In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Ryan O’Connor

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Written by Ryan O’Connor

Illustrated by Xiang Minghui

Ages 6-10 | 48 Pages

Publisher: Xlibris Corp | ISBN-13 : 978-1664153189

Publisher’s Synopsis: Li Li Wang is enjoying Chinese New Year with her family when her grandparents ask her to sit with them. Before giving Li Li her holiday gift, they tell her the story of Ting Ting Wang, Li Li’s ancestor, and how she became a Chinese hero. Li Li carefully listens as her grandparents tell her about Ting Ting, the monster Nian, and the origin of the Chinese New Year celebration. Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China provides insight into China’s biggest holiday, gives a sense of its culture, and shows that girls are just as strong and brave as boys.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2R1YdPv

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781664153189

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ryan O’Connor is a literature and writing teacher in Shanghai, China, and the author of the children’s book series Bobby the Bear. With a background in sports journalism and education, Ryan has turned his focus to writing children’s books. Through unique characters, Ryan provides children with moral and life lessons. Ryan has earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in education; he has also won numerous awards for sports writing. Ryan is a native of Pittsburg, Kansas, but has spent the past ten years living in Shanghai.

To learn more about Ryan and his books, visit his website at www.ryanoconnorauthor.com.

MY REVIEW OF THE BOOK

A FAMILY TRADITION

Ting, Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Written by Ryan O’Connor

Illustrated by Xiang Minghui

Six-year-old, Li Li Wang is getting ready to celebrate Chinese New Year with her parents and grandparents. Her grandmother, Nai, Nai, and grandfather, Ye Ye, decide to tell her about the story of one of her ancestors, Ting Ting Wang.

Ting Ting lived on a farm with her parents and older brothers in the village of Tianyu many years ago. At that time no one paid attention to girls. Ting heard about the monster named Nian who was half unicorn and half dragon. Every year Nian would roam the countryside and attack the villages on New Year’s Eve. Across China, the residents hid themselves, their animals and possessions from the wanton attacks of the monster. But Ting Ting was not afraid. She knew if attacked she would stand and fight. When Nian appeared in her village, she dressed in red, decorated the house with red banners, and set out loud firecrackers. The monster became disoriented and fled. This legend has been handed down from generation to generation.

Elementary grade readers learn about Chinese culture, traditional foods, and customs like the tradition of the red envelope. The multicultural illustrations are charming and vibrant. This tale is a wonderful way to introduce students to Asian culture. Recommended as a read aloud for classroom discussion or a bedtime story for children ages three through eight.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of books by Ryan O’Connor, including Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A copy Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China
• A Ting Ting Bookmark
• A copy of Bobby the Bear and His Missing Dinner
• A copy of Merry Christmas, Bobby the Bear

Two (2) winners receive:

• A copy Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

The giveaway begins June 1, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends June 30, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

https://gleam.io/Wl38D/ting-ting-the-girl-who-saved-china-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, June 1, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-OffTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Tuesday, June 1, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Wednesday, June 2, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 3, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 4, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Sunday, June 6, 2021Feminist Books for KidsA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Monday, June 7, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Tuesday, June 8, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withRyan O’Connor

Wednesday, June 9, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 10, 2021Over Coffee ConversationA Beyond the Book ActivityTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 11, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Wednesday, June 16, 2021Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 17, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 18, 2021Books Are Magic TooAn interview withRyan O’Connor

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Thomas Tosi

ABOUT THE BOOK

Six Thousand Doughnuts

Written by Thomas Tosi

Illustrated by Meaghan Tosi

Ages 8-12 | 284 Pages

Publisher: Dooney Press | ISBN-13 : 978-1954782013

Publisher’s Synopsis: Why would anyone need six thousand doughnuts?

Big family…little house… Fifth-grader Abe Mitchell is fed up with sharing. All he wants is something to call his own. And he just might get it when he finds a loophole in the fine print of a doughnut shop coupon. Abe thinks it entitles him to a fresh-baked mountain of crullers, dunkers, and chocolate-frosteds. But cashing in means war with Marlene Paczki, the daughter of the doughnut shop owner and Abe’s new crush.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3fdV47n

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781954782013

MY REVIEW OF THE BOOK

TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING

Six Thousand Doughnuts

Written by Thomas Tosi

Illustrated by Meghan Tosi

Abe Mitchell is tired of sharing. He lives in an attic space with his two older twin brothers. His sisters must also share. When his cousin Celia temporarily moves it, he is unhappy to learn that he and his brothers will now be sharing the attic with his sisters as well!

