This post is sponsored by Sandrine Marlier. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Odette’s Alphabet

Written by Sandrine Marlier

Ages 5+ | 64 Pages

Publisher: Belle Isle Books | ISBN-13: 9781953021519

Publisher’s Book Summary: One day, Odette the ant wakes up feeling stressed. After realizing that all she does is work, Odette decides to leave her anthill in search of the freedom to create her own world. Along the way, she meets Marcus, a lost mouse, and together they discover simple ways to feel better. Inspired by her journey and this wonderful new friendship, Odette finds her way back home to the colony with a new sense of being.

Odette’s Alphabet is a mindful story that offers a map to handle big emotions with kindness, unity, and courage. Fun and easy activities support each of the chapters, along with letters of the alphabet to provide additional opportunities for learning while encouraging young readers to explore meditation practices.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sandrine Marlier woke up one day in her New York apartment feeling out of sorts. She realized that no matter how many trips she would take around the world, thanks to her modeling career, only a journey within could bring her peace. Eventually, she trained with world-renowned meditation teacher davidji. That training inspired this book, as she found herself drawing an ant and a sound: A, the beginning of all beginnings. Sandrine is a mother, meditation teacher, transformational coach, and Reiki practitioner. She shares free meditations about healing and empowerment on Instagram (@sandrinemarlier).

You can connect with her through her website, www.sandrinemarlier.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

FINDING ONESELF

Odette’s Alphabet

Written by Sandrine Miller

Illustrated by Leonardo Schiavina

An alphabet book like no other. Marlier provides her readers with an adventure story that teaches the value of friendship, love, courage, teamwork, and cooperation.

The protagonist, Odette, wakes up feeling stressed. Every day she works hard in the ant colony. Determined to take a break, Odette leaves the colony to find peace and rid herself of stress. Odette meets Marcus, a mouse who is lost. They set off to find his home.

Each part of their adventure features a letter of the alphabet paired with a word. On the bottom of each page, Marlier suggests a meditation or relaxation activity for children and/or adults to practice. Each of these facilitates a peaceful, stress-free state.

By the end of the adventure, children learn many valuable life lessons as well as practical steps to relieve stress and create empathetic community relationships. Simple colorful illustrations enhance the text.

Highly recommended for children ages three to eight but it could be a useful tool for anyone seeking to rid themselves of stress.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway below for the chance to win a paperback copy of Odette’s Alphabet and a $25 Amazon gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

A copy of Odette’s Alphabet

A $25 Amazon Gift Card

Two (2) winners receive:

A copy of Odette’s Alphabet

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/DySGV/odettes-alphabet-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, April 10, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Tuesday, April 11, 2023Writer with WanderlustA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Wednesday, April 12, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Thursday, April 13, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Friday, April 14, 2023Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway of Odette’s Alphabet

Monday, April 17, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Tuesday, April 18, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Wednesday, April 19, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Thursday, April 20, 2023Shooting Stars MagA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Friday, April 21, 2023My Reading GetawayA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Monday, April 24, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Tuesday, April 25, 2023Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Wednesday, April 26, 2023Me Two BooksA book activity paired with Odette’s Alphabet

Thursday, April 27, 2023JoanasbookshelfA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Friday, April 28, 2023Crafty Moms ShareA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Monday, May 1, 2023Because I Said SoA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

Tuesday, May 2, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of Odette’s Alphabet

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.

This post is sponsored by Caron Pescatore. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Phoebe Chen Mystery: The Book Bandit

Written by Caron Pescatore

Illustrated by Amanda Neves

Ages 7+ | 136 Pages

Publisher: Pesky Books 4Kidz | ISBN-13: 9781958043097

Publisher’s Book Summary: Phoebe loves anything that involves brainstorming, like jigsaw puzzles, riddles, and word searches. Her lifelong dream is to solve mysteries like her detective father—or ND, her favorite girl detective. So when a friend’s prized autographed book disappears, Phoebe immediately offers to take on the case.

