IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW AND JEANNE WALKER HARVEY

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ablaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Written by Jeanne Walker Harvey

Illustrated by Loveis Wise

Ages 4-8 | 40 Pages

Publisher: HarperCollins | ISBN-13: 9780063021891

Publisher’s Synopsis: Celebrate the life-changing power of art in this inspiring and stunningly illustrated picture book biography of American artist Alma Thomas.

Meet an incredible woman who broke down barriers throughout her whole life and is now known as one of the most preeminent painters of the 20th century. Told from the point of view of young Alma Thomas, readers can follow along as she grows into her discovery of the life-changing power of art.

As a child in Georgia, Alma Thomas loved to spend time outside, soaking up the colors around her. And her parents filled their home with color and creativity despite the racial injustices they faced. After the family moved to Washington DC, Alma shared her passion for art by teaching children. When she was almost seventy years old, she focused on her own artwork, inspired by nature and space travel.

In this celebration of art and the power of imagination, Jeanne Walker Harvey and Loveis Wise tell the incredible true story of Alma Thomas, the first Black woman to have a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum in New York City and to have her work chosen for the White House collection. With her bold and vibrant abstract paintings, Alma set the world ablaze with color.

Ablaze with Color includes extensive backmatter with photos, an author’s and illustrator’s note, a timeline, and a list of sources and resources, which will be a great tool for parents, educators, and librarians. Perfect for Women’s History Month and Black History Month units alongside such favorites as Malala’s Magic Pencil, Hidden Figures, and Mae Among the Stars.

PURCHASE LINKS

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

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780063021891

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jeanne Walker Harvey has been a longtime docent at the San Francisco Museum of Modern Art. Just like Alma Thomas, Jeanne believes that art brings us joy. Her other picture books include Maya Lin: Artist-Architect of Light and Lines and My Hands Sing the Blues: Romare Bearden’s Childhood Journey. Jeanne studied literature and psychology at Stanford University. She lives in Northern California.

Visit her online at www.jeanneharvey.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Loveis Wise is an illustrator and designer from Washington, DC. They are currently based in Los Angeles and their work often speaks to themes of joy and liberation. Their work can be found through the New Yorker, Google, Adobe, and the New York Times.

You can find them online at www.loveiswise.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Ablaze in Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Written by Jeanne Walker Harvey

Illustrated by Loveis Wise

Harvey and Wise share the story of the first black woman to have her work exhibited in a solo exhibition at the Whitney Museum of Art in New York City. Michele Obama chose her Resurrection painting as the first Black woman’s art displayed in the White House.

Alma grew up in segregated Georgia where schools and institutions remained segregated at the time. Her parents countered that by opening their home to books of all sorts and teachers who gave lectures. Alma preferred to be outside absorbing the colors, sights, and sounds of nature.

Alma’s parents moved to Washington, DC as she turned fifteen. Schools and institutions remained closed to black students. As alma matured, she followed in her parents’ footsteps and brought art to students in her home. She organized field trips and encouraged them to display their work.

When Alma retired from teaching, she turned back to creating her own art projects, infusing them with the colors of nature. She grabbed inspiration from the space program of the late sixties. Galleries soon took notice of her brilliant abstract pieces, leading to her solo exhibit and notoriety. The Mayor of Washington, DC proclaimed “Alma Thomas Day,” on September 9, 1972.

The book features stunning illustrations, along with a timeline of Thomas’s life and historical events. Harvey provides references for young readers to satiate their curiosity and expand their knowledge. Highly recommended resource for students and teachers in elementary, middle school, and beyond.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a classroom set of the picture book Ablaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas!

Three (3) winners receive:

A classroom set of Ablaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas, autographed and personalized for each student and the teacher by Jeanne Walker Harvey (no more than 30 books per set).

