Tag Archives: illustrated children’s books

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.

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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/

The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes by Raven Howell Review

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

Author Raven Howell invites young readers and parents alike to delight in the magic and wonder that is poetry in the book “The 20 Little Poems For 20 Little Gnomes”.

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The Synopsis

Discover the magic in simple moments when a child peers in the mirror to unintentionally come upon his smile, where kittens nap in boots, fairy hugs feel good, mice delight in reading books, and January snowflakes taste yummy.

Twenty whimsical poems warm the heart and inspire cheer; a collection enticing both the young and seasoned reader to explore the enchantment of the wonderful world of poetry.

The Review

This was a light-hearted and delightful read. The author did an incredible job of finding just the right balance between fun, educational, and emotional writing that will resonate with young readers just learning poetry’s magical wonder. The short length of each poem and the almost airy quality of the poems themselves helped to create that atmosphere that allows a book to be read over and over again.

The warmth of the illustrations really lent itself to the heart of these poems. The author was able to showcase both fun and thoughtful poems on everything from food to a child’s reflection, to more complex things like the emotions of sadness and joy and how we can cope. The heart and compassion for which the author wrote these poems were felt on every page.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, memorable, and engaging, author Raven Howell’s “The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes” is a must-read children’s book that meets the book of poetry. The lighthearted and whimsical nature of the poems and the warmth of the imagery blend together to create a reading experience parents and children alike will delight in sharing together. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Raven Howell writes stories and poetry for children. Having published several award-winning picture books, she enjoys sharing her love of literature by visiting classrooms and libraries. Raven is Creative & Publishing Advisor for Red Clover Reader, served as Poetry Director for Monster Magnificent, and writes The Book Bug column for Story Monsters Ink magazine. Her poems are found in children’s magazines such as Ladybug, Spider, Highlights for Children, Humpty Dumpty, and Hello Magazine. She’s an editor, and collaborating author for Reading is Fundamental SoCal.

When not writing, Raven enjoys sunshine and the beach, spending time with her family, hiking, laughing, reading, goofing around with artwork, and inventing new recipes.

You can find her on: 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/atpearthkeeper

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/atpearthkeeper/

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

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/pickward/_saved/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raven-howell-5a813015b/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ravenhowell22

Purchase a copy of The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble, or Bookshop.org. You can also add this to your GoodReads reading list.

Blog Tour Calendar

— Blog Tour Calendar

December 26th @ The Muffin

Join us at our WOW! blog today, The Muffin, for the blog tour launch of The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes by Raven Howell. You can read an interview with the author and have a chance to win a copy of the book for yourself.

https://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com/

December 28th @ Strength 4 Spouses

Join Wendi as she reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes by Raven Howell.

December 28th @ Reading Girl Reviews

Gina reviews Raven Howell’s book The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes

https://www.instagram.com/readinggirlreviews/

December 29th @ The Faerie Review

Visit Lisa as she reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes by Raven Howell.

https://www.thefaeriereview.com

December 30th @ Anthony Avina’s Blog

Join Anthony as he features a guest post by author Raven Howell featuring a beginner’s guide to writing poetry.

https://authoranthonyavinablog.com/category/blog-tours/

January 1st @ Page Peeks

Visit Jeanne’s book review column as she reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

January 2nd @ Mother Daughter Book Club

Join Cindy as she reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

January 4th @ AJ Kormon’s Blog

Join AJ as she reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

https://www.ajkormon.com/blog

January 6th @ Knotty Needle

Visit Judy as she shares her insights into Raven Howell’s book The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

http://knottyneedle.blogspot.com/

January 8th @ Shoe’s Seeds & Stories

Join Linda as she features a guest post by author Ravne Howell about why we love gnomes so much.

https://lschuelerca.wordpress.com/

January 10th @ Mother Daughter Book Club

Visit Cindy’s blog again for a guest post by Raven Howell about arts and crafts, making fun gnomes for all ages.

