Posts from the ‘reluctant reader’ Category

VIDEO BECOMES REALITY

A Videogame Stole My Sister: An Early Reader LitRPG Metaverse Legends Book 1

Written by Justin M. Stone

This book is targeted for an eight to twelve-year-old audience. Classified as a beginning reader, it would be an excellent choice for reluctant readers. I believe the plot especially appeals to tween boys, particularly those who have sibling rivalry with a sister.

Lucas is a tween boy who has a sister, Madison, who is one year older than he. Like many boys his age, Lucas loves video games. One day he is playing his favorite, when he gets distracted for a minute. Next thing he knows, his sister Madison is missing. You guessed it, she has been taken by the game.

The short chapters of the book alternate point of view with story being told by Lucas and Madison. The adventure is funny and humorous. One note of caution for parents and teachers. The book includes language like “piss” and mentions “running like hell.”

I think the book will appeal especially to the younger middle-grade audience and reluctant readers who prefer shorter chapters with less challenging vocabulary.

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BIG, BIGGER, BEST

Pebbles and the Biggest Number

Written by Joey Benun

Illustrated by Laura Watson

Benun has managed to combine storytelling with an effective presentation of stem concepts, large mathematical numbers, and ecology in one easy-to digest- picture book.

This book encourages even the youngest child to stretch these skills. Pebbles, a butterfly with an insatiable curiosity, sets out to travel the world to find the largest number. Along the way, she travels through deserts, rainforests, oceans, and space. At every stop readers discover fun facts, scientific knowledge, and learn about the animals living in each habitat.

Children learn a ton of information without even realizing it. This book can be enjoyed over and over, revealing something new in each page.

I would highly recommend this book to homeschoolers, teachers, and parents of elementary and middle-school students. Warning! adults will be expanding their brains along with the young reader.

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Silly Super Heroes…

The Adventures of PB&J: Attack of the Green Goo

Written and illustrated by Jon Haney

PB&J is a fifth-grader who has a strange super power. Since first grade, he can hurl peanut butter and jelly sandwiches with uncanny accuracy. This strange ability gets him into trouble more often than not.

PB&J meets his nemesis when an evil villain begins attacking with green goo. Dr. Vile changes children and adults into tasty treats like lemon cream pie and stale bread. PB & J valiantly tries to use his super power to defeat the evil scientist.

This book is filled with superhero tips, and funny illustrations. The dialogue is simple and typical of the book’s audience. I suspect fifth-grade boys will love the crazy antics and humor.

I would highly recommend this book and the series for reluctant readers. It has appeal for beginning chapter book readers as well.

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COUNT ON HAVING FUN

Dogs A Counting and Comparing Book: A Funny Counting to 10 Book about Dogs

Written by Frances MacKay

One of the best toddler and preschool teaching tools that I have come across lately. The author uses vibrant illustrations and interesting scenarios with dogs to teach children how to count up to ten and then count backwards.

She also introduces positional and size concepts as well as simple emotions like happy and sad. Interactive activities included are access to a ten-page coloring book and freebies that can be downloaded.

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UNDER THE SEA

Mermaid of Music (Junkyard Adventures 5)

Written by Tevi Hansen

If you have never read one of the Junkyard Adventure Books, you might want to start with this one. (Book 5)

Eli and Grace are siblings who love to visit their Uncle Larry’s Antique and Junkyard Store. This is not an ordinary store. Each time the children visit, they discover a magic porthole that takes them on an adventure to a wonderful new world.

In this offering, the children experience a trip on a submarine to an underwater adventure. Their teacher is a mermaid who exposes them to a world filled with musical instruments. Readers learn quite a bit about music but also experience the fear of these two siblings to find a way out that will lead them back to Uncle Larry’s shop.

This series is targeted for ages eight through eleven, but I believe it suitable as a beginning chapter book reader as well. Perfect for readers who love adventure and fantasy.

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USING YOGA AS A SOCIAL-EMOTIONAL TOOL

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.

