First snow

Today, as predicted, the first snow began to fall this year! I think it's the first time in years to come so early!
It's getting denser by the minute and although I do not think it will stay, since the grounds are still autumn warm, it could be a sign of what's to come...
Little succession within 20 minutes:

Stay cozy!


Little update.
 What started as a nice little snow fall now turned into an ugly blizzard with much damage in our neighborhood as far as I can see! Trees down, power lines
down, deep bend branches under the weight of the wet snow, in danger to snap. Driving is hazardous.

All images by V.Zlotkowski

Fully booked

There are so many books again, which I can't wait to either read or share with you after I had the pleasure of reading them already!
So without further delays I am going to start my latest lists. The holidays are soon upon us and there is always the possibility of a great book to give or receive.
I will sort them in books for children ( about 9 and up) and teens, the young at heart, liking them too (like me), adult books and art books. Easy enough?
This first post - part will only bring you the kids/teen section. As always it's highly individual and by no means exclusive. I am sure there are many more wonderful stories waiting to be discovered!

The Penderwicks at Point Mouette by Jeanne Birdsall. Oh, I love the entire series!

Noah Barleywater Runs Away by John Boyne. For boys! (and girls...) Just beautifully written!

An Elephant In The Garden by Michael Morpurgo. About my hometown at the end of WWII...no more said! I was so moved.

The Books Of Elsewhere The Shadows by Jacqueline West. The haunted adventure every lonely kid craves.

Daughter Of Smoke And Bones by Laini Taylor. For my daughter (14) for the coming holidays.
Shhh.....

The Maze Runner by James Dashner. A page turner with suspension! My daughter's latest favorite trilogy.


From the same author:

The Scorch Trials

The Death Cure


Then I have bought for my son (11), who loved last year's

The Invention Of Hugo Cabaret
by Brian Selznick, his second marvel of a book:

Wonder Struck


A special place in my heart have found the two small books by Katherine Hannigan:

Ida B. 

and True(sort of)
Don't let yourself be fooled into thinking these last two are for small children, the subject is suitable for tweens and teens, who have experienced or have friends in difficult situations. It's about solving life's sometimes hard to talk about problems. Wonderfully felt and written. 


All these books above have great language and captivating stories in common. They are heartfelt and honest, true and filled with characters children can look up to and identify!
Heroes we like!


Enjoy reading with the children in your life, they do not only have to be your own...


Enjoy this last October weekend!