In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and the REED Foundation for Autism

The “One Big Canvas” book series seeks to celebrate differences, showcasing how each individual, regardless of his or her own unique qualities, can be an integral part of a much larger picture.

The Reed Foundation understands autism is a highly prevalent and often misunderstood neurological disability. They hope that these positive and engaging children’s stories will promote acceptance, understanding, and kindness for all.

ABOUT THE BOOKS

One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece

Written by Jay Miletsky

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages

Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382

Publisher’s Synopsis: Join a spunky collection of paintbrushes as they set out to create a grand masterpiece.

When some of the brushes don’t cooperate, is it because they are misbehaving…or is there another reason entirely? In this story, young readers are introduced to some of the behavioral differences in their autistic peers.

Without ever mentioning any particular challenge or disability by name, this story helps children recognize and understand what autism is, and impress upon them the importance of showing kindness to those who are different, wrapped into a fun story with lighthearted, engaging characters.

They worked through the day, then stopped and admired,

the wisdom their now-painted canvas inspired:

their painting was perfect, It all meshed just fine,

with its colorful circles, and angry green line.

It was a true masterpiece, not one thing was wrong,

including the hum of their single-note song.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3v9ibq3

One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay

Written by Jay Miletsky

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages

Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382

Publisher’s Synopsis: The brushes are back! Join Reese, Estelle and the rest of the gang in the art studio in another adventure as they learn the value of kindness and understanding.

When Clay comes to visit from the other side of the art studio, the brushes are excited to welcome their friend. But when a few of the brushes start acting differently, Clay needs to be reminded that it’s important to be accepting:

“Some brushes are different, so we like to remind,

it’s kind to be caring, so take care to be kind.”

Will Clay leave the brushes in frustration, or will he learn to mold his thinking as he comes to understand and accept that brushes have different abilities and challenges? Without ever mentioning autism or any particular disability, The Molding of Clay helps introduce children to the behavioral differences of their autistic peers, creating an opportunity for discussion. It helps teachers and parents impress upon them the importance of understanding, acceptance and kindness, through a fun, lighthearted story with quirky and colorful characters.

https://amzn.to/3dIFdxZ

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION

The REED Foundation for Autism is committed to providing individuals with autism the opportunity to learn, live, work and thrive at every stage of their lives. For more information, please visit https://www.reedfoundationforautism.org.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK SERIES

ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

The Masterpiece

Written by Mr. Jay

Illustrated by Luis Peres

The paintbrushes have assembled in their art studio. They are determined to create a masterpiece. Only Estella sits off to the side and sings her own tune. The other brushed understand it is her way. They invite her but do not force her to participate. Then Byron decides to go off on his own to create paint circles. The other paintbrushes accept his efforts and join the fun. Suddenly, Lee decides to splatter green paint everywhere. Instead of getting angry, the other paintbrushes continued to add more colors. All day long, they worked together until the painting masterpiece was completed.

This tale teaches young children that each person is unique. Sometimes differences can not be controlled, but that does not mean all of us can succeed when allowing for our differences.

OUT OF A DIFFERENT MOLD

The Molding of Clay

Written by Mr. Jay

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Excitement runs high in the art studio because the paintbrushes are expecting a visitor, a lump of grey modeling clay, appropriately named Clay. When Clay comes barreling into the studio, Paul holds his ears because loud sounds bother him, while Estelle hides in a corner humming. Clay wants them to stop, but the brushes explain that it is their way. A small brush named Jerry keeps bantering Clay with his paintings of boats. Finally, Clay realizes that he himself can transform himself into many different forms so it must be okay, so he changes shape to take part in the fun.

Once again young readers discover that differences are not only acceptable but that they can be transformed into new and exciting strengths.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a ‘One Big Canvas’ book series prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
• A $50 Amazon gift card

Two (2) winners receive:

• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
• A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay

The giveaway begins April 23, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends May 23, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282224/

TOUR SCHEDULE

April 23	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
April 24	Over Coffee Conversations	https://gmarcianoblogs.wordpress.com	Beyond the Book Activity
April 25	Mommy Ramblings	http://www.MommyRamblings.org	Book Review
April 26	Life Is What It’s Called	lifeiswhatitscalled.blogspot.com	Book Review
April 27	Crafty Moms Share	https://www.craftymomsshare.com/	Book Review
April 28	Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog	https://bamauthor.me	Book Review
April 29	A Dream Within A Dream	http://adreamwithindream.blogspot.com	Book Review
April 30	Book Bug Ca	https://bookbugca.wordpress.com/	Book Review
May 3	Jrsbookreviews	Http://www.jrsbookreviews.com	Book Review
May 4	Heart to Heart	tynea-lewis.com	Book Review
May 5	Fairview Elementary School (Library)	https://fveslibrary.blogspot.com/	Book Review
May 6	Lisa’s Reading	https://lisasreading.com	Book Review
May 7	icefairy’s Treasure Chest	http://icefairystreasurechest.blogspot.com/	Book Review
May 10	Confessions of a Book Addict	http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.com	Book Giveaway
May 11	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
May 12	Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers	https://insatiablereaders.blogspot.com	Book Review
May 13	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Beyond the Book Activity

Read more…

Oh, so close…

In partnership with the Children’s Book Review

About the Book

Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies

Written by Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Illustrated by Bex Sutton

Ages 3-8 | 34 Pages

Publisher: Sandrian Nelson-Moon | ISBN-13: 978-1736512319

Publisher’s Synopsis: Join Itty Bitty Betty in this thrilling story as she tries to sneak a tasty treat without Mommy knowing!