One day Abe is sharing a doughnut with his two sisters when he notices a coupon on his father’s coffee cup. He has won a free doughnut, one that he will not have to share. Abe’s dad refuses to return to the shop, so he decides to return another day.

Now Abe is a clever fifth grader. He notices the fine print that says prize may be exchanged for 1/20 of a cent. Abe quickly calculates that would be the equivalent of six thousand doughnuts. When Abe returns to the store to collect his prize, the owner demurs informing Abe that is just legal jargon. To make matters worse, Marlene Paczki, the owner’s daughter starts a food fight that nearly destroys the shop. Add to that, the fact that Abe develops a crush on Marlene, his problems continue to mount.

Read the rest of this hilarious, coming of age middle-grade novel to find out what happens to Abe, his family, and the doughnut shop. The black and white illustrations enhance this fun read and make it a perfect choice for a reluctant reader.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Thomas Tosi is a writer/filmmaker who, together with his wife, Heidi, has produced an award-winning children’s website, educational multimedia games, and dramatic films which have aired on national television, PBS affiliate stations, and screened in numerous film festivals. He was born and raised in New Hampshire, where he and Heidi still reside. He takes pride in the fact that they now live in a solar-powered home where they grow and can organic vegetables.

For more information visit thomastosi.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Meaghan Tosi, after being born on April Fools’ Day in New Hampshire, has collected a BFA from Laguna College of Art and Design. She illustrated this book and the graphic novel Squashed alongside author Thomas Tosi. She has also self-published DWEEDY: The Imagined Adventures of My Deceased Cat. She now lives in Portland, Oregon, for the art, coffee shops, vegan food, and the constantly lingering smell of rain.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a hardcover Six Thousand Doughnuts prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A hardcover copy of Six Thousand Doughnuts, autographed by Thomas Tosi
• A high-quality ceramic Six Thousand Doughnuts diner mug featuring the Sweetly Crisp doughnuts logo.

Three (3) grand winners receive:

• A hardcover copy of Six Thousand Doughnuts, autographed by Thomas Tosi

The giveaway begins May 19, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends June 19, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282229/?

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, May 19, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Thursday, May 20, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Friday, May 21, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Monday, May 24, 2021Shooting Stars MagA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Tuesday, May 25, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Wednesday, May 26, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Friday, May 28, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Monday, May 31, 2021A Dream Within A DreamA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Tuesday, June 1, 2021Lille Punkin’A book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Wednesday, June 2, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Thursday, June 3, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Friday, June 4, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

Monday, June 6, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofSix Thousand Doughnuts

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Kathleen T. Pelley.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Five Little Angels

Written by Kathleen T. Pelley

Illustrated by Dubravka Kolanovic

Ages 3-7 | Pages 54

Publisher: Elk Lake Publishing, Inc. | ISBN-13: 978-1649491794

Publisher’s Synopsis: Join this celestial romp with five little angels, who hop on a cloud to take a peek at the world below, and see all sorts of loving acts of kindness, which sends them into a frenzy of delight. A lyrical read aloud to teach your little angel how kindness can build heaven on earth.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3wrNNIe

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781649491800

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

KATHLEEN T. PELLEY is a native of Glasgow, Scotland, but spent most of her childhood summers playing on her grandparents’ farm in Ireland. Her passion for stories stemmed from listening to them on the radio during the BBC children’s story hour. She is the award-winning author of seven other picture books and hosts her own storytelling podcast, Journey with Story.

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

MY Review of The Book

SWEET SIMPLICITY

FIVE LITTLE ANGELS

Written by Kathleen T. Pelley

Illustrated by Dubravka Kolanovik

What a charming and sweet message for young children. The author has created a reverse counting book written in easy to read and listen to rhymes. As the story opens, five little multicultural angels are looking down on people on earth. Some of these are practicing acts of kindness like crowning their sleeping mother with a crown of flowers, others are arguing or showing signs of frustration. When the angels witness a good deed, they dance for joy. Unfortunately, that sometimes leads to a fall. The young reader is asked to study the pictures to see where each angel lands. That invites the child to become an active participant in the tale.