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/N6hGR/ablaze-with-color-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Saturday, January 15, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Monday, January 18, 2022Some the WiserA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Tuesday, January 19, 2022Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Wednesday, January 20, 2022Twirling Book PrincessA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Thursday, January 21, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Friday, January 22, 2022Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Monday, January 25, 2022Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Tuesday, January 26, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Wednesday, January 27, 2022Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Thursday, January 28, 2022Books Are Magic TooA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Friday, January 29, 2022The Momma SpotA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Monday, February 1, 2022Writer with WanderlustA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Tuesday, February 2, 2022Me Two BooksA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Wednesday, February 3, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Thursday, February 4, 2022BookShelfMommaA book review ofAblaze with Color: A Story of Painter Alma Thomas

Where Did Grandpa Go? (Grandpa’s Stories)

Written by Mrs.D

Illustrated by Saima Malik

This book is Part One of a two-part series about a beloved grandpa. Grandpa wants to oblige and help, but he has his way of doing things. When his wife makes a simple errand request, he immediately offers to comply. There is one problem, he has a unique way of achieving that goal.

In this tale, Grandma asks her husband to perform four simple errands to purchase ice cream, pizza, soil, and oranges, but in each case, Grandpa causes great anxiety by disappearing. Grandma is frantic. She calls the family, neighbors, hospitals, and police. Ultimately, Grandpa calls from a different destination each time telling her he is unharmed.

This book has a unique message. Not all people follow the accepted way of achieving our goals. It is okay to be different. Mrs. D’s beginning chapter book contains beautiful, color illustrations, and an important life lesson. I would recommend the book for elementary school readers and would also be an excellent choice for families with members afflicted with early Alzheimer’s disease. Looking forward to Grandpa’s adventures in Book 2.

Looking for children’s books to inspire tomorrow’s leaders? Check out http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW AND LORI ADAMS

ABOUT THE BOOK

Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Written by Lori Adams

Ages 9-12 | 336 Pages

Publisher: Spyhop Publishing | ISBN-13: 9781737131205

Publisher’s Synopsis: When a young girl learns she is the Last Heir of the legendary pirate Davy Jones, she is whisked away to begin life aboard an enchanted schoolship for Pirate Heirs where danger and excitement awaits.

Contemporary kids who happen to be Heirs of the most villainous and celebrated pirates in history. Superstitions, mysteries, curses, secrets, strange ocean creatures, undead pirates, and seafaring legends will thrill middle-grade readers in this rollicking, globe-trotting adventure.

Avalina Jones, the Last Heir of the infamous pirate Davy Jones, has never heard of Sea Magic, flying dinghies, Pirate Heir schoolships, phantom islands, undead pirates, or creatures called Half Ones. And she has never understood her strange connection to water. But when a beautiful woman arrives in a swirling waterspout, Avalina’s life explodes with more adventures than she can possibly imagine. She takes her rightful place aboard a giant Pirate Heir schoolship teeming with Heirs of the world’s most nefarious pirates.

Raised as a Landlubber, Avalina quickly realizes bizarre and danger are normal aboard Pirate Heir schoolships-food fights back, school supplies giggle or explode in your face. And not everyone can be trusted.

When Avalina is accused of a terrible crime, she must prove her innocence or risk being banished from the schoolship forever-and this in the middle of a crucial Treasure Hunt!

Avalina races to unlock the secrets of the ship, and makes a dangerous discovery that threatens everyone aboard. With the help of her new friends Charlie, Pippa, and Bummy, Avalina draws closer to the truth, unaware that a deeper, darker fate awaits.

Author Lori Adams expertly delivers a story that is timeless, bringing together elements of sea lore, magic, and adventure. The first book in a seven-book series, Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm, is a romping tale for middle graders who are searching for the next enduring fantasy classic.

PURCHASE LINKS

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

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781737131205

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LORI ADAMS is the author of the Avalina Jones series for middle-grade readers (Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm (#1) as well as two young adult series: The Kate March Mysteries: Speak Easy (#1) set in Hollywood during the Roaring Twenties, and the Soulkeepers Series: Forbidden, Awaken, and Unforgiven, a paranormal fantasy set in the quintessential but fictitious town of Haven Hurst, Connecticut and first published through Random House.

