Cardboard Rosie

Written by Cazzy Zahursky

Illustrated by Sam Cabbage

This picture book is a lovely way to explore a whole range of emotions for children. At the outset, Rosie is a young girl who longs to spend time with her father but he spends most of his time working to support the family. Rosie longs for a Forever Doll, but the family cannot afford one.

The girl and her dad make a cardboard doll, named Rosie but the child feels disappointed. As time goes on, she learns to lean on the doll to share her feelings, hopes, disappointments, wishes, and dreams. But cardboard does not last forever. What will happen if Rosie disappears? Life changes and our feelings evolve. What lessons does the family learn?

A good book to use as a read aloud and family or class discussion book. Recommended for elementary and middle grade readers.

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Dare To Question: Carrie Chapman Catt’s Voice for the Vote

Written by Jasmine A. Stirling

Illustrated by Udayana Lugo

Ages 5+ | 48 Pages

Publisher: Union Square Kids (2023) | ISBN-13: 9781454934578

Publisher’s Book Summary: Jasmine A. Stirling, author of A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice, delivers a powerful, poetic picture book biography about suffragist Carrie Chapman Catt, perfect for fans of I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark and the Rebel Girls series.

As a child, Carrie Chapman Catt asked a lot of questions: How many stars are in the sky? Do germs have personalities? And why can’t Mama vote? Catt’s curiosity led her to college, to a career in journalism, and finally to becoming the president of The National American Woman Suffrage Association. Catt knew the movement needed a change—and she set to work mobilizing women (and men) across the nation to dare to question a woman’s right to vote.

On August 18, 1920, Catt pinned a yellow rose to her dress and waited while lawmakers in Tennessee cast their deciding votes to ratify the 19th Amendment to the Constitution of the United States of America. After a seventy-year campaign, had women finally won the right to vote? 

Stirling’s suspenseful retelling of the dramatic final “yea” that changed the history of women’s rights brings the past to life for young readers.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jasmine A. Stirling is the author of A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice (Bloomsbury Publishing, 2021), named a Best Book of the Year by A Mighty Girl and Book Riot, and winner of the IPNE Book Award. It is currently being translated to Mandarin.

Her new book, Dare to Question, Carrie Chapman Catt’s Voice for the Vote (Union Square & Co, 2023, Booklist starred review), tells the story of the queer power couple who transformed the suffrage movement. Her third book, about Jeanne Barret, the botanist who disguised herself as a man and became the first woman to circumnavigate the globe, comes out in 2025.

Learn more about Jasmine.

Follow her on Instagram at @jasmine.a.stirling.author

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Udayana Lugo is a self-taught illustrator of mixed heritage. Having worked as a designer of many varied things, from jewelry to auto-parts and from furniture to whole interiors, she still does that but in children’s books which are her true passion. She and her husband have lived in Mexico, Italy, and England, but they call British Columbia their home, along with their two kids. When not working on a book, you can find her walking her dog or baking something with her children.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

WE’RE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER

DARE TO QUESTION: Carrie Chapman Catt’s Voice for the Vote

Written by Jasmine Stirling

Illustrated by Udayana Lugo

This picture book portrays in images and words one of the most significant events in American history, the enactment of women’s suffrage. The struggle before Carrie Chapman entered the battle had been limited to a small group of educated women.

Carrie was born to question. Her curiosity moved her to investigate the why behind anything that excited her imagination. She aroused and incited women from every part of society to enter the cause. Why not me? When Carrie joined Susan B. Anthony, the fire spread across the country. Then World War I broke out, even though Carrie did not believe in the war, she mobilized women to replace male soldiers in the factories, garnering the support and appreciation of President Wilson who formerly opposed women’s suffrage.

Once passed, the final hurdle of state approval needed to be overcome. Carrie feared failure once more, but an unexpected development turned the tide.

This book encourages children to believe hard work, dedication, empathy, and fairness can succeed if one is determined to persevere in the cause of equality and justice.

