Testimonials
live the excitement
Hear from Our Satisfied Readers The Joy Our Books Bring
4.5 Review from our book reader
It’s a very hard read, especially when you’ve known about the monstrosities committed in Gaza right now. But I highly suggest reading this at least once to develop an understanding of what happened. There are resources in the back of the book to help out if you can and feel called to.
I would suggest afterward doing more research on the topic as there are sources out there if you look closely enough. This is a good place to start if you’re wondering where to start, but again, please continue research when you do. The chapters are short and easy to read word wise, which can help anyone learn the material.
Deb F
Book: GRASS OF THE EARTH: The True Story of One Family's Struggle for Survival in Gaza
Grass of the Earth details life in Gaza during the 2023 Israel-Hamas War as experienced by Omar, a young Palestinian husband and father. It is a disturbing book; it describes the killing and maiming of families, the catastrophic shortage of food and medical supplies, and the wretched conditions resulting from the destruction of water, power, and sanitary facilities. Ostensibly based on an actual journal kept by Omar, the on-the-ground experience of the war is fascinating. Unfortunately, it is unclear which parts of the text are direct quotations from the journal or other direct source material and which parts are the author’s artistic elaborations. There is no explanation of how the author obtained Omar’s journal or how he verified its authenticity. Furthermore, abrupt changes from first- to third-person narration and effusive lyricism (e.g., explosives “pressed their arguments against steel, and steel agreed”) are disorienting and off-putting, respectively.
Dean Farwood
Book: GRASS OF THE EARTH: The True Story of One Family's Struggle for Survival in Gaza
Such an enlightening, harrowing, behind the scenes true story told by “Omar,” a young Palestinian husband, father, son and brother, actively living through the Israeli – Hamas/Palestinian conflict. This is an eye opening, gut wrenching, heartbreaking, life changing story for me. I don’t think I can do his story justice, as he is still fighting to keep his family alive, fighting to keep himself alive, fighting to make sure he and his fellow brethren are remembered and not forgotten… they are not numbers, not just statistics, not some abstract ideology, they are real, flesh and blood humans, just like you and I, who are not terrorists, but because of their unfortunate life circumstance, they happened to have been born in a country that has been taken over by a terrorist organization. His plight is perilous, impossible, and some would say, absolutely hopeless, but Omar is not without hope, nor faith. He keeps a written record of what is happening around him, the people, their story, their plight… in notebooks, on pieces of cardboard, scraps of paper, whatever is handy, and holds onto the drawings, mementos… anything that is given to him by those that also wish to be remembered. This is a thought provoking, completely life changing story, so glad I read it… it has changed my world views in ways I would never have believed possible.
Dragonflylady0862
Book: GRASS OF THE EARTH: The True Story of One Family's Struggle for Survival in Gaza
Really gives you a feel for what China is like
Kindle Customer
Book: Taming The Red Dragon
This book is powerful, meaningful, and deeply human. John Acree brings history to life in a way that feels personal and real, not distant or textbook-like. His background in law, education, and journalism clearly shows in the way he tells the story with clarity, honesty, and heart.
For Such a Time as This is especially moving. The story of Ponca Chief Standing Bear and his fight for justice is told with respect and emotional depth. You don’t just learn about history, you feel it. The struggle, the pain, the courage, and the faith behind Standing Bear’s journey stay with you long after you finish the book. The court case is explained in a way that is easy to understand, yet still very powerful.
What stands out most is Acree’s writing style. It is simple, direct, and engaging. He doesn’t overcomplicate things, which makes it easy to connect with the characters and understand their experiences. You can tell he cares deeply about the stories he tells and the people behind them.
This is a book for readers who enjoy meaningful stories rooted in real events and real emotions. It’s thoughtful, inspiring, and a reminder of how important justice and humanity are. Highly recommended for anyone who enjoys historical fiction with depth and purpose.
Amelia
Book: BEYOND THE ABYSS
“BEYOND THE ABYSS” by John Acree is a compelling and thought-provoking read. Everything changed for the protagonist on October 22, 1994. A swim in the pool became his first glimpse into a hidden world beneath the surface. During a practical test at a nearby quarry, he encountered a mysterious giant crab—an encounter that would alter the course of his life.
One day, the crab seized him and transported him to an alien realm. The inhabitants of this strange world carried a vision—a blueprint for a more harmonious future. That first step he took on October 22 became more than a moment of exploration; it was the beginning of a journey inward, revealing parts of himself he never knew existed.
Dive into this fascinating story to follow the protagonist’s extraordinary experiences.
John Acree’s writing is clear and engaging. The book cover is striking, and the language is easy to follow, making it accessible for a wide range of readers. It’s not just a gripping narrative—it also imparts meaningful life lessons. Readers will find themselves inspired to embark on their own journeys of growth and self-discovery. I’m truly glad I picked up this book.