Itty Bitty Betty was small as can be,

About as tall as her mom’s knee.

After a fun day out by the sea,

Itty Bitty wanted cookies for tea!

Buy the Book

A Note From the Author

Wishing you all continued blessings and love. I am a specimen of my experiences. I am a survivor, super mom, entrepreneur, author, and future civil rights attorney. I love sweets, travel and good hugs. I have a background in business and project management and enjoy a fun discussion about our economy. However, as a political child advocate and PTA president for 2 schools I fight for and with families against sexual trauma, personal and civil rights. I enjoy a good book, smiles on faces when I tickle them and the imagination a child’s mind can conjure. I pray my book open eyes, spark life and give you warm feelings. Thank you for visiting me here. Happy reading!

For more information, visit https://nelsonmoonkids.com/, Instagram, and Facebook.

My Review of the Book

Betty is a tiny toddler who barely comes up to an adult’s knee. On the other hand, Betty possesses a big appetite and a tremendous amount of determination.

After spending a day at the sea, Betty comes into the kitchen and spies a jar of her mom’s delicious cookies on a high shelf. She enlists the aid of her cat and finds a ladder to assist her in her mission. Kerplunk! Betty lands on her bottom with a thud. Undeterred, she refuses to give up until she hears, her mother cry “FREEZE”

Betty is an adorable character with whom toddlers and preschoolers will readily empathize. Beautiful multicultural illustrations and expressive rhymes are sure to please the zero to five age audience.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A hardcover copy of Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies, autographed by Sandrian Nelson-Moon
• A copy of Itty Bitty Betty & The Cookies: Activity And Coloring Book
• A $25 Amazon gift card
• A set of Limited Edition Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies bookmarks, a keychain, and stickers

Two (2) winners receive:

• A paperback copy of Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies, autographed by Sandrian Nelson-Moon
• A set of Limited Edition Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies bookmarks, a keychain, and stickers

The giveaway begins April 12, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends May 12, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282217/

Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies Tour Dates

Monday, April 12, 2021 The Children’s Book Review A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Tuesday, April 13, 2021 Lisa’s Reading An article by the author Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Wednesday, April 14, 2021 The Fairview Review A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Thursday, April 15, 2021 Library Lady’s Kid Lit An interview with Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Monday, April 19, 2021 Comfy Chair Books A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Life Is What It’s Called An interview with Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Thursday, April 22, 2021 Over Coffee Conversations A Beyond the Book Activity for Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Friday, April 23, 2021 Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Monday, April 26, 2021 Confessions of a Book Addict A book giveaway of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Tuesday, April 27, 2021 icefairy’s Treasure Chest A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

In Partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Harper Collins Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

Greystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Written by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Ages 8-12 | 416 Pages

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books | ISBN-13 : 978-0062838438

Publisher’s Synopsis: As book three of the Greystone Secrets series opens, the Greystone kids have their mother back from the evil alternate world, and so does their friend Natalie. But no one believes the danger is past.

Then mysterious coins begin falling from unexpected places. They are inscribed with codes that look just like what the Greystones’ father was working on before he died. And with the right touch, those symbols transform into words: PLEASE LISTEN. And FIND US, SEE US, HELP US. . . .

The coins are messengers, telling the Greystones and their allies that their friends in the alternate world are under attack—and that the cruel, mind-controlling forces are now invading the better world, too.

After another spinning, sliding journey across worlds, the Greystone kids must solve mysteries that have haunted them since the beginning: what happened when the Gustanos were kidnapped, what created the alternate world, and how a group of mismatched kids can triumph once and for all against an evil force that seems to have total control.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2PrjXmV

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780062838438

OFFICIAL LINKS

www.haddixbooks.com

@theshelfstuff

@haddixbooks

About the Author

Margaret Peterson Haddix grew up on a farm in Ohio. As a kid, she knew two girls who had the exact same first, middle, and last names and shared the same birthday—only one year apart—and she always thought that was bizarre.

As an adult, Haddix worked as a newspaper reporter and copy editor in Indiana before her first book, Running Out of Time, was published. She has since written more than forty books for kids and teens, including the Greystone Secrets series, the Shadow Children series, the Missing series, the Children of Exile series, and lots of stand-alones. Haddix and her husband, Doug, now live in Columbus, Ohio, where they raised their two kids. You can learn more about her at www.haddixbooks.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

DOUBLE TROUBLE

This book is the conclusion of the Greystone Secrets series. While reading the first two books in the series is not necessary, I would recommend readers do so in to get the full impact of the author’s message.

