Blue Wolf Reviews

Tag: moon

  • she followed the moon back to herself 

    she followed the moon back to herself 

    Amanda Lovelace considered she was burnt out, that she had written her last piece of poetry, that she felt she had gone through the fire of personal exploration until 2023, when she felt tempted to do something she had never done before; take on the challenged issued in National Poetry Week, which required one poem per day for a month to be written.

    Why not, she though and became inspired. She often found she was writing more than one poem a day. Following the Moon Back To Herself is the result of that challenge which once again takes a walk through her life; the ‘she and they’ are her, discovering that being different, thinking alternatively, being a poet who grasps the personal with raw intensity is perfectly OK.

    Illustrated in shades of Pink with delightful artwork, a series of fairies often filling the pages creating a divide between subject matter, the words are prosaic, captivating and resonating.

    Feminism laced with celestial magic begins the collection captivating the eternal woman always desiring to be somewhat other than is; an already perfect creation.

    Each verse in the story concludes with a very accepting line, which shows a quirky sense of humour making piece after piece relatable – ‘that’s just how it goes sometimes’ is one such line after a piece on trusting.

    She Followed The Moon Back To Herself is a very contemporary, thoroughly enjoyable walk through the world of ‘woman’. Any woman who is on a journey of discovery, of change, of wondering, should read this story, enjoy the quirky, realism of the pieces, and through the medium of poetry accept that it really is alright to be YOU.

    The final piece concludes with……..’you must remember that you have never been so lost that you could not find yourself’… signed your future self.

    So perfectly true.

  • Moon Sugar

    Moon Sugar

    Moon Sugar is a somewhat intriguing tale wrapped around the world of experimental drugs, dependence and the insular nature of today’s societies. Mila is a forty-year-old personal trainer on the rebound from a failed relationship. Josh is a larger than life, incredibly good looking man who is financing his European trip by working as an escort.

    He and Mila took part in a secretive drug experiment which gave them both a much needed income source, which after six months seems to have failed, as neither of them has managed to go into an ‘altered state’ of emotion, which was the expectation of taking the lichen called Xanthoria.

    But when Kyle mysteriously disappear in Berlin, his death is listed as suicide, Mila, for one does not believe possible. His long time best friend Kyle, struggling with being newly divorced, and grieving for his friend, decides to carry on with the trip planned by both he and Josh. He is also far from convinced Josh is dead.

    This sets the scene for some interesting dialogue as Mila and Josh meet up in Berlin, both on the same quest, to find Josh and both struggling with a personal sense of isolation and despair.

    Angela Meyer has carefully crafted the character’s personalities so they fit seamlessly together as they all struggle to come to terms with the hand life has dished them and the irony of love, lust and companionship.

    Moving between, London, Belin and Australia the pace picks up part way through the book, as the many strange events and clues begin to form a pattern that is becoming somewhat terrifying, as well as dangerous.

     Involving the world of technology, experimental drugs and the idiosyncrasies of people, Meyer has opened a small window into the sad and often isolated world of so many as they seek to understand and relate to others.

    Challenging, confrontational in some aspects, quirky in others interestingly Moon Sugar is very difficult to simply leave once began. Certainly a novel of modern times Meyer shines a light into areas we, as a fast paced, careless society often refuse to confront.

  • SUN SIGN SECRETS

    SUN SIGN SECRETS

    CELESTIAL GUIDANCE WITH THE SUN, MOON AND STARS

    Astrology is a fascinating subject that everyone at some time comes into contact with, even if it is only reading your star sign daily in a newspaper. But let’s face it, the subject of what makes us who we are, and what makes us react the way we do, is pure fascination.

    Sun Sign Secrets takes the art form of reading our stars and the influences upon our Sun Signs one step further, as Patsy Bennett explores the additional areas of the moon phases and how they add more depth to our readings. She also says that by further understanding not just the suns influences on our birth signs but the moons input, we are all able to become our own astrologers.

    Set out in twelve chapters she sets out the aspects of the star sign that are often overlooked, in order to fully explain the reasons why new moons, full moons and lunar and solar eclipses have such a major influence. These are surprisingly accurate The introduction to each sign titled Inner Calling establishes who you are and how you view life.

    Sections on relationships, self-esteem, creativity and more follow concluding with pitfalls; an interesting place to pause before getting into the nitty gritty of the influences of Solar and Lunar Transits, phases and eclipse.

    At the end of the book is a reference section of New Moons, Full Moons and Lunar and Solar Eclipses until 2050 which is perfect for ongoing use as you get more proficient with your astrological predictions.

    As Astrology is a fascinating subject it is very easy to jump to your personal Sun Sign without reading the instructions first, but as this is a book about long term understanding, beginning at the introduction is important, especially if you are considering taking this style of reading for your daily use, as it is very necessary to be able to understand the many secrets hidden with each of the many phases.