January 12th @ Anthony Avina’s Blog

Visit Anthony’s blog as he reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes by Raven Howell. 

https://authoranthonyavinablog.com/category/blog-tours/

January 12th @ The Mommies Reviews

Visit Glenda’s blog today to read her review of The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes by Raven Howell. You’ll also have a chance to win a book copy too!

https://themommiesreviews.com/

January 16th @ Word Magic

Visit Fiona’s blog as she shares author Raven Howell’s insights about the impact on children through author visits to schools or libraries.

http://fionaingramauthor.blogspot.com/

January 15th @ Shoe’s Seeds & Stories

Linda treats us to her review of The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes by Raven Howell.

https://lschuelerca.wordpress.com/

January 17th @ Lisa Haselton’s Reviews and Interviews

Lisa interviews Raven Howell about her book The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

https://lisahaselton.com/blog/

January 18th @ Bev A Baird’s Blog

Join Bev as she features a guest post by author Raven Howell about her lifelong journey as a poet and how she made it happen. 

https://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com/

January 20th @ Bev A Baird’s Blog

Come by Bev’s blog again as she reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes. A must-read children’s book you’ll love!

https://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com/

January 20th @ Editor 911

Margo treats us to her review of The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

https://editor-911.com/

January 22nd @ World of My Imagination

Nicole shares her thoughts about The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

https://worldofmyimagination.com/

January 23rd @ A Storybook World

Visit Deirdra’s blog and read a guest post by Raven Howell about gnome fashion and how the fairy realm influences fashion today.

http://www.astorybookworld.com/

January 25th @ Carole Writes

Visit Carole’s blog for her review of The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes.

https://carolemertz.com/

January 27th @ Editor 911

Come by Margo’s blog again and read Raven Howell’s guest post featuring yummy treats with a gnome theme.

https://editor-911.com/

January 28th @ Lisa’s Reading

Join Lisa as she reviews The 20 Little Poems for 20 Little Gnomes. You also have the chance to win a copy of the book too!

https://lisasreading.com/

January 29th @ Jill Sheets’ Blog

Visit Jill’s blog as she interviews author Raven Howell about her writing journey and her experience as an author.

http://jillsheets.blogspot.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/

Long Lost Elvis (Boomer’s Tales 4) by Christine Isley-Farmer 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 discovers a new mystery to solve after rescuing a farmer’s donkey and discovering his wife’s favorite painting is missing in the fourth book in the beloved Boomer’s Tales series, “Long Lost Elvis” by Christine Isley-Farmer.

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The Synopsis 

A donkey runs out in front of Nana Weathers’s car when she, Chloe, and Boomer are returning from Camp Resound. Mr. Brown, a farmer, drives upon the scene. To thank them for keeping his donkey, Elvis, safe, Mr. Brown invites everyone to his farm. There, they discover that his wife’s favorite painting is missing, and so begins a new mystery for Chloe and friends to solve. Will their efforts be successful, and what surprises will they learn about Elvis, the runaway donkey?

The Review

This was such a thoughtful and engaging story for young readers. Longtime fans of the Boomer’s Tales series will love the continuation of this story, as readers are treated to a heartwarming tale of a young girl and her animal friends not only investigating this new mystery but getting to know this unusual and fun new animal friend as well. The imagery and subtle emotional tone of the narrative really played well with the narrative, as the reader delved further and further into Elvis’s backstory and the mystery of Mr. Brown’s painting. 

The heart of this story definitely was the character development the author utilized. Not only did readers get to see the chemistry between the established characters shine brightly here, but the backstory of Elvis and the mystery of his past, as well as the emotional backstory behind the painting itself and the reality of who took the painting itself at the end of the narrative. 

