This post is sponsored by Gregory G. Allen. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Written by Gregory G. Allen

Illustrated by Shelby Goodwin

Ages 7+ | 128 Pages

Publisher: ASD Publishing | ISBN-13: 9780996102940

Publisher’s Book Summary: Meet Toby: a young monster who has skin like a fish, fur like a dog, and smells like cotton candy when he gets excited. He lives with his family in the basement of Marymount Mansion and once a year ventures out into the real world when everyone is dressed for Halloween. Toby becomes frustrated with hiding below ground and sets off on an all-important quest.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Gregory G. Allen is an award-winning author, screenwriter, filmmaker, and actor. His children’s books include Chicken Boy: The Adventures of a Superhero with Autism, Chicken Boy Deals with Doctors & Dentists, and Irving the Theater Nut! He is a member of The Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators and The Dramatist Guild. The idea for his monster book goes back to the first musical he ever wrote, which was produced for the stage when he was 15, with the message that it’s okay to be different.

For more information, visit gregsimagination.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Shelby Goodwin is an illustrator, letterer, graphic designer, and all-around creative living in Hoboken, NJ. She is extremely passionate about children’s media and the power of art to romanticize the everyday. When she is not making things, she can be found with her spouse and three cats exploring new places, eating pastries, or cuddling up in her favorite reading chair.

For more information, visit heartonmysleevedesign.com.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win a signed paperback copy of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion, a signed paperback copy of each of the author’s previous picture books** (Chicken Boy: The Amazing Adventures of a Superhero with Autism, Chicken Boy: A Superhero with Autism Deals with Doctors & Dentists, and Irving the Theater Nut!), and a $50 Amazon gift card to buy other books! **All books teach children not to fear those who are different and to be proud of themselves FOR those differences.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

– A signed paperback copy of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

– A signed paperback copy of Chicken Boy: The Amazing Adventures of a Superhero with Autism

– A signed paperback copy of Chicken Boy: A Superhero Deals with Doctors and Dentists

– A signed paperback copy of Irving the Theater Nut

– A $50 Amazon Gift Card

Four (4) winners receive:

– A signed paperback copy of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/B1Uur/the-monsters-of-marymount-mansion-book-giveaway

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Celeste lives in an old mansion that has belonged to her family for years. She hides a secret. There are monsters living inside that no one else knows about. Toby is an eight-year-old who lives there with his younger sister and parents.

Most of the time it’s boring because he must hide whenever anyone visits the house. But this year Toby is excited because Halloween is coming an he is old enough to disguise himself among human trick or treaters on Halloween and venture outside the house.

This book contains adorable black and white illustrations that will captivate beginning readers. (as well as adults) Allen knows how to move the story along for beginning chapter readers. I appreciate the message that monsters (like humans) are unique and special. Children learn to appreciate our differences produce our strengths. Certainly, it’s what inside that counts.

As a parent and retired educator, I would recommend the book as a read aloud discussion for homeschool or classroom. Warning! Adults will enjoy this one as much as the kids.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, October 10, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Wednesday, October 11, 2023The Momma SpotBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Thursday, October 12, 2023Me Two BooksBook Activity Paired with The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Friday, October 13, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledAuthor Interview with Gregory G. Allen

Saturday, October 14, 2023Joanna’s BookshelfBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Sunday, October 15, 2023The Fairview ReviewBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Monday, October 16, 2023Froggy Teach ReadBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Tuesday, October 17, 2023A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion and Little Free Library Drop

Wednesday, October 18, 2023Twirling Book PrincessBook Giveaway of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Thursday, October 19, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Friday, October 20, 2023One More ExclamationBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Monday, October 23, 2023My Reading GetawayAn Interview with Gregory G. Allen

Tuesday, October 24, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn Article Written by Gregory G. Allen

Wednesday, October 25, 2023Book Bug CABook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Thursday, October 26, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewAn Interview with Gregory G. Allen

Friday, October 27, 2023Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Saturday, October 28, 2023Pages for PaigeBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Sunday, October 29, 2023Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogBook Review of The Monsters of Marymount Mansion

Rosie and the Dancing Butterfly

Written by Jo Beth Cairns

Illustrated by Beenid

Don’t wander off is the lesson young children receive from this picture book. The protagonist is an adorable puppy named Rosie. Curiosity gets the best of her as she races after a butterfly in the park. Before long, Rosie is lost. Jo, her owner, frantically searches for Rosie. Will Jo find her?

