The author is an educator and parent of six. She shares the hopes that most parents have for their children. Courage, resilience, empathy, and kindness are a few of these. The short rhymes are easy for young children to remember. Illustrations are multicultural and include references to the author’s own family as revealed in the fun facts at the end of the story. Adults and children will enjoy learning about the symbolism of nature and the themes included in this book.
A delightful read-aloud or bedtime story for elementary age readers.
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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.
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.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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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In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and the REED Foundation for Autism
The “One Big Canvas” book series seeks to celebrate differences, showcasing how each individual, regardless of his or her own unique qualities, can be an integral part of a much larger picture.
The Reed Foundation understands autism is a highly prevalent and often misunderstood neurological disability. They hope that these positive and engaging children’s stories will promote acceptance, understanding, and kindness for all.
ABOUT THE BOOKS
One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
Written by Jay Miletsky
Illustrated by Luis Peres
Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages
Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382
Publisher’s Synopsis: Join a spunky collection of paintbrushes as they set out to create a grand masterpiece.
When some of the brushes don’t cooperate, is it because they are misbehaving…or is there another reason entirely? In this story, young readers are introduced to some of the behavioral differences in their autistic peers.
Without ever mentioning any particular challenge or disability by name, this story helps children recognize and understand what autism is, and impress upon them the importance of showing kindness to those who are different, wrapped into a fun story with lighthearted, engaging characters.
They worked through the day, then stopped and admired,
the wisdom their now-painted canvas inspired:
their painting was perfect, It all meshed just fine,
with its colorful circles, and angry green line.
It was a true masterpiece, not one thing was wrong,
Publisher: New Paige Press | ISBN-13: 978-0578496382
Publisher’s Synopsis: The brushes are back! Join Reese, Estelle and the rest of the gang in the art studio in another adventure as they learn the value of kindness and understanding.
When Clay comes to visit from the other side of the art studio, the brushes are excited to welcome their friend. But when a few of the brushes start acting differently, Clay needs to be reminded that it’s important to be accepting:
“Some brushes are different, so we like to remind,
it’s kind to be caring, so take care to be kind.”
Will Clay leave the brushes in frustration, or will he learn to mold his thinking as he comes to understand and accept that brushes have different abilities and challenges? Without ever mentioning autism or any particular disability, The Molding of Clay helps introduce children to the behavioral differences of their autistic peers, creating an opportunity for discussion. It helps teachers and parents impress upon them the importance of understanding, acceptance and kindness, through a fun, lighthearted story with quirky and colorful characters.
The REED Foundation for Autism is committed to providing individuals with autism the opportunity to learn, live, work and thrive at every stage of their lives. For more information, please visit https://www.reedfoundationforautism.org.
MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK SERIES
ALL IN THIS TOGETHER
The Masterpiece
Written by Mr. Jay
Illustrated by Luis Peres
The paintbrushes have assembled in their art studio. They are determined to create a masterpiece. Only Estella sits off to the side and sings her own tune. The other brushed understand it is her way. They invite her but do not force her to participate. Then Byron decides to go off on his own to create paint circles. The other paintbrushes accept his efforts and join the fun. Suddenly, Lee decides to splatter green paint everywhere. Instead of getting angry, the other paintbrushes continued to add more colors. All day long, they worked together until the painting masterpiece was completed.
This tale teaches young children that each person is unique. Sometimes differences can not be controlled, but that does not mean all of us can succeed when allowing for our differences.
OUT OF A DIFFERENT MOLD
The Molding of Clay
Written by Mr. Jay
Illustrated by Luis Peres
Excitement runs high in the art studio because the paintbrushes are expecting a visitor, a lump of grey modeling clay, appropriately named Clay. When Clay comes barreling into the studio, Paul holds his ears because loud sounds bother him, while Estelle hides in a corner humming. Clay wants them to stop, but the brushes explain that it is their way. A small brush named Jerry keeps bantering Clay with his paintings of boats. Finally, Clay realizes that he himself can transform himself into many different forms so it must be okay, so he changes shape to take part in the fun.
Once again young readers discover that differences are not only acceptable but that they can be transformed into new and exciting strengths.
GIVEAWAY
Enter for a chance to win a ‘One Big Canvas’ book series prize pack!
One (1) grand prize winner receives:
A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
A $50 Amazon gift card
Two (2) winners receive:
A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Masterpiece
A hardcover copy of One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay
The giveaway begins April 23, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends May 23, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.