Enlisting the help of her BFF, Phoebe gets to work searching for clues, interviewing witnesses, and compiling a list of suspects. But when the evidence implicates a friend, she realizes being a detective isn’t all fun and games. Phoebe must find concrete evidence before she points the finger. Can she do it, or will the book bandit get away with the dastardly deed?

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR-ILLUSTRATOR

Caron Pescatore was born in the United Kingdom. She spent her childhood in Jamaica before migrating to the United States. After practicing as a registered nurse for several years, she entered law school, getting her J.D. in 2001. She worked as an attorney for years before leaving the profession to become a stay-at-home mom—her most challenging career to date. Ms. Pescatore recently returned to law and now works for Legal Aid. Her favorite pastimes are reading, writing, and watching true-crime shows. At present, Ms. Pescatore lives in Florida with her husband and children.

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

https://www.instagram.com/caronpescatore/

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

NOT AS EASY AS IT SEEMS

The Book Bandit (A Phoebe Chan Mystery}

Written by Caron Pescatore

Illustrated by Amanda Neves

Eight-year-old Becky and her best friend Luana belong to a soccer team. When Becky, a teammate, loses her treasured autographed book, Becky immediately decides to follow in her father’s footsteps and become a detective to solve the mystery and find the thief. The two best friends interview all the members of the team to uncover clues as to the identity of the bandit. They soon realize that the evidence may lead to an unfortunate conclusion.

One of my favorite parts of this chapter book is that the author takes pains to present both sides of the story teaching young readers that it is important not to jump to conclusions without looking at all sides. The black and white illustrations within the chapters are fun to look at and incentivize reluctant readers to sustain interest. Characters are age appropriate and relatable.

I highly recommend the first book of this mystery series to beginning readers and middle-grade readers.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a paperback copy of The Book Bandit, autographed by Caron Pescatore.

Four (4) winners receive:

– A signed paperback copy of A Phoebe Chen Mystery: The Book Bandit

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/HxYMI/the-book-bandit-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, April 10, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewThe Book Bandit Tour Kick Off

Tuesday, April 11, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of The Book Bandit

Wednesday, April 12, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of The Book Bandit

Thursday, April 13, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of The Book Bandit

Friday, April 14, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of The Book Bandit

Monday, April 17, 2023Crafty Moms ShareA book review of The Book Bandit

Tuesday, April 18, 2023JoanasbookshelfA book review of The Book Bandit

Wednesday April 19, 2023Reading Is My SuperpowerA book review of The Book Bandit

Thursday, April 20, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of The Book Bandit

Friday, April 21, 2023Me Two BooksA book activity paired with The Book Bandit

Monday, April 24, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewA book review of The Book Bandit

Tuesday, April 25, 2023Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway of The Book Bandit

Wednesday, April 26, 2023My Reading GetawayA book review of The Book Bandit

Thursday, April 27, 2023Twirling Book PrincessA book review of The Book Bandit

Friday, April 28, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledAuthor interview with Caron Pescatore

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH CAROLE P. ROMAN

This post is sponsored by Carole P. Roman. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Written by Carole P. Roman

Illustrated by Leen Roslan

Ages 4+ | 46 Pages

Publisher: Chelshire | ISBN-13: 9781950080090

Publisher’s Book Summary: Snail and Worm are having a dispute.
It’s causing quite a ruckus in their home.
Many of the other inhabitants of the garden are affected by their fight.
Will they be able to put their differences aside when they learn the garden’s existence is threatened?

What’s a bug to do?

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

Bookshop.org

Barnes and Noble

OFFICIAL LINKS

http://www.caroleproman.com/

https://www.facebook.com/CarolePRomanAwardWinningAuthorAndBooks/

https://twitter.com/caroleproman?lang=en

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

IT TAKES A VILLAGE

MRS. SPRING’S GARDEN

Written by Carole P. Roman

Illustrated by Leen Roslan

An earthworm churns away in the garden doing his job. He disturbs the snail, the bees, and the butterflies. Each of the garden creatures wants to get his job done, but they cannot seem to get out of each other’s way. When a monster appears, they scatter until the danger is gone.