The illustrations are large and created with soft pastels. While this book is targeted for children as young as four, the sentences are rather long and some of the vocabulary is difficult. It will require explanation from an adult reader.

Parents and teachers may want to utilize the book to teach important safety lessons.

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Firefighter Fox

Written by Jessica D. Adams

Illustrated by Janelle M. Adams

A children’s picture book with a purpose. This book teaches children about one of our most valuable community helpers, firefighters. At the same time, young readers are introduced to a lovable bunch of toys who are looking for someone special to love them.

These toys have been hidden away in a box stored in the firehouse until a firefighter accidentally finds one of them. Read the story to find how how two little girls learn a lesson that pulls the community together and spreads that message of love and empathy to all it touches.

This book is appropriate for all elementary age readers and a suggested addition for a classroom lesson on community helpers.

SUBSCRIBE TO THIS BLOG TO GET BOOK REVIEWS EVERY WEDNESDAY AND SUNDAY.

This post is sponsored by Dr. Drew Palacio. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Written by Dr. Drew Palacio

Illustrated by Apolline Etienne

Ages 4+ | 36 Pages

Publisher: Brandylane Publishers, Inc. | ISBN-13: 9781958754368

Publisher’s Book Summary: With a sigh, she went pacing before a large mirror that stood,

Remarking: “Ugh! I’m hideous! None of this looks very good!”

After struggling to find the perfect outfit, Emily Soo dances the night away at a fun party. But when she gets home, her inner voice Emily Two tries to put a damper on her evening.

Confronting our thoughts, fully facing tough emotions, and affirming ourselves can be difficult.

Can Emily Soo find it within herself to squash her Worry and Woe?

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Drew Palacio grew up in Mendocino County, California. He received his doctorate in clinical psychology from the American School of Professional Psychology in San Francisco and currently practices in Kansas. Clinically, he implores partnership and efforts from local families, schools, and the community. Lastly, Dr. Drew is himself a child a heart, using his love of magic and worldly mystery, whether via comic books, animation, video games, or through the passing daydream, to always stoke his inspiration.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

What a wonderful resource for children in upper elementary grades, middle schools and even young adults! Palacio reminds us not to listen to that nagging inner voice that tries to pull us into negativity. In this beautifully written rhyming story, Emily Soo has spent much time choosing her outfit and then enjoying a night out dancing. But when she returns home, that nagging voice in her head tries to tear her positive image down. Children need to learn we are all unique and special. Rather than paying attention to negative self talk, we need to develop affirmations to remind ourselves to stay positive. Palacio provides the tools to put us on the right path to form a healthy life-long habit of self-esteem and healthy lifestyle.

As an educator, I highly recommend classroom teachers and school counselors add this book to their library.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for the chance to win a personalized hardcover copy of Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew: The Curious Case of the Two Emily Soos and Shrieks and Sounds and Things Abound: The Quiet Wants of Julien J.

Twelve (12) winners receive:

-A personalized, signed copy of Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew: The Curious Case of the Two Emily Soos

–A personalized, signed copy of Shrieks and Sounds and Things Abound: The Quiet Wants of Julien J.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/2DTlL/the-troubles-and-doubles-and-reflections-askew-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, October 2, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Tuesday, October 3, 2023A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew and Little Free Library Drop

Wednesday, October 4, 2023Life Is What It’s CalledAuthor Interview with Dr. Drew Palacio

Thursday, October 5, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewAuthor Interview with Dr. Drew Palacio

Friday, October 6, 2023The Momma SpotBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Monday, October 9, 2023Confessions of a Book AddictBook Giveaway of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Tuesday, October 10, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Wednesday, October 11, 2023Crafty Moms ShareBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Thursday, October 12, 2023Get Outside and ReadBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Friday, October 13, 2023My Reading GetawayBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Monday, October 16, 2023Heart to HeartAuthor Interview with Dr. Drew Palacio

Tuesday, October 17, 2023One More ExclamationBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Wednesday, October 18, 2023Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Thursday, October 19, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn Article Written by Dr. Drew Palacio

