In Partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Harper Collins Publishers

ABOUT THE BOOK

Greystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Written by Margaret Peterson Haddix

Ages 8-12 | 416 Pages

Publisher: Katherine Tegen Books | ISBN-13 : 978-0062838438

Publisher’s Synopsis: As book three of the Greystone Secrets series opens, the Greystone kids have their mother back from the evil alternate world, and so does their friend Natalie. But no one believes the danger is past.

Then mysterious coins begin falling from unexpected places. They are inscribed with codes that look just like what the Greystones’ father was working on before he died. And with the right touch, those symbols transform into words: PLEASE LISTEN. And FIND US, SEE US, HELP US. . . .

The coins are messengers, telling the Greystones and their allies that their friends in the alternate world are under attack—and that the cruel, mind-controlling forces are now invading the better world, too.

After another spinning, sliding journey across worlds, the Greystone kids must solve mysteries that have haunted them since the beginning: what happened when the Gustanos were kidnapped, what created the alternate world, and how a group of mismatched kids can triumph once and for all against an evil force that seems to have total control.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2PrjXmV

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780062838438

OFFICIAL LINKS

www.haddixbooks.com

@theshelfstuff

@haddixbooks

About the Author

Margaret Peterson Haddix grew up on a farm in Ohio. As a kid, she knew two girls who had the exact same first, middle, and last names and shared the same birthday—only one year apart—and she always thought that was bizarre.

As an adult, Haddix worked as a newspaper reporter and copy editor in Indiana before her first book, Running Out of Time, was published. She has since written more than forty books for kids and teens, including the Greystone Secrets series, the Shadow Children series, the Missing series, the Children of Exile series, and lots of stand-alones. Haddix and her husband, Doug, now live in Columbus, Ohio, where they raised their two kids. You can learn more about her at www.haddixbooks.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

DOUBLE TROUBLE

This book is the conclusion of the Greystone Secrets series. While reading the first two books in the series is not necessary, I would recommend readers do so in to get the full impact of the author’s message.

Book Three begins with the return of the Greystone kids’ mother from an alternate evil universe in which their father has been killed. They all remain in danger. The leaders from that evil world are tying to kill them. Then strange coins start falling from everywhere. These coins are inscribed with messages like please listen and find us. They are messages from the alternate world pleading for help from their evil attackers. The Greystone kids, Chess, Finn, and Emma, partner with their doubles, the Gustano children to slide between the two worlds in a frantic effort to save both worlds and them.

Readers will be intrigued by the notion of mismatched doubles who do not match each other physically but share other familiar traits. They need to overcome their fears and weaknesses, combine their strengths, and use their smarts to defeat the overwhelming forces of evil.

This is a fast-moving adventure that will keep the reader from putting the book down. The characters are believable and richly drawn. Young readers can easily identify with their struggles and empathize with their successes and failures.

Highly recommended for ages eight through eighty-eight.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of the Greystone Secrets series, including Greystone Secrets 3: The Messengers.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A paperback copy of Greystone Secrets 1: The Strangers
• A paperback copy of Greystone Secrets 2: The Deceivers
• A hardcover copy of Greystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

The giveaway begins April 6, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends April 22, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter the giveaway

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282213/

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, April 6, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Wednesday, April 7, 2021Lisa’s ReadingAn interview withMargaret Peterson Haddix

Thursday, April 8, 2021Over Coffee ConversationsBeyond the Book Activity ForGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Friday, April 9, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withMargaret Peterson Haddix

Sunday, April 11, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Monday, April 12, 2021ShootingStarsMagAn interview withMargaret Peterson Haddix

Tuesday, April 13, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Wednesday, April 14, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Thursday, April 15, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book giveaway ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Friday, April 16, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Monday, April 19, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Tuesday, April 20, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

Wednesday, April 21, 2021Tales of a Wanna-Be SuperHero MomBeyond the Book Activity ForGreystone Secrets 3: The Messengers

IN PARNERSHIP WITH THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW

I AM THE SHARK

Written by Joan Holub

Illustrated by Laurie Keller

OFFICIAL LINKS

For more information, visit joanholub.com.

