Tag Archives: illustrated book

Are You a Bird Like Me? By Noel Foy and Nicholas Roberto (Illustrated by Colleen Sgroi) Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young bird discovers a whole world outside of her nest after she falls out of it and must work together with other new friends to find her parents and finally take flight in authors Noel Foy and Nicholas Roberto’s “Are you a Bird like Me?”, illustrated by Colleen Sgroi. 

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The Synopsis

Meet Sky, a newly hatched bird who believes her nest is the “whole entire world” — until she falls out of it!

Unable to fly, Sky sets out to find her parents. Along the way, she makes unexpected friendships and discovers a fascinating world beyond her nest. Will Sky and her new friends band together and combine their unique skills so she can return home and ultimately take flight?

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Adventure with Sky as she learns valuable lessons about courage, perseverance and the amazing things that can happen by working together. The teamwork shown by Sky and her friends inspires readers to believe in themselves and embrace the idea that differences aren’t dividers but ways to contribute to a common goal.

A book you’ll return to over and over.

Bookbaby.com helps independent authors bring their creative vision to the marketplace. Sell eBooks online in the biggest retail stores.

The Review

When I was a child, one of my fondest memories with my mother was when we watched the Land Before Time together. This animated film showcases a group of young dinosaurs separated from their parents who must journey together to find them and build a special bond between them. It showcased the power of coming together as a group no matter what our differences may be. The author did a fantastic job capturing that same theme and emotion in this book. The heartwarming story of this young bird and the adventure they go on to discover a way of getting home hit all of the heartstrings and made for a brilliant reading experience.

The story was made so special because of the unique balance between the author’s positive and inspiring writing with warmth and thoughtfulness in the illustrations. The theme of group dynamics, cooperation, and embracing our differences in a collective environment made this both an educational and engaging story for children and parents alike, while the illustrations brought out the childlike wonder and entertainment that children will be drawn to in this narrative.

The Verdict

Emotionally driven, insightful, and joyful in its approach, authors Noel Foy and Nicholas Roberto’s “Are You A Bird Like Me?” is a must-read children’s book and beautifully illustrated by Colleen Sgroi. The heartfelt delivery of this story and the inspiring themes the author explores will give future generations a story that celebrates the uniqueness and joy of making friends with people outside of your own unique circle. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Authors

A recipient of the gold Mom’s Choice Award® and silver Feathered Quill Award, Noel is an anxiety coach and educational consultant. She specializes in workshops and one-on-one coaching for kids and adults on anxiety/stress, executive function and growth mindset. One of Noel’s greatest satisfactions is to teach individuals how to rewire their brains, so they can stress less, work smarter and enjoy more out of life. It gives her tremendous joy to help others develop new skills and experience success in situations/areas they didn’t think possible.

Noel finds storytelling an approachable and playful way to tackle complex topics. Her characters demonstrate problem-solving, courage, teamwork, kindness, perseverance, diversity and the will to face fears.

When Noel isn’t writing, reading or working with clients, you will find her paddle boarding, kayaking or biking. She likes corny jokes and enjoys baking and cooking for family and friends.

www.ammpe.com

A first-time published author, Nicholas began writing children’s books shortly after the birth of his daughter. His stories allow young readers to explore important, complex and challenging topics in a fun, kid-friendly way. He also enjoys writing music, eating ice cream, and coming home to his family after a long day of fly fishing.

Colleen dreamed of being an artist since she was a young girl. Her work is available world-wide on puzzles, calendars, prints and greeting cards, and her art has been included in films by major motion picture companies. Her illustrations in children’s books have earned her a Moonbeam Best Illustrator Award and delight children everywhere. She teaches watercolor classes, inspiring others to find their own creativity. She loves to read, paint, walk in nature, and enjoys time with family and friends.

https://www.colleensgroi.com/

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Twins Mac & Madi Back to School by Linda Herron (Illustrated by Marie Delon) Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Children are introduced to the fun and excitement of new opportunities in life while also managing the anxiety that change can bring in author Linda Herron’s “Twins Mac & Maddie Back to School”, illustrated by Marie Delon.

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The Synopsis

Explore the joys of going back to school and inspire your child to embrace new experiences with the help of Twins Mac and Madi!