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Night Buddies and the Evil School Bus #264 – virtual blog tour and giveaway

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264

Written by Sands Hetherington

Illustrated by Natalie Leininger

Ages 7+ | 156 Pages

Publisher: Dune Buggy Press | ISBN-13: 9780984741762

Publisher’s Book Summary: The iguanas are back to their stinky shenanigans. They’ve fitted out the flying school bus for real mischief and are marauding all over the Borough. They’ve really got it in for John and Crosley, who must sniff out their evildoings before it’s too late! Will they succeed? Join the Night Buddies in their racing blimp for this exciting new adventure!

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Bookshop.org

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Sands Hetherington, creator of the Night Buddies series of chapter books, credits his son John for being his principal motivator. Sands and young John developed the Crosley crocodile character in the series during months of bedtime story give-and-take. They collaborated many nights on escapades starring John and Crosley until, eventually, it occurred to Sands why it was that Crosley was bright red. That was when the first book came together.

Sands majored in history at the University of North Carolina (Chapel Hill) and has an M.F.A. in creative writing and an M.A. in English from UNC-Greensboro. He lives in Greensboro, North Carolina.

For more information, visit www.nightbuddiesadventures.com/

https://www.facebook.com/NightBuddies

https://www.facebook.com/NightBuddies

https://www.instagram.com/nightbuddiesadventure

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Natalie Leininger, illustrator of the 4th title in the Night Buddies series, grew up in New Jersey and has been drawing ever since she was young. She now lives in Nebraska and attends the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, studying the fine arts. She is in her third year at the university, primarily practicing oil painting, but spends time outside of the classroom working on a variety of projects. She has always enjoyed being with children, which made illustrating and working on Night Buddies such an enjoyable project!

Natalie strives to capture our world in bloom. Whether it be through the literal sense of a blooming flower or the simple act of sketching a character’s smile spreading across their face, her art is a place for all to engage in their own way.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264

Written by Sands Hetherington

Illustrated by Natalie Leininger

The fourth book in this zany adventure series for chapter book or middle-grade readers. John, a clever wise guy who does not hesitate to express his opinion, joins up once again with his red crocodile, Crosley, to combat the evil iguanas in their flying machine. These villains are determined to cause chaos and confusion throughout the area.

John, the indefatiguable boy hero, wisecracks his way through one wacky scenario after another, as he persists in overcoming his evil adversaries. The plot contains numerous twists and turns that readers cannot anticipate. Though the book contains less than one hundred fifty pages, young readers will not be able to stop turning those pages. Illustrations perfectly complement the zany characters and non-stop action.

The type of book that will especially attract reluctant readers.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for for your chance to win an autographed 4-book series, including Night Buddies and the Pineapple Cheesecake Scare; Night Buddies and One Far-out Flying Machine; Night Buddies Go Sky High, and Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264!

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

https://gleam.io/KVjSI/night-buddies-and-evil-school-bus-264-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, March 4, 2024The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Tuesday, March 5, 2024A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Wednesday, March 6, 2024The Momma SpotBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Thursday, March 7, 2024Country Mamas with KidsBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Friday, March 8, 2024One More ExclamationBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Sunday, March 10, 2024It’s Free At LastBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Monday, March 11, 2024Life Is What It’s CalledAn Interview with Sands Hetherington
Tuesday, March 12, 2024icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Wednesday, March 13, 2024Book Zone ReviewsAn Interview with Sands Hetherington
Thursday, March 14, 2024Eye-Rolling Demigod’s Book BlogBook Spotlight of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Friday, March 15, 2024Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn article by Author Sands Hetherington
Sunday, March 17, 2024Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Monday, March 18, 2024Cover Lover Book ReviewAn Interview with Sands Hetherington
Tuesday, March 19, 2024The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Wednesday, March 20, 2024Because I Said SoBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Thursday, March 21, 2024Deliciously SavvyBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264
Monday, March 25, 2024Froggy Read TeachBook Review of Night Buddies and Evil School Bus #264

    A HAIRY TALE

    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.

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    ODE TO A PUG, A VIRTUAL BLOG TOUR AND GIVEAWAY

    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

    SILLY, I SUPPOSE

    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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