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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Written by Kristina Tanso

Illustrated by Sofie Engstrom Von Alten

Ages 4+ | 36 Pages

Publisher: Life Unfiltered Books | ISBN-13: 9781738414000

Publisher’s Book Summary: Join Milo – an adorable French Bulldog – as he embarks on his very first adventure! Simply by clapping his little paws together and jumping on his magic skateboard, Milo takes flight and explores Europe! This fun, heart-warming adventure will charm children and adults alike, while exploring different iconic places and cultures!

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kristina Tanso is an animal lover whose life changed the day she rescued Milo from the streets of Hong Kong in May 2019. Milo and His Magic Skateboard is inspired by the real-life adventures the duo have had since: prompted by Kristina’s affinity for travel, and Milo’s curious personality. Kristina is also the author of the critically acclaimed psychological thriller, Bad Things (2023); and is a producer on Searching/or Chinook, a documentary about the future survival of the last remaining Southern resident orcas, starring Maisie Williams (Game of Thrones).

An advocate for mental health and spiritual well-being, Kristina’s articles on the topic are regularly featured on Medium. Outside of writing, Kristina works at the University of Oxford, and serves as a guest professor at a university in Asia.

You can learn more about Kristina and her work at www.kristinatanso.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

THERE’S NO PLACE LIKE HOME

Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Written by Kristina Tanso

Illustrated by Sofie Engstrom Von Alten

I once had a cat named Milo. That’s why I immediately identified with Milo.

In this picture book adventure, Milo is a French Bulldog living in Milan with a yen for travel. He loves being home with his mistress but when she departs for work, Milo picks up his magic skateboard and cruises across the continent.

Milo transports his reader friends to Paris, Germany, Spain, Switzerland, Spain, and Rome where they are treated to a whirlwind tour of the famous sites in each country. Milo enjoys his adventures, but soon realizes something is missing. He longs to cuddle beside his owner.

Milo teaches us the value of experiencing new places, but, in the end, we long for the safety and comfort of home and the people we love.

Illustrations are simple, colorful, and appealing to the targeted primary grade reader. Rhymes add to the appeal of reading this adventure out loud.  

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for the chance to win a signed hardcover copy of Milo and His Magic Skateboard and a customized sketch of Milo!

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/nkYML/milo-and-his-magic-skateboard-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, March 25, 2024The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Tuesday, March 26, 2024The Momma SpotBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Wednesday, March 27, 2024My Reading GetawayAuthor Interview with Kristina Tanso

Thursday, March 28, 2024Pages for PaigeBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Friday, March 29, 2024Cover Lover Book ReviewAuthor Interview with Kristina Tanso

Monday, April 1, 2024The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Tuesday, April 2, 2024One More ExclamationBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Wednesday, April 3, 2024Froggy Read TeachBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Thursday, April 4, 2024Deliciously SavvyAuthor Article by Kristina Tanso

Friday, April 5, 2024Country Mamas with KidsBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Monday, April 8, 2024Confessions of a Book AddictBook Giveaway of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Tuesday, April 9, 2024A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Wednesday, April 10, 2024Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Thursday, April 11, 2024Q&A with Deborah KalbAuthor Interview with Kristina Tanso

Monday, April 15, 2024Me Two BooksA Book Activity to Pair with Milo and His Magic Skateboard

Tuesday, April 16, 2024Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAuthor Article by Kristina Tanso

Wednesday, April 17, 2024icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Milo and His Magic Skateboard

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

NaMOOste: A Yoga Book to Develop Social-Emotional Skills

Written by Marlee Kostiner

Illustrated by Manvi Semalty

A very cute book for a parent or teacher who wants to introduce young children to yoga as a way to relax, become mindful, and deal with social emotional issues.

Thirteen basic yoga poses are presented by different animals portrayed in attractive watercolor illustrations. After trying out the poses, young readers can move on to the fourteen emotional skills in the glossary. The author explains the behavior in simple terms. The author also includes discussion questions based on the content in the book and a link to free resources like videos and free printables.

