The World is Our Playground Series Book 3: Nanak and Tara’s Philippine Adventure

Written by Jamal Kaur Singh

Illustrated by Ronald Santos

This is my first time reading a book in this series which encourages elementary students to learn about the history, customs, beliefs, traditions, and languages of countries around the world.

The picture book is richly illustrated in vibrant colors and the bold font of the text makes it easy to read. I particularly enjoyed the mini language lessons which encourage readers to communicate in an unfamiliar language while enjoying the adventure. Readers explore the islands while experiencing its history, foods, celebrations, and family ties.

There are questions at the end included to test comprehension of the story. The author presents a lesson plan before the story begins. Background about the series and its characters as well as a summary of the author’s mission comes at the very end.

The book is packed with useful information that children will enjoy. I would suggest putting that background at the beginning to familiarize new readers upfront and then including the lesson plan toward the end.

Highly recommended for parents and teachers to teach about other cultures in an entertaining format.

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The Adventures of Nonna and the Little Red Truck in Summertime

Written by Kathy Brandon

Illustrated by Jennifer Kasitz

There is so much learning packed within this little book. Recommended especially for preschoolers but a joy for any child to read.

It features onomatopoeia sounds for read aloud fun, teachers the days of the week, and helps children learn their colors. The book is highly interactive. An included learning guide asks readers to answer questions by rereading and searching for content. It also contains many follow-up activities as an extension of learning.

The narrator is a little boy who looks forward to spending one week each summer at his grandparents’ farm with their dog and red truck. It features warm family relationships and teaches wholesome values.

This picture book might be read to a younger child or be a fun read aloud for a beginning reader.

Highly recommended.

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

ABOUT THE BOOK

My Soul Treasure

Written by Kate Searle

Illustrated by Alison Mutton

Ages 4+ | 28 Pages

Publisher: Kate’s Soul Treasure (2022) | ISBN-13: 978-0645415421

Publisher’s Book Summary: My Soul Treasure is a beautifully illustrated children’s book designed to teach children how to connect with their inner selves and cultivate self-awareness and self-love. It follows the story of a young girl who goes on a journey beyond her mind, body, and heart to discover her own inner treasures. The story includes positive affirmations and visualization exercises to help children develop mindfulness and self-reflection skills.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

https://bookshop.org/p/books/my-soul-treasure-kate-searle/18192523?ean=9780645415407

https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/my-soul-treasure-kate-searle/1140929713

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kate Searle is a geologist, wife, and mum who lives in the southwest of Australia. Becoming a mother sparked Kate’s love of storytelling. She has an innate passion for instilling in children a sense of personal empowerment. She has woven her love of gemstones into her debut book, My Soul Treasure, to teach children about the incredible powers of their own souls.

For more information, visit www.soultreasures.com.au

https://www.instagram.com/soultreasure_/

https://www.youtube.com/@soultreasure4756

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100083179878213

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Alison Mutton is an illustrator from Perth, Western Australia, mainly working in the children’s and educational publishing fields. She holds a Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Design & Illustration from Curtin University and has been a freelance illustrator for over ten years. When not illustrating, she likes to play the piano, needle felt, walk her dog, and swing dance.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

THE ANSWER LIES DEEP INSIDE YOU

My Soul Treasure (Kate’s Soul Treasure)

Written by Kate Searle

Illustrated by Alison Mutton

This rhyming picture book is a feast for the eyes and the ears. I would highly suggest reading it aloud because the crisp rhymes roll off the tongue. Each page features brilliant color images that are associated with a matching color gem. But the message is even more powerful. Young readers come to understand that each of us possesses unique qualities that lie deep within ourselves. These qualities allow us to share that uniqueness with others. Courage, compassion, creativity, confidence, imagination, and wisdom are possible examples. By teaching children to be mindful of these, the potential to develop them is enhanced.

I am confident that this book will become a favorite on the elementary reader’s bookshelf. The bonus song might just become a family favorite sing along.

