In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Dover Publications

ABOUT THE BOOK

My First Book About Dinosaurs

Written by Donald M. Silver and Patricia J. Wynne

Ages 8-12 | 48 Pages

Publisher: Dover Publications | ISBN-13: 978-0486845562

Publisher’s Synopsis: Welcome to the amazing world of dinosaurs! Children ages 8 and up can discover where these prehistoric creatures lived, the food they ate, and what they may have looked like. Along the way, they’ll encounter bone-crushing teeth, slashing claws, and spiked tails while learning fascinating facts about dinosaur eggs and fossils, moving continents, climate changes, exploding volcanoes, and even an asteroid crashing into Earth.

Other Books in the Series:

My First Book About Our Amazing Earth

My First Book About the Oceans

My First Book About Backyard Nature

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2TeZ540

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780486845562

My First Book About Dinosaurs

ABOUT THE AUTHORS

An accomplished science and nature illustrator, Patricia J. Wynne is the recipient of the 2008 Theodor Seuss Geisel Honor and has won awards from Parenting magazine, the John Burroughs Association, and the National Science Teachers Association. Patricia’s artwork has appeared in galleries, magazines, newspapers, and more than 100 books for both children and adults. She is the illustrator of numerous successful Dover titles on science and nature, including My First Book About Outer Space and My First Book About the Body.

Trained as a research scientist, Donald M. Silver has written more than 80 books for students of all ages and for teachers. His One Small Square series takes a close-up look at plants and animals where they live. He has won numerous awards including the Children’s Science Writing Award in Physics and Astronomy from the American Institute of Physicists. He lives in New York City where he has worked with Patricia J. Wynne since 1981 and with whom he has co-authored numerous successful Dover titles on science and nature, including the “My First Book” series. 

MY REVIEWS

In My First Book About Dinosaurs, children gain a wealth of information while applying their artistic talent to coloring the pages.

The illustrations are detailed and aptly captioned. First, the definition and concept of fossils are explored. The work of paleontologists is explained. Next, the reader learns about the Triassic, Cretaceous, and Jurassic Periods, names of the dinosaurs living in each period, and their characteristics. Finally, readers learn the parts of the world inhabited by each dinosaur and what might have caused their extinction.

Children learn a ton of information by carefully reading the descriptions and studying the illustrations. Highly recommend it for children in the eight to twelve age range.

The oceans book is a perfect choice for children interested in weather phenomena, sealife, volcanoes, tsunamis, and geography. They will enjoy the illustrations and the detailed information accompanying them.

There is a section about climate, the different types of regions around the globe, animals who live under the sea, and the interrelationship of atmosphere and the oceans. A bit of oceanographic history is included.

Recommended for students in grades three through six.

The coloring book about our amazing Earth is a good first introduction to Earth Science. Young explorers learn about rocks, minerals, mountains, our solar system, and the history of our planet.

They are introduced to volcanoes, earthquakes, tsunamis, caves, geysers, and some of our treasured national parks.

After coloring the beautiful illustration, future scientists will want to keep the book as a wealth of reference information.

Recommended for students ages eight through twelve.

I never fully realized the ecosystem available in my own backyard. This book explores backyard treasures found both day and night. There are insects, birds tiny one-celled creatures, and large animals. Many examples of how their life cycles are dependent upon each other are explained. Silver shows trees, leaves, the changes in seasons, how to identify creatures, and the dangers to avoid in the backyard. Readers even learn how to plant a tree.

This beautifully illustrated book will keep middle-grade outdoor enthusiasts busy for hours and provide a plethora of information about our natural world.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of four My First Science Books!

