Alex teaches Mateo a valuable food lesson. After finishing lunch, the two friends are ready to get rid of the trash. Alex shows Mateo the compost bin and explains how it can be used to grow more nutritious food.
They teach readers that not all trash can be composted. Their friends, Mr. Squiggles, the worm, and some friendly bees, join to complete the process.
At the end of the book, parents and teachers find a list of questions for children to answer, and a step-by-step list of directions for creating their own compost bin.
Another book in this author’s series that I recommend highly for preschool and primary grade readers.
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The Lightborn Generation : Children of the Light and the Future of Humanity
Written by Werner Stejskal
Children of the Light is a reflective novel that invites readers into a world where inner transformation, consciousness, and the search for truth take center stage. Werner Stejskal crafts a narrative that blends storytelling with philosophy.
Stejskal’s writing leans into themes of enlightenment, self-discovery, and the interconnectedness of humanity. Readers who enjoy contemplative or metaphysical literature will likely find the book meaningful.
One of the novel’s strengths is its tone, which is calm, introspective, and often poetic. The author explores big questions: Why are we here? What does it mean to live authentically? How do we move beyond fear and limitation? These elements make the book feel almost like a guided meditation at times.
However, readers looking for a traditional, plot-driven story may find the pacing slow. The narrative prioritizes ideas over action. That said, for the right audience, this is precisely what makes the book impactful.
Children of the Light is best suited for readers who appreciate spiritual fiction and are open to exploring deeper questions about life and consciousness. It is an invitation to think, reflect, and perhaps see the world a little differently.
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Publisher’s Book Summary: Tall as the Sun is a heartfelt story that takes readers on a lyrical journey through the eyes of a child as they discover the magic of perspective during a day at the beach with Dad. As our little hero rises higher and higher on Dad’s shoulders, the world transforms into a playground of endless possibilities. From soaring with seagulls to reaching the top of sandcastles, each page brings a new adventure.
Praise: “It’s easy to picture grandparents or parents reading this book to a child before bed as they drift off to dream of sunny beaches, lulled by the rhythmic sound of ocean waves.” —Readers’ Favorite (5 Stars)
Stephanie Henson lives with her family in West Chester, Pennsylvania, with roots in Central New Jersey. She holds a degree in Communications and a Publishing and Professional Writing Certificate from Rider University, and spends her summers in Ocean City, NJ. An active member of SCBWI (Eastern PA Chapter), Stephanie was a 2024 SCBWI Virtual Conference Scholarship winner, and her work has been featured in both print and online publications.
She is the author of the children’s poetry collection In the Right Lane (a #1 New Release in Children’s Poetry) and the picture book No School, My Rules! (a #1 New Release in Children’s School & Education Books and a Tielmour Press best-seller). Tall as the Sun is her newest picture book, releasing with Watchful Wizard Publishing in May 2026.
Beyond her literary pursuits, Stephanie is a passionate advocate for underrepresented creators living with chronic illness, drawing on her own experience with autoimmune conditions. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, catching a show, watching Netflix, admiring sunflowers, cheering on sports, or sipping coffee.
A young girl shares her adventure sitting atop her father’s shoulders on a summer day at the beach. The world of the seashore transforms into multiple adventures as she spies sandcastles, seagulls, and crashing waves. She observes children playing on the beach, boats in the distance, fluffy clouds, and lifeguards standing watch. As daylight dwindles and settles into nighttime, she fondly recalls all the adventures that she shared with the father she loves.
The story uses magical language, including alliteration and repetitive rhymes. Soft colors complement the mood. The author invites elementary school-age readers to imagine themselves sitting tall upon a loved one’s shoulders.
Highly recommended as a bedtime story or fun read-aloud for eager young imaginations.
Readers who join us on this virtual book tour will have the chance to win one of four prizes. One grand prize winner will take home a special bundle featuring signed copies of No School, My Rules!, In the Right Lane, and Tall as the Sun, plus a curated book basket filled with fun, bookish goodies. Three additional readers will each win a signed copy of Tall as the Sun.
Publisher’s Book Summary: Danny Can Read is a bilingual (English–Spanish) picture book that celebrates the magic of reading and the power of learning at your own pace. Dinosaur siblings Danny and Lily discover that their talents shine in different ways — and that they shine the most when they work together. Through a warm, engaging story designed for read-alouds, children explore big feelings like frustration and comparison, practice empathy, and build confidence as they see that differences aren’t obstacles — they’re strengths. Perfect for ages 4–8, ideal for bilingual families and for readers learning English or Spanish.
Diana Paola Navarro Gómez is a Colombian children’s book author and mother of twins, who inspire the heart of her stories. She writes bilingual picture books grounded in real moments from family life — everyday situations transformed into relatable narratives for young readers. Her debut title blends early literacy with social-emotional learning, encouraging confidence, empathy, and patience as children navigate frustration and grow at their own pace.