The first day of 3rd grade is here! But loveable Twins Mac and Madi are worried. For the first time, they’ll have to be separated. Can these two girls learn to enjoy their new adventures at school? And will being apart end up making their bond even stronger?

With a cute rhyming story that offers comfort and guidance to young children who are starting a new grade, Mac and Madi’s fun adventure offers an exciting perspective on the joys of going back to school, making new friends, and having tons of new experiences! This book is a must-read for parents who want to help their children understand and manage the strong emotions of worry and anxiety that they might be feeling at the thought of starting a new grade.

Bookbaby.com helps independent authors bring their creative vision to the marketplace. Sell eBooks online in the biggest retail stores.

Book details:

  • A Rhyming Story and Beautiful Illustrations Bring the World of Mac and Madi to Life!
  • Makes a Brilliant Read for Boys and Girls Ages 3-8
  • Helps Kids Work Through Feelings of Fear, Worry, and Anxiety related to Going Back to School
  • Perfect For Parents of Twins, Siblings, or If Your Child Is Anxious About Starting a New Grade
  • Makes an Imaginative Gift Idea for Twins or Siblings in Your Life!
  • And So Much More!

Shining with a positive message about embracing new experiences and overcoming anxiety, Mac and Madi Back to School is a delightful read that’s ideal for twins and non-twins alike. This book motivates children to step beyond their comfort zone, try new things, and go back to school with excitement!

Are you ready to learn all about starting a new grade with Mac and Madi? Then scroll up and grab your copy today to join in!

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The Review

This was a lighthearted and inspiring read.  The author did a wonderful job of crafting a narrative that would appeal to young readers and parents alike, delving into a child’s first foray into the world that brings both fright and excitement. The pacing of the story and the relatability of the characters will allow young readers to connect to the story and the lessons found within more, and give the reader a feeling of both amusement and inspiration.

The heart of this book lay in the inspiring message the book delivered and the bright illustrations that helped bring that message to life so perfectly. The author’s almost melodic and engaging story allowed the reader to feel pulled into this colorful world and experience the heights of joy that these children experienced by getting out into the world on their own while the sense of accomplishment and achievement left a feeling of inspiration for young readers to pursue themselves, and all of these felt alive on the page thanks to beautiful artwork that made the book feel both whimsical and relatable all at once.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and delightfully written, author Linda Herron’s “Twins Mac & Madi Back to School” is a must-read children’s book that parents and children alike won’t be able to get enough of. The heart and inspiring message the author conveys balances out the bright and cheery nature of the illustrated work done by Marie Delon, making this a captivating children’s book read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Linda is a children’s author, proud Rhode Islander, and identical twin who loves to craft heart-warming tales about the magic bond between siblings. With first-hand experience of the joys and struggles that being an identical twin entails, Linda was inspired to write a series of fun children’s stories to help kids embrace their differences and cherish their special relationship with their sister or brother.

As a seasoned financial expert by day, when Linda isn’t dreaming up new children’s stories to delight and entertain her readers, she’s writing business articles and blogs. Her financial expertise has been featured in major media outlets, including American Express, LendingTree, and Daily Business News. Currently, Linda enjoys the sunny weather in California and often returns to Rhode Island to spend time with her beloved family.

https://www.twinsmacandmadi.com/

Winter in the Forest (Seasons in the Forest Book Two) by Christine Copeland Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author Christine Copeland shares with young readers the beauty and wonder of a still winter day and what you can find during winter in the forest in the book “Winter in the Forest”, the second book in the Seasons in the Forest picture book children’s series. 

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The Synopsis

Winter in the Forest is the second in a series of picture books for pre-K, K and early elementary kids about the natural world, in particular the deciduous forest of the American Northeast. This book depicts the cold stillness of winter and adaptations that plants and animals make during this long dark time. The three primary themes are snow and cold, long dark nights, and dormancy.

The language of our books is lyrical, the images are entrancing and sometimes humorous but always realistic – think field guides for 3 to 8 year-olds. There is a tracking activity in back for young readers.

Children will learn the names and habits of forest animals and plants so that they can recognize them in natural settings. These books engage children’s innate curiosity and connection to the living world so that they can learn complex principals in simple, age- appropriate language.