An excellent introduction to yoga for primary grade and elementary age students.

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Written by Melanie Brazdzionis

Illustrated by Ning Loo

Ages 2+ | 32 Pages

Publisher: Miranda Moose Publishers, LLC | ISBN-13: 9798988046004

Publisher’s Synopsis: Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice is a delightful tale about friendship, perseverance, and self-empowerment for ages 2-6. Follow Miranda as she embarks on an adventure to find her favorite drink! With the help of her farm animal friends, she discovers the power of self-reliance and realizes that what you need may only be as far as your own backyard! Filled with vivid illustrations and heartwarming rhymes, Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice will captivate your little ones and leave them with a valuable lesson.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

As a stay-at-home mother, Melanie Brazdzionis spent much of her time engaging, educating, and entertaining her two children.  

Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice was a result of those very efforts.

Prior to becoming a mother, Melanie wrote lyrics and music for her original rock band in the late 1980s. More recently, she launched a virtual assistant business to edit other people’s newsletters and websites. Her current focus is on creating and publishing stories to entertain other people’s children. 

When Melanie is not writing, she is practicing yoga, playing piano, studying French, hiking, or traveling. Melanie lives with her husband in Connecticut.

For more information, visit www.mrs-melanie.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Ning Loo has harbored a deep love for creating, sharing, admiring, and learning about art since childhood. Encouraged by her parents from a tender age, Ning’s early drawings, though crude, sparked admiration and encouragement from her family.

A graduate of the University of Edinburgh with a degree in biotechnology, Ning’s passion for drawing and painting has remained a constant throughout her life. She eagerly anticipates every opportunity to immerse herself in her beloved art supplies, finding solace and joy in the creative process.

When presented with the chance to illustrate Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice, Ning’s excitement knew no bounds; she couldn’t help but do a little dance right in the middle of her office! Her journey with MMLOJ has been nothing short of delightful. Collaborating with the gracious author, Ning brought to life cozy characters adorned in charming outfits, all the while discovering more about her unique art style.

Ning feels privileged to be a part of this enchanting book and hopes that her illustrations will bring comfort, wonder, and joy to readers of all ages, spreading the magic of Miranda Moose’s adventures far and wide.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

FRESHLY SQUEEZED

Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Written by Melanie Brazdzioni

Illustrated by Zing Loo

A charming picture book that teaches children the value of perseverance, empathy, and friendship.

Miranda possesses a rather eclectic taste for a moose. She enjoys things like jam, soda, and fruits, but she especially craves orange juice. One day, she wakes up to find that she is out of orange juice. When her local grocery store is out of stock, Miranda goes off to the farm hoping to find OJ. After interviewing several animals who cannot help her, Miranda gets a clue to point her in the right direction.

The rhymes are crisp and sharp, and the dialogue with animal friends spot on. This book should be read aloud to enjoy it fully. Toddler friends and toddlers will love meeting their favorite farm animal friends, and following the plight of Miranda as she refuses to give up.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for your chance to win a signed hardcover copy or a 25-book classroom set of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice!

Click on the link below to enter the giveaway

https://gleam.io/sVh8y/miranda-moose-loves-orange-juice-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Friday, March 22, 2024The Children’s Book ReviewBook Tour Kick-Off

Monday, March 25, 2024The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Tuesday, March 26, 2024Froggy Read TeachBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Wednesday, March 27, 2024The Momma SpotBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Thursday, March 28, 2024Cover Lover Book ReviewBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Friday, March 29, 2024icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Monday, April 1, 2024Stargirls.Magical.TaleBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Tuesday, April 2, 2024One More ExclamationBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Wednesday, April 3, 2024Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Thursday, April 4, 2024Confessions of a Book AddictBook Giveaway of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Friday, April 5, 2024Get Outside and ReadBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Monday, April 8, 2024Country Mamas with KidsBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Tuesday, April 9, 2024Pages for PaigeBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Wednesday, April 10, 2024A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Thursday, April 11, 2024Deliciously SavvyBook Review of Miranda Moose Loves Orange Juice