ABOUT THE BOOK

I Am the Shark

Written by Joan Holub

Illustrated by Laurie Keller

Ages 4-8 | 48 Pages

Publisher: Crown Books for Young Readers

ISBN-13: 978-0525645283

Publisher’s Synopsis: Hi! I am Great White Shark, and if you get this book, you’ll read all about ME–the greatest shark in the sea!

Not so fast! Greenland Shark here, and as the oldest shark in this book, that makes me the greatest.

Did someone say fast? I’m Mako Shark, and I’m the fastest shark in this book! Eat my bubbles!

Wow, I’m Hammerhead Shark. You don’t need my special eyes to see that there are lots of great sharks in this book. Sink your teeth into it now!

New York Times bestselling author Joan Holub makes a splash with bestselling illustrator Laurie Keller to deliver an entertaining undersea story that encourages self-acceptance and self-esteem, and is filled with humor and the greatest shark facts in the ocean!

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3tPqDtW

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780525645283

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

The Great White Shark introduces himself as the greatest shark in this book. Not so fast, he has some serious competition. In this superbly illustrated picture book, readers learn about which sharks claim to be the biggest, smallest, oldest, fastest, sneakiest, smartest, and brightest shark of all. Does it really matter? Like all the sharks, each of us is unique and has some special quality to offer the world.

Holub has packed an amazing amount of information about sharks and their world in this forty-eight-page picture book. The layout features gorgeous, vibrant illustrations with easy-to-read text. In addition, there are detailed diagrams and charts that will provide a plethora of knowledge about the shark world. There is also a list of resources for older readers to continue their research about sharks.

I highly recommend this book for shark lovers of all ages from age four to ninety-four.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an I Am the Shark prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A hardcover copy of I Am the Shark, autographed by Joan Holub
• A child-size shark print art/cooking apron
• A $50 Target gift card

Two (2) winners receive:

• A hardcover copy of I AM THE SHARK, autographed by Joan Holub

The giveaway begins March 26, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends April 26, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282212/

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, March 29, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofI Am the Shark

Tuesday, March 30, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withJoan Holub

Wednesday, March 31, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofI Am the Shark

Thursday, April 1, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofI Am the Shark

Friday, April 2, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewAn interview withJoan Holub

Monday, April 5, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofI Am the Shark

Tuesday, April 6, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofI Am the Shark

Wednesday, April 7, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofI Am the Shark

Thursday, April 8, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofI Am the Shark

Friday, April 9, 2021Heart to HeartAn interview withJoan Holub

Monday, April 12, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofI Am the Shark

Tuesday, April 13, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofI Am the Shark

Wednesday, April 14, 2021Comfy Chair BooksA book review ofI Am the Shark

Food Network Magazine The Big, Fun Kids Baking Book Free 14-Recipe Sampler! 

Provided by Food Network Magazine

This recipe sampler is the perfect way to entice budding young chefs into the kitchen. They are the types of foods that children are interested in eating so they will be attracted to baking them. Muffins, brownies, cakes, and cupcakes are definitely favorites among this age group. Perfect choice for middle-grade readers who can read and follow these recipes independently or to use as a family project to involve all the members of a family working together.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check out all my learning opportunities at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

THE BOOK OF YOU: Raising Happy Kids Book Collection

Written by Prof. Tiptoe

This is a short rhyming book in which parents are reading to a small child. The parents are giving the many reasons why their child is so important. In the short rhymes, the developmental stages of a child are presented. The book ends with the child as a adult ready to write her own book for her own children.

Nothing earthshaking here. Simply a sweet, charming, rhyme book in which parents can express love of their children and build up self-esteem. It would be a nice gift for new parents.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Do you want more educational resources for your family? Click on http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

Serena Williams: A Kids Book About Mental Strength and Cultivating a Champion Mindset (Movers and Shakers Book 7)

Written by Mary Nhin

Illustrated by Yuliia Zolotova

This book is the latest release in the Mini Movers and Shakers series. It is a perfect choice for young tennis enthusiasts.

Nhin relates the story of Serena Williams and her family. Serena began playing tennis at about three years old. Her father thought it a way to develop strong physical, mental, and technical skills.