Lori was born and raised in Oklahoma but moved to Southern California where she lives with her family. She loves traipsing along SoCal’s wonderful beaches, watching Angel’s baseball, Cowboys’ football. Aside from writing, Lori loves reading and watching Classic Hollywood Movies.

For more information, visit https://loriadamsbooks.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Written by Lori Adams

Avalina has lived in an orphanage from the age of four. Soon after her tenth birthday, Avalina develops strange powers like breathing underwater. A mysterious, beautiful woman appears to her in a swirling waterspout and turns her life upside down.

This creature swoops her up in a magical dinghy to a phantom pirate ship. Avalina learns that she is the last surviving heir of Davy Jones. This ship is a school for pirate heirs divided into four houses that compete to decipher a pirate map and retrieve its treasure.

Avalina must prove that she is not guilty of an awful crime. There are thrills, adventures, secrets, and legends along the way. Through it all, Avalina is not afraid to stand up for rights, fight the bullies, and work hard. Middle-grade readers will love the wonderfully descriptive language of Sea Magic, ghost pirates, fantasy sea creatures, and strange places. Highly recommended for adventure seekers and fantasy lovers, especially those in the eight to twelve age range.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

An autographed copy of Avalina Jones: And the Eye of the Storm

An Avalina Jones quote tote

A Hands-Off Me Gigglin’ Grog mug

An Avalina Jones fridge magnet

An Avalina Jones bookmark

Two (2) winners receive:

An autographed copy of Avalina Jones: And the Eye of the Storm

An Avalina Jones bookmark

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

https://gleam.io/NKlWV/avalina-jones-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, November 29, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-Off

Tuesday, November 30, 2021The Teacher BookwormA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the StormAn interview with Lori Adams

Wednesday, December 1, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Thursday, December 2, 2021Twirling Book PrincessA book giveaway ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Friday, December 3, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Monday, December 6, 2021Lisa’s ReadingAn article by Lori Adams

Tuesday, December 7, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Wednesday, December 8, 2021Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Thursday, December 9, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the StormAn interview with Lori Adams

Friday, December 10, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Monday, December 13, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Tuesday, December 14, 2021A Homeschooling MomA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Wednesday, December 15, 2021Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Thursday, December 16, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Friday, December 17, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Monday, December 20, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Tuesday, December 21, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

WINTER’S CHILD

Written by J. S. Burke

J. S. Burke is the author of the award-winning Dragon Dreamer series. The marine biologist has applied her storytelling talents to a charming fairytale in verse. Bonus features include detailed directions on how to create beautiful snowflakes.

A young girl named Mariah lives in the frozen North. There are no children her age, so she becomes friends with the wind. Seeking to please her, The Wind fashions clouds, and later snowflakes into images to tell Mariah about the creatures and history of the past. Eventually, the Sun decides to join them creating colors and warmth. Soon the ice begins to melt, and the seasons reemerge.

Mariah possesses an insatiable curiosity about her world but also desperately wants friendship and companionship. Will she ever find her proper place in her world?

Burke provides her readers with beautiful verse and imagery, while, at the same time, enthralling them with tales of dragons, dolphins, hummingbirds, herons, and unicorns. She weaves fiction and nonfiction in a charming tale that will especially delight elementary and middle-grade readers, but one that a reader of any age can enjoy.

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Check out tons more learning resources at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Lindy Nelson

ABOUT THE BOOK

This Is Clare

Written by Lindy Nelson

Illustrated by Ingrid Lefebvre

Ages 4+ | 38 Pages

Publisher: Mascot Kids | ISBN-13: 978-1643073606

Publisher’s Synopsis: Come follow a lady and her hound.

New adventures with new friends will abound.

Learn some English and verse with Lindy and Clare.

We’re in China; we hope to see you there!