GIVEAWAY

Enter the giveaway for a chance to win a signed hardcover copy of My Soul Treasure and a Kindle!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

– A hardcover copy of My Soul Treasure, signed by Kate Searle

– A Kindle (2022 release)

Four (4) winners receive:

– A hardcover copy of My Soul Treasure, signed by Kate Searle

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/xcFCW/my-soul-treasure-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, June 19, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Tuesday, June 20, 2023Life is What It’s CalledAuthor Interview with Kate Searle

Wednesday, June 21, 2023icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Thursday, June 22, 2023The Children’s Book ReviewAuthor Interview with Kate Searle

Friday, June 23, 2023Confessions of a Book AddictBook Giveaway of My Soul Treasure

Monday, June 26, 2023The Momma SpotBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Tuesday, June 27, 2023Joanna’s BookshelfBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Wednesday, June 28, 2023Barbara Ann MojicaBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Thursday, June 29, 2023One More ExclamationBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Friday, June 30, 2023A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of My Soul Treasure and Little Free Library Drop

Monday, July 3, 2023My Reading GetawayAuthor Interview with Kate Searle

Wednesday, July 5, 2023Get Outside and ReadBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Thursday, July 6, 2023Me Two BooksAuthor Interview with Kate Searle

Friday, July 7, 2023The Fairview ReviewBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Monday, July 10, 2023Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn Article by Kate Searle

Tuesday, July 11, 2023Stargirls.Magical.TaleBook Review of My Soul Treasure

Wednesday, July 12, 2023Cover Lover Book ReviewAuthor Interview with Kate Searle

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When Will Cicada Sing? (Little Fingers, Big Science)

Written by Carla Mae Jansen

This is a cute, informative picture book for preschoolers and primary grade readers. The author describes the seventeen year life cycle of the cicada. Children learn the long and complicated process of development. At the end of the book, readers are treated to a detailed diagram of the life cycle of the cicada and an illustrated explanation of how cicadas sing.

A valuable edition to a parent’s nonfiction bookshelf or a classroom science library.

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Raising a child is challenging. Raising a happy and confident child is even more challenging! Each child is different and will require a unique approach.

Answer these questions to gain a better perspective of your situation.

1. How do I define success? What traits and skills does my child need to be happy, confident, and successful?

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2. What are my child’s strengths and weaknesses?

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3. What experiences from my own childhood are relevant? What did my parents do well?

What could they have done better?

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4. How can I help my child to be more successful in school?

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5. How can I help my child develop better social skills?

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6. What are five goals that would be appropriate for my child to achieve?

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7. What are my child’s greatest fears? How can I help?

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©Barbara Ann Mojica 2023

Lotti and the Big Dream

Written by Charly Froh

Illustrated by Meritxell Andreu

Lotti has a scar running down her left leg. She has endured many operations. That doesn’t deter her from her dream of becoming a rhythmnic gymnast. At first, it seems impossible and her results in competition are disappointing. Lotti refuses to give up and practices whenever she is able. She believes the day will come when she stands on the podium.

The picture book contains vibrant illustrations and easy to read text. Based on a true life story, its message is an inspirational one for young girls with disabilities. If at first you don’t succeed, try, try again.

Recommended as a read aloud, bedtime story, or beginning reader for ages three through eight.

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Are They Really Scary?: a children’s book about being proud of who you are

Written by Julia Inserro

Illustrated by Tanja Varcilija

This humorous picture book is written from the perspective of a spider. Why are so many people afraid of spiders? Are they really so different from us? There are so many ways in which we are alike rather than different.

Primary grade readers learn there are more things we have in common than there are differences. Is there a rational reason to fear something that looks different? Read the book to find out.

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This post is sponsored by Kimber Fox Morgan. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view.

From the Publisher:

Chipper Sends Sunshine  Written by Kimber Fox Morgan and Illustrated by Kim Sponaugle

Ages 4+ | 32 Pages

Publisher: Creative, Simple Wonder Press | ISBN-13: 9781737038672

Publisher’s Synopsis: Chipper the Fox and his Arctic friends travel to summer camp for fun in the sun! After an amazing summer, how will they stay in touch with their new friends and keep their summer adventure going?

PURCHASE LINK

• Amazon
• Bookshop
• Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kimber Morgan is a multi-award-winning children’s book author who lives in Charlotte, North Carolina. Kimber is a fun wife and imperfect mom of 3 crazy kiddos and two little lemon (problematic) dogs. She tries to live her strengths the best she can. Morgan is a homemade Halloween costume type of mom who lets her kids mix the Play-Doh. She bakes fun birthday cakes (cutely, but far from perfection) and loves a homemade Valentine and a school project.

