad keeping her mother's journals hidden away, Ginnie has to overcome the urge to wait patiently for her Dad to return those journals she so desperately wants to read. There is something hiding in those pages and the secret of what happened so long ago before Ginnie could remember is driving her crazy. What is it that makes her Dad angry in those journals?
These stories are age appropriate for pre-teens and teens and deal with the reality of death and divorce in a family. The compassion for those children who have to deal with these issues helps the reader come to love the characters and understand a life many teens must live.
Now I've read Simply West of Heaven which is the sequel to The Secret Sisters Club and the story continues of the adventures of Ginnie and Tillie and their life together on the West farm.
With Ginnie still dealing with the death of her mother and her Dad keeping her mother's journals hidden away, Ginnie has to overcome the urge to wait patiently for her Dad to return those journals she so desperately wants to read. There is something hiding in those pages and the secret of what happened so long ago before Ginnie could remember is driving her crazy. What is it that makes her Dad angry in those journals?
These stories are age appropriate for pre-teens and teens and deal with the reality of death and divorce in a family. The compassion for those children who have to deal with these issues helps the reader come to love the characters and understand a life many teens must live.
December 31, 2014
Like the first two books in the series, book 3 also takes a family problem and weaves it into a lovely, age appropriate story for girls 10+. In some ways, this story reminded me of a soap opera for young girls - Ginnie wants to feel closer to her deceased mother by reading her old journals. Ginni's father, however, is afraid Ginnie might uncover some painful secrets, so he takes the journals away and refuses to let her read them. But secrets have a way of coming to the surface anyway as does this one.
Again, the author takes a difficult theme and handles it with lots of love and a nice douse of humor. The characters handle the situation in a realistic but caring way - true to a well formed family. Ginnie and her friends react very age appropriate and it's easy to understand why they do things (even if Ginnie sometimes goes a bit over board - as is her character). This time, it took a few pages for me to get into the story, but when the plot once got going, it pulls into the pages and lets the emotions flow freely.
I recommend this for girls 10+, who enjoy real life drama and heart-warming stories.
Again, the author takes a difficult theme and handles it with lots of love and a nice douse of humor. The characters handle the situation in a realistic but caring way - true to a well formed family. Ginnie and her friends react very age appropriate and it's easy to understand why they do things (even if Ginnie sometimes goes a bit over board - as is her character). This time, it took a few pages for me to get into the story, but when the plot once got going, it pulls into the pages and lets the emotions flow freely.
I recommend this for girls 10+, who enjoy real life drama and heart-warming stories.
November 29, 2014
~~~Dee's Review~~~
Ginnie impatiently schemes to retrieve her Mom's journals, including a little snooping. Secrets, secrets...so many secrets that they fill the mind and burden the heart. But secrets begin to unravel with the visit of a beautiful stranger.
Tillie at one point has a meltdown that tugs at the heart strings. Near the end of the story, a beautiful surprise brought tears to my eyes. The book is well written, filled with honest emotions of confusion, pain, hope, joy and especially love. The cliffhanger at the end is a strong hook to make me reach for book four.
*ARC provided for an honest review.
Ginnie impatiently schemes to retrieve her Mom's journals, including a little snooping. Secrets, secrets...so many secrets that they fill the mind and burden the heart. But secrets begin to unravel with the visit of a beautiful stranger.
Tillie at one point has a meltdown that tugs at the heart strings. Near the end of the story, a beautiful surprise brought tears to my eyes. The book is well written, filled with honest emotions of confusion, pain, hope, joy and especially love. The cliffhanger at the end is a strong hook to make me reach for book four.
*ARC provided for an honest review.
December 20, 2014
Each and every book so far has taught many lessons. This one is no different. This one took me on a roller coaster. Each book talks about some form of abuse and how that affects a child. Tillie's father was abusive to her and her mother and left them so they could have a better life. Tillie never wants to see her father again. another great story that tells a lesson about abuse, friends, and family and how important that they all are!
December 14, 2014
This is the third book in this series and a fantastic series it has been. It's easy for kids to understand issues that each family may face. Even though this is a book for kids, I enjoyed it just as much. It's not one that will be easy to put down once you start. Each book in the series gets better and better.
*Received for an honest review*
*Received for an honest review*
January 8, 2013
One of the things that stands out to me about this book is how much my niece loves it. She liked the heartfelt moments of this book and it had a great message. She devored the book, she loved Ginnie's spunk.
May 31, 2013
Nothing tries a friendship more than secrets, and this book is full of them. With the charm of The Little House books and the courage of today’s American Girl, Bucheger has created a series that has staying power.