Three (3) winners receive:

• A copy of My First Book About Dinosaurs
• A copy of My First Book About Our Amazing Earth
• A copy of My First Book About the Oceans
• A copy of My First Book About Backyard Nature

The giveaway begins May 31, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends June 30, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/C1DZx/my-first-sceince-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, May 31, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-Off‘My First Science Book’ Series

Monday, May 31, 2021BookshelfMommaA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Tuesday, June 1, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Wednesday, June 2, 2021Heart to HeartA book review ofMy First Book About Dinosaurs

Thursday, June 3, 2021Over Coffee ConversationsA beyond the book activity‘My First Science Book’ Series

Friday, June 4, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA guest article byDonald M. Silver

Sunday, June 6, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Monday, June 7, 2021Shooting Stars MagazineA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Tuesday, June 8, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofMy First Book About Dinosaurs

Wednesday, June 9, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofMy First Book About Dinosaurs

Thursday, June 10, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Friday, June 11, 2021The Momma SpotA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Wednesday, June 16, 2021The Review WireA book review ofMy First Book About Dinosaurs

Thursday, June 17, 2021Books Are Magic TooA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Friday, June 18, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofMy First Book About Dinosaurs

Sunday, June 20, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

Monday, June 21, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA review of‘My First Science Book’ Series

The Tent Mouse and the RV Mouse

Written by Loretta Sponsler

Illustrated by Kathrine Gutkovskiy

A pleasant retelling of the City and Country Mouse fable. In this modern-day picture book, two cousins both love to camp but have different views on how to do so.

Thomas takes to the road with his tent, while his cousin, Harvey likes the comforts of his RV camper. Thomas convinces Harry to go camping with him in his tent. Both enjoy their daytime adventures but Harvey hates the inconveniences of sleeping in the tent. Next time, they try it with Harvey’s RV. Thomas does not think sleeping in an RV affords the real feel of a camp experience. Will they continue to disagree or can they find a way to agree to disagree?

This is a cute picture book with a lesson worth remembering. My only complaint is that the small size of the text is a bit difficult for the beginning reader that it is targeted for to read easily. Recommended for beginning and elementary school age readers, particularly camping enthusiasts.

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Check out learning resources for the whole family at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Ryan O’Connor

ABOUT THE BOOK

Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Written by Ryan O’Connor

Illustrated by Xiang Minghui

Ages 6-10 | 48 Pages

Publisher: Xlibris Corp | ISBN-13 : 978-1664153189

Publisher’s Synopsis: Li Li Wang is enjoying Chinese New Year with her family when her grandparents ask her to sit with them. Before giving Li Li her holiday gift, they tell her the story of Ting Ting Wang, Li Li’s ancestor, and how she became a Chinese hero. Li Li carefully listens as her grandparents tell her about Ting Ting, the monster Nian, and the origin of the Chinese New Year celebration. Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China provides insight into China’s biggest holiday, gives a sense of its culture, and shows that girls are just as strong and brave as boys.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/2R1YdPv

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781664153189

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ryan O’Connor is a literature and writing teacher in Shanghai, China, and the author of the children’s book series Bobby the Bear. With a background in sports journalism and education, Ryan has turned his focus to writing children’s books. Through unique characters, Ryan provides children with moral and life lessons. Ryan has earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism and a master’s degree in education; he has also won numerous awards for sports writing. Ryan is a native of Pittsburg, Kansas, but has spent the past ten years living in Shanghai.

To learn more about Ryan and his books, visit his website at www.ryanoconnorauthor.com.

MY REVIEW OF THE BOOK

A FAMILY TRADITION

Ting, Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Written by Ryan O’Connor

Illustrated by Xiang Minghui

Six-year-old, Li Li Wang is getting ready to celebrate Chinese New Year with her parents and grandparents. Her grandmother, Nai, Nai, and grandfather, Ye Ye, decide to tell her about the story of one of her ancestors, Ting Ting Wang.