Book Three begins with the return of the Greystone kids’ mother from an alternate evil universe in which their father has been killed. They all remain in danger. The leaders from that evil world are tying to kill them. Then strange coins start falling from everywhere. These coins are inscribed with messages like please listen and find us. They are messages from the alternate world pleading for help from their evil attackers. The Greystone kids, Chess, Finn, and Emma, partner with their doubles, the Gustano children to slide between the two worlds in a frantic effort to save both worlds and them.

Readers will be intrigued by the notion of mismatched doubles who do not match each other physically but share other familiar traits. They need to overcome their fears and weaknesses, combine their strengths, and use their smarts to defeat the overwhelming forces of evil.

This is a fast-moving adventure that will keep the reader from putting the book down. The characters are believable and richly drawn. Young readers can easily identify with their struggles and empathize with their successes and failures.

Highly recommended for ages eight through eighty-eight.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of the Greystone Secrets series, including Greystone Secrets 3: The Messengers.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A paperback copy of Greystone Secrets 1: The Strangers
• A paperback copy of Greystone Secrets 2: The Deceivers
• A hardcover copy of Greystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

The giveaway begins April 6, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends April 22, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter the giveaway

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282213/

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, April 6, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Wednesday, April 7, 2021Lisa’s ReadingAn interview withMargaret Peterson Haddix

Thursday, April 8, 2021Over Coffee ConversationsBeyond the Book Activity ForGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Friday, April 9, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withMargaret Peterson Haddix

Sunday, April 11, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Monday, April 12, 2021ShootingStarsMagAn interview withMargaret Peterson Haddix

Tuesday, April 13, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Wednesday, April 14, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Thursday, April 15, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book giveaway ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Friday, April 16, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Monday, April 19, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Tuesday, April 20, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Wednesday, April 21, 2021Tales of a Wanna-Be SuperHero MomBeyond the Book Activity ForGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW AND EVA DIETRICH

ABOUT THE BOOK

Mesopo

Written by Eva Dietrich

Illustrated by Ingrid Kallick

Ages 9+ | 338 pages

Publisher: Independently published | ISBN-13: 978-1731518217

Publisher’s Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Ankido is on a quest to save his missing father through the magical realm of Mesopo.

Mesopo is the land where all fantasy originates, a land whose words and language are in peril. Can Ankido save his father and restore all these words in time?

It was a red velvet box, the size of a school book. Ankido lifted the lid, revealing an old-fashioned quill made out of a reed. It smelled remote and otherworldly. Ancient. And for a reason he couldn’t explain, everything felt all right for a moment.

He thought he caught a sound flowing out of the quill, a word maybe. He wasn’t sure and he shook his head. This was ridiculous. No, he surely must have been mistaken. But there! There was the sound again. This time Ankido was sure of it.

“Mesopo” … whispered in a way that slipped around the room like the warm breeze of the desert.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3rCz7Ts

Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781733367103

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Eva Dietrich is the author of The Great Rainbow Hug (Le gros câlin arc-en-ciel, from Samir Editeur, 2011), recognized by La Revue Des Livres Pour Enfants in 2011 as their annual selection. Eva holds Masters’ Degrees in Children’s Literature from the University of Surrey, London, and Creative Writing from the Metropolitan University of Manchester, UK, and is the founder and director of Aladdin Books. She is equal parts Spanish and German, and currently resides in Madrid with her three kids, three dogs, two cats, three rabbits, and lots of hens.

For more information, visit https://www.aladdin-books.com/

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

WORDS ARE MORE POWERFUL THAN SWORDS

Ankido Gulzar is a twelve-year-old boy of British-Iraqi descent. He loves to write so much that his grandmother, Habubti, calls him Word Boy.

One day his grandmother comes to report that Ankido’s father, an archaeologist who has been working in Iraq, is missing. She is going there to search for him. Before she leaves, Habubti, entrusts him with the book she has been working on. She warns him to guard it carefully and never let it get into the hands of his Aunt Geraldine. Habubti also gives him a velvet box with a quill pen that he can use to get in touch with her.

Ankido is left in the care of Geraldine and her husband. They treat him poorly, but Ankido loves his two female cousins dearly. When Geraldine demands Ankido give up his grandmother’s book, Ankido throws it into the fire. His aunt plots to place Ankido in a boarding school but before he arrives there, Ankido finds himself in a magical place called Mesopo.

Mesopo is a gateway to ancient Nineveh. It is a land of words. But these words are in danger of disappearing. Why is Ankido the only one who can save this civilization? What role does his aunt and grandmother play? What can his beloved cousins do to save him?