Readers learn how Serena and her sister, Venus, had to overcome discrimination and self-doubt. The positive self-affirmations and constant support of Serena’s family helped to develop the resilience she needed to succeed in all aspects of her life and career.

Simple but well-done illustrations accompany each page of the inspirational story for elementary and middle-grade readers.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check our learning opportunities for the whole family at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

The Big Adventures of a Little Tree: Tree Finds Friendship

Written by Nadja Springer

Illustrated by Tilia Rand-Bell

A little tree possesses an overwhelming urge to travel and see the world. But how can he move? His roots are deep and entrenched in the soil.

The tree has an idea. He recruits the birds of the forest to help him. Slowly, he advances forward. When he comes upon a group of children, he has the opportunity to create deep friendships. Seasons come and go. Will the little tree be able to sustain his dreams?

I like the ideas and concepts that are conveyed through the simple words and illustrations. Having read the kindle version, the size of font was small even when enlarged. That is a drawback for beginning readers who want to read the electronic version.

This book affords the opportunity to explore many topics such as immigration, nature, environment, and mindfulness. That is why I would recommend it for readers of all ages.

If you enjoyed reading this book, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS
FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check out all my family learning opportunities at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

Pinky Doodle Bug

Written by Elizabeth Hamilton-Guarino

Illustrated by Vovo Kirichenko

This book is an adorable picture book that will inspire the creativity of budding young artists of any age everywhere. Pinky Doodle is a tiny bug who loves to paint her thoughts on everything she sees. One day she realizes that her drawings needed stories. So Pinky calls on her friends in the forest to share their stories.

Many animals of the forest like birds, butterflies, bunnies, caterpillars and others relate their tales to Pinky. She eagerly illustrates each of them with her doodles. By combining their talents, the friends had produced a beautiful composition.

This book is told in simple, crisp rhymes, accompanied by vividly colored illustrations. It is sure to please readers from preschool age on up. It will even put a smile on the face of adult readers.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check out learning opportunities for the family at https://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

The Happy Hollisters and The Trading Post Mystery (Volume 7)

Written by Jerry West

Illustrated by Helen S. Hamilton

I love the Hollister series of books. They are vintage mysteries that harken back to a simpler life in the 1950s.

Sue has made a Christmas wish for a donkey. When the family receives a telegram to pick it up at the airport in New Mexico, Sue is elated. Soon they notice a note pinned around its neck.

How will the family use this Christmas gift to help other members of their community? What obstacles will they need to solve both mysteries?

Rollicking good fun with black and white illustrations of the period that will bring back memories to parents and grandparents and lots of questions from young readers.

This book is a good read for any age but especially for middle-grade readers.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check out all my learning opportunities at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

Silent Shepherd

Written by Patricia Moore

Illustrated by Doriano Strologo

Aaron is a young shepherd boy. He desperately craves to help his father tend the sheep. Unfortunately, he cannot speak and is unable to gather the herd.

One night a bright light appears in the sky. When Aaron and his father follow it, they arrive at the manger of the Christ child. How will this event transform Aaron’s life?

This picture book is a nice addition to a Christian family’s library to share with young children during the Christmas season.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS Feed button in the upper right-hand corner of this post.

Check out learning resources for the whole family at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

Why We Wear a Mask: How a squirrel is helping to stop the spread of Covid-19

Written and Photographed by Lieve Snellings

I am a big fan of the Margot book series. In this new book, Margot’s family doctor, Dr. Sarah shares her concern about a new sickness affecting all her squirrel patients.

The author uses adorable photographs of squirrels exhibiting symptoms of the virus like headaches, upset stomach, shortness of breath, and sore throats to illustrate effects of the virus in a clear but non-threatening way. Snellings shows them wearing masks because they want to protect vulnerable members of their families as well as themselves. The author explains how the disease is transmitted, and exactly what needs to be done to keep ourselves and others safe.

Young readers will inevitably be enthralled with these adorable, personified squirrel messengers of information needed to assist children in understanding this disease without alarming them. I would highly recommend it to parents and educators of elementary school and middle-grade readers.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check out all my learning resources at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com