Ting Ting lived on a farm with her parents and older brothers in the village of Tianyu many years ago. At that time no one paid attention to girls. Ting heard about the monster named Nian who was half unicorn and half dragon. Every year Nian would roam the countryside and attack the villages on New Year’s Eve. Across China, the residents hid themselves, their animals and possessions from the wanton attacks of the monster. But Ting Ting was not afraid. She knew if attacked she would stand and fight. When Nian appeared in her village, she dressed in red, decorated the house with red banners, and set out loud firecrackers. The monster became disoriented and fled. This legend has been handed down from generation to generation.

Elementary grade readers learn about Chinese culture, traditional foods, and customs like the tradition of the red envelope. The multicultural illustrations are charming and vibrant. This tale is a wonderful way to introduce students to Asian culture. Recommended as a read aloud for classroom discussion or a bedtime story for children ages three through eight.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of books by Ryan O’Connor, including Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A copy Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China
• A Ting Ting Bookmark
• A copy of Bobby the Bear and His Missing Dinner
• A copy of Merry Christmas, Bobby the Bear

Two (2) winners receive:

• A copy Ting Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

The giveaway begins June 1, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends June 30, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

https://gleam.io/Wl38D/ting-ting-the-girl-who-saved-china-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, June 1, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-OffTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Tuesday, June 1, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Wednesday, June 2, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 3, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 4, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Sunday, June 6, 2021Feminist Books for KidsA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Monday, June 7, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Tuesday, June 8, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withRyan O’Connor

Wednesday, June 9, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 10, 2021Over Coffee ConversationA Beyond the Book ActivityTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 11, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Wednesday, June 16, 2021Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Thursday, June 17, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofTing Ting, the Girl Who Saved China

Friday, June 18, 2021Books Are Magic TooAn interview withRyan O’Connor

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW AND DOVER PUBLICATIONS

ABOUT THE BOOK

Game On! USA: Awesome Activities for Clever Kids

Written by Patrick Merrell

Ages 8-12 | 144 Pages

Publisher: Dover Publications | ISBN-13: 978-0486841854

Publisher’s Synopsis: The newest Game On! Awesome Activities for Clever Kids title, this activity book has dozens of new and challenging brain games for ages 8 to 12. More than 100 colorful puzzles feature the excitement and adventure of the United States, including crosswords, secret codes, word scrambles, spot the differences, mazes, and much more. It’s the perfect book for at home or on the go, and the fun starts with just a pencil — no electricity or batteries needed! Complete solutions appear at the end of the book.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3yGMpmT

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9780486841854

Game On! USA

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Patrick Merrell is a professional puzzlemaker, cartoonist, writer, illustrator, and graphic designer. He’s one of MAD magazine’s “Usual Gang of Idiots.” He’s created over 250 books, including 75 puzzle books, and written 81 crosswords for The New York Times (including 19 Sundays). Six of his Times crosswords appear in Will Shortz Picks His Favorite Puzzles, the most of any constructor. From 2009 to 2011, he wrote for Wordplay, the daily online crossword column for The New York Times. He’s also created puzzles for the Los Angeles Times, Wall Street Journal, Scientific American, People, Sports Illustrated, MAD, National Wildlife Foundation, Crayola, Scholastic, the American Crossword Puzzle Tournament, the World Puzzle Championship, and many, many others.

MY REVIEW OF THE BOOK

IT’S A PUZZLEMENT…

Game On! USA! Awesome Activities for Clever Kids

Designed by Patrick Merrell

This is book three in the Game on series targeted for students in grades three to six or ages eight through twelve. It contains 144 pages of puzzles accompanied by coloring illustrations that cover a wide variety of subjects. While the focus is placed on the USA, the book’s puzzles develop visual acuity skills, math skills, vocabulary, and fine motor development.

I would use it as a go to on those rainy days when the children are bored or as a learning resource while traveling across country in the car or on the airplane. Some of the puzzles are easier and will appeal to younger children, while the coding and crosswords could be a shared activity among younger and older siblings.

Only a pencil and a good imagination are required. Ditch the electronics and go back to paper and pencil brain enrichment.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a set of three Game On! Awesome Activities for Kids books!