Friday, October 20, 2023Stargirls.Magical.TaleBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Monday, October 23, 2023Froggy Teach ReadBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Tuesday, October 24, 2023Pages for PaigeBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

Wednesday, October 25, 2023Country Mamas with KidsBook Review of The Troubles and Doubles and Reflections Askew

One Giant Leap

Written by Ben Gartner

One Giant Leap has much to offer. A middle-grade read that leans a bit more to the upper grades of that range contains an interesting plot. Four students have won a science competition to take a trip to outer space from a space tourist organization, but both of Fin’s parents are in the hospital. He needs a guardian to participate.

A conflict of emotions and stress at the outset. Well, I will reveal that Fin accepts the prize, but not the details of this fantastic opportunity. The book combines lots of space trivia, factual scientific information, and middle-grade angst connected with coming of age. Its adventure plot moves swiftly.

I especially enjoyed the author’s approach of including rather advanced vocabulary definitions in the glossary and a section at the end separating fact from fiction. Space afficionados and science geeks will both enjoy the book. Even adults will not be disappointed.

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Bakon is a great character who has multiple lessons for his fans.

In this picture book, Bakon is excited to be participating in the Tootsville Sock Hop. He and the Pork Choppers dancers really want to win. They will be competing against The Oink Angels and The Kickin’ Chickens.

Once the competition gets underway, something amazing happens. The primary grade reading audience learn lessons about friendship, competition, and good sportsmanship.

A fun bedtime story or read aloud with a winning message.

I Am an Amazing Asian Girl: A Book of Positive Affirmations

Written by Yobe Qiu

Illustrated by Jade Le

This book features an Asian-American girl as the narrator, but the story is strongly multicultural. Qui discusses adjectives that describe qualities of the character like being adaptable, appreciative, and assertive. She is also independent in her opinions, while also being very community oriented. She interacts with children of different cultures while pursuing her own interests and projects.

There are not too many books available with female Asian protagonists and this book is a good choice for primary grade children to encourage self-confidence and reinforce self-esteem.

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Adventure in Butrint National Park (Magilicious Journeys Book 1)

Written by Barbara Pinke

Illustrated by Tehreem Igbal

Siblings Simon and Olivia experience mixed emotions when waking up in a new house. They feel sadness at friends left behind but nervous anticipation of new adventures.

That anticipation is heightened when they discover a magical book hidden in the floorboards of Olivia’s room. They decide to visit Butrint National Park in Albania as they already possess a keepsake to activate their time travel. Soon they whisk readers off making a new acquaintance who serves as a tourist guide.

Not long after, tragedy strikes when a precious statue is stolen. The siblings must confront a band of pirates. Will Olivia and Simon find their way home safely? The answer is at the end of this first book in a series, perfect for new chapter book readers. The book is packed with information about Albania. There are a plethora of learning activities including mazes, puzzles, reading comprehension, and design activities which also appeal to middle-grade readers.

Highly recommend this series to parents and teachers of children ages eight and older.

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Allie Strom and the Ring of Solomon: A Middle Grade Fantasy (Bringer of Light Book 1)

Written by Justin M. Stone

How much bad news can one twelve-year-old handle? Allie has just learned her best friend is leaving, her mom has been deployed overseas, and Allie is about to start seventh grade in a new school.

If that were not enough, Allie faces bullies, her mother’s disappearance, and finding a necklace belonging to her mother that appears to have mysterious powers. This is the first book of a series that contains themes familiar and popular to a middle-grade audience but written in a way to appeal to an older audience as well.

Allie meets Daniel who will participate with Allie on her quest. I enjoyed the interesting sketches of the characters included in the book that make them come alive. This feature also will engage reluctant readers.

Readers of coming of age, paranormal, fantasy and magic will find something to like here.

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Feeling All My Worry: A Rhyming Picture Book

Written by Kim T.S.

A beautifully illustrated picture book that explains the emotion of worry to even the youngest child.

The author covers the nature of worry, reassures children that it is a common occurrence, and presents examples of situations in which a young child might be afflicted with worrying. It instills a feeling of self-confidence and urges children to either take action or seek advice from an adult when facing the problem.

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