We publish in hardcover, paperback, and audio ebook.

The Review

This was a heartwarming and beautiful picture book and story. The simplicity and imagery the author utilized in the book captured the stark coldness of winter as a season while also bringing the beauty and magic that the season often inspires. The watercolor style of artwork added a great effect to the book, as it felt more in tune with nature as well.

The balance the author struck between educating the young readers on the behavior of animals and the nature surrounding winter and the engaging style of writing and artwork that drew the reader into the narrative. While a short read, the author does an amazing job of showcasing the ways in which different animals and plants adapt to the cold stillness of winter, and how dormancy plays a role in nature during this time.

The Verdict

Beautiful, thoughtful, and engaging, author Christine Copeland’s “Winter in the Forest” is a great second book in the Seasons in the Forest series and a heartwarming children’s picture book. The way the author was able to capture a mood and tone through her imagery and story kept me invested in this book, and will really speak to younger readers looking to understand the seasons of the year. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Christine Copeland lives in the forest of Massachusetts with her husband Bill, a pediatrician, naturalist and teacher, and their dogs and cat. Her sons have fledged but return seasonally. Christine has a BFA from Cornell University and a Masters in Education from Antioch New England. She combines her love for painting with her love for young children and nature-based education. She is an author/illustrator and also paints in oil. Her work can be seen at christinecopelandbooks.com and bcc-studios.com/paintings.

https://www.christinecopelandbooks.com/

Toby, Toby, Worry Free by Lucinda Grapenthin Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young octopus must traverse the fears and worries of how his peers view him as his mother encourages him to learn to ride his bike in author Lucinda Grapenthin’s “Toby, Toby, Worry Free”.

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The Synopsis

When Toby is faced with learning to ride his bike so he can play with his friends, he begins to worry and worry and worry. 

“What if I fall?” “What if other kids laugh at me?” “What if I can’t ride my bike?!” 

Mommy pauses, attuning to his behavior. She accepts his emotions and calmly engages with him, encouraging his discovery of positive steps to solve this dilemma. 

Toby learns a better way to manage his feelings by using his can-do thoughts. Now, he can have fun! 

The Review

The balance of whimsical and wonder-like illustrations with the heartfelt and emotional storytelling and an underlying tone of confronting fears and stress in childhood made this book shine so brightly. The fast pace and steady rhythm of the narrative itself made for an easy read, perfect for children and the time they share with their parents when reading.

The character growth and theme of this narrative both fueled the heart of this children’s book. The heartfelt bond between Toby and his mother was emotional and did a great job of kindling the emotional depth of the reader with their child (or vice versa). The theme of confronting one’s fears, letting go of negative thoughts, and accepting that the fears exist while still pushing forward and acknowledging the ability to overcome those fears are all fantastic messages to impart to children as they grow up.

The Verdict

Captivating, heartfelt, and engaging, author Lucinda Grapenthin’s “Toby, Toby, Worry-Free” is a must-read children’s book. The wonderful imagery and thoughtful approach to the story’s theme made this a book any parent would be happy to read with their kid. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Lucinda Taylor Grapenthin, PhD, is a Licensed Psychologist in private practice and Assistant Professor at Brenau University, also serving as Clinic Director for the Brenau Center for Counseling and Psychological Services and Director of the Brenau University Play Therapy Training Institute. Dr. Grapenthin has over 20 years’ experience working with children and families as the founder of the Family and Child Development Center. She also presents at academic conferences and professional institutions on topics related to mental health disorders, such as trauma and attachment, as well as play therapy and parenting. 

Dr. Cindy lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, Richard, and golden retriever, Currier. Their adult children, Alex, Kristi, and Trevor, float in and out of their home, adding delightful chaos.

http://familypsychologynorthatlanta.com/

About the Illustrator

Kevin Gosselin is influenced by sci-fi and fantasy art, comic books, anime, the masters and too many contemporary artists to fully list. Amongst the most influential are Richard McDonald, Frazetta, Darrel K. Sweet, Thomas Eakins, Norman Rockwell, and J.W. Waterhouse.

Kevin lives in Lake Stevens, Washington with his wife Jennifer and their two daughters Alex and Emma, as well as dogs Ollie and Maple.