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2XQA4io

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lindy Nelson is an American who has spent most of her adult life teaching English in China after graduating from the University of Wisconsin, Milwaukee. She enjoys arts and crafts, funny memes, eating candy, and of course, spending time with her greyhound, Clarence.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

This is Clare is an adorable picture book about a lady named Lindy and her adventures with her greyhound named Clare. The author uses verbs that end in air and are to teach English vocabulary. The illustrations are adorable and the simple text will expand vocabulary for anyone learning English. It is a book that is fun to read aloud and will enrich the vocabulary of native English speakers as well.

The multicultural illustrations that feature Chinese culture will provide a springboard for discussion and further research. This book will delight all ages from preschool to adult English as a Second Language Learners. I am looking forward to more adventures with Lindy and Clare.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of This Is Clare, along with a virtual Questions and Answers session with the author!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

A copy of This Is Clare

A virtual Questions and Answers session with the author via Skype

Nine (9) winners receive:

A copy of This Is Clare

The giveaway ends December 2, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/BSTcn/this-is-clare-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, November 2, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofThis Is Clare

Wednesday, November 3, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofThis Is Clare

Thursday, November 4, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withLindy Nelson

Friday, November 5, 2021Tales of a Wanna-be Superhero MomA beyond-the-book activity forThis Is Clare

Monday, November 8, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofThis Is Clare

Tuesday, November 9, 2020Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway ofThis Is Clare

Wednesday, November 10, 2021Book Bug CAA book review ofThis Is Clare

Thursday, November 11, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofThis Is Clare

Friday, November 12, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofThis Is Clare

Monday, November 15, 2021Me Two BooksA book review ofThis Is Clare

Tuesday, November 16, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofThis Is Clare

Wednesday, November 17, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofThis Is Clare

Thursday, November 18, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofThis Is Clare

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Emerald Lake Books

ABOUT THE BOOK

Greta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Written by Joanna Quinn

Ages 9+ | 190 Pages

Publisher: Emerald Lake Books | ISBN-13: 9781945847448

Publisher’s Synopsis: What’s worse than being invisible? Being noticed by the school bully.

Greta Grace likes her life. She isn’t the most popular girl in school-some days she even feels invisible-but she gets good grades and stays out of trouble.

She has a best friend in Samantha and a grandmotherly neighbor who is never too busy for a chat. Her mom can be a bit overprotective, but Greta Grace doesn’t blame her. Being a single parent probably isn’t the easiest job in the world.

When her longtime crush finally starts noticing her, Greta Grace thinks her life might even be perfect.

But when a merciless bully takes aim at Greta Grace, her carefree existence suddenly ends.

Who ever knew that school could be so hard?

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3A14a0j

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781945847448

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Joanna O’Reilly Quinn can usually be found learning something new to teach teens. As a former middle school teacher, founder of Super Empowered One, and life coach, it is no surprise that her middle-grade fiction book, Greta Grace, weaves some teachable moments into her character’s very relatable experiences. Think, middle school… Ahhh!Through her company, Super Empowered One, Joanna teaches kids how to access their confidence, happiness and power, so they can live their best life. Joanna loves writing, the ocean, a good run, and living in Fairfield, Connecticut, with her husband and two kids. Visit her at superempoweredone.com to learn more about her coaching services and Greta Grace.

If you’re interested in having Joanna conduct a program for your group or come speak to your students, you can contact her at emeraldlakebooks.com/quinn and superempoweredone.com/.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

GROWING PAINS

Greta Grace

Written by Joanna Quinn

Greta Grace is a middle-school student who considers her everyday life an ordinary one. She is an excellent student who tries to stay under the radar. Greta is the daughter of a loving, single mom. She has a special relationship with Mrs. McGee, an elderly next-door neighbor. Her best friend is Samantha; she has a crush on Charlie, who doesn’t seem to notice her.

Greta’s world is turned upside down when Mrs. McGee becomes ill, Casey decides to bully her, and Samantha becomes distant. The only bright spot occurs when Charlie strikes up a relationship with her. But emotions and peer relationships are constantly shifting.  Will Greta Grace learn how to handle her feelings and cope with the bullying?

