In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Riverlet Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

My Old Friend, Then

Written by Katherine Davis-Gibbon

Illustrated by Allie Daigle

Ages 4 and up | 40 Pages

Publisher: Riverlet Press LLC | ISBN-13: 9781737957607

Publisher’s Synopsis: A child ponders … who is her best, most loyal friend? Is it her constant companion, Then, who regales her with extravagant stories of their shared past and imagined future? Or is it precious, patient Now, with whom she sensitively explores each new moment that unfolds?

My Old Friend, Then explores mindfulness the same way that kids approach life: with curiosity, humor, and unspoiled sincerity. Pairing accessible and relatable language with vivid, quirky illustrations, this book invites readers to share in a young girl’s journey as she grapples with the trappings—and delights in the boundless potential—of her own brilliant mind.

PURCHASE LINK

https://amzn.to/36NEc6R

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781737957607

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katherine Davis-Gibbon is a yoga teacher, a longtime practitioner of Vipassana meditation, and most importantly a mother of two. She is also the founder of Riverlet Press, a children’s book company for conscious parents raising mindful kids.

For more information, visit www.riverletpress.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Allie Daigle is an illustrator who strives to create immersive and expressive images that stimulate the imagination. Whether for a children’s book, a product label, or her original pieces, Daigle’s works implore the viewer to linger and explore the details within. Allie primarily works with traditional watercolor & ink as well as digital mediums.

For more information, visit www.alliedaigle.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

THE BEST OF BOTH WORLDS

My Old Friend, Then

Written by Katherine Davis-Gibbon

Illustrated by Allie Daigle

This is a charming picture book written for preschoolers and primary grade children. A little girl reflects on her imaginary friend, Then. Then is a collection of her memories and her first imaginary friend. Now the little girl has also embraced a new friend, Now. This friend does not fear losing the girl or sharing her. She is confident and does not fear other friends.

The subtle pastel colors of the illustrations reflect the moods of the little girl. The faces of the imaginary friends are not filled in, allowing the reader to imagine what they look like. There are only a few lines of text with each illustration, but they are filled with emotion.

I would highly recommend this book as a bedtime story or read-aloud for children ages four through seven.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an autographed copy of My Old Friend, Then, along with a box of You’re Wonderful Thoughtfulls!

One (1) winner receives:

An autographed hardcover copy of My Old Friend, Then

A box of You’re Wonderful Thoughtfulls pop-open cards by Compendium Inc.

Three (3) winners receive:

An autographed hardcover copy of My Old Friend, Then

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/hgVTA/my-old-friend-then-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, April 4, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Tuesday, April 5, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Wednesday, April 6, 2022Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withAuthor Katherine Davis-Gibbon

Thursday, April 7, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Friday, April 8, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Sunday, April 10, 2022Barbara Ann MojicaA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Monday, April 11, 2022Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Tuesday, April 12, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewAn Instagram video book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Wednesday, April 13, 2022Ravenz ReviewsA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Thursday, April 14, 2022Twirling Book PrincessAn article by Katherine Davis-GibbonThe Importance of Teaching Kids Mindfulness

Tuesday, April 26, 2022Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway ofMy Old Friend, Then

Wednesday, April 27, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofMy Old Friend, Then

Thursday, April 28, 2022Me Two BooksAn article by Katherine Davis-GibbonMindfulness Activities with Your Kids

Denny and Penny: A Fun Rhyming Picture Book

Written and Illustrated by Silas Wood

Denny and Penny are fox friends. Penny is smart, sensible, and even-tempered. Denny tends to be negative, grumpy and has a terrible sweet tooth.

One day, Denny is out of food. He visits Penny to ask for something sweet. She cooks him a healthy meal instead. Will Denny enjoy it? What can he learn about kindness and gratitude?

This book contains large colorful and simple illustrations with a minimum of text on each page. It is the perfect picture book for toddlers and preschoolers. Also, it might serve as practice for children beginning to read.

Parents who have finicky eaters or children who love animal books will find it especially useful.

Looking for more teaching resources?

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How Animals Say Goodnight: A Sweet Going to Bed Book about Animal Sleep Habits

Written by Esther Pia Cordova

Illustrated by Anastasiya Provozina

What a beautiful rhyming picture book!

