Monday, May 13, 2013

Papa's Pearls (Review)

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While reading Papa's Pearls: A Father's Gift of Love and Wisdom to His Children and Grandchildren, my latest Schoolhouse Review Crew product, I couldn't help but be nostalgic and think of a special man in my life.  My PaPa (pronounced Paw-Paw) was such a treasure, not only to me but to all his grandchildren, children, friends, and even strangers.  His large hands and big ears were dwarfed by his enormous heart and love.  He demonstrated going out of his way to love and be of help to those that others would often ignore.  Hard work, strong morals, dedication to family, and an unshakable faith define his life.  Oh what I wouldn't give to talk to him today, to sit by his side and glean even more of his precious "pearls"!!!


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Aside from reminding you of a cherished loved one, Diane Flynn Keith's book, Papa's Pearls will both entertain and teach you.  She chronicles the life of her father and shares his pearls of wisdom.  Papa, also known as Carol Joseph Flynn, was actually a street kid during the depression-era.  Running with the wrong crowd and involved in criminal activity, it appeared he was on a steady path towards incarceration.  Thankfully, he had a series of encounters that altered his course.  He chose to strive for personal success and lived life happily. 
 
Papa wasn't a man of many words, but those that he did speak held so much weight, truth, and meaning.  Diane took these nuggets of gold - priceless pearls! - and penned this precious 112 page memoir.  Each of the 17 chapters concentrate on one or more of Papa's pearls.  Some illustrate his business savvy:  "Where's the money?" "Get it in writing!"  "Keep a foxy pocket." and "If you want to be successful - spend your time with successful people."  Others offer basic wisdom for a life well-lived: "Everyone deserves a second chance." "You gotta roll with the punches." and "Be Grateful Every Day!" The most endearing show his love and care for family:  "Where's my hug?" and "I love you. You know that, right?"
 
I read Papa's Pearls myself.  However; I can see the value in having your preteen/teen read the book individually, or even using the book as a read-aloud.  It is a delightful story, and there are sound tidbits of wisdom from which everyone could benefit.
 

 
Papa's Pearls is available directly from the author.  Click HERE to purchase an autographed copy for $21.97.  It is also available for purchase in both paperback and Kindle format through Amazon.


Author, Diane Flynn Keith, is no stranger to education or the homeschool community.  She is a sought after speaker and expert on alternative education.  Her desire is to liberate families from conventional schooling, and she provides so many resources to assist in that task.  She has written a book entitled: Carschooling: Over 350 Entertaining Games & Activities To Turn Travel Time Into Learning Time. Diane also maintains several popular websites including:


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1 comment:

Diane Flynn Keith said...

Thank you for reviewing "Papa's Pearls," Angela. I'm happy to know it brought back memories of your beloved PaPa. :) I thought you might like to know that I'm having a Papa's Pearls Father's Day Contest. Share a memory about your own father or grandfather and be entered to win a $50 Gift Card to Amazon. Get the details here:
http://papaspearls.com/fathers-day-contest-win-a-50-amazon-gift-card-from-papas-pearls/ Thanks, again