Quinn does an excellent job of creating empathetic, believable characters for her middle-grade readers. I found the discussion question guide particularly useful. Parents, teachers, and guidance counselors will welcome the guide as an excellent way to discuss sensitive issues with middle-grade students.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Greta Grace, along with a 1-hr coaching session for a parent on how to raise a super-empowered teen.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

A copy of Greta Grace

A 1-hr parenting coaching session with Joanna Quinn

Four (4) winners receive:

A copy of Greta Grace

The giveaway begins September 20, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends October 20, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter the giveaway:

https://gleam.io/4Pvl7/greta-grace-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, September 20, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Tuesday, September 21, 2021Over Coffee ConversationAn interview withJoanna Quinn

Wednesday, September 22, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Thursday, September 23, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Friday, September 24, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Sunday, September 26, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Monday, September 27, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Tuesday, September 28, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Wednesday, September 29, 2021Book Bug CAA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Thursday, September 30, 2021Rajiv’s ReviewsA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Monday, October 4, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Tuesday, October 5, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Wednesday, October 6, 2021Periodical GazetteAn interview and book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

Thursday, October 7, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkAn interview and book review ofGreta Grace: A Greta Grace Gibson Story About Bullying and Self-Esteem

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Big Ideas Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

Fragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Written by Maura Pierlot

Ages 12+ | 126 Pages

Publisher: Big Ideas Press | ISBN-13: 978-0645099805

I feel like I’m a piece, a fragment that’s missing all the good bits, but I don’t know where to find the rest … the parts I need to work properly. I bet they wouldn’t fit anyway. (Lexy, age 17)

Publisher’s Synopsis: Eight young people navigating high school and beyond, each struggling to hold on – to family, to friends, to a piece of themselves. Perhaps you know them. The bubbly girl who keeps telling you she’s okay. The high achiever who’s suddenly so intense. The young teen obsessed with social media. The boy challenged by communication. Every single day they, and others, are working hard to keep it together. So hard, they don’t see their friends are struggling, too. Through eight imagined stories, Fragments moves from a place of disconnection to connectedness.

The action of Fragments takes place in the minds and hearts of an ordinary group of young people. Their stories encompass anxiety, depression, neurodivergence, gender dysphoria, social media, bullying, family dysfunction, cross-cultural diversity, and more, culminating in a sense of hope. Although set in Australia, their stories could take place anywhere.

From the Playwright: Rarely presenting as neat packages, mental health issues often involve feelings and behaviors with jagged edges and blurred origins. Fragments embodies the theme that stress at home, at school, and in life is challenging young people beyond their usual coping abilities, leaving them disenfranchised and vulnerable. So much of adolescent life is spent looking inwards that it’s perhaps not surprising that mental health issues are often internalized. I wrote Fragments to start a conversation. It’s only when we speak openly about mental health issues – without fear or judgment – that we can chip away at the stigma that prevents many people from seeking help. It is my hope that the work will find its way into schools in Australia and overseas. The publication includes a comprehensive Study Guide, detailing activities and curriculum links for English, Drama/Arts, Health & PE, Civics, and more.

A powerful and timely mental health resource for young people and their families. Essential reading for high school.

PURCHASE LINKS

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

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780645099805

Book Depository: https://www.bookdepository.com/Fragments-Maura-Pierlot/9780645099805

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Maura Pierlot is an award-winning author and playwright who hails from New York but has called Canberra, Australia home since the early 1990s. Her writing delves into complex issues including memory, identity, self, and, more recently, mental health. Following its sellout 2019 season in Canberra, Maura’s debut professional theatre production, Fragments is being adapted for the digital space, supported by artsACT. The work is published online by Australian Plays Transforms and in print by Big Ideas Press.

Maura is a past winner of the SOLO Monologue Competition, Hothouse Theatre for her play, Tapping Out. Her plays have been performed in Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney, Brisbane, and Hollywood. A former medical news reporter and editor of Australian Medicine, Maura also writes for children and young adults. In 2017 she was named winner of the CBCA Aspiring Writers Mentorship Program, and recipient of the Charlotte Waring Barton Award, for her young adult manuscript, Freefalling (now True North). Maura’s debut picture book, The Trouble in Tune Town won the 2018 ACT Writing and Publishing Award (Children’s category) along with international accolades.