Dragons, demons, myths, and magic are woven into the plot. Middle-grade readers are treated to well-defined, strong characters who must use their strengths and conquer their weaknesses. A few fantastic illustrations assist the reader to visualize this magical land and its alluring inhabitants. Our words are powerful, and they must be protected.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Mesopo and a feather dip quill pen writing set!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A paperback copy of Mesopo
• A digital copy of Mesopo
• A Feather Dip Quill Pen Writing Ink Set

Two (2) winners receive:

• A choice of:
  • A paperback copy of Mesopo
  • A digital copy of Mesopo

The giveaway begins April 1, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends April 30, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282216/

TOUR SCHEDULE

Thursday, April 1, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofMesopo

Friday, April 2, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofMesopo

Saturday, April 3, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofMesopo

Sunday, April 4, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofMesopo

Tuesday, April 6, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofMesopo

Wednesday, April 7, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofMesopo

Thursday, April 8, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofMesopo

Monday, April 12, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofMesopo

Tuesday, April 13, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofMesopo

Thursday, April 15, 2021Book Bug CAA book review ofMesopo

Monday, April 19, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofMesopo

Tuesday, April 20, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn interview withEva Dietrich

Friday, April 26, 2021Tales of a Wanna-Be SuperHero MomA book review ofMesopo

Hello Author Friends,

Today I would like to share this handy reference tool that you can use when you are looking for content you can use for a quick post when you don’t have a lot of time to research and scour the internet. Who doesn’t want to save time? We are all constantly multitasking. This little guide will point you in the right direction.

100 + Free Tools to Create Content for Social Media & Web: 2021 (Free Online Tools Book 2)

Written by Anita Nipane

Nice resource to keep when you need a quick reminder and don’t want to take out time to research and find exactly what you need. It will help you to design simple book covers and find quality photos that can be used without paying for them,

I appreciated the section on videos and animations. as well as how to edit with free tools. The author teaches how to create an attractive logo online with templates and where to find attractive fonts that are free.

I predict that I will be referring to this handy reference many times in the future.

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 all my learning opportunities at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Harper Collins Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

One Jar of Magic

Written by Corey Ann Haydu

Publisher’s Synopsis: Magic is like a dream. Delightful. Terrifying. Unreal.

Rose Alice Anders is Little Luck. Lucky to be born into the Anders family. Lucky to be just as special and magical as the most revered man in town—her father. The whole town has been waiting for Rose to turn twelve, when she can join them in their annual capturing of magic on New Year’s Day and become the person she was born to be.

But when that special day finally comes, Rose barely captures one tiny jar of magic. Now Rose’s dad won’t talk to her anymore and her friendships have gotten all twisted and wrong. So when Rose hears whispers that there are people who aren’t meant for magic at all, she begins to wonder if that’s who she belongs with.

Maybe if she’s away from all the magic, away from her dad telling her who she’s meant to be, who she has to be, Rose can begin to piece together what’s truly real in a world full of magic.

Ages 8-12 | 352 Pages | Publisher: HarperCollins | ISBN-13: 9780062689856

PURCHASE LINKS

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

Audible: https://amzn.to/3oOWkjS

Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780062689856

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Corey Ann Haydu is the author of Eventown, The Someday Suitcase, and Rules for Stealing Stars and four acclaimed books for teens. She grew up in the Boston area, earned her MFA at the New School, and now lives in Brooklyn, New York, with her dog Oscar.

Find out more at www.coreyannhaydu.com.

My Review of the book:

THE MAGIC WITHIN

One Jar of Magic

Written by Corey Ann Haydu

Rose Alice Anders lives in Belling Bright. Here everyone gathers magic in jars, and it appears that magic can make their world a beautiful place. Her father has the most magic in the town and is widely respected, but as the reader gets to know them better, one learns that appearances can be deceiving.

Rose is called Little Luck by her father. He believes that she will be even more powerful than he. Soon she will reach her twelfth birthday. On New Year’s Day, she will travel with the other twelve-year-old children to Too Blue Lake, where they will gather magic in their jars. Rose’s older brother, Lyle, assures her she will be successful.

Rose has her doubts. Lately, she does not feel lucky. Her best friend Cindy seems to turn away from her, and her father’s mounting pressure on her to succeed fuel her doubts. Things are not going well in the family. Her parents fight often.

When the big day arrives, it brings surprises for everyone. Rose learns about family secrets and the possibility of a vastly different future. What does Rose discover and how will she use this information to create a future for herself, her community, and her family?

This novel brings to light many of the worries and fears middle-grade students experience. As they mature, they begin to question things formerly accepted, learn to manage relationships, and create new friendships based on understanding themselves better.

The author also provides a list of resources for readers who discover themselves in situation like that of Rose. This book is highly recommended as a read-aloud discussion book for classrooms and library book clubs.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of books by Corey Ann Haydu, including One Jar of Magic.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A hardcover copy of One Jar of Magic
• A hardcover copy of Eventown
• A hardcover copy of The Someday Suitcase
• A hardcover copy of Rules for Stealing Stars

Four (4) winners receive:

• A hardcover copy of One Jar of Magic

The giveaway begins February 9, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends March 8, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter the giveaway

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282209/

TOUR SCHEDULE

February 9	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
February 10	Crafty Moms Share	https://www.craftymomsshare.com/	Book Review
February 11	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Interview
February 12	Lisa’s Reading	https://lisasreading.com	Book List
February 15	Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog	https://bamauthor.me	Book Review
February 16	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book List
February 17	Tales of A Wanna-Be SuperHero Mom	http://wannabesuperheromom.blogspot.com/	Book Review
February 18	J.R.s Book Reviews	https://jrsbookreviews.wordpress.com/	Book Review
February 19	Library Lady’s Kid Lit	https://janemouttet.wordpress.com/	Interview
February 22	Word Spelunking	http://wordspelunking.blogspot.com/	Guest Post
February 23	Fairview Elementary School (Library)	https://fveslibrary.blogspot.com/	Book Review
February 24	Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers	https://insatiablereaders.blogspot.com	Book Review
February 25	Bookbugca	https://bookbugca.wordpress.com/	Interview

MCBD 2021 is honored to be Supported by these Medallion Sponsors!