The Little Girl in the Moon: Moxie & Tycho Town by Diann Floyd Boehm and Katherine Louise Floyd Boehm Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young girl’s pet dog takes readers on a tour of the city center of the moon’s largest crater in author Diann Floyd Boehm and Katherine Louise Floyd Boehm’s “The Little Girl in the Moon: Moxie & Tycho Town”. 

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The Synopsis

The Little Girl in the Moon author, Diann Floyd Boehm, has teamed up with her daughter, Katherine Louise, in the third book in the series, The Little Girl in the Moon – Moxie & Tycho Town. Together, they have created the imaginary town nestled in Tycho Crater, which is located on the Earth’s moon. Katherine and Diann’s collaborative artistic talents have brought the town to life. The colorful illustrations are sure to spark young readers’ imaginations. Moxie, the little girl in the moon’s pet dog, takes us on a tour of Tycho Town’s City Center, which the Moonlings have built to resemble towns on Earth. Moonlings love the Earth as much as Earthlings love the moon! This story, the first of many adventures in Tycho Town, introduces children to the Moonling vocabulary. Diann and Katherine hope the readers’ curiosity will grow and they’ll want to learn more about the Earth’s moon and Tycho Crater. Watch for the next adventure of The Little Girl in the Moon, when the rest of Tycho Town will be unveiled! 

The Review

This was a brilliant and fun children’s read. The authors found a great balance between thought-provoking teaching moments in the narrative and fun and exciting illustrations to keep children invested in the story. 

What stuck out to me about this story was both the educational moments the author took in developing otherworldly storylines to help teach children about different aspects of our own world’s society and the playful and fun way the authors introduce sci-fi story elements and themes into the narrative for younger readers to get engaged with. As a sci-fi fan, it was fun to see a new approach to the children’s book narrative that included some other genres like this. 

The Verdict

Happy, creative, and entertaining, authors Diann Floyd Boehm and Katherine Louise Floyd Boehm’’s “The Little Girl in the Moon: Moxie & Tycho Town” is a must-read children’s book. The heart and warmth for which the authors wrote this story, as well as the great world-building the authors employed here in this narrative made for a great introduction to the sci-fi genre for young readers, as well as the perfect read for parents to enjoy with their kids. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Diann Floyd Boehm is an award-winning international author of children books and has published a young adult historical fiction. addition, Diann writes books to inspire readers to be kind, like themselves, and to “Embrace Imagination”. You can find all her books on Amazon.

Diann’s Story Garden YouTube Channel gives children the opportunity to hear different children authors read their stories.

Diann a co-host for several shows with Dr. Jacalyn’s USA Global TV.

Diann continues to be involved in various humanitarian projects with multiple organizations.

Diann was born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, but grew up in Texas with five brothers. She has traveled extensively to many parts of the world and has lived in the Philippines and Dubai.

Keep in touch with Diann by joining her newsletter: www.Diannfloydboehm.com

Learn more about Diann and her books at:

Diann Floyd Boehm

Amazon

Story Garden

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCDLN5DfdCVzOu9pIphQ2-4Q

Vlada, A Dracula Tale by Chris Denmead Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A horror tale as iconic as the genre itself takes the story fans to know and love and gives it a gender reversed turn as readers take in the story that is Vlada, A Dracula Tale by author Chris Denmead.

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The Synopsis

Gender Swapped the Cast of Dracula in a new and unique take on the characters with some new twists.

The Review

This was such a fantastic twist on the iconic horror story. The author found the perfect chord of harmonious storytelling between classic scenes from the original Stoker version of the narrative and updated details from the author himself. The artwork that accompanies this read is stunning, taking on that iconic and classic gothic horror feel that felt so close to the original novel’s era while maintaining a more updated setting.

The obvious yet still engaging change to this narrative was the gender-reversed roles of many of the characters. Turning Vlad Dracula into Vlada was such an important new direction to take the character, exploring the dark yet seductive nature of the character and yet giving readers a host of powerful female heroines and villains to face off against in this retelling, making the narrative feel more alive. Even the inclusion of some new characters really elevated the drama and familiar yet still entertaining narrative. 