    Sun Sign Secrets is a perfect gift to offer to yourself as you set out to discover who and what you really are, what influences you as well as developing a far better understanding of what it is that truly influences your lifestyle. Enjoy the journey.

  • The Moon Fix: Harness Lunar Power for Healing and Happiness

    The Moon Fix: Harness Lunar Power for Healing and Happiness

    Just reading the chapters in The Moon Fix seems to have a calming sensation on the reader. Perhaps we all have a sense of the influence of the moon, and a curiosity which is certainly addressed here. The opening chapters deal with the healing powers of the moon and the Divine Principle. The phases of the moon are explained, and the reader informed on what to look for and how to use that particular phase.

    Theresa Cheung states that this is a “Modern Guide to working with the moon” and incorporating its energy into your daily life. There are forty-eight exercises and rituals under headings such as “Love, Relationships, Health, and Wellbeing.” Which can be used to perform a Moon fix when it is passing through a certain zodiac sign, or at the appropriate phase. Websites are given to help the reader expand on the concept they wish to explore.

    Some of the rituals which are explained in the text are: Bathing in Moonlight, in which seven steps are set out to follow. Attracting Abundance, is another which needs a pencil and paper to complete. One can also invite Good Luck, and Motivation. There are Mantras for Optimism, a Planting Guide, and Recipes for Success.

    Cheung says that moon watching is a “Truly fulfilling and beautiful way to live.” And after reading this book and enjoying the delightful illustrations, one can appreciate her point. After all, why not try making your own energy drink. Place a glass of clean water on a shelf where it will catch the moonlight all night. Then slowly drink this during the day. Lovely! A delightful book to browse and read.

  • Moon Magic: A Handbook of Lunar Cycles, Lore, and Mystical Energies

    Moon Magic: A Handbook of Lunar Cycles, Lore, and Mystical Energies

    There is absolutely no doubt that Moon Magic is a beautifully presented book about the magic of the Moon and the effect it has on everyday life, its ability to heal, and the importance the Moon as an entity, holds in the craft of Wicca, or Witchcraft.

    Perfect for the beginner, or those simply interested in understanding more about Witchcraft, Magic and Spirituality, Aurora Kane takes you through the many aspect of the importance of the Moon, the Beliefs, Phases, Magic, Astrology, Tarot and Spells to present a clear understanding of the importance of connecting with the Universe.

    The Moon is generally portrayed as a feminine energy, based on the imagery of a  young girl moving through the phases of her life until she is an old woman at the end of her reign over the night skies, only to be reborn again; a gentle energy blessing the earth with her light, offsetting the massive and destructive energy of the life giving sun. This is fundamental basis of Moon Magic and is set out in such a way as to offer a basic understanding, accompanied by Affirmations to be used at the respective times.

    Wicca and Moon Magic in todays world is well explained, as is the use of Herbs in conjunction with the four phases of the Moon. Astrology and Tarot have long held a fascination with the wider community which is also explained in a simple style, presenting each of the Zodiac signs and Tarot Card figures clearly and with a good understanding of their purpose in relation to the Moon.

    As to the mystique of Spell Casting. This is covered well, but once again on a basic level with a section at the end of the book devoted to Simple Rituals and Spells which is tempting to read first, but without some deeper understanding, will not be comprehensively understood as to the true magic and power contained within the most simple of spells and rituals.

    Moon Magic is a perfect book for the beginner which will allow a new understanding of the Moon, the magic with which it is associated and the peace and blessings which can be discovered as the power of the Moon is better understood.

  • The Astro Naughty Naughty Baddies

    The Astro Naughty Naughty Baddies

    This is a story about some very naughty, very wicked baddies who decided to do something so naughty that they may even blast off to the moon, which the four baddies though might be pretty good and as it was somewhere new, they could make even more mischief than ever before.

    On this particular morning the four baddies were trying to work out what sort of naughty they could get up to, when they saw a poster that wanted someone to try and prove that alien life really did exist.

    That was all it took for them to come up with a very naughty plan to disguise themselves as ‘aliens’ sneak into the Presidents palace and claim the reward. Everything was going very well, perhaps a little bit too well: The President, along with Mr Snuggle-Hugs, did eventually decided that Yes, they certainly looked like aliens, and took them to their reward deep in the basements of the palace. But that is when things seriously began to come unravelled. Oh no! What will happen to the four naughty, naughty baddies?

    Parents and children will love this read out loud story from Mark Sperring in a very tongue-in-cheek mood, as the President has a very familiar countenance and the wording is such that there is something for young readers and adults alike, which makes a simple storyline absolutely amusing and most enjoyable. David Tazzyman’s almost cartoon like characters, with a familiar face included,  simply add to the wonderful fun to be found in the pages as the plot is created then unravels in a gloriously funny manner.

    Diabolically good fun.