Publisher’s Synopsis: Join Itty Bitty Betty in this thrilling story as she tries to sneak a tasty treat without Mommy knowing!
Itty Bitty Betty was small as can be,
About as tall as her mom’s knee.
After a fun day out by the sea,
Itty Bitty wanted cookies for tea!
Buy the Book
A Note From the Author
Wishing you all continued blessings and love. I am a specimen of my experiences. I am a survivor, super mom, entrepreneur, author, and future civil rights attorney. I love sweets, travel and good hugs. I have a background in business and project management and enjoy a fun discussion about our economy. However, as a political child advocate and PTA president for 2 schools I fight for and with families against sexual trauma, personal and civil rights. I enjoy a good book, smiles on faces when I tickle them and the imagination a child’s mind can conjure. I pray my book open eyes, spark life and give you warm feelings. Thank you for visiting me here. Happy reading!
Betty is a tiny toddler who barely comes up to an adult’s knee. On the other hand, Betty possesses a big appetite and a tremendous amount of determination.
After spending a day at the sea, Betty comes into the kitchen and spies a jar of her mom’s delicious cookies on a high shelf. She enlists the aid of her cat and finds a ladder to assist her in her mission. Kerplunk! Betty lands on her bottom with a thud. Undeterred, she refuses to give up until she hears, her mother cry “FREEZE”
Betty is an adorable character with whom toddlers and preschoolers will readily empathize. Beautiful multicultural illustrations and expressive rhymes are sure to please the zero to five age audience.
GIVEAWAY
Enter for a chance to win an Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies prize pack!
One (1) grand prize winner receives:
A hardcover copy of Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies, autographed by Sandrian Nelson-Moon
A copy of Itty Bitty Betty & The Cookies: Activity And Coloring Book
A $25 Amazon gift card
A set of Limited Edition Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies bookmarks, a keychain, and stickers
Two (2) winners receive:
A paperback copy of Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies, autographed by Sandrian Nelson-Moon
A set of Limited Edition Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies bookmarks, a keychain, and stickers
The giveaway begins April 12, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends May 12, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.
Blank Space: A story about reading for 7-10 year old reluctant readers
Written and Illustrated by Beth Bacon
What a refreshing way to address the feelings of reluctant readers! For children with reading disabilities this book demonstrates the empathy their teachers and fellow students should display.
The protagonist is a student who has been asked to write in a journal about his favorite part of a book. All the other students have their notebooks filled with words and ideas. This student has a journal with blank pages because his favorite part of a book is the blank space. Why? He uses the spaces to imagine, design, and recreate the meaning of the words in his mind. When he gets a chance to explain this to the class, they finally realize the import of his message.
The concrete poetry and unique design of the pages within this book are a visual treat. Its message is one that needs to be heard. While very young students may not fully comprehend the message, I feel this book is an effective tool for middle-grade students, teachers, and parents of reluctant readers.
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This rhyming picture book written in British English laments the fate of a rooster who cannot protect the chickens’ eggs on Easter. The rooster vows that this year will be different. He tries his best but falls asleep while counting sheep.
Undeterred, the rooster traces the path of the bunny thief and attempts to retrieve the eggs. Will he succeed in returning them to the farm? Will the children waiting for their Easter eggs be disappointed?
Read this picture book to find out. Recommended for preschool and primary grade readers.
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THE BOOK OF YOU: Raising Happy Kids Book Collection
Written by Prof. Tiptoe
This is a short rhyming book in which parents are reading to a small child. The parents are giving the many reasons why their child is so important. In the short rhymes, the developmental stages of a child are presented. The book ends with the child as a adult ready to write her own book for her own children.
Nothing earthshaking here. Simply a sweet, charming, rhyme book in which parents can express love of their children and build up self-esteem. It would be a nice gift for new parents.
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INSPIRE KINDNESS: A Rhyming Read Aloud Book for Kids About Empathy and Kindness
Written and Illustrated by Lily Lopez
Lily feels out of place on her first day at a new school. She doesn’t look like the other students and they seem to ignore her in class, at lunch, and in the playground.
When one girl approaches her to welcome her, Lily is overwhelmed by one simple act of kindness. The author includes 24 tips a young child can use to express kindness and a kindness calendar that can be used as a reminder to express kindness to others.
This is a short multicultural picture book for primary grade readers. Lovely illustrations with short rhymes.
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September 22, 2021
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