The language is easy to understand and full of words that encourage the child to imagine the scene and use his senses. Soft watercolor illustrations are pleasing to the eye. They are reminiscent of a child’s crayon drawings.

I highly recommend this picture book as a read aloud discussion activity with young children. It will encourage them to become little angels bestowing empathy and kindness on friends and family.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a Five Little Angels prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A set of seven books by Kathleen Pelley, including Five Little Angels
• A $25 Barnes & Noble gift card
• One Hugging Plush Angel Slap Bracelet
• Your child’s name mentioned in the Journey with Story podcast

Five (5) winners receive:

• A hardcover copy of Five Little Angels
• One Hugging Plush Angel Slap Bracelet

Five (5) winners receive:

• A paperback copy of Five Little Angels
• One Hugging Plush Angel Slap Bracelet

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

Click on the link below to enter the Giveaway.

https://gleam.io/GsG2d/five-little-angels-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, May 26, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewBook Tour Kick-Off

Thursday, May 27, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofFive Little Angels

Friday, May 28, 2021Over Coffee ConversationsAn article byKathleen T. Pelley

Monday, May 31, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofFive Little Angels

Tuesday, June 1, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofFive Little Angels

Wednesday, June 2, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofFive Little Angels

Thursday, June 3, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofFive Little Angels

Friday, June 4, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofFive Little Angels

Monday, June 7, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofFive Little Angels

Tuesday, June 8, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofFive Little Angels

Wednesday, June 9, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofFive Little Angels

Thursday, June 10, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofFive Little Angels

Friday June 11, 2021BookShelfMommaA book review ofFive Little Angels

Crow From the Shadow (Parent-Child-Connect (P2C) Book 1)

Written of Olaolu Ogunyemi

Illustrated by Joshua Ogunyemi

Crow is a bird that possesses a high level of intelligence. He wants to push himself to his limits. Perhaps he will be an architect, a superstar athlete, or a military genius. Unfortunately, self-doubt in the form of the shadow is always lurking in the background telling him that he cannot succeed.

Children and adults are so often held back by nagging self-doubts. This beautifully illustrated book urges us to aspire to our best and see the possibilities for success not the fears of failure. There is a wonderful opportunity to continue the discussion with parents and teachers by using the discussion questions. In addition, the information section about crows is highly informative.

Recommended for upper elementary school and middle-school-age students.

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

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Script Novel Publishing LLC

ABOUT THE BOOK

Bizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Written by Travis Peagler

Illustrated by Blueberry Illustrations

Ages 4-8 | 32 Pages

Publisher: Script Novel Publishing | ISBN-13: 978-1732563551

Publisher’s Synopsis: Every morning at seven o’ three, I wake up just in time to watch Grandpa play with Bizzy Bzzz the Bee.

Bizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea is reading made fun. Told through the eyes of a child, this is an entertaining story about a boy who gets a good laugh watching Grandpa’s encounter with a bee every morning while trying to enjoy his cup of tea. Teetering on the edge of frustration, Grandpa has a heightened escalation with Bizzy.

The boy comes up with a quick solution that allows Grandpa to enjoy his morning tea and lets Bizzy stay. It’s safe to say, the Grandson saved the day. This story has playful rhyme, problem solving, and is sure to put a smile on faces of children every time.

Bizzy Bzzz zips around Grandpa’s head three times and makes him dizzy. It’s funny when his eyes cross. He looks so silly.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3ofsV3K

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781732563551

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Travis Peagler is a unique individual, being the youngest of seven kids, raised partially in low-income apartments on the East side of Dayton, Ohio, until the age of nine. Humble beginnings growing up in a somewhat multi-racial neighborhood gave Travis an inimitable perspective on life at an incredibly young age.

His imagination has always been his outlet. Thinking back to grade-school when he was in an uncomfortable situation or when he didn’t handle conflict well, Travis would always replay the scene again in his mind where things played out the way he wished. An innate defense mechanism, he assumes, which led to the discovery of his extraordinary talent.