Maura’s poetry, short stories, microfiction, and essays appear in various literary journals and anthologies. Maura has a bachelor’s degree, master’s degree, and doctorate, each in philosophy, specializing in ethics. When she’s not busy writing, Maura visits schools and libraries as a guest reader and speaker, serves as a Role Model for Books in Homes, and contributes reviews for the Children’s Book Council of Australia’s online magazine, Reading Time.

For further information on Maura and her work, Fragments please visit: https: //maurapierlot.com and https: //fragmentstheplay.com.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Fragments and a $50 Amazon gift card!

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/bJGIX/fragments-giveaway

A copy of Fragments

A $50 Amazon gift card

Four (4) winners receive:

A copy of Fragments

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

MY REVIEW OF FRAGMENTS:

FRAGMENTS: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Written by Maura Pierlot

Fragments is a series of monologues that lend a voice to issues of mental health faced by teens all over the world today. In these monologues, readers follow the struggles of eight teens who seek hope as they fight mental health challenges. Each fight to maintain their connections to family, friends, and the community in which they live. The monologues are representative of the issues faced by youth and adults in the challenging times of which we live.

The actors represent young people around the world struggling with emotional, social, physical, and mental issues during their teenage years. As they reveal themselves, readers at once laugh, cry, feel their pain, and empathize with one or more of the issues described. The actors may appear to be disconnected, but in truth, they are seeking the possibility of connecting with one another.

The study guide included delineates themes, the background of characters, summaries of each monologue, and curriculum guide. While the monologues are matched to the Australian curriculum for high school studies, it can readily be adapted to standards used around the world.

Pierlot’s play provided her audience an opportunity to witness the problems and challenges facing youth today. Now readers of Fragments are given the opportunity to read and ponder the insights of these teens into the causes of mental issues and the realities they present for those who are suffering. Highly recommended read and discussion opportunity for teens and adults.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, September 6, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-OffFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Tuesday, September 7, 2021Over Coffee ConversationA guest article fromMaura Pierlot

Wednesday, September 8, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Thursday, September 9, 2021Tales of a Wanna-Be SuperHero MomA book giveaway ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Friday, September 10, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Monday, September 13, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Tuesday, September 14, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Wednesday, September 15, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Thursday, September 16, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Friday, September 17, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofFragments: Journeys from Isolation to Connection

Saturday, September 18, 2021The Momma SpotAn interview withMaura Pierlot

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and David Horn

ABOUT THE BOOK

Eudora Space Kid

Written by David Horn

Ages 6-10 | 97 Pages

Publisher: David Horn | ISBN-13: 9781736677407

Publisher’s Synopsis: Eudora is a typical 3rd grader. A typical 3rd grader who lives on a 36 deck AstroLiner. In space. A normal girl adopted by what you might call… aliens. Her mom is a dog-like species named a Pox and runs the onboard jail (brig). Her dad is an octopus-like species from the planet Pow. She is a girl who has normal ambitions, like being the chief engineer on an AstroLiner.

Eudora is a girl who comes up with a plan to prove her worth by improving her AstroLiner’s engines and breaking all known speed records. Will she succeed and earn a promotion? Or will she end up in the brig? Again…

Brilliant for engaging emergent and early chapter book readers.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3j0gaIn

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David Horn is a huge science fiction fan. While his wife sometimes feels like they live in outer space, they really live in New Jersey with their two human daughters and one doggy daughter named Trixie. 

David loves reading science fiction books from both the old and new greats like Asimov, McDevitt, Scalzi, Howey, and more. He also loves reading his kids’ books like My Weird School, Just Grace, The Baby-Sitters Club, Ramona, and the list goes on.

David and his daughters also love watching sci-fi shows like Star Trek, Babylon 5, Stargate, and Star Wars. 