Monday, April 15, 2024Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn article by Author Melanie Brazdzionis

A Colorful Beginning

Written by Raven Howell

Illustrated by Carina Povarchik

An adorable picture book that features animal creatures getting ready for the first day of school. Each of the animals is associated with a different color The author uses vocabulary that stimulates interaction and even includes a bit of math to enhance the value of the book. When the animals arrive, they meet Mr. Mole, their teacher who assists them in painting a beautful work cooperatively that blends all their colors. Children learn to understand each has something important to contribute. Together, they create a beautiful tapestry.

This is an excellent book to read aloud to a preschooler or kindergarten child ready to begin school to allay their fears and teach them how each child is unique and special.

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This post is sponsored by Alysson Foti Bourque. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Written by Alysson Foti Bourque

Illustrated by Chiara Civati

Ages 4+ | 32 Pages

Publisher: Pelican Publishing | ISBN-13: 9781455627790

Publisher’s Book Summary: It’s Sunday, the day before the school week begins, and Alycat is nervous. She just knows that Monday is going to be the Mondayest Monday ever! On the playground, Alycat realizes she isn’t the only one suffering from the Sunday Scaries. It’s hard to ride a bike. What if Kit falls? The treehouse is so high. Will Spotty make it safely back down? The kittens band together to overcome their fears, but can they turn the Sunday Scaries into a Sunday Funday? The themes of the books in the Alycat Series all reflect a reliance on friendships, imagination, and creativity toward problem-solving.

Fans of Alycat and her friends will enjoy spotting references to the kittens’ daily adventures within these pages. Tips for a successful lemonade stand are included!

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Alysson Bourque began her career as a teacher after graduating from the University of Louisiana at Lafayette with a degree in Elementary Education and went on to earn a law degree from Southern University Law Center in 2007.

After practicing law for nearly eight years, it was time to trade in writing trial briefs for writing children’s books and collaborating with non-profits to support philanthropic initiatives such as Foster the Love with First Lady Donna Edwards, Lafayette Walk to Defeat ALS, The Family Tree, Operation Shower, Wild Cat Foundation, and Hayley’s Bracelet fundraiser to benefit Lurie Children’s Hospital.

Her series has won over 23 awards and has received glowing reviews.

Find Alyson and Alycat online at www.alycatseries.com.

https://www.facebook.com/thealycatseries

https://www.instagram.com/thealycatseries

Tweets by AlyssonFBourque

https://www.youtube.com/c/TheAlycatSeries

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

WE CAN DO IT!

Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Written by Alysson Foti Bourque

Illustrated by Chiara Civati

Another delightful picture book in the Alycat series, which teaches young children how to overcome problems, work cooperatively, and create lasting friendships.

In this adventure, Alycat confides in her mother that although it is Sunday, she is already imagining a Monday full of her worst fears. Her mother urges her to enjoy her Sunday and play with her friends.

Alycat and her friends go bike riding but soon find that their friend Kit needs help and encouragement. After overcoming this problem, the friends encounter Spotty in trouble at his treehouse. What can they do to help?

The book series contains attractive easy to read text and bright illustrations. Most importantly, primary grade readers learn the value of developing strong friendships, teamwork, and ways to solve problems creatively and with compassion.

A highly recommended series for children ages four through eight.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for a chance to win a signed copy of the book and three adorable Alycat plush toys!