FOUNDER’S CIRCLE: Mia Wenjen (Prgamaticmom) and Valarie Budayr’s (Audreypress.com)

Platinum Sponsors: Language Lizard Bilingual Books in 50+ Languages, Author Deedee Cummings and Make A Way Media

Gold Sponsors: Barefoot Books, Candlewick Press, Capstone,  Hoopoe Books,  KidLitTV, Peachtree Publishing Company Inc.

Silver Sponsors: Charlotte Riggle, Connecticut Association of School Librarians, Author Kimberly Gordon Biddle, Pack-N-Go Girls

Bronze Sponsors: Agatha Rodi and AMELIE is IMPRESSED!, Barnes Brothers Books, Create and Educate Solutions, LLC, Dreambuilt Books, Dyesha and Triesha McCants/McCants Squared, Redfin Real Estate, Snowflake Stories, Star Bright Books, TimTimTom Bilingual Personalized Books, Author Vivian Kirkfield, Wisdom Tales Press, My Well Read Child

MCBD 2021 is honored to be Supported by these Author Sponsors!

Poster Artist: Nat Iwata

Authors: Author Afsaneh Moradian, Author Alva Sachs & Three Wishes Publishing Company, Author Angeliki Stamatopoulou-Pedersen, Author Anna Olswanger, Author Casey Bell , Author Claudine Norden, Author Debbie Dadey, Author Diana Huang & Intrepids,  Author Eugenia Chu & Brandon goes to Beijing, Green Kids Club,  Author Gwen Jackson, Author Janet Balletta, Author Josh Funk, Author Julia Inserro, Karter Johnson & Popcorn and Books, Author Kathleen Burkinshaw & The Last Cherry Blossom, Author Keila Dawson, Maya/Neel Adventures with Culture Groove, Author Mia Wenjen, Michael Genhart, Nancy Tupper Ling, Author Natalie Murray, Natalie McDonald-Perkins, Author Natasha Yim, Author Phe Lang and Me On The Page Publishing, Sandra Elaine Scott, Author Shoumi Sen & From The Toddler Diaries, SISSY GOES TINY by Rebecca Flansburg and B.A. Norrgard, Susan Schaefer Bernardo & Illustrator Courtenay Fletcher,  Tales of the Five Enchanted Mermaids, Author Theresa Mackiewicz, Tonya Duncan and the Sophie Washington Book Series, Author Toshia Stelivan, Valerie Williams-Sanchez & The Cocoa Kids Collection Books©, Author Vanessa Womack, MBA, Author Veronica Appleton & the Journey to Appleville book series

MCBD 2021 is Honored to be Supported by our CoHosts and Global CoHosts!

MCBD 2021 is Honored to be Supported by these Media Partners!

Check out MCBD’s Multicultural Books for Kids Pinterest Board!

MCBD 2021 Twitter Party Questions and PRIZES!

Join us on Friday, Jan 29, 2021, at 9 pm EST for the 8th annual Multicultural Children’s Book Day Twitter Party! REGISTER HERE.

This hour includes multicultural book discussions, addressing timely issues, diverse book recommendations, & reading ideas.

*** US and Global participants welcome. **

The Multicultural Children’s Book Day Twitter Party 2021 will be giving away a 5-8 diverse book bundle every five minutes!

We also have some bonus prizes and prizes specifically for our non-USA participants. Scroll down to see all of the amazing book bundles and prizes.

Hashtag: Don’t forget to connect with us on social media and be sure and look for/use our official hashtag #ReadYourWorld.

This year, our 1/29/21 Party will occur at 9:00-10:00 p.m. ET  and we promise it will be INSANELY fun and fast-paced! Be sure and follow Multicultural Children’s Book Day on Twitter so you can join the party. Follow the hashtag #ReadYourWorld to join the conversation, connect with like-minded parts, authors, publishers, educators, organizations, and librarians.

GO HERE to view the 2021 MCBD TWITTER PARTY Questions!

GO HERE to view the 2021 MCBD TWITTER PARTY Prizes!

Not sure how to participate in a Twitter Party? Check out this great article from MCBD’s Project Manager HERE.

Follow MCBD on Twitter to join the party!

FREE RESOURCES from Multicultural Children’s Book Day

Diversity Book Lists & Activities for Teachers and Parents

Homeschool Diverse Kidlit Booklist & Activity Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Activism and Activists Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Empathy Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Kindness Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Physical and Developmental Challenges Kit

FREE Teacher Classroom Poverty Kit

Gallery of Our Free Posters

FREE Diversity Book for Classrooms Program

I am proud to be a participating author reviewer for the eighth year since the inauguration of Multicultural Children’s Book Day.

