A FEW OF OUR REVIEWERS
ANDREW BESSINGER ~ Andrew is a passionate book reviewer with a keen interest in business literature, self-help guides, and research-driven insights. With a background in both management and psychology, he thrives on the intersection of practical knowledge and personal development. When he’s not immersed in a book, he enjoys attending industry seminars and workshops, constantly seeking to broaden his understanding of the ever-evolving world around him. Through his reviews, John aims to inspire others on their journeys of learning and growth.
PENELOPE SAMSON-DILLARD ~ Penelope is a skilled pianist with an education from Julliard. Her extensive experience includes numerous years dedicated to teaching piano pedagogy. Upon early retirement, she moved to England to study literature at the University of Sussex. Penelope is an avid reader of all genres and loves to share her favorite books with over a dozen reading groups.
JULES WHITCOMB ~ Jules is a freelance writer with a background in English literature. She is currently working on her application for admission to Sarah Lawrence’s nationally recognized MFA writing program in New York City. When not reading or writing, she enjoys traveling around the country with her dog, Rufus.
JESSICA SMARTT GULLION, PhD ~ Jessica is the Associate Dean of Research for the College of Arts and Sciences and Associate Professor of Sociology at Texas Woman’s University. She has authored over 20 peer-reviewed articles and has taught courses on qualitative research methods. Her arts-based research book, October Birds: A Novel About Pandemic Influenza, Infection Control, and First Responders, was nominated for the International Congress of Qualitative Inquiry 2015 Qualitative Book Award. She lives near Denton, Texas, with her husband, two children, a fat cat, and two tiny dogs.
TOM TRACY ~ Tom is the award-winning author of books in the Scoochie & Skiddles Inclusive Kids Books Collection. He has been featured on CBS-Philly, in South Jersey Magazine, and Gay Parent Magazine and is a frequent guest on national podcasts. Tom draws inspiration from his experience as an adoptive parent, a former foster parent, and from the countless families and children with whom he has had the privilege to serve as a licensed clinical social worker. Tom, his husband, and their two daughters live in the NJ suburbs of Philadelphia.
JEAN MADER ~ With a law degree from the University of Akron, Jean Mader (pen name Jena C. Henry) brings a sharp, thoughtful perspective to everything she does. Her fiction series, “The Golden Age of Charli,” highlights life’s joys and the power of laughter. She also co-hosts the “OK Boomer” podcast, sharing lively conversations on life and beyond. A dedicated book lover, she’s always exploring new genres, sharing reviews, and connecting with others through her love of stories—whether online or over coffee.
THE MYSTERY REVIEW CREW ~ The Mystery Review Crew team, comprised of passionate book enthusiasts, avid readers, and skilled reviewers, is committed to providing insightful, unbiased, and engaging reviews of mystery novels. They provide readers with comprehensive insights into each book’s merits and literary elements. Their vision is to bring a smile along with a good book (or two), whether it is one from years gone by or a recent release.
POPPY SCOLNIK ~ After enjoying nearly forty years of experience working in libraries, Poppy has now embarked on a journey around the globe to visit remote and off-the-beaten-path locations. During these travels, he conducts interviews with individuals who captivate him, gathering material for an upcoming collection of stories. When he’s not carefully making his way through thickets and undergrowth, observing insects, animals, and people, he settles down wherever he can find a comfortable spot and immerses himself in a good book.
JAMES A. DAVISON ~ James draws inspiration from his diverse background, including his experience as a journalist, a Public Information Officer in the federal government, and his years in federal and county law enforcement. He is the author of “Trinity, 3.11, World War 3.11-The Fukushima Gambit,” “I Am Lazarus, I Am Sarah,” and “Bottom Feeder.” The next “Bottom Feeder – The Hunt Continues” will be released soon. Originally from Louisiana, James is a skilled cook, talented musician, enthusiastic fly fisherman, and competitive powerlifter. He and his wife live and work together in Virginia.