Eudora Space Kid started as stories he told his daughters at dinner.  They loved Eudora’s antics in space.  So now The Great Engine Room Takeover is his first book in the Eudora Space Kid early reader chapter book series.  He can’t wait for you to love Eudora’s stories too. 

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

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

MISCHIEF AND MAYHEM

Eudora the Space Kid: The Great Engine Room Takeover

Written by David Horn

Illustrated by Talitha Shipman

This is the first book in a chapter book series sure to delight beginning readers, especially those interested in space travel.

Eudora is a third grader who has been adopted by animal creatures from another planet. She and her older sister, Molly are earth orphans. They live on a spaceship named the Athena, where they travel through the galaxies maintaining peace among the federation. Eudora loves science and experimentation. She constantly gets in trouble for “inventing” things. As the tale opens, she is on a class trip to the flight deck when she decides to fire the plasma cannons. Eudora is put in the brig, but her mother is soon willing to forgive her. On another occasion, Eudora is determined to break the record for traveling past the speed of light. Eudora is determined to become a member of the Astro Fleet command. Do you think she will succeed?

Lots of black and white illustrations enhance the large easy-to-read font for new readers. The dialogue is fun to read, and the plot moves along quickly. Quirky characters and humorous antics create a winning combination for the six to ten age group.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Eudora Space Kid and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives: A signed copy of Eudora Space Kid and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card.

Three (3) winners receive: A signed copy of Eudora Space Kid.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/FBh2q/eudora-space-kid-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Sunday, August 15, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Monday, August 16, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Tuesday, August 17, 2021Over Coffee ConversationA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Wednesday, August 18, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withDavid Horn

Thursday, August 19, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkAn interview withDavid Horn

Friday, August 20, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Monday, August 23, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Tuesday, August 24, 2021Tales of a Wanna-Be SuperHero MomA book giveaway ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Wednesday, August 25, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Thursday, August 26, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Friday, August 27, 2021Me Two BooksA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Monday, August 30, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Tuesday, August 31, 2021Some the WiserA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Wednesday, September 1, 2021Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Thursday, September 2, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Friday, September 3, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Tom Durwood

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Created by Joe Whale

Ages 4-10 | 96 Pages

Publisher: Dover Publications | ISBN-13: 9780486849003

Publisher’s Synopsis: Welcome to a fantastic world of doodles! Over 90 pages of awesome art are waiting for your creative color choices to make them your own. The delightful doodles are the original creations of Joe Whale, also known as the “Doodle Boy,” an inspirational young artist who’s been painting and drawing from a very young age. Join the fun with these playful pictures and ready-to-color doodles!

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2WiefqI

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780486849003

ABOUT THE CREATOR

Joe Whale, known as “The Doodle Boy,” is a talented 11-year-old artist from Shrewsbury, United Kingdom. He started drawing at the age of six, creating charming doodles of food, monsters, aliens, and any other characters his imagination creates. He’s made many television appearances in the United States and his native United Kingdom, and his signature doodles have earned him many social media followers.

His website can be found at www.thedoodleboy.com.

My Review of the Book

Doodle Boy

Created by Joe Whale

For any child who loves to let his/her imagination soar. Created by an eleven-year-boy with a passion for doodling, this coloring book focuses on the thoughts and dreams of children who cannot stop moving that pencil. If you know a doodler, put this book on your must purchase list.

It reminds me of the hidden pictures pages I used to love as a child. Children are invited to discover, sports, food, alien, dinosaur, faces, computer, and environmental pictures, to name just a few. Some pages contain clearly delineated people, while others are a collage of mixed-up themes.

These could be colored with pencils, watercolors, or crayons. Younger and older siblings might enjoy working on a page together. After finishing a page, the child might enjoy creating a story to accompany his illustration. A group of children might take a few completed pages on a common theme and create a play to act out together. There are lots of creative possibilities.

Highly recommended for budding artists, children who need to express their energy in a productive way, and families looking for a family activity to share.

GIVEAWAY

Enter this giveaway and you’ll earn the chance to win a copy of The Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book!