Here is my review for MCBD 2021:

FINDING HER WAY

Farah Rocks: New Beginnings

Written by Susan Muaddi Darraj

Illustrated by Ruaida Mannaa

This is the second book in the Farah Rocks series. Farah’s last name roughly translates to rocks in English and that is why she refers to herself as Farah Rocks. For those who are unfamiliar with this middle-grade book series, Farah is a gifted student from an Orthodox Christian Arab family. This year she is scheduled to begin attending a middle school called Magnet Academy. While she is apprehensive, her best friend, Allie has also been selected.

Right before school opens, a tragedy occurs. A fire destroys most of their home. When Farah discovers it might have been her fault, she keeps silent. Like a “rock in her stomach,” her feelings of guilt and remorse never leave her. Will she be able to come to terms with her guilt and stop lying to her parents?

Farah is a strong female character who is not afraid of trying new things, like setting up a creative writing club, even though the school is strongly math and science based. She is tender and loving toward her younger brother, Samir, who is speech impaired. The author deftly describes Arab culture and includes a glossary to explain Arabic vocabulary as well as some advanced English concepts.

Readers receive a bonus. The author shares seven writing prompts that will nurture the talents of budding poets, writers, and journalists. There are a few nicely done black and white illustrations. Length of the book is less than one hundred and fifty pages making it a good choice for reluctant readers as well. I would highly recommend this multicultural book to be used as a read aloud and discussion text about cultural diversity.

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

Check out my learning resources for the entire family at https://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

Who Loves the Dragon?

Written by Bianca Schulze

Illustrated by Samara Hardy

Publisher’s Synopsis: In this interactive follow-up to Don’t Wake the Dragon, our beloved Dragon is wide-awake and preparing to celebrate one of the kingdom’s most important events of the year: the annual Friendship Festival! It’s a time for everyone to gather and have fun, all honoring their meaningful friendships. But on the day of the feast, the cooks are called away to cater to the Queen and the knights must report for special duty in the Enchanted Forest. With everyone gone, Dragon is upset and worried that this year’s Friendship Festival is doomed. Could they be planning something special for her? And in the meantime, can you help cheer her up? With colorful and humorous illustrations throughout, this read-aloud picture book encourages kids to interact with the text on every page. Young readers will love waving to characters, blowing kisses, dancing, and more on this fun ride alongside Dragon and her adorable friends in this delightful story that will beg to be read again and again.

Ages 3-6 | 32 Pages | Publisher: Clever Publishing | ISBN-13: 978-1951100438

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2L4PlVZ

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781951100438

OFFICIAL LINKS:

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

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

Twitter: https://twitter.com/book_mommy

My Review of the Book

Who Loves the Dragon

Written by Bianca Schultz

Illustrated by Samara Hardy

This book is a sequel to Don’t Wake the Dragon. Readers meet a lovable dragon once more when a cat and mouse team urge them to enter the castle and cheer up their dragon friend.

Dragon is feeling down because today is the Friendship Festival. This day is marked by celebrations of all kind throughout the kingdom. But the caterers have been called away, the knights have left for the Enchanted Forest, and no ne is left to celebrate.

Readers are asked to cheer up the despondent dragon. This interactive book asks readers to count to ten, tell jokes, do something kind, and get their little bodies moving. Who could not feel happy after making a friend feel better?

Will you succeed in cheering up Dragon? Will the Friendship Festival ever get reinstated? Read and participate in this fun book to find out.

Highly recommended for preschoolers and primary grade children. This feel-good book will put a smile on adult’s faces as well.

Giveaway

Enter for a chance to win a Who Loves the Dragon? prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A hardcover copy of Who Love the Dragon?, autographed by Bianca Schulze
• A hardcover copy of Don’t Wake the Dragon, autographed by Bianca Schulze
• A Sugarfina “XOXO” 3pc Candy Bento Box
• A $50 Target gift card

The giveaway begins January 6, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends February 5, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282204/

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, January 6, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-Off

Wednesday, January 6, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Thursday, January 7, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Friday, January 8, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Monday, January 11, 2021Margie’s Must ReadsA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Tuesday, January 12, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Wednesday, January 13, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Thursday, January 14, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Friday, January 15, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Monday, January 18, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewAuthor interview withBianca Schulze

Tuesday, January 19, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Wednesday, January 20, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Thursday, January 21, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Friday, January 22, 2021Heart to HeartA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Monday, January 25, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewGuest Post withBianca Schulze

Tuesday, January 26, 2021Word SpelunkingA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Wednesday, January 27, 2021Some the WiserA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Thursday, January 28, 2021Confessions of a Book AddictA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Friday, January 29, 2021Imagination SoupA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Monday, February 1, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Tuesday, February 2, 2021Vivian KirkfieldA book review ofWho Loves the Dragon?