Will the garden’s inhabitants learn to work as a team for the benefit of all? Is it possible to overcome individual differences for their mutual benefit?

This adorable picture book speaks volumes about friendship, cooperation, teamwork, and empathy for all kinds of life. Endearing characters and large text create appeal for the youngest audience as well as a beginning reader.

Highly recommended for preschoolers and elementary school age readers. A perfect choice to welcome the Spring season.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an autographed copy of Mrs. Spring’s Garden and a $100 Amazon gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

– A signed copy of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

– A $100 Amazon Gift Card

Nine (9) winners receive:

-A signed copy of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Click on the link below to enter the giveaway:

https://gleam.io/oU1lO/mrs-springs-garden-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, March 20, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Monday, March 27, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Tuesday, March 28, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Wednesday, March 29, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Thursday, March 30, 2023Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Friday, March 31, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Monday, April 3, 2023Heart to HeartAuthor interview with Carole P. Roman

Tuesday, April 4, 2023My Reading GetawayA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Wednesday, April 5, 2023Crafty Moms ShareA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Thursday, April 6, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Friday, April 7, 2023J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Tuesday, April 11, 2023Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Wednesday, April 12, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Thursday, April 13, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Friday, April 14, 2023Writer with WanderlustA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

Monday, April 17, 2023JoanasbookshelfA book review of Mrs. Spring’s Garden

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Alysson Foti Bourque.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Written by Alysson Foti Bourque

Illustrated by Chiara Civati

Ages 4+ | 32 Pages

Publisher: Pelican Publishing | ISBN-13: 9781455627233

Publisher’s Book Summary: Alycat hosts a big sleepover, complete with games, s’mores, and ghost stories. A surprise guest adds suspense!

People are talking . . .

The Alycat Series features Alycat and the Thursday Dessert Day, Alycat and the Monday Blues, Alycat and the Friendship Friday, Alycat and the Tournament Tuesday, Alycat and the Cattywampus Wednesday, and Alycat and the Sleepover Saturday.

The books in this series have won more than 17 awards, including the NYC Big Book Award, the Mom’s Choice Awards, and the Next Generation Indie Book Awards; have been featured in Kirkus Reviews and Publishers Weekly; and have appeared in the Oscars celebrity swag bag and the Grammy Awards gift bag. Sarah Ferguson, the Duchess of York, featured Bourque and her life-size mascot, Alycat, on her popular YouTube channel Little Red News.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Award-winning author Alysson Foti Bourque is a certified elementary education teacher and attorney who practiced law for six years before turning to writing full time. Her books featuring Alycat have been recipients of the NYC Big Book Award, the Mom’s Choice Awards, and the Next Generation Indie Book Awards; have been featured in Kirkus Reviews and Publishers Weekly; and have appeared in the Oscars celebrity swag bag and the Grammy Awards gift bag.

Find Alyson and Alycat online at www.alycatseries.com.

https://www.facebook.com/thealycatseries/

https://www.instagram.com/thealycatseries/

Tweets by AlyssonFBourque

https://www.youtube.com/c/TheAlycatSeries

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

SCAREDY CATS

Alycat and the Sleepover Saturday

Written by Alysson Foti Bourque

Illustrated by Chiara Civati

Alycat eagerly awaits her Saturday night sleepover with her kitten friends when she receives a phone call from Luna. The phone reception is poor, but Alycat thinks she hears that Luna cannot come but has an important secret to share.

The kittens enjoy playing Drop the Cake, cooking s’mores and telling ghost stories. As darkness falls, fear sets in. Suddenly a shadow falls on the outside of the tent and the kittens scream.

Who is stalking outside their tent? Will Luna reveal her secret? Read the newest release in the Alycat series to find out the answers.