Three (3) winners receive:

• A copy of Game On! Awesome Activities for Clever Kids
• A copy of Game On! MORE Awesome Activities for Clever Kids
• A copy of Game On! USA: Awesome Activities for Clever Kids

The giveaway begins May 31, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT and ends June 30, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below to enter the giveaway

https://gleam.io/QY9g5/game-on-usa-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, May 31, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-Off‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

Tuesday, June 1, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA review of‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

Wednesday, June 2, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA review ofGame On! USA

Thursday, June 3, 2021BookshelfMommaA review of‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

Friday, June 4, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA review ofGame On! USA

Sunday, June 6, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA review ofGame On! USA

Monday, June 7, 2021The Fairview ReviewA review ofGame On! USA

Tuesday, June 8, 2021The Momma SpotA review of‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

Wednesday, June 9, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA review of‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

Thursday, June 10, 2021Heart to HeartA review of‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

Friday, June 11, 2021Shooting Stars MagazineA review of‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

Wednesday, June 16, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA review ofGame On! USA

Thursday, June 17, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA review of‘Game On! Awesome Activities’ Series

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.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3wrNNIe

https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781649491800

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

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.

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

MY Review of The Book

SWEET SIMPLICITY

FIVE LITTLE ANGELS

Written by Kathleen T. Pelley

Illustrated by Dubravka Kolanovik

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.

Click on the link below to enter the Giveaway.

https://gleam.io/GsG2d/five-little-angels-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Wednesday, May 26, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewBook Tour Kick-Off

Thursday, May 27, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofFive Little Angels

Friday, May 28, 2021Over Coffee ConversationsAn article byKathleen T. Pelley

Monday, May 31, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofFive Little Angels

Tuesday, June 1, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofFive Little Angels

Wednesday, June 2, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofFive Little Angels

Thursday, June 3, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofFive Little Angels

Friday, June 4, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofFive Little Angels

Monday, June 7, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofFive Little Angels

Tuesday, June 8, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofFive Little Angels

Wednesday, June 9, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofFive Little Angels

Thursday, June 10, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofFive Little Angels

Friday June 11, 2021BookShelfMommaA book review ofFive Little Angels

Crow From the Shadow (Parent-Child-Connect (P2C) Book 1)

Written of Olaolu Ogunyemi

Illustrated by Joshua Ogunyemi

Crow is a bird that possesses a high level of intelligence. He wants to push himself to his limits. Perhaps he will be an architect, a superstar athlete, or a military genius. Unfortunately, self-doubt in the form of the shadow is always lurking in the background telling him that he cannot succeed.

Children and adults are so often held back by nagging self-doubts. This beautifully illustrated book urges us to aspire to our best and see the possibilities for success not the fears of failure. There is a wonderful opportunity to continue the discussion with parents and teachers by using the discussion questions. In addition, the information section about crows is highly informative.

Recommended for upper elementary school and middle-school-age students.

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Check out all my learning opportunities at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

One of the biggest hurdles, an author faces is building an online following. There are many theories on how to approach this. Obviously, one needs to understand the audience for which one writes, their needs, desires, and wants. Once that step has been accomplished, how do you reach that audience most effectively. What is your purpose? Is it to sell a product, offer a service, teach a skill, or extend a helping hand?

I recently read and reviewed this book. It has a unique approach suitable for anyone but certainly applicable for writers.

LET IT BE ME

Free: Build an Online Following that Liberates You for Life’s Adventures

Written by Linda Claire Puig

I have read many books that purport to give the answer to how to build an online following. This book is different.

It is written in conversational style rather than an instruction manual. While the author’s purpose is to allow you to live a lifestyle that will allow you the freedom to achieve the lifestyle you desire, Puig gives the tools that will allow the reader to discover how to do it.