  • Consider the Moon & Stars

    Consider the Moon & Stars

    This album opens with the immortal sound of Houston getting ready to launch the American spacecraft, carrying astronaut John Glenn, into space. He was to become the first American to orbit the earth and the fifth person to be sent into pace. The year was 1962.

    From this point on this album is one long, gloriously beautiful journey through space in, as the first track states, This Languid Motion.

    A richness of sound enters with Consider the moon and stars, where the imagination can see through the windows of the craft, to the true, glorious, yet to be discovered elements of a sparkling new world; fresh, mysterious and somehow infinitely magical.

    Avalon Nights introduces a different beat, with some serious work on the acoustic guitar, a dash of vocals and rather spacey element added with the careful use of the synth.

    The tantalising title of the fourth track, A Dream in Tangerine can only lead to a sense of wonderment, as the rhythm changes to once again return to the space like modality, where the rhythms are slightly faster, almost impulsive and adventurous, reflective of what element only the composer knows and the listener can interpret.

    Gentle and soft Beyond What I Know is the perfect vehicle to spend some little time in reflection of what may be out there in the deep darkness that surrounds the earth. It is perhaps a simplistically beautiful translation of what must flow through the minds of astronauts as they sit in contemplation of worlds unknown as they travel through space.

    Sirius rounds out very nicely a true musical journey which will become a favourite on the playlist, as it is many things, all of which come skilfully together to relax and remind that the world is full of charm, beauty and mystique simply waiting to be enjoyed and discovered.

    The next time you are outside in the night, far away from the lights of the city spend a moment to consider the moon and stars.

    Perfection.

  • Ring Around the Moon

    Ring Around the Moon

    In this solo piano album from Richard Dillion written in the winter months and recorded in 2014, the titles of the various tracks take your imagination through a journey into many and varied concepts, concepts which at the time gave inspiration to the quiet, almost reclusive, musician.

    What is behind the mystique that arrives when the moon has a ring surrounding it, an occurrence that is not often seen, but when it is it is usually during the winter months,  and seems to herald in that almost superstitious element within us all. Dillion has tapped into this element to create the purity which can be found on a cold frosty, snowy winter’s day.

    Groundhog Saw His Shadow simply begins the journey with wonderment, teasing the imagination into creating the scene, the amazement of this event in a humble woodchucks evening.

    December Sunset, when followed by Dying of the Light, allows the visualisation of the day coming to a glorious close, and then of the fun to be had on Midnight Sleigh Ride. Romantic, frosty and pure this beautiful segue of pieces is delightful for its singular, but not insular reverence.

    Dreaming of Hawaii is something we all do during the midst of winter when it seems that all is cold, cold, cold, and there will not be a warm day anytime soon. Somehow Dillion manages to get his piano to create that lovely tropical, warm, almost sultry feel that is Hawaii, allowing you to bask for just a moment in that beautiful, almost idyllic paradise.

    As the season moves along so too does the music, leading to the almost dainty Scattering of Stars, inspired by the viewing of the night sky on a deep, frosty winters night, which is nothing other than pure perfection.

    A Whiteout is something that is as magical as it can be terrifying, but Dillion has chosen to present this as a light, ethereal moment in time, which then leads into the final and delightfully warm piece Hot Cocoa By The Fire, making this a comfortable and comforting ending for an album that is peaceful, enjoyable and as always, original.

  • By the Light of the Moon

    By the Light of the Moon

    Moving house is a traumatic time, and for young Ivan, it was strange and unfriendly. His first night in his new house proves quite a challenge, as nothing is as it was. Even the moon looks different. With a gentle fantasy story, Ivan understands that in time he will feel at home here, and he will adjust. I love the end pages which will fascinate children. They show the different phases of the moon, and the correct terminology for each phase.

     

    Ivan is alone and sad in his bedroom. Nothing looks the same. He goes to the window to check out the moon and sees a light flying down from the sky. Ivan runs outside to see what the light is. He discovers a friendly being, whom shows him many marvelous things.

    They play together for some time, but eventually his friend says that it’s time to go home. Sadly Ivan reflects that this is not like his other home. His friend shows him some visions in the future, and Ivan understands that in time there will be many happy occasions, and he will grow to be attached to this house.

     The author has such a gentle way of telling a story that it would appeal to a child who is facing a new problem. There are small bodies of text spread out on the pages to encourage independent reading. The text size varies, getting larger for more emphasis to be used.

     The illustrations are appropriately coloured, sometimes the pages contain a lot of black as Ivan goes outside into the night, however, when his friend begins to paint everything with moonlight, the colours change and vary.  The front cover is decorated with a drawing of the moon, and sprinkles of silver, which is visually very appealing.

     Again, it is the end pages that invite a close examination. They show the phases of the moon, the first page being black with blue shaped moons, and the opposite page being blue with black shaped moons in their varying stages.

     The story is gentle and calm, while the focus is on the moon and how it oversees our lives.