Vibrant illustrations and large text will please the primary grade audience or beginning reader. The book includes a sleepover checklist for readers who would like to enjoy one with their friends.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover, autographed by Alysson Foti Bourque.

Two (2) winners receive:

A copy of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover, signed by Alysson Foti Bourque

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/pAENq/alycat-and-the-sleepover-saturday-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, March 8, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Thursday, March 9, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Friday, March 10, 2023Me Two BooksA book activity to pair with Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Monday, March 13, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Tuesday, March 14, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Wednesday, March 15, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Thursday, March 16, 2023JoanasbookshelfA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Friday, March 17, 2023Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Monday, February 20, 2023My Reading GetawayA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Tuesday, March 21, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview with Alysson Foti Bourque

Wednesday, March 22, 2023Crafty Moms ShareA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Thursday, March 23, 2023Twirling Book PrincessA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Friday, March 24, 2023Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Monday, March 27, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

Tuesday, March 28, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of Alycat and the Saturday Sleepover

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Ona Gritz.

ABOUT THE BOOK

August or Forever

Written by Ona Gritz

Ages 9 + | 108 Pages

Publisher: Fitzroy Books | ISBN-13: 9781646033072

Publisher’s Book Summary: Ten-year-old Molly has always loved having a sister, but sisters are supposed to live together, right? Molly certainly thinks so. Unfortunately, her older half-sister Alison lives on a whole other continent. Their video chats are great, and Molly is thrilled when Alison’s hand-written letters arrive in the mail like surprise gifts.

Still, it’s not enough, not compared to what other siblings have. That’s why when Molly finds out that Alison is finally coming to visit over the summer, she devises a plan to get her sister to stay. But then Alison arrives with plans of her own, a fragile heart gets broken, and Molly stumbles upon a painful piece of her sister’s past. Molly has always loved having a sister, but this is the August when she’ll learn what it really means to be one.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ona Gritz is the author of two previous children’s books, including Tangerines and Tea, My Grandparents and Me, a Nick Jr. Family Magazine Best Alphabet Book of the Year and Scholastic Parent & Child Magazine Teacher’s Pick. Her essays and poems have been published widely. Recent honors include two Notable mentions in The Best American Essays, a winning entry in The Poetry Archive Now: Wordview 2020 project, two 2021 Pushcart nominations, and a 2022 Best of the Net nomination.

Learn more about her work at onagritz.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

A RELATIONSHIP REDEFINED

August or Forever

Written by Ona Gritz

Ten-year-old Molly is excited that Alison, her older stepsister, will be leaving her home in London to visit upstate New York. Throughout the years Molly has carried on a virtual relationship with her sister, meeting only once years ago. Now Alison has graduated university and Molly devises a plan to ensure her visit becomes permanent.

This tale is narrated in first person by Molly. Perhaps she loves Alison too much. Each of the girls have experienced troubles and losses. Molly needs to learn to recognize her sister’s needs as well as her own.

Gritz develops the characters in detail, using apt dialogue that conveys their emotions. She explores family bonds including complex issues like love and loss. The chapters are short and easy to follow. While the book targets a middle-grade audience, it also strikes a chord among adult readers. A great book for a book club or classroom discussion; the author includes starter questions at the end of the story.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a paperback copy of August or Forever, autographed by Ona Gritz, and a glass heart necklace (like one that figures prominently in the story)!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

A signed, paperback copy of August or Forever

A glass heart necklace

Nine (9) winners receive:

A signed, paperback copy of August or Forever

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/bOrBE/august-or-forever-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, February 1, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of August or Forever

Thursday, February 2, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of August or Forever

Friday, February 3, 2023Writer with WanderlustA book review of August or Forever

Monday, February 6, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of August or Forever

Tuesday, February 7, 2023The Growing Readers PodcastAn author interview with Ona Gritz

Wednesday, February 8, 2023Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review of August or Forever