Three (3) winners receive: A copy of The Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

The giveaway begins August 9, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends September 9, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter the Giveaway.

https://gleam.io/u56Ig/the-official-doodle-boy-coloring-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, August 9, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Tuesday, August 10, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Wednesday, August 11, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Thursday, August 12, 2021Some the WiserA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Friday, August 13, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Monday, August 16, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Tuesday, August 17, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Wednesday, August 18, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Thursday, August 19, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Friday, August 20, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book giveaway ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Monday, August 23, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

Tuesday, August 24, 2020Shooting Stars MagA book review ofThe Official Doodle Boy™ Coloring Book

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Ryan O’Connor

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Written by Ryan O’Connor

Illustrated by Xiang Minghui

Ages 6-10 | 48 Pages

Publisher: Xlibris Corp | ISBN-13 : 978-1664153189

Publisher’s Synopsis: Li Li Wang is enjoying Chinese New Year with her family when her grandparents ask her to sit with them. Before giving Li Li her holiday gift, they tell her the story of Ting Ting Wang, Li Li’s ancestor, and how she became a Chinese hero. Li Li carefully listens as her grandparents tell her about Ting Ting, the monster Nian, and the origin of the Chinese New Year celebration. Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China provides insight into China’s biggest holiday, gives a sense of its culture, and shows that girls are just as strong and brave as boys.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2R1YdPv

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781664153189

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ryan O’Connor is a literature and writing teacher in Shanghai, China, and the author of the children’s book series Bobby the Bear. With a background in sports journalism and education, Ryan has turned his focus to writing children’s books. Through unique characters, Ryan provides children with moral and life lessons. Ryan has earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in education; he has also won numerous awards for sports writing. Ryan is a native of Pittsburg, Kansas, but has spent the past ten years living in Shanghai.

To learn more about Ryan and his books, visit his website at www.ryanoconnorauthor.com.

MY REVIEW OF THE BOOK

A FAMILY TRADITION

Ting, Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Written by Ryan O’Connor

Illustrated by Xiang Minghui

Six-year-old, Li Li Wang is getting ready to celebrate Chinese New Year with her parents and grandparents. Her grandmother, Nai, Nai, and grandfather, Ye Ye, decide to tell her about the story of one of her ancestors, Ting Ting Wang.

Ting Ting lived on a farm with her parents and older brothers in the village of Tianyu many years ago. At that time no one paid attention to girls. Ting heard about the monster named Nian who was half unicorn and half dragon. Every year Nian would roam the countryside and attack the villages on New Year’s Eve. Across China, the residents hid themselves, their animals and possessions from the wanton attacks of the monster. But Ting Ting was not afraid. She knew if attacked she would stand and fight. When Nian appeared in her village, she dressed in red, decorated the house with red banners, and set out loud firecrackers. The monster became disoriented and fled. This legend has been handed down from generation to generation.

Elementary grade readers learn about Chinese culture, traditional foods, and customs like the tradition of the red envelope. The multicultural illustrations are charming and vibrant. This tale is a wonderful way to introduce students to Asian culture. Recommended as a read aloud for classroom discussion or a bedtime story for children ages three through eight.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of books by Ryan O’Connor, including Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A copy Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China
• A Ting Ting Bookmark
• A copy of Bobby the Bear and His Missing Dinner
• A copy of Merry Christmas, Bobby the Bear

Two (2) winners receive:

• A copy Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

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

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

https://gleam.io/Wl38D/ting-ting-the-girl-who-saved-china-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, June 1, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-OffTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Tuesday, June 1, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Wednesday, June 2, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 3, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 4, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Sunday, June 6, 2021Feminist Books for KidsA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Monday, June 7, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Tuesday, June 8, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withRyan O’Connor

Wednesday, June 9, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 10, 2021Over Coffee ConversationA Beyond the Book ActivityTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 11, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Wednesday, June 16, 2021Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 17, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 18, 2021Books Are Magic TooAn interview withRyan O’Connor