Readers Choice
Book: BEYOND THE ABYSS
I recently had the pleasure of reading Beyond the Abyss by John Acree. From the very first page, the main character wins our hearts. On October 22, 1994, he proudly earned his scuba diving license, marking the beginning of a life-changing journey. Soon after, he ventured into more challenging waters. Though he passes the test with flying colors, he comes face-to-face with a mysterious giant crab beneath the surface.
What begins as a thrilling dive soon evolves into something much deeper. The protagonist returns to the ocean again and again, each time delving further—both into the sea and into himself. He learns that true exploration is not just about discovering new places, but about confronting your deepest fears and emerging transformed. His cave dives into the cenotes left a lasting imprint on his soul.
Curious about dream symbolism? This story offers a fascinating take on what a giant crab might signify in the realm of dream interpretation.
The characters are richly developed, and the storyline has left a lasting impression on me. Acree has crafted a gripping tale that’s hard to put down. I wholeheartedly recommend Beyond the Abyss—dive in without hesitation!
booksforreaders25
Book: BEYOND THE ABYSS
John O. Acree’s For Such a Time as This is a triumph of historical storytelling and emotional truth. This is not just a recounting of events; it’s a journey into the soul of the Ponca people and, in particular, Standing Bear. I was completely engrossed from the first scene, but what truly shattered me was the father’s unwavering determination to honor his son Bear Shield’s dying wish. That promise becomes the backbone of the entire narrative, giving weight and urgency to every hardship endured. The trial scenes were gripping full of legal brilliance and raw human emotion. When Standing Bear raised his hand and declared his shared humanity before the court, I felt chills. This book forces you to confront history with open eyes and leaves you changed by the courage and resilience it portrays.
Reader
Book: FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS
For Such a Time as This is one of the most powerful books I’ve ever read. John O. Acree brings history to life with an emotional depth that made me feel like I was standing in that courtroom, listening to Standing Bear plead for his right to be seen as a human being. The descriptions of the Ponca’s relocation are raw and vivid every death, every burial, every step of their journey weighed heavily on me. Yet, through it all, there is resilience. Standing Bear’s character shines as a father, a leader, and a man of unshakable faith. The trial itself was riveting, and Judge Dundy’s decision felt like a hard earned victory for justice. This book is heartbreaking, inspiring, and absolutely unforgettable.
Emelia Hendrix
Book: FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS
John O. Acree’s For Such a Time as This is a book I will recommend to everyone I know. It’s more than a history lesson it’s an emotional journey into the heart of one of the most significant yet overlooked moments in American history. The narrative is steeped in sorrow the losses along the Trail of Tears are almost too heavy to bear but there is also an incredible resilience in these pages. Standing Bear’s promise to Bear Shield transformed this story into something deeply personal and unforgettable. The courtroom scenes were intense, filled with moral urgency and eloquence. When Judge Dundy finally declared Standing Bear a person in the eyes of the law, I felt a rush of emotion I can’t fully describe.
Judson Tolliver
Book: FOR SUCH A TIME AS THIS
The Martian Legacy by John Acree is one of those books that stays with you long after you’ve closed the last page. What I really loved was how it wasn’t just another “space survival” story it was about the human spirit, memory, and the way hope can endure even when everything else fades.
The concept of Mars dying and its people boarding the ark Solus felt both epic and intimate. I could feel the weight of their desperation, but also the quiet moments of reflection as generations passed aboard the ship. The way Acree showed how knowledge and faith slowly slipped away over time really made me think about our own history and how fragile it can be.
The pacing was solid sometimes reflective, sometimes tense and the balance worked. I found myself rooting for these survivors, even though centuries and entire lives were flashing by. By the end, I felt like I had traveled that odyssey with them.
If you enjoy stories that mix survival, scifi, and a deep look at what it means to carry a legacy forward, I’d definitely recommend this book. It’s not just about leaving Mars behind it’s about carrying the best parts of humanity into the unknown.
Calder Voss
Book: The Martian Legacy
I really enjoyed reading The Martian Legacy. The story hooked me right from the beginning with the desperate attempt to preserve a dying civilization. What stood out to me most was how the book balances both the grand scale of survival across generations and the very human struggles of faith, sacrifice, and hope. The pacing was steady, and I found myself invested in the journey of the survivors aboard the Solus.
It’s not just a sci-fi adventure it’s also a reflection on what it means to carry forward a legacy when everything seems lost. If you enjoy stories that mix survival, humanity, and a touch of mystery, this is definitely worth picking up.