Thursday, February 9, 2023My Reading GetawayAn author interview with Ona Gritz

Friday, January 10, 2023J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of August or Forever

Monday, February 13, 2023BookshelfmamaAn Instagram post of August or Forever

Tuesday, February 14, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewA booklist featuring August or Forever

Wednesday, February 15, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewAn article by author Ona Gritz

Thursday, February 16, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn article by author Ona Gritz

Friday, February 17, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of August or Forever

Monday, February 20, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledAn author interview with Ona Gritz

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Kraine Kreative

ABOUT THE BOOK

Space Baby

Written by Jay Dee

Illustrated by Tom McGrath

Ages 3+ | 32 Pages

Publisher: Kraine Kreative | ISBN-13: 9781777426118

Publisher’s Book Summary: When Angelic hears that Daddy spread his love for her around the whole universe, she worries she hasn’t done the same for her baby brother. Only one thing to do! Brother and sister rocket into the night sky to explore the universe in search of the most awesome thing there. “Space Baby Salute!”

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Under multiple pen names, Jay Dee is the Wall Street Journal bestselling author behind chart-topping comics, fiction novels, and business books, including THE NIGHT BEFORE THE NIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS and GROW THROUGH IT, which was written, illustrated, and published during the CV-19 lockdown with proceeds donated to coronavirus relief efforts. PASS THE PIG: LEADERSHIP BY ATTRACTION was his first non-fiction book, and he made his fiction debut with the multimedia sci-fi/fantasy THE PLAGUE and EZEKIAL, followed by RENEGAYD, all of which became bestsellers.

To learn more about Jay Dee and his books, visit www.KraineKreative.com and www.spacebabybook.com/.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Tom McGrath is based in the North West of England, working as a freelance illustrator since 2012. Despite being repeatedly told that all artists drink too much absinthe, cut their own ears off , and only make money after they’re dead – he has always wanted to be one. In fact, this has only encouraged him. He still has both his ears.

To learn more, visit www.SpikedMcGrath.com.

My Review of This Book:

Space Baby

Written by Jay Dee

Illustrated by Tom McGrath

Angelica is infatuated with outer space. Her father tells her that his love for her fills the universe. One thing bothers her. Angelica has not spread her own message of love for her baby brother, Ollie.

Angelica cannot sleep. She transports her brother and herself on a trip through space visiting the galaxy, sun, planets, and space objects. She leaves a message of love everywhere they go. Soon she becomes sleepy and decides that finishing the task will have to wait.

This is a charming, picture book that teaches young children about family values and the world around us. Its story contains lots of dialogue among the main characters. The illustrations are colorful and endearing to young and old alike. While I would recommend the book especially for children under five, its universal message is one that should be shared with any age reader.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win an autographed copy of Space Baby and a $250 donation to The Planetary Society and its mission to increase discoveries in our Solar System, elevate the search for life beyond our planet, and decrease the risk of Earth being hit by an asteroid.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

A signed copy of Space Baby

A $250 donation made in your name to The Planetary Society and its mission to increase discoveries in our Solar System.

Nine (9) winners receive:

A signed copy of Space Baby

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/rLOtc/space-baby-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, January 9, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Space Baby

Tuesday, January 10, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of Space Baby

Wednesday, January 11, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of Space Baby

Tuesday, January 17, 2023Me Two BooksA book activity to pair with Space Baby

Wednesday, January 18, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Space Baby

Thursday, January 19, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Space Baby

Friday, January 20, 2023Because I Said SoA book review of Space Baby

Monday, January 23, 2023Twirling Book PrincessA book giveaway of Space Baby

Tuesday, January 24, 2023J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of Space Baby

Wednesday, 25, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewA book giveaway of Space Baby

Thursday, January 26, 2023Confessions of a Book AddictA book review of Dog Park

Monday, January 30, 2023My Reading GetawayA book review of Space Baby

Tuesday, January 31, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledA book review of Space Baby

Wednesday, February 1, 2023Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review of Space Baby

I am honored to participate in the 10th anniversay of an event that I have been involved in since its inception. Here’s to all the readers of the world, big and small, young and old, from all corners of the globe.

