The Adventures of Nonna and the Little Red Truck in Summertime
Written by Kathy Brandon
Illustrated by Jennifer Kasitz
There is so much learning packed within this little book. Recommended especially for preschoolers but a joy for any child to read.
It features onomatopoeia sounds for read aloud fun, teachers the days of the week, and helps children learn their colors. The book is highly interactive. An included learning guide asks readers to answer questions by rereading and searching for content. It also contains many follow-up activities as an extension of learning.
The narrator is a little boy who looks forward to spending one week each summer at his grandparents’ farm with their dog and red truck. It features warm family relationships and teaches wholesome values.
This picture book might be read to a younger child or be a fun read aloud for a beginning reader.
Highly recommended.
SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.
Publisher’s Book Summary: My Soul Treasure is a beautifully illustrated children’s book designed to teach children how to connect with their inner selves and cultivate self-awareness and self-love. It follows the story of a young girl who goes on a journey beyond her mind, body, and heart to discover her own inner treasures. The story includes positive affirmations and visualization exercises to help children develop mindfulness and self-reflection skills.
Kate Searle is a geologist, wife, and mum who lives in the southwest of Australia. Becoming a mother sparked Kate’s love of storytelling. She has an innate passion for instilling in children a sense of personal empowerment. She has woven her love of gemstones into her debut book, My Soul Treasure, to teach children about the incredible powers of their own souls.
Alison Mutton is an illustrator from Perth, Western Australia, mainly working in the children’s and educational publishing fields. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Design & Illustration from Curtin University and has been a freelance illustrator for over ten years. When not illustrating, she likes to play the piano, needle felt, walk her dog, and swing dance.
MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:
THE ANSWER LIES DEEP INSIDE YOU
My Soul Treasure (Kate’s Soul Treasure)
Written by Kate Searle
Illustrated by Alison Mutton
This rhyming picture book is a feast for the eyes and the ears. I would highly suggest reading it aloud because the crisp rhymes roll off the tongue. Each page features brilliant color images that are associated with a matching color gem. But the message is even more powerful. Young readers come to understand that each of us possesses unique qualities that lie deep within ourselves. These qualities allow us to share that uniqueness with others. Courage, compassion, creativity, confidence, imagination, and wisdom are possible examples. By teaching children to be mindful of these, the potential to develop them is enhanced.
I am confident that this book will become a favorite on the elementary reader’s bookshelf. The bonus song might just become a family favorite sing along.
GIVEAWAY
Enter the giveaway for a chance to win a signed hardcover copy of My Soul Treasure and a Kindle!
One (1) grand prize winner receives:
– A hardcover copy of My Soul Treasure, signed by Kate Searle
– A Kindle (2022 release)
Four (4) winners receive:
– A hardcover copy of My Soul Treasure, signed by Kate Searle
The Wondercurrent: (Rella Pen Sword and The Red Notebooks Book 1)
Written by J.R. Parks
Rella’s parents belong to a secret group of storytellers. First, her mother disappears, eventually her father suffers the same fate. Rella must now flee her homeland. She finds herself in the land of Hleo, where she joins up with four other children. They encounter shapeshifters and mysterious animal guardians. Rella must find a way to defeat the plague ravishing the land and retrieve the red notebooks. Fans of Harry Potter will enjoy this adventure.
Some reviewers discuss errors in the manuscript but many of these appear to have been corrected in this rendition. The characters are interesting and the action fast-paced in the 300 page adventure.
I think younger middle-grade readers might find the read a bit difficult and would classify it more as a young adult read. A good discussion book for issues like friendship, inclusion, facing fears and cultivating humility.
SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.
When Will Cicada Sing? (Little Fingers, Big Science)
Written by Carla Mae Jansen
This is a cute, informative picture book for preschoolers and primary grade readers. The author describes the seventeen year life cycle of the cicada. Children learn the long and complicated process of development. At the end of the book, readers are treated to a detailed diagram of the life cycle of the cicada and an illustrated explanation of how cicadas sing.
A valuable edition to a parent’s nonfiction bookshelf or a classroom science library.
SUBSCRIBE AND CLICK NOTIFICATIONS TO GET NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY SUNDAY AND WEDNESDAY.
The Legend of Creepy Hollow: Tales of the Lost and Found
Written by Shana Gorian
Noah and his sister Oakley are visiting the Murphy farm and orchard in upstate New York with their friend, Andre. They are enjoying learning about farm life but one thing troubles Noah. He has failed his history exam and his parents will ground him if he fails to pick up his grades. To make matters worse, his parents are history teachers! Noah’s teacher has given him an opportunity to make things right. She offered him coordinates to participate in a geocache. A geocache is a global treasure hunt game whose goal is to find a hidden treasure. Noah is not enthusiastic until Murphy’s granddaughter, Annalise, shows interest. Noah has developed a bad crush on her. The four teens decide they will embark the next day to explore the coordinates.
