Posts from the ‘picture book’ Category

ALPHABET, TEXAS STYLE

The A to Z of Texas Wildflowers 

Written by Kathleen J. Shields

Illustrated by Michael P. Earney

What a unique alphabet rhyming book! The rhymes are crisp and sharp, the colors vibrant, and the letter choices unique. Young readers will have fun listening to or reciting the Texas accent and the musical rhymes.

Adults get the opportunity to learn about many unique wildflowers while having fun reading about them. The author also includes a wealth of information about these plants and flowers.

Highly recommended as a library choice for preschoolers learning the ABCs, interested in flowers, or as a delightful class read-aloud choice or bedtime story.

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THE LOVE OF HER LIFE

Becky and Bo

Written and Illustrated by Angela Greensill

Becky laughs when her teacher, Mrs. James, wears an octopus hat to class. Then she asks the class what they would like to be and why.

As each student takes a turn, they give answers like a kangaroo, cheetah, monkey, and alien. Becky begins to think that her answer (Becky’s pet dog) is too ordinary, and she is embarrassed.

Becky is in for a surprise when she finally gets her chance to contribute to the class discussion.

I love the claymation illustrations. They are huge in size, brilliant in color, and appear to pop off the page.

I heartily recommend the book for parents of children ages three through seven.

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BEAUTY ALL AROUND US

Roland Looks for God: A Christian Picture Book for Ages 3-8

Written by Phyllis Wheeler

Illustrated by Elizabeth van der Bijl

This is a charming Christian picture book. Roland is a curious duckling who pauses to admire the simple beauty of God’s creation. However, a hungry crane and fox may be planning to eat him!

Roland is able to divert their attention from their plans by showing them the beauty of the world around them. The illustrations are charming and calming.

I would suggest this book for Christian parents or teachers of children ages three through eight. As a bedtime story or read aloud, this book encourages a young child to appreciate God’s gifts in the beauty they see in the world around them.

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SIZE DOESN’T MATTER

Adana the Earth Dragon: An Elemental Tale (Tales from Umbrae)

Written by Debbie Manber Kupfer

Illustrated by Tina Wijesiri

Adana is a small, brown earth dragon. She is very sad because the more powerful air, fire, and water dragons shun her. Adana seems small and insignificant to them.

One day a giant strides into the neighborhood. He marches into their midst and renders the air, fire and water dragons powerless and afraid. Meanwhile, Adana slept peacefully in her cave. When Adana wakes up and discovers the giant in their midst, she is determined to help. Adana figures out exactly what her secret power is and how to use it. Readers will chuckle at her ingenious plot to trick the giant and restore balance. In the future, the more powerful giants learn the value of Adana’s talents and appreciate her friendship.

There is enough text in this book to consider it a beginning chapter book, even though it is richly illustrated. Younger readers can follow the story through the pictures, while older children can read the tale independently. Especially recommended for children ages five through nine. This narrative emphasizes the value of individual talents and skills as well as the importance of extending friendship to those who are just like us. It teaches children to avoid bullying and to appreciate diversity.

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EXPLORING THE WORLD OF A NEURODIVERGENT CHILD, Autism: My Invisible Backpack, VIRTUAL BOOK TOUR AND GIVEAWAY

This post is sponsored by Dalisse Sequeiros. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal views.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Autism: My Invisible Backpack

Written by Dalisse Sequeiros and Luis Barros

Ages: 6-12 | 87 Pages

Publisher: Loving Pieces Books (2025) | ISBN: 978-8409767816

Publisher’s Book Summary: Autism: My Invisible Backpack is a heartwarming story that follows two autistic brothers, Adrián and Guillermo, on a mountain hike. Along the way, children discover that everyone carries an invisible backpack filled with feelings and thoughts, sometimes light, sometimes too heavy to carry alone.

Through this powerful metaphor, kids explore four common challenges —masking, hyper-empathy, literal thinking, and emotional overload —while also learning that therapy can be a safe place to unpack and rest.

With simple language, hand-drawn illustrations, and practical tools, this book helps children and families:


✔️ Recognize emotional overload and name feelings
✔️ Create mask-free zones to feel safe and authentic
✔️ See therapy as a trusted space to share openly
✔️ Celebrate moments of being truly seen and valued

A supportive resource for families, educators, and therapists, this story brings comfort, connection, and real strategies to make the autism journey feel lighter.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Dalisse Sequeiros is a devoted mom raising two incredible autistic boys. As a passionate autism advocate, she understands both the joys and challenges that come with parenting autistic children. Dalisse thoughtfully creates books for children ages 6–12, offering stories that celebrate their strengths, differences, and unique ways of connecting with the world.

Her mission is to offer resources that foster understanding, empathy, and confidence, helping autistic children feel seen, valued, and empowered. With every story, Dalisse hopes to create meaningful moments of connection for families navigating the world of autism.

She cherishes every milestone and dedicates herself to promoting acceptance and belonging through her writing.

For more information, visit www.lovingpiecesbooks.com.

https://www.instagram.com/lovingpiecesbooks

https://www.facebook.com/lovingpiecesbooks

https://amzn.to/47pCVzX


MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Inspired by their own parenting journeys, authors Dalisse Sequeiros and Luis Barros  have created a touching and practical story that opens a window into the world of a neurodivergent child. Told through the eyes of young Adrián, Autism: My Invisible Backpack follows a family hike that becomes a powerful lesson in understanding emotions and self-acceptance.

As Adrián struggles up the mountain, he learns about the “invisible backpack” we all carry—filled with our thoughts and feelings. The story gently shows how carrying too much emotional weight, or trying to “act normal,” can overwhelm a child on the spectrum. With the loving support of his parents, Adrián learns to unpack that weight and embrace his true self.