DREAMS SHARED IN A BOTTLE

Arletis, Abuelo, and the Message in a Bottle

Written by Lea Aschkenas

Illustrated by Cornelius Van Wright and Ying-Hwa Hu

A beautifully written and illustrated children’s book with an inspiring message. Arletis lives on a tiny street in a Cuban village. When she gazes at her location on a map in school, she dreams of the world that stretches beyond her small world. While Arletis is content living with her parents, sister, and grandmother, a tiny voice inside wants to know what lies beyond it.

One day, her parents take her to the seashore. Arletis finds a bottle washed ashore that contains a message in a foreign language. She writes back in her native language and hopes for a response. Thousands of miles away, an elderly tugboat captain answers her message. The rest of the tale is magical. Maybe dreams in a bottle come true.

The author is masterful in creating beautiful language phrases to convey her message. For example, “In summer, the heat got so heavy and thick it rolled down the street in dizzying waves…” Images portray the spirit and emotions of the characters. They literally jump off the pages drawing in the eyes of the reader. Bonus features include a Cuban recipe, glossary of unfamiliar words, and a list of resources to continue learning more. The book will be available in Spanish and English editions. Based on a true story, this multicultural tale will delight children and adults of all ages.

Don’t miss this release in April 2023.

THANK YOU to our wonderful MCBD participants and supporters including Co-Hosts, Medallion and Author Levels Sponsors, book reviewers, book donators, and readers! 

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Bunny Books

ABOUT THE BOOK

Lulu the Beaver

Written by Bethany Gano

Ages 5+ | 48 Pages

Publisher: Bunny Books | ISBN-13: 9781736147269

Publisher’s Book Summary: In a colony full of busy beavers, one bashful beaver is hiding a gigantic secret.

Lulu tries to be a typical beaver, but her dream of being an artist is getting out! Despite her friends’ encouragement, Lulu’s struggle with fear and self-doubt has led her into a pattern of destroying her artwork — until an unexpected encounter changes Lulu, and the forest, for good.

With funny asides, sound effects, and elements of comic-book style, this eye-opening tale urges kids to confront gloomy thinking and gives them the courage to bravely share their gifts.

“The idea of feeling…boxed in by others’ expectations…is a complicated subject to tackle, but Gano handles it deftly. Gano’s evocative text, combined with her dynamic and multihued mixed media illustrations, make for an immersive and atmospheric reading experience.”

—BookLife Review, Editor’s Pick

“[Lulu] loves the rhythms of the world and cherishes her forest neighbors — but she also dreams in color and yearns to chew stumps into shapes. Ebullience ferries this inspiring tale forward, and the revelation of Lulu’s beautiful differences is a triumphant moment for all.”

—Foreword Reviews (Starred Review)

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

Author’s Website

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Bethany Gano’s first large-scale work of art landed all over her parent’s kitchen floor — despite her witty, four-year-old attempt to give credit for the fine piece to her imaginary friends! She never stopped creating, though, and eventually learned the best places to display her artwork. Bethany has worked in the commercial arts for over twenty years and loves storytelling through art and design. She is extra fond of picture books — a place where art and words can’t survive without each other. Lulu the Beaver is her debut picture book.

Off the clock, you can find Bethany covered in paint, playing board games, swimming, daydreaming at the beach, and attempting to walk her dogs. She, her husband, three kids (and other furry and scaly family members) call Central Florida home.

For more information, visit: bethanygano.com.

https://www.instagram.com/bethanygano/

https://www.facebook.com/bethanyganoarts

Tweets by bethanyganoarts

https://www.luluthebeaver.com/

My Review of This Book

Lulu the Beaver

Written and illustrated by Bethany Gano

Lulu is a conscientious beaver. She loves the sounds of the forest and appreciates the work of her fellow beaver friends, but Lulu has one big problem. When she dreams, Lulu aspires to become an artist. She feels ridden with guilt because she should be doing a beaver’s work, yet she feels she could also utilize her other talents.