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/OTV8X/alycat-and-the-sunday-scaries-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, March 18, 2024The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Tuesday, March 19, 2024Deliciously SavvyBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Wednesday, March 20, 2024Confessions of a Book AddictBook Giveaway of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Thursday, March 21, 2024Life Is What It’s CalledAn Interview with Alysson Foti Bourque

Friday, March 22, 2024icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Monday, March 25, 2024Country Mamas with KidsBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Tuesday, March 26, 2024Pages for PaigeBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Wednesday, March 27, 2024The Growing Readers PodcastAn Interview with Alysson Foti Bourque

Wednesday, March 27, 2024Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Thursday, March 28, 2024Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Friday, March 29, 2024Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Monday, April 1, 2024One More ExclamationBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Tuesday, April 2, 2024Cover Lover Book ReviewBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Wednesday, April 3, 2024A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Thursday, April 4, 2024My Reading GetawayBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Friday, April 5, 2024The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Monday, April 8, 2024Book Zone ReviewsBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Tuesday, April 9, 2024Twirling Book PrincessBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Wednesday, April 10, 2024Me Two BooksAn Interview with Alysson Foti Bourque

Thursday, April 11, 2024Joanna’s BookshelfBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Friday, April 12, 2024The Momma SpotBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Monday, April 15, 2024Mrs. Makes Reading FunBook Review of Alycat and the Sunday Scaries

Get Out Your Paper

Written by Renee Hayes

Illustrated by Rochelle Steder

An illustrated rhyming book with a twist. The protagonist, a young boy who hates writing, gets a writing assignment in class. He daydreams about the many activities he would prefer. While, he is a good student, he just cannot decide on a writing topic. Desperate, he scribbles all his ideas on paper in random fashion. When lunchtime arrives, the teacher collects all the papers.

The boy assumes he will fail. What do you think will happen? The plot thickens.

I especially appreciated the multicultural illustrations which also include students with disabilities. All children can identify with the characters in this inspirational read for students in the six to ten age group.

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The Donkeys Jesus Chose: A Catholic Chapter Storybook

Written by Christine Calabrese

A beautiful early reader for Christian families to describe the events leading up to Palm Sunday and the profound affect it had on one family.

Joshua, his wife, Miriam, and their disabled daughter, Mara lived a humble life in a small village. They have a stubborn, donkey named Sapphire who is about to give birth. Sapphire refuses to allow anyone to ride her. Mara must face the bullying of the village children who taunt her as a cripple. In those times, a handicap was often seen as a sign of sin. Mara has one true friend, Hannah, who tells her about Jesus, the Messiah.

As the village prepares for Passover, the family hears that Jesus will enter Jerusalem in a procession. Mara pleads to go. Then an unexpected request comes from a stranger to use the family donkeys for the Messiah in the procession. How will this request and the miracle that follows change the life of this humble family?

Along with the touching tale containing lessons of empathy, compassion, resilience, and hope, children are treated to the beautiful, colored pencil drawings of a budding young artist, Anna Williams who illustrates the chapters. As a bonus for young readers, the author includes a link to learn all about donkeys.

This book is especially recommended to Christian families and beginning chapter book readers.

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The Very Hungry Spider (Silly Wood Tale)

Written by E. B. Adams

This is a very short picture book with a quirky sense of humor. It consists of short rhymes from a spider who catches a fly in its web. It appears that this spider is a picky-eater because it refuses to eat the fly. On subsequent days, the spider catches more flies and continues to protest. How do the flies feel about their predicament? Does the spider learn a lesson?

The book might appeal to young children who enjoy silly stories. It is fun to read-aloud. This author uses speech bubbles and the layout is similar to a comic book format. There is little educational value. A simple book for primary grade readers.

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Ocean Full of Wonder

Written by Anna Smithers

Illustrated by Nino Aptsiauri

I love how this author presents the ocean topic. Children learn about twelve examples of sea creatures that inhabit the ocean, and the life cycle of plant life that interact with them. Then the author discusses the problems that modern-day life has imposed on the oceans and the life within them.