Helena Regan
Book: The Martian Legacy
Sarah Waters
Book: GRASS OF THE EARTH
I went into “Grass of the Earth” by John Acree thinking I was prepared for a heavy read, but honestly, I wasn’t. The opening sections that focus on the first day of chaos-families scrambling, confusion, and sudden loss-felt almost too real. It doesn’t read like distant reporting; it feels immediate, like you’re right there witnessing it unfold.
What struck me most were the small, human moments woven throughout the larger devastation. There are scenes of families trying to hold onto normalcy, even as everything around them is collapsing, and accounts of children processing fear in ways that are heartbreaking but very real. The descriptions of life under siege-the scarcity, the uncertainty, the constant tension-are written in a way that doesn’t exaggerate, which somehow makes it even more powerful.
I’ve read a few books on conflict before, but this one felt different. It reminded me of sitting through long news coverage during difficult times, except here you don’t get to look away or switch the channel. There’s a rawness to the storytelling that feels intentional-like the author wants you to sit with the discomfort rather than escape it.
That said, it’s not an easy read. There were moments I had to pause and come back later. But I think that’s part of its impact.
I’d recommend “Grass Of The Earth” to readers who are open to emotionally intense, real-world narratives and want to understand the human side of conflict beyond headlines. It’s not for light reading, but it’s definitely worth reading.
#NonfictionReads #WarStories #HumanResilience #RealStories #MustReadBooks
Kylie Reviews
Book: GRASS OF THE EARTH
This is not an easy book to read but it is an essential one.
Grass of the Earth is written with a raw honesty that leaves no room for distance or detachment. From the opening pages, it places you inside Gaza on October 7, 2023 not as an observer of headlines, but as a witness to lived experience. The fear, the confusion, the sudden collapse of ordinary life it all feels immediate and inescapable.
What makes this book so powerful is its human focus. These are not statistics or abstractions. These are parents making impossible choices, children trying to understand terror, and communities struggling to survive amid loss and erasure. The eyewitness accounts are vivid and haunting, and the narrative voice carries both grief and dignity. There is no sensationalism here just truth, told with urgency and care.
The balance between intimate storytelling and investigative clarity is especially striking. The author doesn’t just recount destruction; they give context to the siege, the scarcity, and the long standing pressures that shaped the moment. And yet, even in the darkest passages, what lingers most is resilience the refusal to disappear, the stubborn insistence on life, memory, and humanity.
This book changed the way I understand the conflict not by telling me what to think, but by showing me what it feels like to endure it. It is heartbreaking, enraging, and deeply moving all at once.
Grass of the Earth is more than a record of tragedy. It is a testament to survival, a moral reckoning, and a plea to see people where the world too often sees politics.
SOPHIA GRACE
Book: GRASS OF THE EARTH
This book is not just a story—it’s an experience that stays with you long after you turn the final page.
Grass of the Earth is a raw, heartbreaking, and deeply human account of survival, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a family living through unimaginable circumstances.
Through the eyes of a father trying to protect his family, readers are pulled into a world where basic necessities like food, water, and safety are no longer guaranteed. The depiction of life in Gaza is intense and, at times, difficult to read—but that’s exactly what makes this book so powerful. It doesn’t shy away from the truth. It forces you to feel it.
What struck me most was the emotional depth—the love within the family, even in the darkest moments. That love becomes their anchor, their reason to keep going when everything around them is falling apart. It’s a reminder that even in the harshest conditions, humanity and connection endure.
The writing carries both urgency and reflection, blending moments of fear, hope, and quiet strength. It made me stop and think about how easily we take everyday comforts for granted, and how different life can be for others across the world.
This is not an easy read—but it is an important one. It opens your eyes, challenges your perspective, and leaves a lasting emotional impact.
A deeply moving and unforgettable book that I highly recommend.
Connie Newell
Book: GRASS OF THE EARTH
Taming the Red Dragon is an inspiring memoir that captures the beauty of stepping into the unknown and allowing it to change you from the inside out. At 62, John Acree does something most would never dare accepts a teaching position in Beijing, in a subject he once struggled to pass. That decision becomes the catalyst for a transformative journey filled with discovery, challenge, and unexpected love.
Acree’s storytelling is warm and genuine, making you feel like a companion on his travels. His candid accounts of navigating Chinese classrooms, bridging cultural divides, and building friendships are filled with humor, heart, and respect. Whether directing a charming student production of How the Grinch Stole Christmas or coaching a track team, he shows how small acts of connection can have a big impact.
The memoir is rich with vivid scenes that bring China to life. From the imposing majesty of the Great Wall to the ancient wonder of the Terra Cotta Warriors, and from the bustling streets of Liaocheng to the quiet shores of Weihai, Acree’s descriptions immerse you completely in his journey.
When the pandemic unexpectedly strands him in Hong Kong, the narrative takes a touching turn. Amid political unrest and uncertainty, Acree meets Maggie, whose love not only renews his faith but also gives him a new sense of purpose. This chapter of the story adds emotional depth and a hopeful note to an already remarkable life adventure.