A picture book that will inspire and educate children and adults alike.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win a personalized, signed copy of Dare To Question: Carrie Chapman Catt’s Voice for the Vote, a set of 5 Girl Power Enamel pins, and a $100 Amazon gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

-A personalized, signed copy of Dare To Question: Carrie Chapman Catt’s Voice for the Vote

-A set of 5 Girl Power Enamel pins

-A $100 Amazon gift card!

Four (4) winners receive:

-A personalized, signed copy of Dare To Question: Carrie Chapman Catt’s Voice for the Vote

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/oF4IH/dare-to-question-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, July 11, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewDare to Question Book Tour Kick-Off

Wednesday, July 12, 2023The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Dare to Question

Thursday, July 13, 2023Reading is My SuperpowerBook Review of Dare to Question

Friday, July 14, 2023The Tiny ActivistsBook Review of Dare to Question

Saturday, July 15, 2023Vivian KirkfieldAuthor Interview with Jasmine A. Stirling

Sunday, July 16, 2023Dad SuggestsBook Review of Dare to Question

Monday, July 17, 2023Feminist Books for KidsA Booklist Featuring Dare to Question

Tuesday, July 18, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Dare to Question

Wednesday, July 19, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of Dare to Question

Thursday, July 20, 2023The Momma SpotBook Review of Dare to Question

Friday, July 21, 2023Twirling Book PrincessBook Spotlight of Dare to Question

Saturday, July 22, 2023MombianBook Review of Dare to Question

Monday, July 24, 2023Daddy MojoBook Review of Dare to Question

Tuesday, July 25, 2023Heart to HeartBook Review of Dare to Question

Wednesday, July 26, 2023Lisa’s ReadingBook Review of Dare to Question

Thursday, July 27, 2023My Reading GetawayBook Review of Dare to Question

Friday, July 28, 2023Me Two BooksBook Activity Paired with Dare to Question

Sunday, July 30, 2023Book Q&As with Deborah KalbAuthor Interview with Jasmine A. Stirling

Monday, July 31, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersBook Review of Dare to Question

Tuesday, August 1, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewBook Review of Dare to Question

Wednesday, August 2, 2023Because I Said SoBook Review of Dare to Question

Thursday, August 3, 2023Shooting Stars MagBook Review of Dare to Question

Friday, August 4, 2023The Fictional CaféAuthor Interview with Jasmine A. Stirling

Monday, August 7, 2023Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkBook Review of Dare to Question

Tuesday, August 8, 2023A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Dare to Question and Little Free Library Drop

Wednesday, August 9, 2023Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of Dare to Question

Thursday, August 10, 2023Stargirls.Magical.TaleBook Review of Dare to Question

Friday, August 11, 2023One More ExclamationBook Review of Dare to Question

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

The World is Our Playground Series Book 3: Nanak and Tara’s Philippine Adventure

Written by Jamal Kaur Singh

Illustrated by Ronald Santos

This is my first time reading a book in this series which encourages elementary students to learn about the history, customs, beliefs, traditions, and languages of countries around the world.

The picture book is richly illustrated in vibrant colors and the bold font of the text makes it easy to read. I particularly enjoyed the mini language lessons which encourage readers to communicate in an unfamiliar language while enjoying the adventure. Readers explore the islands while experiencing its history, foods, celebrations, and family ties.

There are questions at the end included to test comprehension of the story. The author presents a lesson plan before the story begins. Background about the series and its characters as well as a summary of the author’s mission comes at the very end.

The book is packed with useful information that children will enjoy. I would suggest putting that background at the beginning to familiarize new readers upfront and then including the lesson plan toward the end.

Highly recommended for parents and teachers to teach about other cultures in an entertaining format.

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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.

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Raising a child is challenging. Raising a happy and confident child is even more challenging! Each child is different and will require a unique approach.

Answer these questions to gain a better perspective of your situation.

1. How do I define success? What traits and skills does my child need to be happy, confident, and successful?

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2. What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses?