Readers learn about the five different types of freedom, why it is important to use generosity in attracting and building that audience, and then how you can interact with your audience to help weather your own struggles while using your own strengths to help them overcome their own problems.

The author presents multiple avenues that can be used to achieve these ends, and also includes an extensive bibliography of resources to explore and enhance the reader’s knowledge base.

I recommend the book as an interesting addition to anyone interesting in taking that next step.

Many of us who want to build a following and have a sense of fulfillment and success struggle because we have no clear sense of purpose or direction. This book guides the reader to discover where he wants to go before spending time being frustrated in not knowing how to get there.

Women in Chemistry

Written by Mary Wissinger

Illustrated by Danielle Piolo

This well-written and organized book is a wonderful way to introduce elementary and middle-grade readers to the world of chemistry. Wissinger offers simple explanations with appropriate illustrations making the content clear and easy to comprehend.

The short book packs a ton of information in forty pages. Young scientists learn about matter, elements, atoms, DNA, X-rays, chemical reactions, the periodic table, and so much more. There is a brief history of the contributions by women in chemistry going way back to Cleopatra. The glossary adds additional information to explore. The tone is positive encouraging the young reader to embrace scientific exploration.

I am looking forward to reading more books in this new nonfiction science exploration series.

Thanks to the publisher for providing me an ARC to review, which I voluntarily chose to read and review with my honest opinions for no compensation.

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Check out all my learning opportunities at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

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,

including the hum of their single-note song.

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3v9ibq3

One Big Canvas: The Molding of Clay

Written by Jay Miletsky

Illustrated by Luis Peres

Ages 3-9 | 24 Pages

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.

https://amzn.to/3dIFdxZ

ABOUT THE FOUNDATION

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.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282224/

TOUR SCHEDULE

April 23	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
April 24	Over Coffee Conversations	https://gmarcianoblogs.wordpress.com	Beyond the Book Activity
April 25	Mommy Ramblings	http://www.MommyRamblings.org	Book Review
April 26	Life Is What It’s Called	lifeiswhatitscalled.blogspot.com	Book Review
April 27	Crafty Moms Share	https://www.craftymomsshare.com/	Book Review
April 28	Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog	https://bamauthor.me	Book Review
April 29	A Dream Within A Dream	http://adreamwithindream.blogspot.com	Book Review
April 30	Book Bug Ca	https://bookbugca.wordpress.com/	Book Review
May 3	Jrsbookreviews	Http://www.jrsbookreviews.com	Book Review
May 4	Heart to Heart	tynea-lewis.com	Book Review
May 5	Fairview Elementary School (Library)	https://fveslibrary.blogspot.com/	Book Review
May 6	Lisa’s Reading	https://lisasreading.com	Book Review
May 7	icefairy’s Treasure Chest	http://icefairystreasurechest.blogspot.com/	Book Review
May 10	Confessions of a Book Addict	http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.com	Book Giveaway
May 11	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
May 12	Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers	https://insatiablereaders.blogspot.com	Book Review
May 13	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Beyond the Book Activity

Read more…

The Boy Who Was Left Behind

Written by Gita V. Reddy

Aman is only two years old when his parents depart India for London. He is left in the care of his grandmother. Aman’s parents rarely visit.

Aman is a happy child who is extremely close to his grandmother. When he is eight years old, Aman learns that his parents will be returning to India permanently. Aman experiences conflicting emotions. Then he overhears a phone call that changes his life. A car accident has killed his father and his mother is hospitalized.

Aman’s grandmother goes off to London and leaves Aman in the care of her nephew. She decides not to tell him anything about the accident. She finally returns with Aman’s mother, but she has not made the recovery that Aman desired. The tale traces the boy’s anguish which impacts his health and his studies.

The author does a good job of portraying the characters’ emotions and cultural traditions. I believe the book could help children cope with similar feelings. This book could lead to productive discussions with middle-grade and teen readers.

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