Children learn about the work of beavers, how they cooperate with friendship and hard work to get their necessary chores accomplished but also that there is an opportunity to reach out and follow one’s dreams.

The illustrations are colorful and whimsical. Life-lessons combined with a fanciful picture book tale make this book a worth-while choice for any elementary school-age reader.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win one of three signed copies of Lulu the Beaver or one of two very awesome Lulu the Beaver prize packs: The Illustration Pack or The Blast-Off Pack.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

THE ILLUSTRATION PACK

A signed, hardcover copy of Lulu the Beaver

A blank sketchbook

A set of four Blackwing Volumes pencils

A pack of metal pencil caps

One custom-painted illustration by Bethany of a name of your choosing (in Lulu’s forest lettering style shown, but the palette can be customized).

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

THE BLAST-OFF PACK

A signed, hardcover copy of Lulu the Beaver

A copy of Lulu’s Activity Book

One “Dream On” patch

One “Lulu Blast” sticker

One “Lulu Blast” bookmark

Three (3) winners receive:

A signed, hardcover copy of Lulu the Beaver

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/8Jrv2/lulu-the-beaver-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

December 27	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
January 4	The Fairview Review	https://fveslibrary.blogspot.com/	Book Review
January 5	The Momma Spot	https://themommaspot.home.blog	Book Review
January 6	Me Two Books	https://www.metwobooks.com/blog	Book Activity
January 9	Twirling Book Princess	https://twirlingbookprincess.com/	Book Giveaway
January 10	icefairy’s Treasure Chest	http://icefairystreasurechest.blogspot.com/	Book Review
January 11	Cover Lover Book Review	https://coverloverbookreview.blogspot.com	Interview
January 12	JRs Book Reviews	https://jrsbookreviews.com/	Book Review
January 13	Confessions of a Book Addict	http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.com	Book Giveaway
January 16	My Reading Getaway	https://myreadinggetaway.blogspot.com	Guest Post
January 17	Life Is What It’s Called	lifeiswhatitscalled.blogspot.com	Interview
January 18	Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog	https://bamauthor.me	Book Review
January 19	Lisa’s Reading	https://lisasreading.com	Book Review
January 20	Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers	https://insatiablereaders.blogspot.com	Guest Post
January 23	The Review Wire	https://thereviewwire.com/	Book Review

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Kathryn Kazoleas

ABOUT THE BOOK

Dog Park

Written by Kathryn Kazoleas

Ages 6+ | 116 Pages

Publisher: Kathryn Kazoleas | ISBN-13: 9781777426118

Publisher’s Book Summary: Gibson the Labradoodle is about to begin her first day of training to become a dog park ambassador, something she has been dreaming about her entire life. Dog park ambassadors hold a very high honor within the dog park community and have many important roles to make sure the dog park is a fun and safe place to be. She has so many great ideas and cannot wait to get started.

While Gibson is training alongside lead ambassador and trainer, Meistro the bulldog, things don’t go as planned. Gibson meets challenge after challenge and isn’t allowed to introduce any of her new ideas. Being a dog park ambassador isn’t what she thought it would be, so she starts to question whether the role is really for her. At the end of her very first training shift, and just as she’s about to give up and tell Meistro she isn’t cut out to be a dog park ambassador after all, there’s an emergency at the river. One of the dog park’s new puppies, Clover, has swum too far out and cannot get back to shore.