The author presents bright, colorful illustrations of different animals as they prepare to rest. I learned a lot from this book. Did you know that giraffes sleep only twenty minutes a day? When a snail closes its eyes, it can sleep for three years. Ducks sleep in rows and have a system to protect each other from danger.

This book is a good choice for a simple bedtime story or read-aloud for toddlers or preschoolers. It contains lots of interesting information about animals for older children who may want to do additional research.

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When The Sky Roars: Dyslexia Font Edition

Written and Illustrated by Katie Weaver

A little boy is afraid of thunder. He decides he must put his foot down and conquer this fear. He ventures off on a trip to the sky with helium balloons. Once there he meets all kinds of fascinating scenarios like a pirate ship and a family of dinosaurs who are eating their delicious pie.

Bonus extras include a yummy recipe for Berry Crumb pie. Children will lose their anxiety about thunder and enjoy a delightful rhyming picture book filled with imaginative pictures and verse. I particularly like the color enhancement of key vocabulary words and the font that is friendly for dyslexic readers.

Recommended for parents and teachers of children ages three through eight.

Looking for more learning opportunities for the family.

Check out all the resources at http://www.LittleMissHistory.com

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Bruce Nemovitz.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Leaf & The Tree

Written by Bruce Nemovitz

Illustrated by Ani Ghosh

Ages 4-8 | 22 Pages

Publisher: Book House Publishing | ISBN-13: 9781952483257

Publisher’s Synopsis: Follow the wondrous and challenging life of our friend, the leaf, living alone and happy and confident that only he controls his surroundings and his good fortune. Then one day, Mother Nature teaches a lesson we all can learn from.

Through the journey in this heartfelt book, you will gain a new appreciation when taking a walk past your favorite tree. Our friend, the leaf, is given a gift of knowledge and understanding about the beauty and wonder of the world around us.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3nFbBq3

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/books/the-leaf-the-tree/9781952483257

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author Bruce Nemovitz has written two other books. He has been a full-time Realtor for over 43 years in the Great Milwaukee area. The first book is called “Moving in the Right Direction”, A Senior’s Guide to Moving and Downsizing. His second book, also related to the senior real estate market is called “Guiding Our Parents in the Right Direction”, A Children’s Guide to Helping Mom and Dad Move From Their Long-Time Home.

Bruce’s passion has always been with children. He has two daughters, Dara and Karra, who blessed him with seven grandchildren! Bruce wanted to leave a message for the next generation who are living in a world divided. This book offers a message of hope and togetherness, that we are all connected to one another and to nature.

Bruce has won several awards in his field of real estate. Bruce has been a monthly contributor for over 12 years with 50plus Magazine in the Milwaukee area. He has written several articles related to the challenge of seniors moving from their long-time homes. He works with his wife of 48 years, Jeanne.

For more information, visit https://www.brucesteam.com/the-leaf-and-the-tree.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

THE TEST OF TIME

The Leaf and the Tree

Written by Bruce Nemowitz

Illustrated by Ani Ghosh

This is a delightful picture book for young children.

All the animals of the forest respect the tree. Readers learn about the tree through the eyes of a leaf. The leaf reflects on the cycle of life but sees itself independent of the tree. When the seasons pass and the leaf falls to the ground, it realizes that the roots, trunk, and branches all played a part in its journey. The book teaches children that all parts of nature need to work as a team that benefits the individual members.

The digital illustrations of personified nature appeal to the senses and reinforce the story line. Rhyming text makes the book an excellent choice for a read-aloud. Recommended for children ages three through eight.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of The Leaf & The Tree, autographed by Bruce Nemovitz!

Three (3) winners receive:

An autographed copy of The Leaf & The Tree

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/BV9tC/the-leaf-and-the-tree-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, February 7, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-Off

Tuesday, February 8, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Wednesday, February 9, 2022Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview with Bruce Nemovitz

Thursday, February 10, 2022Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Friday, February 11, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Monday, February 14, 2022The Momma SpotA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Tuesday, February 15, 2022Book Bug CAA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Wednesday, February 16, 2022Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Thursday, February 17, 2022J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Friday, February 18, 2022Because I Said SoA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Monday, February 21, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Tuesday, February 22, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

Wednesday, February 23, 2022Me Two BooksA book activity to pair withThe Leaf and the Tree

Thursday, February 24, 2022A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofThe Leaf and the Tree

I Don’t Want to Turn 3

Written and illustrated by Gramps Jeffrey

Jordan is about to turn 3 years old and he is not thrilled. He believes that up to now he has succeeded in doing pretty much as he pleases. Jordan swipes prized possessions and toys from his siblings and cousins. Then he hides them in his room.