Be sure to leave Travis a book review. You also can keep up with Travis for future promotions, giveaways, and etc., at the following:

www.TravisPeagler.com | Facebook @TravisWriterPeagler | Instagram @TravisWriterPeagler

MY REVIEW OF THE BOOK

LENDING A HELPING HAND

Bizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Written by Travis Peagler

Illustrated by Blueberry Illustrations

Grandpa’s trouble with a pesky bee is narrated by his clever, young grandson. Every morning, Grandpa sits on the porch with his dog, Sparks, and his tea. He repeats the scenario every evening. Poor Grandpa is troubled by a pesky bee. His grandson decides to do something about the pesky visitor. One evening the boy comes up with an ingenious solution and saves the day.

This short multicultural rhyming picture book teaches children kindness and empathy toward others. It is a touching tale of a loving Christian boy and his grandpa. Elementary grade readers will chuckle at the bee’s antics and the boy’s efforts to save the day. Recommended as a bedtime story or family read-aloud.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Bizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea and a $100 Visa gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A copy of Bizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea
• A $100 Visa gift card

Six (6) winners receive:

• A copy of Bizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

The giveaway begins May 24, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends June 24, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click here for the entry form: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282232/?

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, May 24, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Tuesday, May 25, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withTravis Peagler

Wednesday, May 26, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Thursday, May 27, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Friday, May 28, 2021Heart to HeartA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Monday, May 31, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Tuesday, June 1, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Wednesday, June 2, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Thursday, June 3, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Monday, June 7, 2021Over Coffee ConversationAn interview withTravis Peagler

Tuesday, June 8, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofBizzy Bzzz the Bee and Grandpa’s Tea

Virtual Blog Tour and Giveaway in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Next Pivot Point

ABOUT THE BOOK

Little Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Written by Julie Kratz

Illustrated by Edwards Maiello

Ages 5-10 | 74 Pages

Publisher: Next Pivot Point | ISBN-13: 978-1736515907

Publisher’s Synopsis: As Ally navigates through her school day, she watches her classmates face bullying and discrimination. Ally realizes that they all want the same thing – to be accepted as they are. Ally learns an important lesson, brought to light by her teacher, that our differences make each of us unique and special, and that we can be an ally to others to help them navigate through life.

Little Allies is a touching tale that reminds us of the importance of accepting each other, celebrating our differences, and working to become an ally. The colorful pictures show Ally’s willingness to stand by her friends, even when she doesn’t know how else to help. Adults in the story are also important allies, helping kids navigate challenges, learn ways to support, and cherish their uniqueness.

The bonus material at the end of the book will spark discussion at home or in the classroom.100% of online book sale proceeds will be donated to a nonprofit or organization focused on children’s diversity and inclusion development or providing equitable access to opportunities for all children.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3uKvehZ

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781736515907

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Julie Kratz is a highly acclaimed TEDx speaker and inclusive leadership trainer who led teams and produced results in corporate America. After experiencing many career “pivot points” of her own, she started her own speaking business, focused on helping leaders be more inclusive. Promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace, Julie is a frequent keynote speaker, podcast host, and executive coach. She holds an MBA from the Kelley School of Business at Indiana University, is a Certified Master Coach, and is a certified unconscious bias trainer.

Her books include Pivot Point: How to Build a Winning Career Game Plan, ONE: How Male Allies Support Women for Gender Equality, and Lead Like an Ally: A Journey Through Corporate America with Strategies to Facilitate Inclusion, and Little Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally.

MY REVIEW OF THE BOOK

UNITED WE STAND

Little Allies

Written by Julie Kratz

Illustrated by Edward Maiello

Kratz has provided an interesting approach to handling discussions of diversity among elementary age and middle-school students. Through the eyes of the protagonist, Ally, each day of the week at school reveals a different character experiencing a challenge. Readers meet members of Ally’s fourth grade class who face opposition from fellow classmates. They represent different religious, cultures, special needs, gender, racial and family groupings. Ally stands up as a child willing to protect and empathize with these fellow students.

This book allows young readers to visualize and understand these situations. The discussion guide and glossary of terms to know provide valuable reference points. They can be used by adults such as teachers, counselors, and parents to encourage further discussion. It is my hope that the facilitators will not interject politics into the issues but use this framework to promote unity and healing.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a Little Allies ART-Stravaganza prize pack!