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3. What experiences from my own childhood are relevant? What did my parents do well?

What could they have done better?

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4. How can I help my child to be more successful in school?

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5. How can I help my child develop better social skills?

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6. What are five goals that would be appropriate for my child to achieve?

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7. What are my child’s greatest fears? How can I help?

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©Barbara Ann Mojica 2023

Reading comprehension is essential to success in school and in life. You play a major role in helping your kids retain the information they read. There are basic and more advanced strategies that any parent can use to assist their children in this area.

Basic Steps to Strengthen Comprehension

1. Make it fun. Your child may already feel uneasy if reading is an area of weakness. Project a calm and happy attitude and even try to turn reading into a game.
   
   
2. Practice. Practice. Practice. Encourage your children to take advantage of every opportunity to test their reading skills. In addition to books, they can read street signs and cereal boxes.
   
   
3. Select materials that match the reading level of your child. People retain material best when they can read at least 90% of the words. Otherwise, they’ll get distracted by asking questions or trying to figure out the meanings of unfamiliar words.
   
   
4. Choose subjects your kids love. It’s easier to get your kids to read if you keep their passions in mind. Browse your local library for new books about dinosaurs, fairy princesses, or any other area of interest.
   
   
5. Create a summary. Ask your child to recap what was just read. If they struggle, prompt them gently by dropping some clues. When they get it right, praise them for doing a great job.
   
   
6. Take time off. Small children and even some adults have limited attention spans. Alternate between reading and other activities such as baking cookies or taking a walk.
   
   
7. Break long texts down into smaller segments. Approach a large textbook a few pages or one chapter at a time. You can gradually increase the length of reading assignments as your child progresses.
   
   
8. Find a comfortable reading spot. Designate a special area for reading. It could be the corner of the living room couch or while sitting at the dining room table.
   
   
9. Discuss the reading material. Encourage conversation about whatever you and your child are reading. Question one another and share your impressions.
   
   
10. Supplement reading with other activities. Generate more enthusiasm by combining reading with other special activities. This will give your children something to look forward to. If you’re reading a book about the American Civil War, you could plan a family outing to a local museum or even Gettysburg.
    
    
11. Read aloud to each other. Take turns reading aloud to each other. Kids learn faster when they hear and see words at the same time.
    
    
12. Go back and re-read. Let your kids know that a smart student goes back and re-reads sections that they find difficult. Tell them that even adults do this.
    
    

Advanced Steps to Strengthen Comprehension

1. Scan the text before reading. Give a complicated textbook the once-over before you plunge in. Suggest that your kids focus on the chapter titles, section headings, and any words in bold or italics.
   
   
2. Take notes. Purchase a memo pad and sticky notes so your children can jot down thoughts and questions as they read. This is called active reading. Older kids may be more comfortable taking notes using their eBook reader.
   
   
3. Experiment with inferences. Explain what inferences are and how to use them. Making an inference is when you draw conclusions based on clues in the text and your own experiences.
   
   
4. Spot flag words. Talk with your kids about how flag words help you to understand a text by establishing word relationships. Give examples such as analogies, cause and effect connections, or comparing and contrasting.
   
   
5. Map the story. Some readers have a more visual learning style. These kids may benefit from drawing squares or circles and filling them in with elements of the story such as characters, plot, and theme.
   
   

With skillful guidance, even children who are reluctant to read can discover the joys of reading for pleasure. As a parent, you’re the best role model and instructor for helping your kids to build reading comprehension skills and love of literature for a lifetime.

NEED MORE RESOURCES?

CHECK OUT MY YOU TUBE CHANNEL

YOUTUBE.COM/@BAMAUTHOR

This post is sponsored by Maria Castellucci Moore. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Vivienne in Paris

Written by Maria Castellucci Moore

Illustrated by Emanuela Mannello

Ages 4+ | 38 Pages

Publisher: Mascot Kids | ISBN-13: 9781637551431

Publisher’s Book Summary: Vivienne in Paris follows a young Parisian girl on a journey through Paris to find what makes her tick. Join Vivienne as she discovers the sights, smells, tastes, and sounds of the city that make her feel alive. What better place to explore, observe, and delight in her senses than Paris?