Gibson’s best friend and greatest supporter, Stretch the dachshund, convinces her she must help. Gibson springs into action, with Stretch at her side and encouraging her the entire time. Gibson saves the day…almost! Having been swept downstream and far away from the dog park, Gibson is forced to lead the trio back to safety. There’s only one way back through a dark forest with strange sounds and smells. The sun is starting to go down and everybody is tired and scared. But Gibson knows she has to get her friends back home, despite what or who gets in her way.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathryn Kazoleas is a Canadian author. Her furry roommates and copy-editors Keeva the cat, as well as Koa and Freddy the labradoodles, inspire her stories every day. The way they see and experience the world inspires her to dream up and express what she can only describe as fun, chaotic, and innocent adventures. Kathryn has been writing for many, many years, with her most recent work being the middle-grade chapter books “Dog Park” and its sequel “Dog Daycare”. Her short story “Just Be There” can also be found in Chicken Soup for the Soul’s “My Hilarious, Heroic, Human Dog”.

For more information, visit www.kathrynkazoleas.com, https://www.instagram.com/kathrynkazoleas/, and https://twitter.com/kkazoleaswriter.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Dog Park. It’s Not All Fun and Games

Written by Kathryn Kazoleas

A fun book that will delight animal lovers. Gibson and her canine friends are protagonists who personify the lovable canine kingdom.

Their adventure starts with Gibson and her human Tyler arriving at the dog park. Today is a special one for Gibson. She will have her first day of training as a dog ambassador whose job is to see that all dogs follow the rules and ensure things run smoothly so that the humans will continue to bring them to the park. Kazoleas playfully describes the dogs and their antics. Things go awry when a pup named Clover gets into trouble. Gibson begins to wonder if she has what it takes to assume the responsibilities of dog ambassador. As night falls before they can find their way back to the park and danger lurks all around them, it seems all hope is lost.

The book teaches children the value of rules, empathy, cooperation, and a sense of devotion to duty and responsibility. This chapter book does not contain illustrations and with a length of more than one hundred pages, it is suitable for experienced chapter book readers. It is the type of book suggested as a transition before moving on to longer middle grade reads.

I recommend it to teachers as a classroom read aloud as well as dog lovers who enjoy a fun adventure.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an autographed copy of Dog Park and its sequel Dog Daycare!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

A signed copy of Dog Park

A signed copy of Dog Daycare

Two (2) winners receive:

A signed copy of Dog Park

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/PQPnr/dog-park-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Thursday, January 5, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-Off

Friday, January 6, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of Dog Park

Monday, January 9, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Dog Park

Tuesday, January 10, 2023Because I Said SoA book review of Dog Park

Wednesday, January 11, 2023Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review of Dog Park

Thursday, January 12, 2023Writer with WanderlustA book review of Dog Park

Friday, January 13, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Dog Park

Monday, January 16, 2023My Reading GetawayAn interview with Kathryn Kazoleas

Tuesday, January 17, 2023Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Dog Park

Wednesday, January 18, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewAn interview with Kathryn Kazoleas

Thursday, January 19, 2023Twirling Book PrincessBook Giveaway of Dog Park

Friday, January 20, 2023Me Two BooksA book activity to pair with Dog Park

Monday, January 23, 2023J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of Dog Park

Tuesday, January 24, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of Dog Park

Wednesday, January 25, 2023Book Zone ReviewsA book review of Dog Park

Thursday, January 26, 2023StorymamasA book review of Dog Park

Friday, January 27, 2023The Review WireAn interview with Kathryn Kazoleas

A Magical Christmas Festival

Written by Eleanor Wint and Lois Wint-Rose

Illustrated by Yuliia

This book is part of a series of illustrated, beginning chapter books featuring Tweet Tweet and her penguin friends.

In this adventure, the Aurora Borealis is beginning to appear in the skies. Tweet Tweet, siblings, and friends understand this means it is almost time for the Christmas festival on Christmas Eve. They wait for their teacher to assign each a special role to prepare. They work together to prepare food, gather stones to decorate the tree, dance, and prepare for the parade. This book teaches children the lessons of the need to prepare ahead of time, work as a team, share tasks, and show empathy for each other.

The illustrations are in full-color that provide extra encouragement for beginning or reluctant readers. I recommend this series for readers in the six to nine year old age group.

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