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

Alphakazoo: Amazing Animal Adventures

Written by Edgar Garcia

Illustrated by Darya Shch

What a charming and whimsical book for toddlers and preschoolers! This learn the alphabet book features beautiful illustrations that draw the eye directly into the book. Garcia effectively uses alliteration that allows the rhymes to jump off the page. Young readers will laugh at the humorous situations created for the zany characters. Readers will not realize they are learning.

The book also enhances visual skills and interactivity because it invites the child to find hidden objects on its pages. Rollicking good fun for children and their adult teachers or parents who will have an enjoyable experience reading it aloud.

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The Bear with Long Hair: Bartholomew Bear in…

Written by Lisette Star

Illustrated by Gustyawan

Bartholomew Bear refuses to cut his hair. Eventually it grew to his knees and he no longer looked like a bear. Despite his family’s concern, he refused to comply.

One day when home alone, Batholomew decided he wanted a snack. That snack involved honey. His troubles began as he kept creating more turmoil and left the house in a mess. Eventually, he could not see and his hair was a sticky mess. Can you guess what happens when his mom returns home?

This book is a fun way to teach children to clean up themselves and their belongings. Bartholomew is a fun character with which young children will identify.

The rhymes are funny and the story fun to read aloud. Also, a good choice for parents with children who are reluctant to cut their hair.

Recommended especially for ages three through seven.

Subscribe to this blog for new book reviews every Wednesday and Sunday.

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ode to a Pug

Written by Jill Rosen

Illustrated by Stephanie Rohr

Ages 4+ | 32 Pages

Publisher: AM Ink Publishing (2024) ISBN-13: 978-1-958842-24-9

Publisher’s Book Summary: A precocious pug delights in shenanigans which drive her frazzled owner to declare she will give her pup away!

Laugh along with the snorting, snoring, and gaseous clown of the canine world as its owner struggles to reign in the messes and mayhem of a new addition. But there is nothing that a few licks and cuddles can’t fix, right?

A true delight that any family can relate to, Ode to a Pug is full of heart… and a lot of slobber.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jill Rosen is a career marketer and advertiser who lives with two kids, three dogs, two cats, one bird, and a former stand-up comic and Princeton sketch-comedy writing husband. She doesn’t need to go far for comedic inspiration or advice!

Through her brand management work, Jill’s early recognition of, and appreciation for, powerful writing and artistic design only flourished. She is a seasoned workshop facilitator and strategic healthcare consultant specializing in the areas of mental health and infertility.

Jill was inspired to begin writing her own stories by her two boys, both avid readers. Now Jill can’t wait to share them with all the young readers out there.

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

https://www.instagram.com/odetoapug

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Steph Rohr is a French Award-winning children’s book illustrator who earned a distinction from ECV Art School in Paris. She is fond of anything silly, funny, wacky, daft, and colorful. A freelance Illustrator & Art Director, Steph has been working in London in publishing and advertising.

https://www.instagram.com/stephdoespictures

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

DOGGIE DILEMMA

Ode to a Pug

Written by Jill Rosen

Illustrated by Stephanie Rohr

What a delightful picture book to delight dog lovers! The protagonist is a woman who has just adopted a new member of the family, an adorable pug. But wait, this cuddly little creature proves to be a lot more than she can handle.

He snorts, toots, tinkles on the carpet, and destroys the furniture. This tiny creature creates chaos everywhere he sets foot. Finally, the owner has had enough. Today is the day she will get rid of him!

Then she looks at those endearing eyes, can she follow through?

This picture book consists of short, clever rhymes and simple, cartoon-like illustrations that will delight young children and adults alike. Anyone who has owned a puppy will empathize with the owner and feel her mixed emotions.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for the chance to win an author-signed hardcover copy of Ode to a Pug, a 4″ custom pug plush, plus a die-cut pug sticker!

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/heDFn/ode-to-pug-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Thursday, February 15, 2024The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Friday, February 16, 2024Pages for PaigeBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Monday, February 19, 2024My Reading GetawayAn Article by Author Jill Rosen

Tuesday, February 20, 2024Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Wednesday, February 21, 2024Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Thursday, February 22, 2024Country Mamas with KidsAn Article by Author Jill Rosen

Friday, February 23, 2024Cover Lover Book ReviewAn Interview with Author Jill Rosen

Monday, February 26, 2024Froggy Read TeachBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Tuesday, February 27, 2024The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Wednesday, February 28, 2024Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Thursday, February 29, 2024The Momma SpotBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Friday, March 1, 2024Because I Said SoBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Monday, March 4, 2024icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Tuesday, March 5, 2024Life Is What It’s CalledAn Interview with Author Jill Rosen

Wednesday, March 6, 2024A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Ode to a Pug and Little Free Library Drop

Thursday, March 7, 2024Twirling Book PrincessBook Review of Ode to a Pug

Friday, March 8, 2024Mrs. Makes Reading FunBook Review of Ode to a Pug

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

Animal Antics: A Rhyming Book of Creatures Big and Small

Written and Illustrated by Tamar Tepper Kochen

A silly rhyming picture book, the first in a series about animals doing absurd things. A few examples are a deer with a rainbow ear, a ferret dressed as a carrot, and a flamingo who loved to play bingo.

The rhymes are short and easy to remember, the illustrations huge and vibrant. Children are encouraged to make up their own silly rhymes with several scenarios included at the end of the tale.

I think that preschoolers and primary grade children who enjoy books about animals and silly stories will especially enjoy this book. It’s fun as a read-aloud or a bedtime story.

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