This bilingual book contains text in Spanish and English on each illustrated page. The characters are a dinosaur family consisting of siblings Lily and Danny, their parents, and a pet parrot named Poli. Lily and Danny are close. They enjoy singing, dancing, and picnicking together. One day, Danny puts the letters of the alphabet together and discovers words. He puts the words together and learns how to read.
Suddenly, his relationship with Lily changes. She becomes jealous of Danny because he spends all his time reading stories about adventures. While Lily knows her alphabet, she cannot read. Can their former close relationship be restored?
Lily possesses a talent that Danny will discover he cannot do without. The dinosaur siblings learn that differences make them stronger when they work together. This book teaches young readers that courage, kindness, and resilience lead to successful accomplishments.
The book is a wonderful resource for bilingual families and classroom teachers.
Friday, April 10, 2026@books.with.courtneyInstagram Post about Danny sabe leer / Danny can read
Monday, April 13, 2026Get Outside and ReadInstagram Post about Danny sabe leer / Danny can read
Tuesday, April 14, 2026Book Zone ReviewsBook Review of Danny sabe leer / Danny can read
Wednesday, April 15, 2026@avainbooklandInstagram Post about Danny sabe leer / Danny can read
Thursday, April 16, 2026Un Viaje en LibroBook Review of Danny sabe leer / Danny can read
Friday, April 17, 2026Deliciously SavvyBook Review of Danny sabe leer / Danny can read
GIVEAWAY
Enter for a chance to win one of three signed paperback copies of Danny sabe leer / Danny can read! One grand prize winner will also receive a 36-piece puzzle inspired by the book along with their signed copy. Giveaway ends April 20, 2026, at 11:30 PM Mountain Time.CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW THE PICTURE.
Al’s Journey: The Night Everything Changed: A Magical Story of Growing Up Fast and Learning Who You Are
Written and illustrated by Marin Darmonkow
This intriguing book contains 32 illustrated pages, but is far more than a picture book story.
The author has combined an earthly tale with mystical elements. At the outset, readers encounter a young boy being raised by his grandfather, who is the shaman of the village. When the shaman turns one hundred years old, he informs his grandson that he must climb the mountain to talk with God about his mission and purpose in life. The boy is guided by fireflies as he continues on his journey.
A book that begins as an adventure story becomes one of philosophical questions as the boy must grow up virtually overnight. Older readers will come face-to-face with finding answers on their own journey.
The illustrations are compelling. They draw the reader into the story and rapidly change its mood as the story evolves. This is a book that can grow with the reader who will return to it time and time again.
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Another adorable addition to the Whiskers, the Cat, book series for elementary-age readers.
In this Christmas Eve addition, Whiskers is curled up under the Christmas tree when he notices a light that needs fixing. He tries but fails, and chaos ensues. Soon, Whiskers is getting into Santa’s goodies, and messing with the stockings on the mantel and the snowman outside the house. Will Whiskers destroy Christmas for his family?
The rhymes are spot on and fun to read aloud. Humor abounds, and the holiday spirit fills the hearts of the reader.
This one is sure to become a Christmas favorite for families and teachers’ holiday libraries.
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Publisher’s Book Summary: Autism: My Invisible Backpack is a heartwarming story that follows two autistic brothers, Adrián and Guillermo, on a mountain hike. Along the way, children discover that everyone carries an invisible backpack filled with feelings and thoughts, sometimes light, sometimes too heavy to carry alone.
Through this powerful metaphor, kids explore four common challenges —masking, hyper-empathy, literal thinking, and emotional overload —while also learning that therapy can be a safe place to unpack and rest.
With simple language, hand-drawn illustrations, and practical tools, this book helps children and families:
✔️ Recognize emotional overload and name feelings ✔️ Create mask-free zones to feel safe and authentic ✔️ See therapy as a trusted space to share openly ✔️ Celebrate moments of being truly seen and valued
A supportive resource for families, educators, and therapists, this story brings comfort, connection, and real strategies to make the autism journey feel lighter.
Dalisse Sequeiros is a devoted mom raising two incredible autistic boys. As a passionate autism advocate, she understands both the joys and challenges that come with parenting autistic children. Dalisse thoughtfully creates books for children ages 6–12, offering stories that celebrate their strengths, differences, and unique ways of connecting with the world.
Her mission is to offer resources that foster understanding, empathy, and confidence, helping autistic children feel seen, valued, and empowered. With every story, Dalisse hopes to create meaningful moments of connection for families navigating the world of autism.
She cherishes every milestone and dedicates herself to promoting acceptance and belonging through her writing.
Inspired by their own parenting journeys, authors Dalisse Sequeiros and Luis Barros have created a touching and practical story that opens a window into the world of a neurodivergent child. Told through the eyes of young Adrián, Autism: My Invisible Backpack follows a family hike that becomes a powerful lesson in understanding emotions and self-acceptance.
As Adrián struggles up the mountain, he learns about the “invisible backpack” we all carry—filled with our thoughts and feelings. The story gently shows how carrying too much emotional weight, or trying to “act normal,” can overwhelm a child on the spectrum. With the loving support of his parents, Adrián learns to unpack that weight and embrace his true self.