Once engaged on the hunt things get complicated. A nineteenth century ghost scouts the area. Strange sounds and events pop up. Will the foursome find the treasure? Can they survive their paranormal adventure?
The autumn setting and eerie feel contrast the peaceful nature of the farm with the threats that loom over them. The author skillfully weaves history within the plot teaching about the Harvest and Hunter’s Moon while revealing plot elements. Mystery, coming of age, detectives, and fear combine to entice middle grade readers to turn each page.
I received an advance copy of the book from the author and voluntarily chose to read and review with my honest opinions for no monetary compensation.
SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY SUNDAY AND WEDNESDAY.
Lotti has a scar running down her left leg. She has endured many operations. That doesn’t deter her from her dream of becoming a rhythmnic gymnast. At first, it seems impossible and her results in competition are disappointing. Lotti refuses to give up and practices whenever she is able. She believes the day will come when she stands on the podium.
The picture book contains vibrant illustrations and easy to read text. Based on a true life story, its message is an inspirational one for young girls with disabilities. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.
Recommended as a read aloud, bedtime story, or beginning reader for ages three through eight.
SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.
Sea Serpent of Science: a fun and fast-paced chapter book series for kids 8-11(Junkyard Adventures Book 2)
Written by Tevi Hansen
Siblings Eli and Grace find themselves back at Uncle Larry’s antique store shopping with their dad for a second-hand ladder. This is another book of the Junkyard Adventure series which opens up the door to adventure and learning for beginning chapter book readers.
In this adventure, readers are treated to an adventure with a sea serpent who is a marine biologist who guides them on a scavenger hunt. Finds include rare jellyfish, underground caves, pufferfish, and some pretty creepy specimens of marine life. All is not smooth sailing because a sixty foot shark attempts to block their way.
Eli and Grace are determined to finish their quest. Readers learn marine science while being immersed in an undersea adventure. Recommended particularly for ages seven through eleven.
SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.
Are They Really Scary?: a children’s book about being proud of who you are
Written by Julia Inserro
Illustrated by Tanja Varcilija
This humorous picture book is written from the perspective of a spider. Why are so many people afraid of spiders? Are they really so different from us? There are so many ways in which we are alike rather than different.
Primary grade readers learn there are more things we have in common than there are differences. Is there a rational reason to fear something that looks different? Read the book to find out.
SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.
This short book contains a powerful message for tweens, teens, and young adults. It contains eleven tragic stories with photographs of young people who died too soon. They are just like the person who lives next door. Some of them had previously experimented with drugs, but many became victims of fentanyl given to them by friends or drug dealers who had laced pills with deadly fentanyl.
The author includes photos of the victims which highlight their personalities. A successful model, athletes, musicians, honor students: lives snuffed out before they had the opportunity to bloom. Letters from their parents magnify the loss experienced for each family. Wilson’s bottom line is that each young person must PROTECT THEMSELVES. No one can rely on a promise or the word of a “friend” who might be an enemy in disguise.
All of us can work together to wipe out the fentanyl epidemic. Take the first step today by reading this book.
SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG FOR NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY SUNDAY AND WEDNESDAY.
Publisher’s Synopsis: Chipper the Fox and his Arctic friends travel to summer camp for fun in the sun! After an amazing summer, how will they stay in touch with their new friends and keep their summer adventure going?
Kimber Morgan is a multi-award-winning children’s book author who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. Kimber is a fun wife and imperfect mom of 3 crazy kiddos and two little lemon (problematic) dogs. She tries to live her strengths the best she can. Morgan is a homemade Halloween costume type of mom who lets her kids mix the Play-Doh. She bakes fun birthday cakes (cutely, but far from perfection) and loves a homemade Valentine and a school project.
Writing children’s books is an extension of her creative strength. She strives to create picture books that are beautiful, engaging, humorous, and with themes of acceptance and kindness. She hopes you love reading her works. Kimber is available for author visits and wants to connect with you.
Chipper and his friends from the arctic region decide to go south on a camping vacation. When they arrive at Bright Stars Camp, they immediately forge new friendships. They engage in activities like archery, swimming, sunning on the beach, and racing competitions.
Alas, the time moves swiftly. How will they continue the bonds formed here over until seeing each other again next year. Each of the arctic friends attempts to send gifts to their new friends, but none arrive safely. Finally, they discover the perfect gift. Can you guess what it is?
This charming rhyming, animal picture book contains illustrations that are delightful to look at and fun to read. I would suggest it as a bedtime story or group read aloud for preschool and primary grade children.
Enter for the chance to win a paperback copy of Chipper Sends Sunshine and an Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet! Good luck!
Enter for the chance to win a paperback copy of Chipper Sends Sunshine and an Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet! Good luck!
July 2, 2023
bamauthor
Comments Off on JAM PACKED WITH LEARNING FUN
Barbara Ann Mojica's BLOG 
You must be logged in to post a comment.