Best Selling Books by Joan Clark

Fifth-grader Tyler has been chosen to present a going away present to Jackson, but Tyler is worried about being associated with Jackson. The other students think Jackson is strange--but he just has Asperger''s syndrome.

Diabetic-friendly recipes the whole family will love! From appetizers to desserts and everything in between, here are three-hundred easy-to-prepare recipes for diabetics that can be made from everyday household ingredients; and the entire family can enjoy. Food categories include Mexican, Italian, Pan-Asian, fish, poultry, lean-beef and pork entrees; appetizers, snacks, side dishes, breads and desserts; and fruits, vegetables, soups, salads, pastats, and breads. First diabetic cookbook to use the new glycemic index for all recipes; three-hundred recipes, far more than others on the market; 6.5% of the U.S. population has diabetes; the World Health Organization is predicting the number of people with diabetes to double from 140 million to 300 million by 2025.

A moving novel about one girl''s search for friendship, love and security and for a place called home.

Like beauty, madness altered perception, but instead of offering illusion, it offered delusion. Moranna leaned the tricks madness played on perception the hard way as experience showed her how persuasively madness distorted reality. Experience also showed her that if she hung on long enough, the panic would subside and the delusions would pass. There were many dawns on the ferry when the sight of the ugly smoke stacks reassured her. They were proof that once again she had won the showdown with the voice and had delivered herself to the dawn, wholly alive. (p. 286) Joan Clark’s An Audience of Chairs opens with Moranna MacKenzie living alone in her ancestral Cape Breton farmhouse, waging a war with the symptoms of bipolar disorder and grieving the loss of her two daughters, taken from her over thirty years previously. There are few people remaining in her life, as Moranna cannot help but tax the patience of nearly everyone she encounters. Her long-suffering brother Murdoch has her best interests at heart, though he is fatigued by her enormous needs and pressured by his ambitious wife to invest less time in her. Pastor Andy politely sloughs off the peculiarly intelligent yet unpalatable sermons Moranna pens for him. Her neighbour Lottie knows what it is to be an eccentric and can be counted on to come through in a pinch. The local RCMP constabulary smooths over her legal scrapes. And her lover Bun, who lives with her when not working on the ferries between Cape Breton and Newfoundland, knows how to give her a wide berth on her “foul weather” days. Thanks to the assistance of these sometimes reluctant guardian angels, as well as to the carefully planned inheritance left by her father (not to mention her own sheer ingenuity), Moranna has managed to get by all these years despite small-town gossips and tormenting youths. Through a series of flashbacks, we learn more about the devastating effects of Moranna’s mental illness on her life and that of her family. But An Audience of Chairs also gives us a glimpse into the mind of a true iconoclast and wild spirit, who has managed despite overwhelming odds to keep hope alive. In her early years, Moranna’s accomplishments and beauty, along with the protection of a father who saw glimmers of his suicidal wife in his beloved daughter, allow her to struggle through childhood and adolescence in Sydney Mines relatively unscathed. She is a gifted pianist, a magazine covergirl, and a promising actress when she makes a brilliant marriage to an up-and-coming young journalist, Duncan. But she soon finds herself unmoored by motherhood, and the oddities that the people in her life have always chosen to overlook become more difficult to disguise with drama and wit when maternal expectations are placed upon her. Her staged life comes crashing down around her ears when she is left alone with her daughters and in a manic artistic phase risks their lives terribly. Her family can no longer explain away her eccentricities, her husband forsakes her, and she is institutionalized, her children taken from her forever. No longer playing the roles of perfect daughter, wife and mother, the devastated Moranna falteringly gropes for purpose in her life. She returns to the inherited Baddeck farmhouse and, inspired by a vision she has of her great-aunt Hettie, whose stories of their Scottish ancestors once filled the youthful Moranna’s imagination with stories of valour, earns a small income as a woodcarver. She carves for tourist sales the courageous and larger-than-life people of her clan, to whose histories she clings in order to reinforce her belief in her pedigree as a lionheart, so much more comforting than the spectre of madness lurking in her maternal lineage. She enthralls the audiences in her mind – in reality an audience of chairs – with daily virtuoso performances on the piano board, a silent keyboard upon which she does battle with her demons through the music of Chopin and Rachmaninov. Through these and other ingenious – and often hilarious – strategies, Moranna has over the years constructed a life of delicate balance, all of which is jeopardized one day by a glimpse of television. Visiting town with Bun, she is astonished to see her now-grown daughter Bonnie being interviewed for a local station about a climatalogical lecture she is to give, to be soon followed by her wedding in Halifax. Moranna knows she must make what will certainly be a surprise appearance at the wedding. But this means a high-stakes gamble with everything she has–her pride, her precarious mental health, her hope for a measure of grace in the world. Of An Audience of Chairs, Quill and Quire said: “Elegantly written and deeply grounded in place, this moving, compassionate novel is far more than a story of mental illness. Moranna’s quest is for peace, joy, and connection–the same yearnings that drive us all.”