November 4, 2020
I was excited to read another Monique Bucheger book after reviewing the first book in the series, The Secret Sisters Club. This new novel was equally good.
I loved that it was fun to read about how family can support and forgive each other even in unexpectedly trying situations. My daughter of the same age as Ginnie and Tillie read this book too! She said, "It was better than the first!"
She and I both loved that Ginnie threw less fits about not having her mom's journals but she did complain more. I'm guessing it was because she doesn't know much about her mom since she died when Ginnie was just three and misses her a lot.
I loved the sweet chapter near the ending with the very exciting events. It was a surprise to both my daughter and I, then, how the book took a sudden turn in the last chapter which segues into the next book! We are both intensely interested in seeing how that book resolves this plot line!
This book is a must for discussing with young teens! There will be things that you want to know first before buying. If you don't mind learning a surprise, keep reading. Otherwise, you can click here to skip down to the book links and to read more about the author, Monique Bucheger!
I'm going to share with you a bit more about this book than I usually do in my reviews since it is for youth and, I'm assuming, you are looking at this review for your daughter or son not for unique plot surprises for you to enjoy. This novel does seem like a soap opera in some ways. I am thinking you will want to know that Jake had a child born out of wedlock. He didn't know this was possible since he only had one time of breaking the commandment to not fornicate. But it appears there was a pregnancy and his ex-girlfriend didn't tell him thinking this was easier for him to deal with other stuff going on at the time! The daughter is very cute and adds fun to the story. It helps facilitate discussions with young teens about the problems of having sex outside of marriage if you realize this is in the book. I love how the family supports Jake in fixing the situation as much as possible.
Other important themes I loved in Simply West of Heaven are that it is important to forgive family members and support them as they work through difficult situations, that family relationships can be mended even after many years of distance and harsh words, and that you can work through insecurities to see that you really, in most cases, are loved.
Want to read Simply West of Heaven?! Check out the links below!
I bought a copy of this kindle ebook four years ago which I didn’t read until this book review. The Amazon copy is incorrect and shows the second book (Trouble Blows West) inside the ebook instead of Simply West of Heaven. The author reassures me it has been updated but my kindle copy still has this error. I received a free copy (the second copy I now own which is what I finished reading to complete this review) from JustRead Tours and the author. All opinions are completely my own. Originally posted on Book of Ruth Ann!
I loved that it was fun to read about how family can support and forgive each other even in unexpectedly trying situations. My daughter of the same age as Ginnie and Tillie read this book too! She said, "It was better than the first!"
She and I both loved that Ginnie threw less fits about not having her mom's journals but she did complain more. I'm guessing it was because she doesn't know much about her mom since she died when Ginnie was just three and misses her a lot.
I loved the sweet chapter near the ending with the very exciting events. It was a surprise to both my daughter and I, then, how the book took a sudden turn in the last chapter which segues into the next book! We are both intensely interested in seeing how that book resolves this plot line!
This book is a must for discussing with young teens! There will be things that you want to know first before buying. If you don't mind learning a surprise, keep reading. Otherwise, you can click here to skip down to the book links and to read more about the author, Monique Bucheger!
I'm going to share with you a bit more about this book than I usually do in my reviews since it is for youth and, I'm assuming, you are looking at this review for your daughter or son not for unique plot surprises for you to enjoy. This novel does seem like a soap opera in some ways. I am thinking you will want to know that Jake had a child born out of wedlock. He didn't know this was possible since he only had one time of breaking the commandment to not fornicate. But it appears there was a pregnancy and his ex-girlfriend didn't tell him thinking this was easier for him to deal with other stuff going on at the time! The daughter is very cute and adds fun to the story. It helps facilitate discussions with young teens about the problems of having sex outside of marriage if you realize this is in the book. I love how the family supports Jake in fixing the situation as much as possible.
Other important themes I loved in Simply West of Heaven are that it is important to forgive family members and support them as they work through difficult situations, that family relationships can be mended even after many years of distance and harsh words, and that you can work through insecurities to see that you really, in most cases, are loved.
Want to read Simply West of Heaven?! Check out the links below!
I bought a copy of this kindle ebook four years ago which I didn’t read until this book review. The Amazon copy is incorrect and shows the second book (Trouble Blows West) inside the ebook instead of Simply West of Heaven. The author reassures me it has been updated but my kindle copy still has this error. I received a free copy (the second copy I now own which is what I finished reading to complete this review) from JustRead Tours and the author. All opinions are completely my own. Originally posted on Book of Ruth Ann!
