Posts from the ‘classroom resources’ Category

Mrs. R. Snugglesworth Attorney-at-Law virtual book tour and giveaway #mrs.r.snugglesworth

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Amy Flanagan.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law

Written by Amy Flanagan

Illustrated by Jon Davis

Ages 5+ | 90 Pages

Publisher: Whitefox | IBN-13: 9781915036094

About the Book: Mrs. R Snugglesworth is 70 pounds of low-to-the-ground PRECIOUS. She is the Best at Finding Slightly-Used Sandwiches and the Best at Loving Ham—and now she’s looking for her next big challenge. To her surprise, she finds it at the local Bark Park, when she discovers a passion for the law. Dog law, that is.

In two wags of a tail, she enrolls at Wagsworth Legal Academy, eager to become a lawyer. Turns out, it’s not that easy learning to be the Best at Law School. But when Mrs. R. learns that her friend Pitter-Patter needs help, she can’t wait to take on her first case. Only one small issue: she hasn’t quite finished her law degree. Some dogs might consider this a problem, but not Mrs. R! After all, Pitter-Patter needs a lawyer, and she is ALMOST a lawyer. Which everyone knows is practically as good as being a lawyer, right?

She’ll just juggle her law classes, naps, walks, power naps, chasing tennis balls, snacks, naps, and work on Pitter-Patter’s case at the same time! What could possibly go wrong?

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

Bookshop.org

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Amy Flanagan is an Instructional Designer and children’s author living with her family in the Chicago suburb of Batavia. She began writing Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law in early 2021 to stay busy during the long pandemic winter. She wanted to create something that would make kids (and adults) laugh out loud. She is already working on the second book in the “Mrs. R.” series. Like you, she wonders what the ‘R’ stands for.

Visit her online at https://www.mrsrsnugglesworth.com/.

https://www.instagram.com/AmyFlanaganAuthor/

https://www.instagram.com/MrsRSnugglesworth/

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Jon Davis is an award-winning freelance illustrator living and working in Cumbria, UK. He always loved drawing as a child, thinking up characters and stories – paints, pencils, felt tips, crayons, anything would do. So he decided to study Illustration at Glyndwr University, Wrexham. He works digitally in Photoshop with a tablet and pen because the ‘undo’ function saves him from the depths of frustration.

Visit him at https://www.jonsmind.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

DOGGONE FUNNY

Mrs. R. Snugglesworth: Attorney- at- Law

Written by Amy Flanagan

Illustrated by Jon Davis

What a fun book choice for a beginning or middle-grade reader! Flanagan tells her story from the point of view of an English Labrador who serves on jury duty and becomes interested in a law career. He enrolls in Wagsworth Legal Academy and soon finds himself practicing law.

The hilarious adventure entertains both children and the adults fortunate enough to read this book. Flanagan appeals to dog and animal lovers with the humor and compassion contained on every page. The black and white illustrations extend the fun displaying playful scenes.

At just under one hundred pages, reluctant readers will gravitate to this tale. Readers may choose to read independently, or teachers may select it as a page-turning read-aloud in the classroom. I hope there will be more adventures with Mrs. R. Snugglesworth in the future.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law, and a $50 gift card to bookshop.org*.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

An autographed copy of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law

A $50 Bookshop.org or typebooks.ca gift card*

Four (4) winners receive:

An autographed copy of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/Uvk2u/mrs-r-snugglesworth-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, August 15, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Tuesday, August 16, 2022Me Two BooksAn interview with author Amy Flanagan
Wednesday, August 17, 2022Life Is What It’s CalledA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Thursday, August 18, 2022The Momma SpotA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Friday, August 19, 2022Writer with WanderlustA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Monday, August 22, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Tuesday, August 23, 2022Book Zone ReviewsA guest post of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Wednesday, August 24, 2022Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Thursday, August 25, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Friday, August 26, 2022J.R.s Book ReviewsA book giveaway of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Monday, August 29, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Tuesday, August 30, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Wednesday, August 31, 2022Crafty Moms ShareA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Thursday, September 1, 2022Because I Said SoA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Friday, September 2, 2022Shooting Stars MagA book activity to pair with Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Monday, September 5, 2022Kol’s NotesA book review of Mrs. R. Snugglesworth, Attorney-at-Law
Monday, September 6, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewAn interview with author Amy Flanagan

A NON-THREATENING APPROACH

Coronavirus: A Book for Children about Covid-19

Written by Elizabeth Jenner, Kate Wilson, and Nia Roberts

Illustrated by Alex Scheffler

This book is available in kindle, audio, and paperback editions. It is laid out in a question-and-answer graphic novel format.

