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

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Extra Special Heart: Highlighting the Beauty and Strength of a Child Born with CHD, Congenital Heart Defect

Written and illustrated by Carli Valentine

A beautiful picture book that tells the story of a little boy born with congenital heart disease. Children are told that the boy’s heart is super strong and that he is very brave in facing the challenges the condition brings to him. He faces surgery with courage and his spirits bouyed up by the support of his family and friends.

What a wonderful way to teach children about inclusion and to see physical handicaps as a strength rather than a weakness! It is a wonderful teaching tool to open up a discussion on all sorts of disabilities.

Highly recommended as a resource for parents and teachers of children with disabilities but also to build empathy for these children from kids in the general population.

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

Speakers! The Quick Public Speaking to Business Method: Turning Your Talk into an Ongoing Revenue Stream

Written by Ellen Finklestein and Connie Ragen Green

The only course you will ever need if you are just starting out in business or want to incorporate speaking into your business as an effective tool.

While I have followed both of these authors in blog articles and videos, this book brings all the tools together in one place. It is easy to read, follow, and implement.

As a historian, I appreciated the section on the history of public speaking because one must know where something comes from and how it evolved in order to understand its role in our lives today. Readers are taught how to choose appropriate topics, set goals, find audience niche, and then use public speaking as a means to create an ongoing revenue stream for a business.

The authors discuss the importance of influencer relationships, creating funnels, and the various ways to transmit your talk. Then there is the art of storytelling and the types of stories you can use in public speaking.

The book creates a feeling of joy and optimism that will incentivize the reader to jump in and seize the opportunities offered by public speaking.

I highly recommend this guide to anyone at all curious about public speaking.

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

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.

Our Nicu Journey: Tiny Keepsake for Tiny Miracles

Written by Sarah Immonen Ward

Illustrated by Andrea Brasier

A charming picture book that tells the story of premature birth. Soft pastel illustrations and crisp rhymes detail the real life experience of a couple whose twin daughters were born at twenty eight weeks of age. It expresses the hopes and fears of parents, family, and friends as they eagerly await the outcome.

This book would make a wonderful gift for any new parent, but especially for those families who have experienced a premature birth or would like to know how to tell the story to other children in the family who may feel confused or upset. At the end of the book, the story of the author is included as well as a list of resources that families might find useful.

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Goobletygok

Created by Richard Bird

Ages 4+ | 24 Pages

Publisher: FriesenPress | ISBN-13: ‎ 9781039143425

Publisher’s Book Summary: Chulippitee. Buckadoodle. Uckeybuckey.

What do these words have in common? Poppy and Freddy invented them!

Freddy and his grandfather, Poppy, love to spend time together. One day, while they’re eating a snack, Poppy says, “Buckadoodle,” to Freddy. What does this mean? Freddy isn’t sure, but Poppy promises he will find out!

Join Freddy and Poppy on this word-game adventure, and maybe invent a word or two of your own that shows your loved ones just how much you care!

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Richard Bird is a grandfather and avid reader who has spent his career crafting policies and leveraging his love of words into creating beautifully written materials. Now, he brings his two passions together in this children’s book inspired by his relationships with his grandsons.

For more information, visit www.richardbird.ca.

Tweets by richardbird54

https://www.instagram.com/richardbird54/

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

JAMBALAYA WORDSPEAK

Goobletygok

Written and illustrated by Richard Bird

What a fun picture book! If you know a young reader who is interested in tongue twisters, this is the book for you.

Freddy sits on the couch with his grandfather, affectionately called Poppy. Poppy demonstrates an exceptional ability to develop nonsense words and syllables to delight his young grandson. Freddy and Poppy soon involve themselves in one hysterical scenario after another.

This book challenges the reader, whether that be a beginning reader or the adult who attempts to pronounce the language twists and turns. It will not be long before the reader or listener breaks out in uncontrollable laughter

A word of caution. I would not suggest reading this book right before bedtime because the effects will take a while to wear off. This book could be a fun read at children’s parties, or a family read aloud.

Recommended especially for four to eight-year-old readers but a fun read for anyone who is a child at heart.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win an autographed paperback copy of Goobletygok and a 3-pack of lined spiral notebooks with a pen holder—perfect for writing down your favorite words!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

-An autographed paperback copy of Goobletygok

-A 3-Pack Lined Spiral Notebook Kraft Paper Cover Notepad with Pen In Holder

Four (4) winners receive:

-An autographed paperback copy of Goobletygok

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/m0qT2/goobletygok-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, March 27, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewGoobletygok Tour Kick Off

Tuesday, March 28, 2023JoanasbookshelfA book review of Goobletygok

Wednesday, March 29, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of Goobletygok

Thursday, March 30, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Goobletygok

Friday, March 31, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of Goobletygok

Monday, April 3, 2023Heart to HeartAuthor interview with Richard Bird

Tuesday, April 4, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewA book review of Goobletygok

Wednesday, April 5, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of Goobletygok

Thursday, April 6, 2023My Reading GetawayA book review of Goobletygok

Friday, April 7, 2023Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Goobletygok

Monday, April 10, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Goobletygok

Tuesday, April 11, 2023Because I Said SoA book review of Goobletygok

Wednesday, April 12, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledAuthor interview with Richard

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

My Name is Eva: An absolutely gripping and emotional historical novel

Written by Suzanne Goldring

At the beginning of this work of historical fiction, the reader meets Eva who is living in a nursing home in the English countryside. Is Eva actually suffering from dementia?

When an intriguing document is found in her home, Eva is questioned about it. That shifts the story to 1939 and the war in Germany. Readers learn about the husband who left Eva behind and the events that followed. The author discusses issues like the holocaust, the suffering of the citizens, and the atrocities experienced by all throughout the land.

The characters are interesting, the plot contains twists and turns, and the historical details add interest to Eva’s adventure.

A quick read that sustains interest throughout.

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

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

Who’s to Say (Bright Future Book Series)

Written by Deven Telles, Ed.D

Illustrated by Courtney Monday

This short book of affirmations provides inspiration and self-confidence for elementary school and early middle grade readers. Who is to say what I can or cannot be, the answer is only me?

The affirmations cover topics like career aspirations, academic success, athletic prowess, and the Golden Rule. A dozen affirmations interspersed with multicultural illustrations encourage children to “be all they can be.”

A wonderful resource for a child’s home bookshelf, classroom library, or neighborhood library to build empathy, self-esteem, and social-emotional skills. Recommended especially for children ages six through ten.

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Dream Big with Diabetes

Written and illustrated by Sally Huss and Elizabeth-Hamilton Guarino

Olivia sits on the sidelines because she suffers from diabetes. When her friends ask her to play sports, go swimming, travel, or attend group events, Olivia replies that she wants to sit it out to play it safe. Her friends respond to her objections and give her examples of others who take precautions but instead choose to live their lives like normal children. Olivia wonders, are there others afflicted with diabetes who are pursuing and succeeding in their dreams?

Read this beautiful multicultural picture book that proves all children with disabilities can find a path to follow their fondest dreams. All children deserve an opportunity to succeed.

Recommended for any reader who has ever dared to dream.

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