December 5, 2020
Warning!! If you haven’t read the first two books in this series it is a must. The books introduce you to the characters and allow you to get to know them. This book is by far my favorite. I have already fallen in love with Ginnie, Tillie and Toran. They have shared many ups and downs but each time their bond grows stronger. Tillie so wants to be part of Ginnie’s family and maybe someday her prayers will be answered.
Ginnie is starting to ask more questions about her mother and it won’t be long before secrets are revealed. The author does a great job of building this storyline up as each chapter draws us closer to what Ginnie’s mother wrote in her journals. I’m a big fan of journals and like to write scriptures down, thoughts that I have and personal things that only my journal knows. Maybe someday I will share them with my children but for now I continue to journal my life to leave to my future family members.
There is more conflict in this story and we see a jealous side of Ginnie as she starts to realize she may be sharing her dad’s attention with a new mom and sister. I liked being able to read how she struggles at times with anger at her dad. She is so determined to find out what is in the journals that it causes a conflict in the family. Parents sometimes keep things from their children to protect them. I think a few times Ginnie needed to be grounded more. She develops an ugly attitude that continues through most of the book. It is a good example of how a young person copes with loss, feeling left out and confused.
Get ready for a few big surprises that will shake the family. One of the things I really liked about the story was the emphasis on forgiveness. We all do things we regret, and at some point we need to go to those we have hurt and make things right. This is a bit more emotional story but one that allows the main characters to express their feelings so others can help them.
This is the kind of series I would have loved to read as a child. As an adult I can appreciate it more because I was able to think back on my childhood. It wasn’t a good childhood, but I was always able to escape into stories like these. Thank you for writing a series that shows the reality of death, divorce and unconditional love in a way that young people can relate to. I am eagerly awaiting the next in this series because the author has left a little cliffhanger at the end.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Ginnie is starting to ask more questions about her mother and it won’t be long before secrets are revealed. The author does a great job of building this storyline up as each chapter draws us closer to what Ginnie’s mother wrote in her journals. I’m a big fan of journals and like to write scriptures down, thoughts that I have and personal things that only my journal knows. Maybe someday I will share them with my children but for now I continue to journal my life to leave to my future family members.
There is more conflict in this story and we see a jealous side of Ginnie as she starts to realize she may be sharing her dad’s attention with a new mom and sister. I liked being able to read how she struggles at times with anger at her dad. She is so determined to find out what is in the journals that it causes a conflict in the family. Parents sometimes keep things from their children to protect them. I think a few times Ginnie needed to be grounded more. She develops an ugly attitude that continues through most of the book. It is a good example of how a young person copes with loss, feeling left out and confused.
Get ready for a few big surprises that will shake the family. One of the things I really liked about the story was the emphasis on forgiveness. We all do things we regret, and at some point we need to go to those we have hurt and make things right. This is a bit more emotional story but one that allows the main characters to express their feelings so others can help them.
This is the kind of series I would have loved to read as a child. As an adult I can appreciate it more because I was able to think back on my childhood. It wasn’t a good childhood, but I was always able to escape into stories like these. Thank you for writing a series that shows the reality of death, divorce and unconditional love in a way that young people can relate to. I am eagerly awaiting the next in this series because the author has left a little cliffhanger at the end.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
December 3, 2020
Simply West of Heaven flows really well with the first book of the series The Secret Sisters Club. The second book, Trouble Blows West, is part of the story but seems separate from the overall storyline. Being West is Best features the Owens family who was in Trouble Blows West, so those two books seem to go together so far. I'm only about 15-20% through with Being West is Best, so I can't say for sure.
Simply West of Heaven has a bit more drama in it; in fact, the author calls it a "soap opera for children." None of it is bad, although if you have children younger than maybe 7th-9th grades, you might want to preview it to see if it's a good fit for your child. I wouldn't have a problem with Gracie reading it since it's no different from what we see in today's world. Sin is introduced but is pointed out as being wrong. It's not glorified in any way and one of the consequences is correctly labeled as a blessing (trying not to give away spoilers here). In thinking about it just now, considering that the book brings up the struggles that adults have with difficult circumstances, I think I probably will have Gracie wait a year or two before reading this book simply because I see no reason to introduce these particular burdensome topic matters to a child who doesn't have to deal with it herself if that makes sense.
Again, I like the characters, and I love the family dynamics of this book. My favorite scene involves the hot air balloon and it actually made me cry. There's a new character whom I have not yet decided whether or not to trust completely -- that kind of guessing makes the overall story more intriguing.