This book tells a story of mindfulness and insight into how the surrounding world can really move you. It unites curiosity, wonder, and marvel to enlighten, surprise, and tickle your deepest spirit. Sometimes it’s the smallest things that bring you the greatest joy.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

Bookshop.org

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Owner Entrepreneur, first-generation American, writer, and mother to four children. Maria Castellucci Moore strives to bring passion and enthusiasm to all her endeavors. A lover of all things European, María has found great passion through her travels to Paris, Italy, Spain, and South America. Her affection for winemaking, foreign languages, the arts, ballroom dancing, and traveling has given María a unique and grateful perspective on life. Her love for her family and helping others through charitable giving has enabled María to thoughtfully curate purposeful life adventures.

María Castellucci Moore earned her bachelor of arts degree in finance from Dominican University on a tennis scholarship, and later pursued studying at New York University and the London School of Economics with a focus on global affairs. In 2016, with her siblings, Maria founded Castellucci Napa Family, a luxury wine and real estate brand. María runs her wine label and a family real estate development company in the greater Bay Area. She is a board member of the San Francisco Opera Guild and is enthusiastic about building opportunity and community through the arts.

María resides in Saint Helena, California, with her husband and four young children. She enjoys writing; traveling; attending the opera, ballet, and symphony; flower arranging; winemaking; ballroom dancing; and playing tennis and the piano.

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

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

PARIS REVEALED

Vivienne in Paris

Written by Maria Castellucci Moore

Illustrated by Emanuela Mannello

Come tour Paris through the eyes of a child. Vivienne takes the advice of her grandfather who counsels her to experience her favorite places by opening her mind and heart.

Vivienne sets off on her bicycle to revisit her favorite friends and places in Paris. This time she allows her senses to totally immerse her. She smells the food, the flowers, touches the fabrics, feels the wind, sees the beauty of its buildings, and hears its voices. Suddenly, ordinary surroundings flood her body and mind with rich imagery. Vivienne’s readers magically accompany her on a journey that feeds their imagination.

I appreciate the way Moore challenges her readers with new vocabulary, exciting verbs, and fanciful forms. The beautiful illustrations complement the text perfectly and entice elementary school age readers to travel to Paris on an armchair adventure they will want to repeat over and over.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for the chance to win a signed hardcover copy of Vivienne in Paris and a Kindle!

One (1) winner receives:

– A hardcover copy of Vivienne in Paris signed by Maria Castellucci Moore

– A Kindle (2022 release)

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/clKQG/vivienne-in-paris-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, May 2, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Wednesday, May 3, 2023The Momma SpotA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Thursday, May 4, 2023Me Two BooksA book activity paired with Vivienne in Paris

Friday, May 5, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledAuthor interview with Maria Castellucci Moore

Monday, May 8, 2023My Reading GetawayA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Tuesday, May 9, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Wednesday, May 10, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Thursday, May 11, 2023Lisa’s ReadingA book activity paired with Vivienne in Paris

Friday, May 12, 2023Twirling Book PrincessAuthor interview with Maria Castellucci Moore

Monday, May 15, 2023Joanna’s BookshelfA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Tuesday, May 16, 2023The Review WireA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Wednesday, May 17, 2023Heart to HeartAuthor interview with Maria Castellucci Moore

Thursday, May 18, 2023Crafty Moms ShareA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Friday, May 19, 2023The Fairview ReviewA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Monday, May 22, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Tuesday, May 23, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Wednesday, May 24, 2023Because I Said SoA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Thursday, May 25, 2023A Blue Box Full of BooksA book review of Vivienne in Paris

Tuesday, May 30, 2023The Growing Readers PodcastAuthor interview with Maria Castellucci Moore

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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.

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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