The Verdict

Thoughtful, emotional, and captivating, author Christine Isley-Farmer’s “Long Lost Elvis” is a must-read children’s book. In the perfect continuation of the Boomer’s Tales series, the author keeps an even pace and brings a great balance between the established characters and the newcomers involving Elvis and Mr. Brown’s stories. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Christine Isley-Farmer is the author of the children’s chapter book series, “Boomer’s Tales.” Three of the books in the series have been published. Her debut book in the series, Finding My Yip, was named Finalist in the Children’s Fiction category by the American Writing Awards 2021. In 2022, her second book in the series, A Hard Nut to Crack, was named Finalist in the Children’s Chapter Book category by the National Indie Excellence Awards.

Christine is also a writer of miscellaneous poetry.

She holds BM. MM, and DMA degrees and is Professor Emeritus in the School of Music at Middle Tennessee State University where she coordinated the voice area. She has sung professionally in opera and concert in the US and Europe. Christine currently lives in Murfreesboro, TN with her husband and her Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, Dylan. 

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0BHWF1RF2/ref=x_gr_w_glide_sin?caller=Goodreads&callerLink=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodreads.com%2Fbook%2Fshow%2F63271404-long-lost-elvis%3Fac%3D1%26from_search%3Dtrue%26qid%3DBaL7j0Jlno%26rank%3D1&tag=x_gr_w_glide_sin-20

The Squirrel and the Dragonfly by Brenda W. Huddleston Review

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

A young squirrel takes it upon himself to help an injured Dragonfly, and stirs up a friendship neither of them saw coming in author Brenda W. Huddleston’s “The Squirrel and the Dragonfly”.

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The Synopsis

This early reader story follows a squirrel named Liam and a Dragonfly named Sophia who have an accidental meeting in the woods. Realizing Sophia is in trouble and needs his help, Liam jumps into action. When Liam gets his forest friends to help rescue Sophia, the adventure proves to be an unlikely but lasting friendship for all of them.

These creatures of nature teach us valuable lessons about the importance of honoring our differences, especially when someone needs our help.

Parents, grandparents, educators, and kids will love The Squirrel & the Dragonfly and the vivid illustrations and positive messages for younger children.

The Review

The author did an incredible job of crafting a narrative that really felt both emotional and educational at the same time for younger readers. The almost cinematic quality of the artwork and imagery in this book not only drew the reader into the story but helped to keep a hopeful and lighthearted tone throughout the narrative.

To me, the theme the author explored was really the heart of this book. The lessons learned here of accepting our differences from one another and learning to not only live together but grow and help one another through life’s journey made this such a gripping story. The emotions the squirrel felt upon his friend’s evolution throughout the story made this such an engaging read, and the rich dynamics between the squirrel and the dragonfly made this a moving story.

The Verdict

Captivating, emotional, and thoughtful, author Brenda Huddleston’s “The Squirrel and the Dragonfly” is a must-read children’s book and illustrated story. The author did a brilliant job of weaving a narrative together that felt adventurous and kind all at once, and the theme of pushing aside our differences, acknowledging them, and moving forward together to not only befriend each other but help one another in their time in need was so profoundly moving to see come to life in this children’s book. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Brenda Huddleston discovered her love for writing late in life. After retiring from a long career in corporate management, she moved to the country where she finally had time to stop and smell the roses. During the summer, she would spend time with her three-year-old great-grandson discovering the joy and excitement of watching the animals interact and taking in the sheer beauty of nature.

Brenda lives in rural North Carolina on the Little River where there is abundance of nature and animals from which to choose the characters in her books.

She has been invited to read her books at libraries, daycare centers, and bookstores where she draws delight from watching the children’s faces light up with wonder as they hear the stories and ask questions.

Learning to enjoy reading at a young age can be an invaluable learning tool. Brenda feels strongly that her books must incorporate the essential lessons of childhood. Sharing, kindness, compassion, leadership, and diversity are easily understandable through the eyes of these cute animals.