Vivid illustrations and easy-to-understand metaphors make complex emotional concepts come alive for young readers. The authors also include helpful notes and strategies for parents, offering guidance on emotional regulation, self-care, and creating safe spaces for every family member.
Autism: My Invisible Backpack is both heartwarming and practical. It is a story that encourages empathy, celebrates differences, and reminds readers that every child deserves to shine in their own way.
GIVEAWAY
Enter for the chance to win one of 10 paperback copies of Autism: My Invisible Backpack by Dalisse Sequeiros. Plus, one lucky grand prize winner will receive a complete set of books from Loving Pieces Books!
CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO SEE THE BOOKS AND ENTER THE GIVEAWAY
November 14, 2025 bamauthorComments Off on EXPLORING THE WORLD OF A NEURODIVERGENT CHILD, Autism: My Invisible Backpack, VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR AND GIVEAWAY
Publisher’s Book Summary: The Night Everything Changed: A Magical Story of Growing Up Fast and Learning Who You Are
What if you woke up tomorrow… a different person?
In Al’s Journey, young readers are invited into the magical story of a boy who grows up overnight—and must learn what it means to grow truly. With dreamlike illustrations and a message that resonates with kids and adults alike, this gentle parable offers a meaningful bedtime read and a touching reminder of the changes we all go through.
Perfect for ages 5 to 9, this book explores:
The mystery and beauty of growing up
Emotional self-awareness for young readers
Gentle lessons in identity, transformation, and empathy
Give your child a story they’ll never forget—with a lesson that will stay with them forever.
Can a child grow up overnight?
Al’s Journey is a magical tale about an orphan boy and his wise grandfather, the shaman of a gold-obsessed tribe that disregarded eating and sleeping while searching for the yellow metal. On his 100th birthday, the shaman announces to Al that it is time for him to begin his own life journey. The boy must climb the mountain alone to reach the roofless sacred hut of the old shaman, where he can ask God crucial questions. As Al makes his way up the mountain peak guided by mystical fireflies, he faces challenges that test his courage and strength. When he finally reaches the summit, Al asks the creator profound questions about the true meaning of life. The valuable experience of the voyage and the response of the supreme being help Al grow mentally, emotionally, and physically overnight and become the healer his tribe needs.
His name is Marin* and he marinates his picture books in a creative concoction brewed on the very beach of the Atlantic East Coast. Marin writes the stories, illustrates the pages, designs the covers, arranges the layout of the elements, and publishes the books. Sometimes he creates new fonts for his titles to make them complete pieces of art. His food-for-thought creations contain only natural ingredients. They are nutrient-dense and perfect for a balanced brain diet.
WARNING: Marin’s books tend to inspire young readers!
*Recipient of the Literary Titan Book Award, Wishing Shelf Book Award, and Creative Child Magazine 2025 Picture Book of the Year; 2024 American Book Fest finalist
This stunningly illustrated picture book offers much food for thought for beginning readers. Marin relates a familiar tale of greed, portraying villages that forget the importance of human dignity while relentlessly pursuing their quest for gold and material wealth. Alongside that storyline, an elderly shaman struggles to train his young adopted grandson to assume the responsibilities as the village shaman. This young boy, Al, climbs the mountain to answer three questions and save his people.
Adults reading this book aloud are given multiple opportunities to explore deeper questions, such as the spiritual nature of God and the important values of life, including empathy and the dignity of the human spirit. Al must learn to assess his own strengths and abilities as well as his frailties. Readers are then encouraged to evaluate their own.
GIVEAWAY
Everyone who enters the giveaway will receive links to download two of Marin’s creations: a free e-book and a free audiobook! One grand prize winner will receive $200 via PayPal along with the audio version of Al’s Journey. Another winner will receive $50 via PayPal and the audiobook, and a third winner will receive $20 via PayPal and the audiobook.
Max’s Big Adventure: Traveling with Food Allergies
Written by Sally Huss and Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino
HUSS AND HAMILTON-GUARINO have addressed an important subject that affects the everyday lives of millions of children. Kudos to both authors for providing a teaching tool to entertain and educate kids about allergies and actionable resource links to guide their parents.
I love the way Max takes charge of his health and speaks intelligently and confidently to both adults and children about his problem. The list of resources is valuable to parents, grandparents, and teachers who need to get the most update information on food allergies.
Recommended highly to the growing number of families who face this problem.
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S Is For Swords: And So Are All The Other Letters (The Amazing World of Swords)
Written by Luke Ralliston
What a unique and fascinating book!
The author has managed to find a sword that begins with every letter of the alphabet. In addition, Rawlings lists the advantages and disadvantages of each with wry, sarcaster humor. The illustrations are amazing!
Readers learn letters of the alphabet along with the history and culture of each sword. A must for sword fans of any age. This book can be appreciated by a reader of any age who has an interest in swords.
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July 19, 2026
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