Tuesday, February 2, 2021BookBar DenverVirtual StorytimeWho Loves the Dragon?RSVP to BookBar

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Harper Collins Book Publishers

My review of the book:

The Sea in Winter

Written by Christine Day

Maisie is a seventh-grade student in Seattle who feels like a fish out of water. Until recently, her entire life has revolved around ballet dancing. She has committed herself to a successful career in dance. That world came crashing down when she torn an ACL muscle. Now she has willingly withdrawn from her surroundings and lives a life of misery.

Maisie is part of a blended family. She is Native American. Her mother is Makah, and her stepfather is Piscataway. Maisie’s mother lost her husband during the war in Afghanistan: she later married and had a son, Connor. They are supportive parents who want to help Maisie. She tries hard to fight against the effects of her unforeseen accident and the love her family shower upon her. One thing she cannot resist is her six-year-old brother who adores Maisie.

The family is about to embark upon a trip to visit nearby Makah homelands. Maisie is hopeful that her recent physical therapy will lead her back to her dreams. But it turns out, this trip will not end the way she expects.

Will Maisie find a way back to complete recovery and fulfillment of her dreams or will she need to find a new course?

Day has a magical way of portraying each character in depth. Her description of the sights and sounds of their journey jump off the pages. This novel is a page turner that will have middle-grade readers gripped by the events and the emotions the characters feel as they each complete their journey. Readers will surely empathize and may find themselves associating those emotions with similar experiences. Highly recommended.

Enter for a chance to win a set of two books by Christine Day, including The Sea in Winter.

GIVEAWAY

• A hardcover copy of The Sea in Winter by Christine Day
• A hardcover copy of I Can Make This Promise by Christine Day

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

Four (4) winners receive:

• A hardcover copy of The Sea in Winter by Christine Day

The giveaway begins January 5, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends February 5, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter:

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282202/

OFFICIAL LINK

The Sea in Winter

Publisher’s Synopsis: In this evocative and heartwarming novel for readers who loved The Thing About Jellyfish, the author of I Can Make This Promise tells the story of a Native American girl struggling to find her joy again.

It’s been a hard year for Maisie Cannon, ever since she hurt her leg and could not keep up with her ballet training and auditions.

Her blended family is loving and supportive, but Maisie knows that they just can’t understand how hopeless she feels. With everything she’s dealing with, Maisie is not excited for their family midwinter road trip along the coast, near the Makah community where her mother grew up.

But soon, Maisie’s anxieties and dark moods start to hurt as much as the pain in her knee. How can she keep pretending to be strong when on the inside she feels as roiling and cold as the ocean?

Ages 8-12 | 272 Pages | Publisher: HarperCollins | ISBN-13: 9780063078222

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3mZ0XXQ

Audible: https://amzn.to/3aPSfsy

Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780062872043

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Christine Day is the author of The Sea in Winter and I Can Make This Promise, which was a best book of the year from Kirkus, School Library Journal, NPR, and the Chicago Public Library as well as an American Indian Youth Literature Award Honor Book and a Charlotte Huck Award Honor Book.

You can visit her online at www.bychristineday.com.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Jan 5	Some the Wiser	https://somethewiser.com	Review
Jan 6	Lisa’s Reading	https://lisasreading.com	Book List
Jan 7	Life Is What It’s Called	www.lifeiswhatitscalled.blogspot.com	Review
Jan 8	Library Lady’s Kid Lit	https://janemouttet.wordpress.com/	Review
Jan 11	Fairview Elementary School (Library)	https://fveslibrary.blogspot.com/	Review
Jan 12	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Review & Book List
Jan 13	Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog	https://bamauthor.me	Review
Jan 14	icefairy’s Treasure Chest	http://icefairystreasurechest.blogspot.com/	Review
Jan 15	Heart to Heart	tynea-lewis.com	Giveaway
Jan 18	A Dream Within A Dream	http://adreamwithindream.blogspot.com	Review
Jan 19	Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers	https://insatiablereaders.blogspot.com	Review
Jan 20	Tales of A Wanna-Be SuperHero Mom	http://wannabesuperheromom.blogspot.com/	Review
Jan 21	Word Spelunking	http://wordspelunking.blogspot.com/	Giveaway
Jan 22	ShootingStarsMag	https://shootingstarsmag.net/	Review
Jan 23	Glass of Wine, Glass of Milk	http://glassofwineglassofmilk.blogspot.com/	Review

In partnership with The Awareness Tour hosted by The Children’s Book Review and Jeffrey J. McKenna

TRAVERSING TIME

Saving Dr. Warren… A True Patriot

Written by Jeffery J. McKenna

ABOUT THE BOOK

Saving Dr. Warren … A True Patriot

Written by Jeffery McKenna

Publisher’s Synopsis: Patriotism Prevailed in…

  ✯ The American Revolution

  ✯ WWII

  ✯ 9-11

What About Today?

How do we share Patriotism with America’s Future?

The novel Saving Dr. Warren… A True Patriot answers that question through the eyes of a 14 year old boy.

Steve O’Dell loves to write and does it well. But as an eighth-grade student at Needham Middle School, his talent sometimes seems more an embarrassment than a blessing.