The author uses crisp rhymes with challenging vocabulary that is highlighted in colors that pop off the page. Human characters represent the many cultures that inhabit our planet and how they can work together to sustain it. At the end of the book, readers receive an opportunity to go back and identify the creatures they learned about in the story. Then the author presents them with tangible and actionable steps they can take now to protect our oceans and its resources.

This interactive book should be part of libraries and classrooms. Parents who want to teach their children to be mindful of protecting our planet can count on this resource to put them on the right track.

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

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Guess How Marion Feels

Written by Miss Kaye

Illustrated by Miss Waitthk

Ages 3+ | 34 Pages

Publisher: ‎ Maya Nurtures (2024) | ISBN-13: 9781738593026

Publisher’s Book Summary: Marion is a kind, creative, and easy kid… but he’s faced with BIG emotions. Help Marion identify those BIG feelings in this interactive children’s picture book.

Guess How Marion Feels is a transformative experience that lays the foundation for emotional intelligence and meaningful connections. A gentle Social Emotional Learning (SEL) tool to guide parents, caregivers, and teachers to teach kids who struggle to pick up social cues and have challenges in social situations.

This book is made to celebrate and honor the feelings of our little ones, foster open communication, and create inclusive learning with our neurodivergent kids. Written by a neurodivergent author, Miss Kaye aims to support kids and everyone struggling with social interactions.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Miss Kaye was born in the Philippines. She had challenges as an adult neurodivergent. This serves as her inspiration for writing fun, engaging, and educational stories to teach life skills and mindfulness to kids.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Miss Waitthk is from Hongkong. She enjoys making people feel happy and joyful through her drawings. As a kid, she remembered drawing anime characters and coloring them with colored pencils. Since then, she kept on drawing.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

IT’S OKAY TO FEEL THIS WAY…

Guess how Marion Feels

Written by Miss Kaye

Illustrated by Miss Waitthk

A beautiful, interactive picture book that allows young children to explore and communicate their emotions with others.

Marion wakes up happy to start the day. When his mother reminds him that today is the first day at school, his feelings switch to being scared and apprehensive. As the day progresses, readers watch Marion, and his feelings change. A new situation creates mixed feelings of excitement, worry, hope, anger, confusion, and relief.

Young readers are asked to guess what Marion is feeling in each situation by studying the pictures and text. At the end of the book, they get a summary of the book when Marion discusses the whole range of emotions with his parents.

The book is targeted for readers ages one through seven, but I feel the message in the tale is just as valuable for older children.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for the chance to win a 1-hour FREE coaching session to launch your own picture book, along with signed copies of Guess How Marion Feels (one to keep and one to share with a neurodivergent charity of your choice under your name).

Click here for the entry form: https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/guess-how-marion-feels-by-miss-kaye-awareness-tour/

TOUR SCHEDULE

Friday, February 9, 2024The Children’s Book ReviewBook Tour Kick-Off

Monday, February 12, 2024Life Is What It’s CalledAuthor Interview with Miss Kaye

Tuesday, Ferbuary 13, 2024icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Wednesday, February 14, 2024The Momma SpotBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Thursday, February 15, 2024Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Friday, February 16, 2024A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels and Little Free Library Drop

Monday, February 19, 2024One More ExclamationBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Tuesday, February 20, 2024Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn article by Miss Kaye

Wednesday, February 21, 2024Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Thursday, February 22, 2024Get Outside and ReadBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Friday, February 23, 2024My Reading GetawayAuthor Interview with Miss Kaye

Monday, February 26, 2024Froggy Read TeachBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Tuesday, February 27, 2024Country Mamas with KidsBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Wednesday, February 28, 2024The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Thursday, February 29, 2024Pages for PaigeBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Friday, March 1, 2024Cover Lover Book ReviewAuthor Interview with Miss Kaye

Monday, March 4, 2024Shooting Stars MagBook Review of Guess How Marion Feels

Tuesday, March 5, 2024Me Two BooksA Storytime Activity Paired with Guess How Marion Feels