Simply West of Heaven has a bit more drama in it; in fact, the author calls it a "soap opera for children." None of it is bad, although if you have children younger than maybe 7th-9th grades, you might want to preview it to see if it's a good fit for your child. I wouldn't have a problem with Gracie reading it since it's no different from what we see in today's world. Sin is introduced but is pointed out as being wrong. It's not glorified in any way and one of the consequences is correctly labeled as a blessing (trying not to give away spoilers here). In thinking about it just now, considering that the book brings up the struggles that adults have with difficult circumstances, I think I probably will have Gracie wait a year or two before reading this book simply because I see no reason to introduce these particular burdensome topic matters to a child who doesn't have to deal with it herself if that makes sense.
Again, I like the characters, and I love the family dynamics of this book. My favorite scene involves the hot air balloon and it actually made me cry. There's a new character whom I have not yet decided whether or not to trust completely -- that kind of guessing makes the overall story more intriguing.
December 10, 2020
Spending time with the West family keeps getting better and better in the third book of the series, Simply West of Heaven. Instead of keeping things nice and tidy, which is unrealistic, Bucheger makes the West family come to life with new complication that enter Ginnie’s life. The West family works through the new things that come at them together as a family.
I appreciate how the author deals with real life issues and helps the characters work through it through different perspectives. It is hard to believe that only a small amount of time has taken place in the series up to this point but that is what makes it more realistic. I personally like how not everything is resolved by the end of the book because we always have more problems to face in our real lives.
I believe that young girls will enjoy reading the series and will leave the experience with a new perspective in seeking solutions to their problems. As a mother, I appreciate the cleanliness of the books, while still addressing issues head on. I am anxious to see how the West family will deal with the cliffhanger that the book left off with!
I would recommend reading this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
I appreciate how the author deals with real life issues and helps the characters work through it through different perspectives. It is hard to believe that only a small amount of time has taken place in the series up to this point but that is what makes it more realistic. I personally like how not everything is resolved by the end of the book because we always have more problems to face in our real lives.
I believe that young girls will enjoy reading the series and will leave the experience with a new perspective in seeking solutions to their problems. As a mother, I appreciate the cleanliness of the books, while still addressing issues head on. I am anxious to see how the West family will deal with the cliffhanger that the book left off with!
I would recommend reading this book. I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own and I was not required to leave a positive review.
December 11, 2020
My kids have been loving the Ginnie West series and I love knowing that they have good books to read. This is a fiction series about two little girls who want their parents to marry so they can be sisters.
Within the book and the series are ups and downs and trials that the girls go through. I feel I can’t say too much about this book without giving too much away! It’s good and it’s full of twists and turns.
This book is geared for middle school girls. I would definitely say this is a good age for this. It’s not a book or series that I would recommend for younger children as it does have lots of topics that might be too much for them like the loss of a parent, divorce, bullying, etc.
All in all, I have enjoyed this series and think it is very age-appropriate to the age range it’s geared towards. My girl’s ages 10, 14, 15, and 15 have enjoyed the whole series.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Within the book and the series are ups and downs and trials that the girls go through. I feel I can’t say too much about this book without giving too much away! It’s good and it’s full of twists and turns.
This book is geared for middle school girls. I would definitely say this is a good age for this. It’s not a book or series that I would recommend for younger children as it does have lots of topics that might be too much for them like the loss of a parent, divorce, bullying, etc.
All in all, I have enjoyed this series and think it is very age-appropriate to the age range it’s geared towards. My girl’s ages 10, 14, 15, and 15 have enjoyed the whole series.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received through Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
December 30, 2020
Simply West of Heaven starts a few weeks after Trouble Blows West , and we see more of Ginnie, Tillie and Toran and journey with them through this book. As Gennie is more interested in finding out more about her mom, more questions are ask and we began to see with Gennie secrets that surface, making tension tight. I think the author does a great job with this book. This is by far my favorite of the series. There is a lot of emotions flying around in this book. Gennie is not sure she wants to share her dad. Could that be a little jealous streak we see in her? I give Simply West of Heaven Four Stars. Again, lots of fun reading in this third book as we follow Gennie and her journey. I’m looking forward to the 4th book in thr series.
This is am amazing series, and if you are looking for books for your pre-teen and older child, this is a series you should consider. I give the entire series a Four Stars!!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
This is am amazing series, and if you are looking for books for your pre-teen and older child, this is a series you should consider. I give the entire series a Four Stars!!
A special thanks to the author/publisher for a copy of this book. I am not required to write a positive review, the opinions here are mine alone. I am disclosing this with my review in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 45 reviews