Then, on Veterans Day 2001, Steve’s award-winning essay propels him into an adventure twisting through Revolutionary battles and bloodshed. Thanks to the bizarre bequest of a manuscript and a musket ball from a long-lost family war hero, Steve’s journey with the Revolutionary War hero Dr. Joseph Warren begins.

A time-traveling talisman missing from the archives of one of Boston’s oldest historical societies takes Steve through portals of history, where he walks side by side with a real Boston patriot. He makes house calls with Dr. Warren on March 5, 1770, and stumbles onto the bloodstained streets of the Boston Massacre. From the killings of March 5 to boarding tea ships in 1773, Steve’s history book explodes to life as he helps Dr. Warren and forges a friendship with Boston’s True Patriot. Steve watches Dr. Warren launch Paul Revere on his midnight ride, and he helps Dr. Warren dodge British musket balls in the first battles of the War for Independence. With each adventure, Steve tastes the light that ignites The Revolution.

Steve will eventually convince others that the Revolutionary relic he was given really does open portals through time, but he faces his most difficult quest alone—saving Dr. Warren from the onslaught at Bunker Hill. Can he do it? And if he fails, will he ever return to this century?

Saving Dr. Warren…A True Patriot rips through the pages of history. From the Revolutionary War to the vanishing veterans of World War II, to the ashes of September 11, 2001, Saving Dr. Warren demonstrates to both old and young that patriotism, standing like an old oak tree on a grandfather’s farm, has and will endure.

Ages 11-15 | 366 Pages | Publisher: Jeffery J. McKenna | ISBN-13: 978-0999901205

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3mXKR1x

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeff Mckenna resides in a peaceful Southern Utah town amidst the red rocks that make up National Parks like Zion and Arches. He loves mountain biking over the brightly colored sandstone that surrounds him, as well as new trails he finds when he goes on cross-country RV trips with his wife. Along with reading entertaining historical fiction novels, Jeff believes a great way to learn to love America is by exploring her beautiful landscape and visiting cities and states from sea to shining sea. 

Jeff’s love for his country is what has fostered his love for writing. Uncovering America’s history can be messy, but Jeff dives in with both hands to uncover what lies hidden in our nation’s past. He loves to reveal forgotten heroes and help them come alive for young Americans as they race through the pages of his historical fiction novel, Saving Dr. Warren… “A True Patriot.” 

Jeff would love to hear about the American heroes you’ve discovered as you’ve dived into history! 

For more information, visit https://www.jefferyjmckenna.com/

My Book Review:

As a historian and educator, I applaud the author’s mission to teach young people history while making their journey an entertaining one. I try to do the same with my nonfiction history series.

McKenna pens a novel of historical fiction in which the reader embarks on a time travel adventure. One learns about 9-11, World War II, and the American Revolution. In Part One, readers meet Steve O’Dell, the protagonist. When his eighth-grade teacher announces a Veterans Day essay contest, Steve’s only interest is winning the $500 prize. He gets his best friend Grace to brainstorm with him for ideas, but he decides to pitch the piece only to what he thinks the judges want to hear. When Steve wins the contest, he gets annoyed about the publicity it engenders.

Then Steve discovers an uncle who was a World War II hero. He has been given a manuscript and a musket ball that will allow him to travel back in time to the American Revolution. He walks alongside Dr. Joseph Warren. Steve will find himself at The Boston Massacre and The Boston Tea Party, watch Dr. Warren dispatch Paul Revere, and dodge the musket balls at The Battle of Bunker Hill. Will Steve survive the carnage and find a way to return to the twenty-first century?

This exciting adventure packs lots of historical knowledge inside a compelling middle-grade adventure that will be enjoyed by adult readers as well.

GIVEAWAY

Click on the link below to enter

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282198/

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A copy of Saving Dr. Warren … “A True Patriot,” autographed by Jeffery McKenna
• An original 1700’s musket ball

Two (2) winners receive:

• A copy of Saving Dr. Warren … “A True Patriot,” autographed by Jeffery McKenna

The giveaway begins December 10, 2020, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends January 10, 2020, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Dec 10	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
Dec 11	Lisa’s Reading	https://lisasreading.com	Interview
Dec 12	Life Is What It’s Called	www.lifeiswhatitscalled.blogspot.com	Interview
Dec 14	Life Is What It’s Called	www.lifeiswhatitscalled.blogspot.com	Book Review
Dec 15	Confessions of a Book Addict	http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.com	Book Giveaway
Dec 16	Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog	https://bamauthor.me	Book Review
Dec 17	icefairy’s Treasure Chest	http://icefairystreasurechest.blogspot.com/	Book Review
Dec 18	The Lovely Books	https://thelovelybooksbookblog.blogspot.com/	Interview
Dec 21	Tales of A Wanna-Be SuperHero Mom	http://wannabesuperheromom.blogspot.com/	Book Giveaway
Dec 22	J.R.s Book Reviews	https://jrsbookreviews.wordpress.com/	Book Review
Dec 23	Fairview Elementary School (Library)	https://fveslibrary.blogspot.com/	Book Review
Dec 28	Library Lady’s Kid Lit	https://janemouttet.wordpress.com/	Book Review