The mystery of Oak Island has fascinated people since the early 1800s.

Jackson Thomas, a fifth-grade boy with Asperger Syndrome is assigned to complete a science project with spunky Hillary Branson, a fiercely independent student with a tendency to tell lies. It therefore comes as no surprise that when assigned to work with Jackson, Hillary rebels in any way she can. As the story unfolds, the reader begins to see Hillary''s troubled background and delight in how she and Jackson discover they have a lot more in common than they ever realized.

Snow falls all day, all week, all month! Sammy''s world is covered in snow. As he clambers up the mountains of snow, he imagines what might lie beneath -- a black bear and her cubs, whales and seals, even elves mining rubies and emeralds! Finally, the weather turns warm and the snow begins to melt . . . This simple but deliriously evocative book is a paean to that magical stuff that fills the winters of those who live in northern climates.

In ''Penny Nichols Finds a Clue'' by Joan Clark, readers are immersed in a captivating mystery novel set in a small town. The book''s literary style is characterized by vivid descriptions of the town''s surroundings and an intricate plot filled with twists and turns. Clark''s attention to detail and carefully crafted dialogue adds depth to the characters, making them seem more real and relatable. The novel''s setting in a tight-knit community enhances the sense of suspense and intrigue, drawing readers further into Penny Nichols'' quest to solve the mystery. The book can be seen as a modern take on classic mystery novels, blending elements of suspense and drama with a unique storytelling style. This blend of traditional mystery elements and contemporary flair makes ''Penny Nichols Finds a Clue'' a compelling and engaging read for all mystery enthusiasts. Joan Clark''s background as a seasoned writer and her ability to create rich, well-developed characters shines through in this gripping novel, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

Set in the 19th century and inspired by Edith Whartons women who were not passive victims of their lives, Fredericks Heir is the story of two girls who defy the conventions of convent school and parties, the social system of Paris. Fredrica Navarreau, known as Rica, tries to live up to her grandfathers expectations. Preparing to inherit his shipping company she tries to learn about the ships and cargo ledgers, activities far outside the constrictions of her French familys position. Unable to understand her desire to use her mind her grandfather diverts her attention with the celebration of the opening of the Suez Canal and a trip to the Far East. Celine Rabut, inchanted by the theatre and theatre people, begins studying acting in Paris. She lives in the Navarreau home while Rica is away and tries to help the family during the Prussian War. On her return Rica is dispatched to London to marry the son of family friends. The young women fee to New York where Celines career slowly grows as her parts become more important. Rica, fearing she has alienated her family, returns to Paris to find her grandfather has died and someone has snatched her inheritance.

Provides recipes for every meal and occasion, based on the glycemic index, so you can eat to your heart''s content while keeping your insulin levels in balance and your weight in check.--

In Joan Clark''s novel ''Connie Carl at Rainbow Ranch,'' readers are transported to the rugged terrain of Rainbow Ranch, where Connie Carl navigates the challenges of running a homestead alone. The book''s unique blend of adventure and introspection, as well as its vivid portrayal of the Canadian wilderness, make it a compelling read. Clark''s precise prose and attention to detail create a rich literary tapestry that captures the essence of both the landscape and the protagonist''s inner world. Set against the backdrop of early 20th-century Alberta, ''Connie Carl at Rainbow Ranch'' offers a glimpse into a bygone era and the struggles of a determined young woman. Joan Clark''s own experiences growing up in rural Canada likely influenced her portrayal of Connie''s story, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative. Readers interested in historical fiction, strong female characters, and a beautifully crafted setting will find ''Connie Carl at Rainbow Ranch'' a captivating and rewarding read.

Joan Clark''s ''Penny Nichols and the Mystery of the Lost Key'' is a captivating blend of mystery and adventure, following the young protagonist Penny as she unravels the secrets behind a lost key. Clark''s writing style is engaging and accessible, making this novel a perfect introduction to the mystery genre for young readers. The book is set in a charming small town that adds to the cozy atmosphere of the story, which is reminiscent of classic children''s mystery novels. With its intriguing plot and well-developed characters, ''Penny Nichols and the Mystery of the Lost Key'' is sure to keep readers enthralled from beginning to end.Joan Clark, a prolific Canadian author with a talent for writing novels that resonate with readers of all ages, brings her expertise to ''Penny Nichols and the Mystery of the Lost Key''. With a background in education and a passion for inspiring young minds, Clark''s writing is both entertaining and educational, making her books a favorite among parents and teachers alike. Her dedication to crafting engaging stories shines through in this charming mystery novel.Readers looking for a delightful mystery novel that will keep them guessing until the very end will find ''Penny Nichols and the Mystery of the Lost Key'' to be a delightful read. Joan Clark''s skillful storytelling and compelling characters make this book a must-read for fans of the genre, both young and old.