Vivid illustrations and easy-to-understand metaphors make complex emotional concepts come alive for young readers. The authors also include helpful notes and strategies for parents, offering guidance on emotional regulation, self-care, and creating safe spaces for every family member.

Autism: My Invisible Backpack is both heartwarming and practical. It is a story that encourages empathy, celebrates differences, and reminds readers that every child deserves to shine in their own way.


GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win one of 10 paperback copies of Autism: My Invisible Backpack by Dalisse Sequeiros. Plus, one lucky grand prize winner will receive a complete set of books from Loving Pieces Books!

CLICK THE LINK BELOW TO SEE THE BOOKS AND ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/JCdZe/autism-my-invisible-backpack-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Thursday, October 30, 2025The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Friday, October 31, 2025avainbooklandInstagram Post about Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Monday, November 3, 2025Lisa’s ReadingBook Review of Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Tuesday, November 4, 2025Deliciously SavvyGuest Post about Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Wednesday, November 5, 2025Country Mamas With KidsGuest Post about Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Thursday, November 6, 2025icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Friday, November 7, 2025Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Monday, November 10, 2025The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Tuesday, November 11, 2025@tinks_books_and_fostersAuthor Interview with Dalisse Sequeiros
Wednesday, November 12, 2025Q&As with Deborah KalbAuthor Interview with Dalisse Sequeiros
Thursday, November 13, 2025Un Viaje en LibroAuthor Interview with Dalisse Sequeiros
Friday, November 14, 2025Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogBook Review of Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Sunday, November 16, 2025@nissa_the.bookwormInstagram Post about Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Monday, November 17, 2025One More Exclamation Guest Post about Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Tuesday, November 18, 2025A Blue Box Full of BooksInstagram Post about Autism: My Invisible Backpack
Tuesday, November 25, 2025@FroggyReadTeachInstagram Post about Autism: My Invisible Backpack

A SAD BOOK WITH A BEAUTIFUL MESSAGE

Can You Hear Me, Daddy?: A Heartwarming Children’s Book About Loss and Grief

Written by Y.Y. Chan

Illustrated by Pearly L.

This book explores how cancer affects children in a family. It is written in first person from the point of view of a young daughter whose father has been diagnosed with cancer.

Written in the calendar format of a diary, the daughter explores the ups and downs of cancer. There is surgery, then hope, and then despair. The dying father tenderly explains that his daughter will always be able to talk to him in her heart.

While the book discusses a sad topic, the author presents the topic with empathy and hope. I would recommend the book for families who face cancer and would like an approach to opening up the topic with their children.

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BE YOURSELF, BUT BE AWARE OF THE NEEDS OF OTHERS

Riley the Rabbit Learns a New Habit: Mindset School Series Book #3

Written by Heather Lyn Davis

Illustrated by Corryn Webb

This is cute picture book for elementary age readers.

Riley the Rabbit is excited to attend school. The problem for him is jumping. Riley loves to jump and his rambunctious leaps cause havoc to friends and furniture in the classroom. His teacher urges Riley to be aware of the problem his jumping causes.

Riley’s grandmother teaches him a compromise, Riley learns to hop. While he finds the new skill difficult, Riley learns that sometimes compromise is important. Even more important, that does not mean giving up jumping all the time.

A delightful picture book for children ages six through ten.

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SHARKS CELEBRATE CHRISTMAS

The 12 Days of a Great White Christmas

Written and illustrated by Chris Bresky

This book is based on the theme of the 12 Days of Christmas. It is written as a poem or can be sung as a song. The characters are based on various types of sea creatures, especially different species of sharks.

The illustrations are hand-drawn in vibrant colors. While the length is less than twenty pages, reading or singing it can become a new holiday tradition. For me, the most interesting part of the book is the section at the end, which presents useful information about each of the different sharks.

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GROWING STRONGER EACH DAY

Into the Thicket

Written by Gail Kuhnlein

Illustrated by John Megahan

Patrick is a sensitive young boy with a gentle heart. His older brother, Ben, is rather hard and often teases Patrick.

One day, Patrick finds an injured baby rabbit. He convinces Ben to accompany him to Felice at the Wildlife Rescue. To get there quickly, Patrick and Ben will have to cross a scary thicket, which Patrick believes contains all manner of scary creatures. Patrick overcomes his fears because the urge to help an injured creature is stronger.

Throughout the sixty-page book, children learn about nature and its delicate creatures. Patrick teaches how to care for and nurture this frail rabbit. They learn that even when a strong bond develops, these creatures must learn how to be strong, resilient, and survive on their own.

I enjoyed the author’s technique of using onomatopoeia to teach sights and sounds of nature. The soft watercolors complement the mood of the tale.

This book is both a picture book and a beginning chapter book that is suitable for new readers.

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AN UNEXPECTED RETURN

Some Angels Have Rotor Blades: A Tale of Heroic Actions, Living Legacy, and Gratitude

Written by Darcy Guyant

Illustrated by Novel Varius

Dale wakes up excited because today is the first day of summer vacation.

As he enjoys breakfast, Dale asks his parents to take their boat out for a ride. He promises to wear his lifejacket and be careful.

When a freak accident ejects Dale from the boat, he frantically grasps the overturned boat. As time goes on, his chilled body weakens. Eventually, a Coast Guard Helicopter discovers Dale and rescues him.

The book teaches how rescue workers put themselves in danger helping strangers and expressing care and empathy for them.

In the second part of the story, forty years later, Dale takes his three grandchildren to an aviation museum where he is reminded of his second chance at life. Dale recounts all those opportunities and the family he loves that would not have existed.

The book contains excellent questions and topics to discuss with the intended elementary school reading audience. I highly recommend this picture book to parents and teachers who want children to appreciate the sacrifices of first responders and the sacrifices they make every day.

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