The characters ask questions about the origin, symptoms, spread, treatments, preventions, vaccines, and social-emotional issues. There is an effort to include examples of diversity and disabilities so that all types of children are included. It provides a great deal of information without advocating a specific approach.

I do think that the print size in the kindle edition could be made much larger. It is rather difficult to read. A larger easy-to-read font would be friendlier to those with visual problems.

SUBSCRIBE TO GET NEW BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.

PARTY HARDY!

Ninjas Go to a Party: A Rhyming Children’s Book About Parties and Practicing Inclusion

Written by Mary Nhin

Those fun-loving ninjas work hard all week, but they do love to take a break occasionally to party. When they do let their hair down, Inclusive Ninja makes sure that everyone has an enjoyable time. He welcomes all to eat, share activities, and work as a team.

This book is part of a series that employs lovable characters to teach life lessons and values like friendship, empathy, compassion, and inclusiveness.

The entire series is available in boxed sets, individual books, and collections arranged by theme.

A fun book to read aloud, for a bedtime story, or for classroom discussion.

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

COOL, CALM, AND COLLECTED

The Choices I Make: Children’s Book about Making Choices, Anger, Emotions Management

Written by Michael Gordon

Illustrated by Max Larin

A nice, rhyming picture book to open up a discussion on how to deal with anger for preschoolers and elementary school children.

When Josh discovers that his sister took his favorite toy, he lashes out at her. Josh’s dad hears the shouting and offers some advice to his son. Why not stop and think for a minute and then count backward?

In the coming days, Josh learns other ways to control his feelings when he feels anger rising to the surface. He does not like losing a game to his friends, being refused candy, or waiting patiently for his needs to be met.

Adorable illustrations and simple scenarios teach young children how to control their emotions.

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

MOTHER AND DAUGHTER ANGST

The Lost Girl from Belzec, A WW2 Historical Novel

Written by Ravit Raufman

A complex historical holocaust novel based on a true story. It explores the complex psychological relationship between a mother and her daughter.

The Nazis thrust Ruthie and her daughter Noga into the Belzec concentration camp in Poland. Ruthie desperately wants to save Noga, so she smuggles her out of the camp. The author narrates the saga from both their points of view and alternates back and forth. While the author creates well-delineated characters in heartbreaking situations, this dual arrangement can be confusing and annoying.

For young adults and adults who enjoy carefully researched historical novels or those that explore complex psychological issues, this book is an excellent choice. The characters struggle to survive and experience pain and suffering through physical and mental torture. Readers should expect that the book will make a deep impression on them.

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

LESSONS FROM THE RUBY SLIPPERS

Lilly May and the Ruby Shoes Blues

Written by Danielle Diestl

Illustrated by Fani Bela

When Lily May returns home from school in a bad mood, her mom knows just what to do.

What happened to put Lily May in such a foul mood? All her classmates made fun of her favorite ruby heels. The other children seem to favor dull brown flat shoes. Lily’s mom, her cat, and her favorite book are the magical ingredients to rescue Lily May from her funk.

She is reminded of just what a dull place the world would be if we all looked and behaved the same. By the end of the tale, Lily May is celebrating her uniqueness.

This book is written in crisp rhymes with adorable multicultural illustrations. I especially enjoyed the quick exercises that the offer includes for creating, brave, proud, respectful, empathetic, and mindful young readers. Parents and teachers will want to try them all. Highly recommended for primary grade children.

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

LEARNING TO TAKE THE GOOD WITH THE BAD

Sophie Washington: Lemonade Day

Written by Tonya Duncan Ellis

Another fun book in the Sophie Washington middle-grade chapter book series.

In this one, sixth-grader, Sophie Washington, decides to sign up for her school’s Lemonade Day Challenge Event. Ten teams will compete.

Readers cannot help laughing and empathizing with Sophie. She manages to get in trouble for messing up her mother’s files, failing to supervise her younger brother, and getting mixed up with the family dog, Bertram, and his mischief.

Sophie learns about scheduling, organizing a team, coping with supplies, and facing unforeseen delays. She manages to solve problems with her spirit of determination and perseverance. Readers learn lessons about teamwork, respect, and working with family members.

Readers might be inspired to become young entrepreneurs and learn a few life lessons along the way. Highly recommended for eight to twelve-years olds and adults who love to reminisce about their tween years.

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

INFORMATION OVERLOAD

Kids on Earth: A Children’s Documentary Series Exploring Global Cultures & the Natural World: Costa Rica

Written by Sensei Paul David

My title does not necessarily imply criticism. This book contains a wealth of information. Readers learn about the climate, customs, language, culture, topography, economy, and recreational pursuits available in Costa Rica. A brother and sister, Joaquin and Yocsary, narrate a soup-to-nuts tour of what a visitor might find while in this intriguing land.