The Verdict

A mesmerizing, haunting, and delightfully chilling read, author Chris Denmead’s “Vlada: A Dracula Tale” is a must-read horror story that will delight those unfamiliar with the tale and yet engage with longtime fans of the lore of this narrative. The balance of nostalgia and updated horror and action and a twist ending to the narrative will leave readers eager to read more from this incredible author, and one can only hope we get more updated twists on iconic horror tales in the future. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Christopher Denmead is a passionate horror fan who wants to bring more awareness to the beauty and rawness of female vampires and treat them like the queens they are.

https://www.facebook.com/Vladagraphicnovel/

Surviving Cougar Mountain (Kids vs Nature Book 4) by Karl Steam Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

The stakes have never been higher as the group of young kids who have survived three separate missions in the wild are faced with their most dangerous challenge yet in author Karl Steam’s novel “Surviving Cougar Mountain”. 

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The Synopsis

Another day, another wilderness mission. That’s life for these sixth graders. The first three missions weren’t easy, but mission number four is about to crank up the intensity and challenge them in ways they didn’t think possible.

Surviving Cougar Mountain is book 4 of the Kids vs. Nature series, continuing a story that has captivated fans of the wilderness survival genre.

The Review

The four young kids are put in even more dire situations this time around. The fourth novel in the Kids vs Nature series from author Karl Steam, the author does a great job of showcasing the dangers of survival and the importance of teamwork in the face of that danger. 

Witnessing the power of nature and the beauty yet dangerous aspect of the creatures who call the outdoors their home was felt in every chapter of this book. While a quick read, the author does a great job of drawing the reader into the narrative and creating characters that are relatable and worth caring about, making the lessons the kids learn along the way more impactful as well. 

The Verdict

A well written, powerful and overall great book, the author continues to establish this middle school level read is a great series that not only entertains but educates young people on the beauty and danger of the great outdoors, and the tools they’ll need to survive out there. With memorable characters and important life lessons, this is not a book to be missed. Be sure to grab your copy of “Surviving Cougar Mountain” by Karl Steam today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Karl Steam is a children’s author and illustrator. Some of his works include Purple Pup, How Santa Changed, and the Kids vs. Nature series. He resides in the Lakes Region of the Upper Midwest with his wife and four children. Karl enjoys fishing, camping, and traveling. Oh yeah, he likes writing too.

Learn more at KarlSteam.com


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All Eyes On Alexandra by Anna Levine (Illustrated by Chiara Pasqualotto) Review

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own. 

A young Crane finds adventure and must learn to work cohesively with her family in author Anna Levine’s All Eyes on Alexandra. Here is the synopsis.

The Synopsis

Alexandra Crane is terrible at following her family in their flying Vee. She can’t help it that the world is so full of interesting and distracting sights! When it’s time for the Cranes to migrate to Israel’s Hula Valley for the winter, Alexandra is excited but her family is worried. Will Alexandra stay with the group? And might Alexandra discover that a bad follower can make a great leader?

The Review

This was a fantastic children’s book and contained a truly memorable theme. The illustrations done by artist Chiara Pasqualotto were phenomenal, creating warm water color artwork that beautifully illustrated the emotions of the story. The author perfectly conveys both an entertaining story children will love and a simple yet essential message that too often gets lost in our chaotic world. 

Highlighting the ease in which Alexandra explores the world and interacts peacefully with various other birds outside of her own family, the story mirrors our own world, teaching children (and sometimes adults as well), that it is possible to live in harmony with one another. It doesn’t matter how loud or chaotic the world may seem, peace and harmony amongst people of all shapes, sizes and backgrounds is possible, if you only seek it out.

The Verdict

This is a fantastic read that children and parents alike will delight in reading together. A fast read at 32 pages, the story conveys an important and heartwarming message in a beautiful way, and is almost poetic in the story’s approach. This is a great book to start out our new year, so be sure to grab your copy of All Eyes on Alexandra by Anna Levine and Illustrated by Chiara Pasqualotto today!

Rating: 10/10

Book summary

 In All Eyes on Alexandra, young Alexandra Crane is terrible at following her family in their flying Vee. She can’t help it that the world is so full of interesting distracting sights! When it’s time for the Cranes to migrate to Israel’s Hula Valley for the winter, Alexandra is excited but her family is worried. Will Alexandra stay with the group, and what happens if a dangerous situation should arise? Might Alexandra—and the rest of the flock—discover that a bad follower can sometimes make a great leader?