One (1) Grand Prize Winner Receives:

• A copy of Little Allies, autographed by Julie Kratz
• A $50 Target gift card
• An ART-stravangza kit for your budding artist including:
  • A Sketchbook
  • Skin Tone Colored Pencils
  • Crayola Multi-Ethnic Skin Tone Washable Tempera Paints
  • Paint Brushes
  • Crayola Skin Tone Multicultural Crayons
  • Crayola Skin Tone Multicultural Markers

Two Winners Receive:

• A copy of Little Allies, autographed by Julie Kratz
• A Little Allies Slap Bracelet
• A Little Allies Sticker

The giveaway begins May 17, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends June 17, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT

Click here for the entry form: http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282231/?

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, May 17, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Tuesday, May 18, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Wednesday, May 19, 2021Shooting Stars MagazineA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Thursday, May 20, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA guest post by authorJulie Kratz

Sunday, May 23, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Monday, May 24, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Tuesday, May 25, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Tuesday, June 1, 2021Mommy RamblingsA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Wednesday, June 2, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withJulie Kratz

Thursday, June 3, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofLittle Allies: A Children’s Story about Inclusion, Diversity, and Becoming an Ally

Friday, June 4, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitAn interview withJulie Kratz

Jump the Moon

Written by Kathy Simmers

Illustrated by Marjorie Van Heerden

This book relates the sweet tale of a young girl with blonde hair who loves horses. She cannot have her own, so she is working in a barn with a horse trainer for the summer. A gray pony balks at everyone, but this young girl succeeds in developing a special relationship with the pony. As the summer wears on, the two seem to complete each other’s thoughts, hence the phrase, Me Too.

At the end of the summer, the pony is sold. For many years, their paths diverge. The girl begins college. Then she starts to reminisce and dream about the pony. She wants to reconnect. Will she succeed in tracking down the pony and can she restore that special bond of empathy, trust, and kindness?

The soft pastel illustrations impart a whimsical and light-hearted mood to the rhythmic storyline. Highly recommended for elementary grade readers.

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

Sophie Washington: Things You Didn’t Know About Sophie

Written and Illustrated by Tanya Duncan Ellis

This is Book Three of the Sophie Washington book series. In this tale, Sophie is about to turn eleven. She is excited because she has a crush on Toby, a new boy in school who has recently moved from Cleveland. Of course she wants desperately for him to notice her. Her other big concern is talking her parents into getting her a cell phone for her birthday. Sophie tells her friend that she is getting an Apple phone, but her parents have not agreed yet. In an effort to impress her friends, she might just jeopardize her fondest wish.

This series is popular with late elementary school and middle-grade readers. Sophie is a character with which many of her readers empathize. Her mistakes and hijinks move the story along. She is funny, genuine, and contemporary. I recommend the series to students ages seven through thirteen.

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

I Feel Anxious: Children’s Book About Overcoming Anxiety For Kids 4-8.

Written by Aleks Harrison

Illustrated by Ferlina Gunawan

Max is a little boy who feels overwhelmed and anxious. He is moving with his parents to a new town two states away. As he rides in the moving truck, worries crowd his mind. What will his new school be like? Will the new children like him? Who will be his teacher?

Max’s parents encourage him to draw and write about his feelings. That makes him feel better. Perhaps, things won’t be so bad.

Through beautiful illustrations and expressive language, Max calms his fears and reaches out to children who may find themselves in similar situations. Recommended for preschoolers and primary grade children.

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

Women in Chemistry

Written by Mary Wissinger

Illustrated by Danielle Piolo

This well-written and organized book is a wonderful way to introduce elementary and middle-grade readers to the world of chemistry. Wissinger offers simple explanations with appropriate illustrations making the content clear and easy to comprehend.

The short book packs a ton of information in forty pages. Young scientists learn about matter, elements, atoms, DNA, X-rays, chemical reactions, the periodic table, and so much more. There is a brief history of the contributions by women in chemistry going way back to Cleopatra. The glossary adds additional information to explore. The tone is positive encouraging the young reader to embrace scientific exploration.

I am looking forward to reading more books in this new nonfiction science exploration series.

Thanks to the publisher for providing me an ARC to review, which I voluntarily chose to read and review with my honest opinions for no compensation.

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