In ''Penny Nichols and the Black Imp'' by Joan Clark, readers are taken on a thrilling adventure through a mysterious and dark world. The book follows the young protagonist, Penny Nichols, as she embarks on a journey to uncover the secrets of the Black Imp, a mythical creature that haunts her dreams. Clark''s writing style is immersive and engaging, drawing readers into a world of suspense and intrigue. The book is set in a gothic literary context, reminiscent of classic tales of mystery and the supernatural, making it a captivating read for fans of the genre. Joan Clark, known for her compelling storytelling and intricate character development, brings her expertise to ''Penny Nichols and the Black Imp''. With a background in literature and a passion for exploring the unknown, Clark''s unique perspective shines through in the vivid imagery and rich narrative of the book. Her attention to detail and mastery of suspense keep readers on the edge of their seats until the very end. I highly recommend ''Penny Nichols and the Black Imp'' to readers who enjoy atmospheric mysteries and captivating storytelling. Joan Clark''s talent for crafting immersive worlds and intriguing plots makes this book a must-read for anyone looking for a thrilling literary experience.

Set against the vividly described Prairies in the heart of a cloistered religious sect, this is a gripping novel from a beloved Canadian author. Fifteen-year-old Jim Hobbs, alienated from life in Toronto, hitchhikes to the Prairies on a whim, where he finds shelter in an abandoned farmhouse. There, he encounters his neighbours, members of Majestic Farm, a group that abides by an old-fashioned, ultra-conservative set of rules enforced by their ruthless pastor. When Miriam, one of the pastor’s daughters, secretly befriends Jim, they must hide their blossoming love for one another — or face terrifying consequences. In helping Miriam to escape her religious imprisonment on the farm, Jim must risk everything.

Joan Clark''s novel, ''Penny Nichols and the Knob Hill Mystery,'' is a captivating detective story that follows the young and sharp-witted Penny as she unravels a complex mystery in the small town of Knob Hill. The book is written in a classic noir style, with vivid descriptions and clever dialogues that keep readers engaged from start to finish. Set in the mid-20th century, the novel offers a glimpse into the social dynamics and values of the time, adding depth to the narrative. Clark''s mastery of suspense and storytelling shines through in this thrilling tale of intrigue and deception. Joan Clark, known for her skillful storytelling and keen attention to detail, draws upon her own experiences growing up in a small town to create a rich and authentic setting for ''Penny Nichols and the Knob Hill Mystery.'' Her background as a prolific author of mystery novels is evident in the expertly crafted plot and well-developed characters that populate the book. Clark''s passion for the genre translates into a compelling narrative that keeps readers eagerly turning the pages. I highly recommend ''Penny Nichols and the Knob Hill Mystery'' to mystery enthusiasts and fans of classic detective fiction. Joan Clark''s exceptional storytelling and intricate plot twists make this novel a must-read for anyone looking for a riveting and immersive reading experience.

Since early times in Ireland and nearby Celtic lands, the Irish harp and its music have captivated musicians and audiences alike. Numerous historical aspects, such as the function of the harper at Tara, the seat of ancient Irish kings, is explored in this comprehensive history of the harp of Ireland. Through the ages, the harp has been a symbol of the lyrical nature of Ireland and the Irish people. This book explores the reawakening of this beautiful instrument in Ireland and around the world in the mid-twentieth century and beyond, touching on the quite recent development of the popular Folk and Celtic harps of today.

From the bestselling author of Latitudes of Melt and An Audience of Chairs: The Birthday Lunch is the story of one pivotal week in the life of a family facing a tragic loss, rich with dramatic tension and beautifully rendered. Free-spirited Lily has always played the peacemaker between her fierce, doting sister, Laverne, and her own loving, garrulous husband, Hal, as they competed for her attention. The competition has only grown worse since the three of them moved into a large house in the town of Sussex, New Brunswick. On Lily’s 58th birthday, a steamy day in late June, Laverne feels she has bested Hal by winning her sister’s company for a gourmet lunch, but it becomes a bitter and short-lived victory when the day’s events take an unexpected and tragic turn. In The Birthday Lunch, Joan Clark explores the different ways each member of Lily''s family confronts her shocking death: Hal''s open sorrow, her daughter Claudia''s reappraisal of her own life, her son Matt''s determination to assign blame. And unforgettably, Laverne''s eccentricity and isolation, her intensifying conflict with Hal, illuminates the brutal territory of accusation and regret. Compassionate and engrossing with a powerful sense of place, The Birthday Lunch is an extraordinary new novel from one of our most gifted storytellers.