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B08XS2BX59/ref=x_gr_w_glide_sin?caller=Goodreads&callerLink=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.goodreads.com%2Fbook%2Fshow%2F57088513-the-squirrel-the-dragonfly%3Fac%3D1%26from_search%3Dtrue%26qid%3DVdLBeHyCcz%26rank%3D1&tag=x_gr_w_glide_sin-20

Sheli: A Shepherd and his Sheep by Deanna Danielle Review

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

A sheep frustrated by the fact her shepherd seemingly ignores her at the back of her herd showcases to younger readers the plans and mindset of God and humanity itself in author Deanna Danielle’s “Sheli: A Shepherd and his Sheep”.

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The Synopsis

We may wonder at times why God allows brokenness to enter our heart. It has been my experience that when this happens, I am drawn closer to the Lord-our true shepherd-for strength, hope and joy. Sheli is the story of a faithful sheep who can not understand why her shepherd has put her in the back of her fold. As she notices and starts to help the sheep around her, she forgets her own worries and realizes her greater purpose. As you turn the pages of Sheli, may you experience the healing truth of God’s awesome grace and knowledge of the awe inspiring love that He so desperately awaits to give us all!

The Review

This was the best possible read for young children who are being raised in a Christian household and parents who wish to share their faith with their children at an early age. The unique narrative of the sheep and the shepherd is the perfect mirroring of the relationship between God and his believers, and the introspective tone the author strikes with this story for the children and parents reading it was quite insightful.

Two things that stood out to me were the author’s ability to showcase the need for us to find our own footing in life and help others as a theme in this story and the one-of-a-kind artwork that the story utilizes. The art itself reminded me of iconic faith-based art, almost mirroring the style of a Thomas Kincaid piece. Yet it was the theme the author utilized that made this story shine. While I am not particularly religious, the theme of helping and guiding others and finding the strength to stand on our own two feet, whether or not that is in an effort to gain the trust and guidance of God or to be self-sufficient, this theme works for a multitude of different readers.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, emotional, and engaging, author Deanna Danielle’s “Sheli: A Shepherd and his Sheep” is a must-read children’s book and Christian fiction read. The fast-paced narrative and the emotional pull of the sheep to his Shepherd will have younger readers clamoring for more. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

With over twenty years of Christian teaching background, Deanna Danielle has found that the best way to engage her students is through taking scripture and making it relatable in today’s context. She believes that a teacher is not so much responsible for what their students know, but more so for the seeds they plant to help them grow. She wrote Sheli to inspire and help readers discover the hidden treasures within themselves by using modern-day examples of faith.

Deanna Danielle’s previous books include An Ordinary Person, An Extraordinary Gift (recipient of a Mom’s Choice Award), and Christmas Morn. Her greatest joy comes from spending time in prayer and scripture and walking through life with her high-school sweetheart and the wonderful family and friends that God has so graciously blessed them with.

As co-founder and board-member of the non-profit Care Coalition, she has a strong belief in the power of Connecting those in NEED with those who CARE. You can find her blogs, books, video productions, coiffure work and Community outreach information at: https://deannadanielle.com

Kayla Travels in Her Dreams by Kyra Zeidan 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 devastated not to be traveling with her family for the holidays explores the world in her dreams, and soon discovers the true meaning of home in author Kyra Zeidan’s “Kayla Travels in Her Dreams”. 

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The Synopsis

A book about travel and the Love for Family

In the book Kayla Travels in Her Dreams a little girl is overcome with sadness when she learns that she won’t be able to travel with her family for the holidays. As she sits on her mom’s lap and cries herself to sleep, she dreams about those places she wanted to visit.

Despite her excitement for her adventures and travels, Kayla can’t help but miss her family. After visiting several exciting places around the world Kayla wakes up to find herself nestled in her mother’s arms. She is overcome by a warm feeling of happiness knowing that home is where her family is.

Kyra is honored to have the illustrations drawn by a neurodivergent artist. Kayla Travels in her Dreams is also available in a parents and educators kit along with an Arabic version ISBN  9781778119866.