Heartfelt, thought-provoking, and full of life, Taming the Red Dragon is more than a memoir it’s a testament to resilience, openness, and the surprising beauty of second chances. A book I’ll be recommending to anyone who believes it’s never too late to reinvent yourself.
Orin Winslow
Book: Taming The Red Dragon
Taming the Red Dragon is an extraordinary memoir that blends cultural exploration, personal reinvention, and the unexpected magic of second chances. At 62, John Acree embarks on a journey few would dare accepting a teaching job in Beijing to teach biology, a subject he once nearly failed. What begins as a leap into uncertainty unfolds into a life changing adventure filled with lessons far beyond the classroom.
Acree’s storytelling is engaging and sincere. He writes with humor, humility, and a deep respect for the people he meets along the way. His classroom tales from introducing American traditions to organizing a student play of How the Grinch Stole Christmas, to forming a track team are heartwarming reminders of how connection can bridge even the widest cultural gaps.
The travel descriptions are vivid and transportive. Whether standing atop the Great Wall, wandering through the silent ranks of the Terra Cotta Warriors, or strolling along the serene Weihai coastline, Acree captures the beauty, history, and soul of each place he visits. These moments are as much about inner reflection as they are about external exploration.
When the pandemic unexpectedly strands him in Hong Kong, the memoir takes a deeply personal turn. Amid political unrest and uncertainty, Acree meets Maggie a love that reignites his faith and gives new purpose to his journey. This final arc adds a touching emotional layer that lingers well beyond the last page.
Taming the Red Dragon is more than a travel memoir it’s a heartfelt testament to resilience, openness, and the life changing possibilities that come when we dare to step outside our comfort zones. Inspiring, beautifully written, and unforgettable.
Mireille Ravencroft
Book: Taming The Red Dragon
Taming the Red Dragon is one of those rare memoirs that lingers in your mind and heart long after you close the final page. John Acree’s journey from a 62 year old retired attorney and inner city pastor to an unexpected biology teacher in Beijing is as inspiring as it is eye-opening.
From the moment he sets foot in China, Acree takes us along for a deeply human adventure that’s equal parts cultural exchange, personal reinvention, and heartfelt storytelling. His candid reflections about confronting his own biases and learning to navigate an entirely different way of life are refreshingly honest. The small, tender moments like directing a student play of How the Grinch Stole Christmas or starting a student track team shine just as brightly as his visits to China’s monumental landmarks.
The memoir also takes a dramatic turn with the COVID-19 outbreak, leading to an unplanned stay in Hong Kong amid political unrest. These chapters are especially gripping, blending the uncertainty of world events with the intimate story of meeting Maggie, whose love becomes a beacon in a turbulent time.
Acree writes with warmth, humility, and an eye for detail that makes you feel like you’re walking beside him through the icy school corridors of Beijing, along Weihai’s coastlines, and into the bustling, restless streets of Hong Kong. By the end, you’re not just reading about a man’s journey; you’re experiencing the transformation of a life once defined by fear into one anchored in faith, love, and second chances.
Moving, insightful, and unexpectedly romantic, Taming the Red Dragon is a testament to the power of embracing the unfamiliar and finding beauty exactly where you never thought to look.
Hestia Elridge
Book: Taming The Red Dragon
Taming the Red Dragon is an extraordinary memoir that captures the courage it takes to leap into the unknown and the rewards that come from doing so with an open heart. At 62, John Acree trades his life as an attorney and pastor for a teaching job in Beijing, tackling biology, a subject he once nearly failed. What follows is a deeply moving account of cultural exchange, personal reinvention, and the surprising turns life can take.
Acree’s storytelling is warm and genuine, filled with moments that made me smile, laugh, and pause to reflect. His classroom experiences whether directing a whimsical holiday play, starting a track team, or teaching American culture are told with humor, humility, and respect. Each encounter reveals his growing connection with his students and his willingness to learn as much as he teaches.
His travel writing is vivid and immersive, taking readers from the awe-inspiring heights of the Great Wall to the silent rows of the Terra Cotta Warriors, and from the bustling streets of Liaocheng to the peaceful coastlines of Weihai. Every place leaves an imprint on him, deepening both his appreciation for China and his understanding of himself.
When the pandemic strands him in Hong Kong, the narrative shifts into a tender love story. Amid political unrest and uncertainty, Acree meets Maggie a woman who renews his faith, strengthens his purpose, and helps him envision a new future. This chapter brings a heartfelt, hopeful close to his journey.
Taming the Red Dragon is more than a memoir it’s a testament to resilience, openness, and the life changing beauty of second chances. Inspiring, beautifully written, and unforgettable.
Judson Tolliver
Book: Taming The Red Dragon