Writing children’s books is an extension of her creative strength. She strives to create picture books that are beautiful, engaging, humorous, and with themes of acceptance and kindness. She hopes you love reading her works. Kimber is available for author visits and wants to connect with you.

Visit her on Instagram @kimbermorgan_writes and her website, kimberfoxmorgan.com.

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

WARM WINTER WISHES

Chipper Sends Sunshine

Written by Kimber Fox Morgan

Illustrated by Kim Sponaugle

Chipper and his friends from the arctic region decide to go south on a camping vacation. When they arrive at Bright Stars Camp, they immediately forge new friendships. They engage in activities like archery, swimming, sunning on the beach, and racing competitions.

Alas, the time moves swiftly. How will they continue the bonds formed here over until seeing each other again next year.  Each of the arctic friends attempts to send gifts to their new friends, but none arrive safely. Finally, they discover the perfect gift. Can you guess what it is?

This charming rhyming, animal picture book contains illustrations that are delightful to look at and fun to read. I would suggest it as a bedtime story or group read aloud for preschool and primary grade children.

Enter for the chance to win a paperback copy of Chipper Sends Sunshine and an Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet! Good luck!

Enter for the chance to win a paperback copy of Chipper Sends Sunshine and an Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids tablet! Good luck!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A paperback copy of Chipper Sends Sunshine
• An Amazon Fire HD 8 Kids Tablet

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/JwK7Y/chipper-sends-sunshine-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

• Tuesday, May 16, 2023
• The Children’s Book Review
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Wednesday, May 17, 2023
• Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Thursday, May 18, 2023
• Life Is What It’s Called
• Author interview with Kimber Fox Morgan
•  
• Friday, May 19, 2023
• The Momma Spot
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Monday, May 22, 2023
• A Blue Box Full of Books
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine and Little Free Library Drop
•  
• Tuesday, May 23, 2023
• Confessions of a Book Addict
• A book giveaway of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Wednesday, May 24, 2023
• icefairy’s Treasure Chest
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Thursday, May 25, 2023
• My Reading Getaway
• An article by Kimber Fox Morgan
•  
• Friday, May 26, 2023
• Crafty Moms Share
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Monday, May 29, 2023
• Cover Lover Book Review
• An article by Kimber Fox Morgan
•  
• Tuesday, May 30, 2023
• The Fairview Review
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Wednesday, May 31, 2023
• Barbara Ann Mojica
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Thursday, June 1, 2023
• Me Two Books
• A book activity paired with Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Friday, June 2, 2023
• Joanna’s Bookshelf
• A book review of Chipper Sends Sunshine
•  
• Monday, June 5, 2023
• Heart to Heart
• Author interview with Kimber Fox Morgan
•  
• Tuesday, June 6, 2023
• The Growing Readers Podcast
• Author interview with Kimber Fox Morgan

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WORD DRAGON: ( A FUN & FAST-PACED CHAPTER BOOK SERIES FOR KIDS 8-11) JUNKYARD ADVENTURES 1

Word Dragon is the first book in an interesting adventure book series for elementary and middle-grade readers. When siblings, Eli and Grace visit an antique store owned by “Uncle Larry,” a nonstop fantasy adventure ensues.

Their dad is searching for a second-hand lawnmower. Eli and Grace meet the lovable but absent minded store owner who loves telling stories to children. Larry gives them a hubcap, a length of rope, and an old Scrabble game with a missing letter. He informs the children they they can use these to go on an adventure, but once begun they cannot return until they solve the mystery to find their way back.

Challenge accepted! The brother and sister head off. They will meet a Word Dragon and avoid fireballs thrown at them along the journey. I particularly enjoyed the word vocabulary list that encourages young readers to expand their vocabulary. Readers will definitely want to sign up for a return visit to Uncle Larry’s store.

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DIVERSITY to me: A children’s picture book teaching kids about the beauty of diversity

Written by Marisa J. Taylor

Illustrated by Fernanda Monteiro

I love the non-judgmental presentation of diversity presented by this author.

She shows both in text and illustration diversity is not restricted to skin color. We all have different talents, personalities, and physical traits. These must be assessed together so that all races can live and work together in harmony.

Recommended to parents, teachers, and librarians of preschoolers and primary grade children.

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