“Insidious Chapter 2” follows the Lambert family as they try to escape yet another haunting. When Josh Lambert goes into the spirit world to save his son, something demonic follows them out. The Lambert’s decide to go stay with Josh’s mother until things calm down, but old childhood secrets arise and the family can’t seen to shake this living nightmare. Will the Lambert’s have peace once and for all, or will something unnatural attach itself to the family for good? KIDS FIRST!

The latest books by New York Times best-selling author J.A. Jance have very powerful themes.  The mystery, Second Watch, is a J.P. Beumont novel in which the main character delves into his days in Viet Nam. Her second book, a re-release, After The Fire, is the author’s memoir in poetry and prose about her years trying to save her alcohol addicted husband.

Knitters, Runners, Writers and Local Business People are already great fans of the wonderful Daybreak Coffee House in Glastonbury, Connecticut.  For the 2013-2014 school-year Linda Kenneman and her brother Carmello also adopted Readers as their most enthusiastic fans by hosting a year-long book club.  At the first ever meeting, Linda hosted a packed house, yet the delicious coffee, tea and desserts were plentiful all night.  Linda and local author and Public Relations Expert, Wendy Paine Miller suggested that we break into groups of five or six.

Ellen Hopkins latest book, Smoke, is a sequel to her bestselling novel, Burned.  The issues tackled in both books include abuse, relationships, and religious extremism.  Smoke’s powerful storyline is brought out through the lives of two sisters, miles apart but in some ways expressing the same emotions. 

Natasha Solomons’ latest book, The Gallery of Vanished Husbands is a portrait of Juliet Montague’s life from 1958 to 2006. She chooses her own future by challenging her world both culturally and religiously. Natasha’s main character looks upon herself as an outsider and strives for an independent identity without losing the closeness of her parents and children.

When you travel with your family, there usually needs to be a plan.  Some vacation spots even call for a spreadsheet detailing what exact time your family must dine, complete activities, wake up early and possibly even when you need to get in line to do almost anything. Well in Aruba there’s no fast pass needed.  You can vacation on your own time!

Based on the best selling series "Dear Dumb Diary" by Jim Benton, this made for TV movie airs September 6 on the Hallmark Channel. "You might think it is a girl's movie but I enjoyed it and so did my twelve year old brother," comments KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Adam C, age 8. Adam's full review follows. 

Dear Dumb Diary
Reviewed by Adam C., Age 8, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic

Video review available here. 

Back In The Fight by Sergeant First Class Joseph Kapacziewski, his wife Kimberly, and Charles W. Sasser is an incredible story of perseverance and determination. Through Kimberly’s eyes the reader is able to gain insight to her job not only as a wife and mother, but also as Joe’s motivator as he faces the new challenge of his wounds and recovery.

From director Kar Wai Wong comes "The Grandmaster," the story of martial-arts master Ip Man, the man who trained Bruce Lee. This may not be a film for everyone but, as KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Anthony Aranda (age 11) says, "If mixed martial-arts is your style, be sure to go see it when it comes out August 23." Anthony's full review is below.

The Grandmaster

By Anthony Aranda (age 11)

Video review available here: 

With his latest novel, The Kill List, Frederick Forsyth has come full circle since writing the timeless book, The Day of the Jackal. He returned to the formula that has made him a classic political thriller writer, using his journalistic instincts to make them relevant and realistic.