The Review

This was a heartwarming and beautiful children’s book. The way in which the author was able to craft an atmosphere of adventure and exploration in the book was greatly felt on each page. The artist, Musa Abdul Aziz Hasan, did a wonderful job of showcasing the warmth and heart of this book and the characters within, as well as the wonderful settings that marked this globe-trotting adventure.

Yet to me, it was the emphasis the author put on themes like family and home that made this story shine so brightly. The inclusion of interactivity with children and their parents in the book’s final pages was great to see as well, but the way the story framed each adventure to a new land as a search for the child’s family allowed the message of hope and love for one’s family in a unique and bright way.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, engaging, and beautifully illustrated, author Kyra Zeidan’s “Kayla Travels in Her Dreams” is a must-read children’s boo. The perfect blend of holiday-set children’s books and special messages of family, the upbeat and emotional storytelling, and the warmth of the illustrations captured a one-of-a-kind reading experience no reader will want to miss with their child. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Kyra Zeidan has helped many kids improve their language and literacy skills as a speech and language pathologist. Her passion for storytelling and desire to promote reading led to her first published book Kayla Travels in Her Dreams.

Kyra is honored to spread awareness on the talents and capabilities of neurodivergent people with the illustrations drawn by an artist on the autism spectrum.

As a mom of three, she has personally experienced the power of books and wants to support other parents in discovering the same. Kyra lives in Canada with her husband and 3 kids. You can read more about Kyra, her book and parents and educators kit on her website at: https://kyrakares.org

Teddy Loves Spaghetti (The Adventures of Teddy) by Christine Milkovic Krauss Review

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

Author Christine Milkovic Krauss takes young readers on a journey to learn about pet care and nutrition through the adventures of a rescue cat in the book “Teddy Loves Spaghetti”, the second book in The Adventures of Teddy children’s book series. 

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The Synopsis

Teddy Loves Spaghetti is the second book in the Adventures of Teddy series. Teddy is our real life rescue pet who lost his ears to frostbite and just happens to have a serious love for pasta!! This book uses humour to educate children about nutrition, alternatives to food based rewards, pet care and introduction to diabetes awareness.

The Review

This was a fun and educational read. The author did a fantastic job of finding a way to be fun and heartwarming with the characters while also providing a detailed and engaging look into the world of nutrition for both humans and pets alike. The fun imagery the illustrator brought to life captured these tones perfectly, and the pacing of the story felt perfect for the young reader audience.

The book was definitely driven by the educational aspect of this narrative. The author’s focus on not only nutrition but the impact of diabetes on our pets as well was inspiring. Having known people throughout my life who haven’t always known the best or most appropriate foods to give their pets, the author’s message to younger readers is the perfect way to integrate this knowledge at an early age. 

The Verdict

Entertaining, informative, and fun, author Christine Milkovic Krauss’s “Teddy Loves Spaghetti” is the perfect children’s book story and a must-read next entry into this brilliant children’s book series. The heartfelt and engaging delivery of this information and the rich characters the author introduces in this story will have readers hooked instantly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Everybody has a story. More importantly; every person is deserving of friendship, kindness and acceptance. Teddy Loses His Ears is a non-fiction story about my real life rescue cat who lost his ears to frostbite while being homeless in negative 50 degree temperatures in central Canada.

All of the books in the Teddy series will highlight educational points about pet care, support inclusivity and celebrate being different together. Teddy Loses His Ears is the introduction book to the series and touches on self esteem and disability awareness. Each illustration in the story is hand painted and even has a Teddy’s favourite toy hidden on every page for children to find! This story was created to raise awareness for rescue organizations and promote, adopt vs shop, to find your purr-fect family pet.

In addition to being a pet lover and cat mom, I am also a mom of two primary school aged children.

These books could never have come to life without their inspiration, a tribe of supportive humans and of course, Book Club. 

https://cmkauthor.wixsite.com/christinemilkovic