Up to this time, adults have made excuses for him, saying he is only two. Jordan must face the consequences when his “stash” is unexpectedly discovered in his room Dad sits everyone down for a serious talk. Jordan learns that bad behavior brings consequences.

The large and colorful illustrations appeal to a preschool audience. Children can follow them while an adult reads the story aloud. One suggestion I have is that the text near the end of the story be spread out on several pages to make the story flow read better.

Highly recommended read for children ages two through six.

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Check out more teaching tricks at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

Okapi Loves His Zebra Pants (Endangered and Misunderstood Animals Book 3)

Written by Terri Tatchell

Illustrated by Ivan Sulima

What a cute, rhyming picture book for elementary school readers! Children learn about the okapi, a relative of the giraffe with striped legs. This animal is a native of the Congo.

The fictional tale relates how a monkey makes fun of Okapi’s striped legs. His friend the grey parrot comes to his defense. Still, Okapi is curious about the zebra, who is reported to wear stripes like him. Off he goes in search of the zebra. His journey is dangerous, but he finds friends among the elephants, hippos, and gorillas.

Children learn about diversity and the value of individual differences as strengths rather than weaknesses. The author teaches children how to draw these animals, why they are endangered, and what children can do to help them. Recommended especially for preschoolers to age eight.

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Celebration Babies: Highlighting Special Events for Babies, Toddlers, and Children, from Around the World 

Written by Stephanie Seidler

Illustrated by Pete Olczyk

This picture book packs a lot into forty pages. The author covers countries from around the globe and their cultural celebrations. These include celebrations connected with religion, holidays, heritage, and environment.

The description mentions that the book is appropriate for babies and toddlers. While the illustrations will enthrall that age group, the vocabulary and length of sentences are too complicated for that audience. Parents and teachers will need to adapt it to make the concepts clear for them. I would suggest making the font of the text a bit larger so that new readers might be able to handle it better.

Nevertheless, this is a beautiful book to place on a parent or teacher’s bookshelf to celebrate the best of all our cultures and remind children of the beauty of diversity and multiculturalism. I especially recommend it for ages five through nine.

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Fatso Runs Away from Home: An easy reading adventure following a cat’s adventure

Written by Garth and Mo Reason

Illustrated by Harriet Kim Anh Rodis

Fatso is a spoiled cat. For many years he has lived a comfortable life in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Reason.

One day a visitor to the home brings a dog named Maria to the home. Fatso wants to become friends but Maria is bossy and unwilling to share. So Fatso ventures out into the outside world he has never seen.

At first, Fatso sees his outing as an adventure. He meets a neighborhood cat, Sebastian. When Fatso gets lost, he becomes frightened until he meets up with Fluffy and her family.

Will Fatso survive in the outside world? Does he ever find his way back home?

This picture book uses a cat world view to teach children how to have courage, resilience, and empathy. The author includes activities to encourage young readers to think about what happened in the story and enhance reading comprehension skills.

I would suggest this book as a picture book for younger children or a beginning reading for older elementary school readers.

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Check out lots more for the whole family at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check out more fun at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

Ham Hands: The Christmas Elf

Written by Whitney Beatty

Illustrated by Becca Kaiser

A funny book that preschoolers and primary grade readers will enjoy.

Ham Hands is an elf on Santa’s staff who has extremely large hands. As a result, he is banned from wrapping presents because he makes a mess of wrapping them. He is relegated to the candy room, bending the candy canes.

One Christmas Eve, Santa leaves a few presents behind. Ham Hands knows a deserving little girl is waiting. What can he do?

The text is a bit choppy in spots and the illustrations stylized, but the message is spot on. We are all unique and special. This book is also a godsend for parents who are all thumbs at wrapping Christmas gifts.

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Check out a lot more family fun at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com