Based on the true story of Israel’s annual crane migration.

Print Length: 32 Pages

Genre: Children’s Picture Book

Publisher: Kar-Ben Pub

ISBN-10: 1512444391

ISBN-13: 978-1512444391

All Eyes on Alexandra is available to purchase on AmazonBarnes and NobleTarget and Thrift Books.

Explore the Best Books of 2018 at BN.com

About the Author, Anna Levine

Anna Levine is an award-winning children’s book author. Like Alexandra Crane, the character in her latest picture book, she loves to explore new worlds. Born in Canada, Anna has lived in the US and Europe.  She now lives in Israel, where she writes and teaches.

You can find Anna Levine online at —

Author website: http://www.annalevine.org/

Twitter: @LevineAnna 

Instagram: @booksfromanna 

About the Illustrator, Chiara Pasqualotto,

Chiara Pasqualotto was born in Padua, in northern Italy, currently teaches illustration and drawing classes to children and adults, in particular in Padua during the summer at the Scuola Internazionale di Comics and in Rome. Since 2008 she’s been living in Rome and working with illustration professionally: her first picture book, Mine, All Mine! was published in 2009 by Boxer Books (UK), since then she published with Oxford University Press, Giunti, Terranuova and some American publishers (Paraclete Press, Tyndale, LearningAZ, Kar-Ben Publisher).

You can find Chiara Pasqualotto online at –

Artist website – https://romeartweek.com/en/artists/?id=1495&ida=1004

Blog: http://chiarapasqualotto.blogspot.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/clairepaspage/

– Blog Tour Dates

December 3rd @ The Muffin

What goes better in the morning than a muffin? Make sure you visit WOW’s blog today and read an interview with the author and enter for a chance to win a copy of the book All Eyes on Alexandra.

muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com

December 5th @ Cassandra’s Writing World

Visit Cassandra’s blog where she shares her thoughts about Anna Levine’s picture book All Eyes on Alexandra.

https://cassandra-mywritingworld.blogspot.com/

December 5th @ Break Even Books

Visit Erik’s blog where you can read Anna Levine’s guest post about how to jog your inspiration.

https://breakevenbooks.com/

December 7th @ Coffee with Lacey

Grab some coffee and visit Lacey’s blog where you can read her review of Anna Levine’s picture book All Eyes on Alexandra.

http://coffeewithlacey.wordpress.com

December 8th @ Author Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit Anthony Avina’s blog today where he joins in the fun of celebrating and shares information about Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

December 8th @ Christy’s Cozy Corners

Visit Christy’s blog and cozy up while you read her review of Anna Levine’s picture book All Eyes on Alexandra.

https://christyscozycorners.com/

December 9th @ Coffee with Lacey

Visit Lacey’s blog again where you can read Anna Levine’s guest post about designing your ideal writing spot.

http://coffeewithlacey.wordpress.com

December 9th @ Christy’s Cozy Corner

Visit Christy’s blog where you can read Anna Levine’s blog post about how she decided to use crane’s in her story.

https://christyscozycorners.com/


December 10th @ Thoughts in Progress

Visit Pamela’s blog where you can read Anna Levine’s guest post about how authors use anthropomorphic animals.

http://masoncanyon.blogspot.com/

December 11th @ Read. Write. Sparkle. Coffee.

Make sure you visit Jeanie’s blog today and read her thoughts about Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

http://www.readwritesparklecoffee.com/


December 12th @ Author Anthony Avina Blog

Visit Anthony Avina’s blog where he interviews Anna Levine, author of All Eyes on Alexandra.

http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

December 13th @ Read. Write. Sparkle. Coffee.