Each page includes a colorful illustration and a box of more fun facts after the explanation. My only criticism is that the storyline could be tightened up to read more smoothly. It feels a bit choppy because the information switches topics rapidly. On the other hand, almost any type of question that a reader might have is answered.

I recommend the series to children who love learning about new cultures, travel, and adventure. Recommended for elementary and middle-school students

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG TO GET BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.

GALLIVANTING THROUGH GERMANY

Mishi and Mashi go to Germany: Mishi and Mashi Visit Europe Series

Written by Mary George

Illustrated by Lisa Sacchi

This book is part of a European travel series. Mishi and Mashi are two sisters who accompany their parents on travel adventures. The series is intended for elementary school readers.

The author manages to create a pretty comprehensive picture book. Cities visited include Berlin, Hamburg, Cologne, and Frankfurt. They visit kid favorites like museums, zoos, castles, and food venues that feature German specialties. Of course, they experience an Octoberfest and Bavarian costumes. Illustrations are pastels done in soft colors.

My first book of the series, but I will definitely come back to read others.

SUBSCRIBE TO MY BLOG TO GET BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.

#LETTER SOUNDS ABOUND – a virtual book tour and giveaway

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Practice Readers Books

ABOUT THE BOOK

Letter Sounds Abound

Written by Catherine S. Young

Illustrated by Victoria Gesner

Ages 3-6 | 48 Pages

Publisher: Practice Readers Books | ISBN-13: 9781778066702

Publisher’s Synopsis: Letter Sounds Abound is a friendly alphabet book that highlights big ideas about how written language works for preschool and kindergarten children. It focuses on the most common letter-sound relationships while helping children tune in to the fact that letters can make different sounds in different situations to avoid confusion for beginners. The rhyming text makes it fun for parents to read to their children time and again, while simple line drawings inspire imagination without competing for attention with text.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3tKfe0V

Practice Readers Books

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Catherine S. Young has spent her career putting research insights into practice across the spheres of education, public health, and electronics. The proud mother of three delightful developing readers, she founded Practice Readers Books to provide evidence-aligned books to support the unique needs of fledgling readers (and their parents) at school and at home.

For more information, visit https://practicereaders.ca/collections/alphabet-books.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Victoria Gesner (Pelletier) is an artist and educator based in Fredericton, New Brunswick. She believes in making literacy and art affordable and accessible to all.

You can find some of her other artwork at Femme des Fleurs Art at https://www.facebook.com/femmedesfleurs.art/.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

EASY PEASY ALPHABET

Letters Abound: A Practice Reading Book

Written by C. S. Young

Illustrations by Victoria Gesner

A simple tool to teach preschool and kindergarten students to learn and read alphabet sounds and words. The author introduces forty-four sounds and the twenty-six letters of the alphabet. Young emphasizes first skills of reading like tracking left to right and following with the finger. Gesner’s illustrations are presented as simple black and white pictures containing the single letters, digraph sounds, and alphabet letters. Children learn how to point out the capital and small letters as they find out about the sounds associated with each. Two sentences on each page rhyme to make reading out loud a fun exercise pleasing to the ear.

This book provides a teaching tool for adults to read as well as for the child to pick up independently as she becomes more confident and proficient in phonetic and reading skills. Certainly, a valuable teaching tool for preschool and early childhood teachers as well as parents.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Letter Sounds Abound, the companion practice book Alphabet Print and Colour, a beginner’s notebook, and a set of alphabet letter magnets!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

– An autographed copy of Letter Sounds Abound

– A copy of Alphabet Print and Colour

– A beginner’s notebook

-A set of magnetic alphabet letters

Two (2) winners receive:

– An autographed copy of Letter Sounds Abound

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/loYNF/letter-sounds-abound-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, June 22, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Letter Sounds Abound
Thursday, June 23, 2022The Momma SpotA book review of Letter Sounds Abound
Friday, June 24, 2022Writer with WanderlustA book review of Letter Sounds Abound
Monday, June 27, 2022The Review WireAn interview with author Catherine S. Young
Tuesday, June 28, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Letter Sounds Abound
Wednesday, June 29, 2022Me Two BooksA book activity to pair with Letter Sounds Abound
Thursday, June 30, 2022Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of Letter Sounds Abound
Friday, July 1, 2022Tales of a Wanna-Be Superhero MomA book giveaway of Letter Sounds Abound
Wednesday, July 6, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Letter Sounds Abound
Thursday, July 7, 2022Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway of Letter Sounds Abound
Friday, July 8, 2022J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of Letter Sounds Abound
Monday, July 11, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn article by author Catherine S. YoungFavorite Words for Beginner Readers