This bountiful, magical novel opens with the discovery by two fishermen of a baby floating in a cradle on an ice pan in the North Atlantic off the coast of Newfoundland in 1912. To the small fishing community into which the foundling is adopted, Aurora, as they name her – with her shock of white hair, one blue eye and one brown – is clearly enchanted. But it is not until Aurora is herself an old woman that she learns the heart-wrenching story behind her miraculous survival on the ice.

The writings in this book have been compiled over several years, with the help of my partner, the Holy Spirit. Most of them I had no choice to write. I have called the writings "Burps", as that is what it seems like, when they begin. They come out suddenly, and I feel that I have no choice but to write them down, on anything that is handy. I was obedient in writing, and when I am obedient, I honor my God, who is only trying to work with me. Many times I have been awakened during the night, and must write. That is a Gift, and I Thank God for it! The past several years, beginning about the time I turned 50, I am becoming aware that, although I am not perfect, but far from it, God Loves me anyway, and is trying to use me. It has taken several people around me to make me realize this. I attended a "Life in The Spirit" Seminar at the perfect time in my life. Funny how things happen at the perfect time in our lives! It''s not an accident! I thank my family for everything, for they are my roots. My Grampy was an inspiration in his wisdom from my earliest years. My parents were each so different, so special and I can see both Kay and Louie in myself and in my sisters. When I married my husband and we moved around, it was difficult for me to get used to not being in the same place. Yet, the moving was such a gift with all the experiences that came with each move. I thank you, dear, for helping me to see the World! My friends, Eileen from childhood, and others that came into each place in my life have each been put where they were for reasons. I feel that I have known each person at the time in life that I was supposed to learn something from them! My friends in DC, especially, have taught me so much about faith, especially Faith in God! I always knew that God was there, but I didn''t realize that He was Here for Me! Sometimes I can be so dense I feel like I need a pretty big hammer to make me think of things! Thanks, Veronica, for being my Big Hammer! Thanks Patricia, for also being a gentle loving reminder that is also the Hammer of God, prodding me when I am trying to procrastinate. Thanks Pat and Kristy, for being there for all my special moments of discovery of the wonders and Love of God! So, after much thought, hesitation, and unbelief in myself, I launch this creation out to You, Lord! Thank You so much for being so special in my life! Love, Joanmarieclark Cannon

The rapid emergence of Type 2 diabetes has become one of the most urgent health issues facing not only Americans, but people around the globe. For those suffering from diabetes, managing the disease is a delicate and often confusing balancing act that is highly unpredictable and can be, at times, life-threatening. Effective diabetes management requires not only daily effort, but knowledge in order to control side effects. However, armed with that essential knowledge, diabetes sufferers can lead normal and healthy lives, with minimal issues. The Complete Idiot''s Guide® to Managing Diabetes Fast-Track gives you critical yet practical insight to help manage the disease and minimize the risks. You will learn how to manage daily diet choices, as well long-term dietary habits so the illness doesn''t progress. You will also learn the simple lifestyle changes that can make a huge difference and take your health from suffering to thriving. Helpful advice for managing medications and keeping diabetes in check when diet and exercise aren''t enough is included so you are armed with the tools and practical guidance they need to lead a normal, healthy life.

Stephen visits his cousin Louie in the Rockies and meets Angus, a mysterious Indian mask carver.

Set in a Swampy Cree community on the western shore of Hudson Bay, The Victory of Geraldine Gull is about the struggle for survival. In prose as clear as a northern lake, Joan Clark weaves together biblical symbolism of the flood and salvation with native myth and legend, while offering a message of hope and the dignity of self-determination. - 20170612

While on an expedition with his father to get lumber to take back to Greenland, Thrand is captured by the native Osweet, who have taken him to replace one of their own who was killed by a Greenlander.

Young Robin Squires becomes involved in piracy and intrigue because he knows how to work a water pump his late father designed.

De kleindochter van een vrouw die als baby op een ijsschots voor de kust van Newfoundland werd gevonden, ontdekt dat haar grootmoeder een overlevende is van de ramp met de Titanic.