Make sure you visit Jeanie’s blog today and read Anna Levine’s guest post about building a theme day around a picture book.

http://www.readwritesparklecoffee.com/

December 13th @ Oh for the Hook of a Book

Visit Erin’s blog where she shares her thoughts on Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

www.hookofabook.wordpress.com

December 15th @ A Storybook World

Visit Deirdra’s blog where she features Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra in a spotlight post.

http://www.astorybookworld.com/

December 17th @ World of My Imagination

Stop by Nicole’s blog today where you can read her review of Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

http://theworldofmyimagination.blogspot.com

December 19th @ Cassandra’s Writing World

Visit Cassandra’s blog again where you can read Anna Levine’s blog post about naming your characters.

https://cassandra-mywritingworld.blogspot.com

December 19th @ Linda’s Blog

Make sure you visit Linda’s blog today where you can read her thoughts about Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

https://www.lindaleekane.com/blog

December 20th @ Word Magic: All About Books 

Visit Fiona’s blog where you can read her review of Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

http://fionaingramauthor.blogspot.com/

December 21st @ Bring on Lemons

Make sure you grab some lemonade and stop by Crystal’s blog today where she reviews Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

http://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

December 27th @ Linda’s Blog

Visit Linda’s blog again where you can read her interview with author Anna Levine.

https://www.lindaleekane.com/blog


December 28th @ Beverley A. Baird’s Blog

Visit Beverley’s blog today you can read her review of Anna Levine’s book All Eyes on Alexandra.

https://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com/


December 31st @ Strength 4 Spouses

Visit Wendi’s blog and read Anna Levine’s guest post on learning about families and different cultures.


January 2nd @ Author Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit author Anthony Avina’s blog where he shares his thoughts about Anna Levine’s picture book All Eyes on Alexandra. 

http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

January 3rd @ Beverley A. Baird’s Blog

Visit Beverley’s blog again where you can read Anna Levine’s blog post about getting into the head of your middle-grade characters.

https://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com/

January 4th @ Author Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit author Anthony Avina’s blog again where you can read Anna Levine’s blog post about using fiction to write non-fiction.

http://www.authoranthonyavinablog.com

January 7th @ Strength 4 Spouses Blog

Visit Wendi’s blog again where you can read her thoughts about the book All Eyes on Alexandra by Anna Levine.

Interview with Illustrator Courtney Huddleston

1) Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing/illustration?

My name is Courtney Huddleston, and I illustrate children’s books for a living. Like so many others, I’ve had a fascination for good art and writing, since childhood. I was never the best at either, but countless hours of practice mixed with persistence, eventually lead to me becoming a professional. 

2) What inspired you to work on these books?

Whether it’s a kid in class daydreaming or a professional writer, everyone has ideas. I’m no different than either, and Audrey’s Magic Nine happened to be my latest idea. I started with the idea of bringing hand puppets to life. From there, I listed as many stories as I could in today’s pop culture with a similar vibe. Jim Henson’s creations, Bill Watterson’s Calvin and Hobbes, and Pinocchio are just a few that I listed. I tried to steer my story as far away from those iconic stories as much as I could, in hopes of putting a different spin on an old idea. And, that’s how Audrey’s Magic Nine came to be. 

3) What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your books?

I didn’t initially try to establish a message or theme when I came up with this story. I was focused mainly on making it as unique and entertaining as possible. That said, the protagonist is a genuinely kind and selfless person from start to finish, despite having many  physical, mental, and emotional obstacles in front of her. 

4) What drew you into this particular genre?

As an elementary school teacher, my wife has no shortage of stories to tell. One of the more recurring stories is how much graphic novels motivate her students to read. Combine that with the fact that I’m a life long comic book lover, and the rest is history. 

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5) If you could sit down with any character in your books, what would you ask them and why?

I would sit down with Asa from Audrey’s Magic Nine, because he’s just one of the coolest characters I’ve had the honor of creating. But I wouldn’t ask him anything, because as his creator, I know the answer to any question I ask him. I’ve never been asked this question, but it made me feel very powerful for a moment. Ha. 

6) What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

Audrey’s Magic Nine was a webcomic before it went to print. The webcomic had a more followers than any of the social media outlets. 

7) What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors/illustrators out there?

As cliche as my cliched answer may sound, the answer is to be persistent. The internet has leveled the playing field, making it easier to showcase your work, connect with publishers and agents,research industry trends, and much much more. All you have to do is always try to improve and never give up. 

8) What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

I recently wrapped up Book 3 of Audrey’s Magic Nine, and it will soon go through the editing stages. I am also doing freelance work for another kids book series, while developing a new story that I plan to share in 2019. 

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