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…

Moon-Force 1

Written by Janelle M. Adams

Mesa White is enjoying a normal teenage life on planet earth until she receives an unexpected visit and learns she is princess from a far-away world called Satellite. Ethan informs her that she is the only one who can save them from the evil, Mirwilla. Mesa will be their savior when she employs her special powers,

Mesa wants to help, but she is confused and perplexed. What are these powers and how can they be useful in saving the planet? Can she trust this boy named Ethan?

The book contains a lot of magic, fantasy, and adventure. There are twists and turns that will entertain young readers. The artwork is well-done and appealing. I would suggest using a bit less dialogue and more active voice. This is book one in a series, so I am eager to follow the progress of this young writer.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

Check out learning opportunities for the entire family at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com

Oh, so close…

In partnership with the Children’s Book Review

About the Book

Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies

Written by Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Illustrated by Bex Sutton

Ages 3-8 | 34 Pages

Publisher: Sandrian Nelson-Moon | ISBN-13: 978-1736512319

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!

For more information, visit https://nelsonmoonkids.com/, Instagram, and Facebook.

My Review of the Book

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.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282217/

Itty Bitty Betty & the Cookies Tour Dates

Monday, April 12, 2021 The Children’s Book Review A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Tuesday, April 13, 2021 Lisa’s Reading An article by the author Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Wednesday, April 14, 2021 The Fairview Review A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Thursday, April 15, 2021 Library Lady’s Kid Lit An interview with Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Monday, April 19, 2021 Comfy Chair Books A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Tuesday, April 20, 2021 Life Is What It’s Called An interview with Sandrian Nelson-Moon

Wednesday, April 21, 2021 Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Thursday, April 22, 2021 Over Coffee Conversations A Beyond the Book Activity for Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Friday, April 23, 2021 Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Monday, April 26, 2021 Confessions of a Book Addict A book giveaway of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

Tuesday, April 27, 2021 icefairy’s Treasure Chest A book review of Itty Bitty Betty and the Cookies

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.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

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

Food Network Magazine The Big, Fun Kids Baking Book Free 14-Recipe Sampler! 

Provided by Food Network Magazine

This recipe sampler is the perfect way to entice budding young chefs into the kitchen. They are the types of foods that children are interested in eating so they will be attracted to baking them. Muffins, brownies, cakes, and cupcakes are definitely favorites among this age group. Perfect choice for middle-grade readers who can read and follow these recipes independently or to use as a family project to involve all the members of a family working together.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

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

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Jasmine A. Stirling

ABOUT THE BOOK

A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Found Her Voice

Written by Jasmine A. Stirling

Illustrated by Vesper Stamper

Ages 4-12 

48 Pages

Publisher: Bloomsbury Children’s Books

ISBN-13: 978-1547601103

Publisher’s Synopsis: Witty and mischievous Jane Austen grew up in a house overflowing with words. As a young girl, she delighted in making her family laugh with tales that poked fun at the popular novels of her time, stories that featured fragile ladies and ridiculous plots. Before long, Jane was writing her own stories-uproariously funny ones, using all the details of her life in a country village as inspiration.

In times of joy, Jane’s words burst from her pen. But after facing sorrow and loss, she wondered if she’d ever write again. Jane realized her writing would not be truly her own until she found her unique voice. She didn’t know it then, but that voice would go on to capture readers’ hearts and minds for generations to come.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: https://amzn.to/2O2scVx

Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781547601103

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author Bio and Link

Jasmine A. Stirling is the debut author of A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice, a picture book biography of Jane Austen about persistence and creative mastery. Jasmine lives on a cheerful street in San Francisco with her husband, two daughters, and their dog. From a young age, she loved to write poems and stories and worked her way through nearly every children’s book (and quite a few for grownups, too) in her local library. When she’s not writing, Jasmine can be found hiking in the fog, singing songs from old musicals, and fiddling with her camera.

Jasmine first fell in love with Jane Austen as a student at Oxford, where she read her favorite of Jane’s six masterful novels, Persuasion. A Most Clever Girl is her dream project, done with her dream team—award-winning illustrator Vesper Stamper and Bloomsbury Children’s Publishing. Jasmine also has a YA/New Adult history of the women’s suffrage movement out soon, titled We Demand An Equal Voice.

Visit www.jasmineastirling.com to get a free Jane Austen paper doll kit with the purchase of A Most Clever Girl. While you’re there, enter to win a Regency tea party gift basket!Follow Jasmine on Instagram and Facebook @jasmine.a.stirling.author where she posts about kidlit and life with two young girls.

My Review of This Book

FINDING HER WAY

A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice

Written by Jasmine A. Stirling

Illustrated by Vesper Stamper

Jane Austen grew up in the English countryside in a large family. Her father was a rector and a tutor; her mother wrote poetry. The home was filled with books, joy, music, and song. Jane’s father provided her with a study and writing materials. Although Jane completed three novels before reaching her mid-twenties, something felt wrong.

Jane was born ahead of her time. She disdained the eighteenth-century books that portrayed women as weak, sickly, or pessimistic. She preferred to observe the visitors to her home and based her characters on their actions and behavior. But when her brothers grew up and her father retired, Jane, her sister, and mother were forced to move to the city. Jane suffered depression and ceased to write.

After a time, one of her brothers furnished them a small house in the countryside. Jane’s spirits lifted She found the inspiration she needed to revise her earlier writings and create the novels for which she became famous worldwide.

Stamper employs color effectively in her illustrations to portray the changing moods and circumstances of Jane’s life. The author includes some of Austen’s famous quotations and a concise biography as well as resources and a bibliography to encourage further exploration of Austen’s life and work.

This forty-eight-page picture book is appropriate for elementary age readers but will also interest middle-grade and older readers interested in Austen and eighteenth-century life in England.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a glorious Jane Austen-themed picnic basket, including a hardcover copy of A Most Clever Girl autographed by Jasmine A. Stirling!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• A picnic basket filled with:
  • A copy of A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice, signed by author Jasmine A. Stirling
  • A vintage teacup
  • 1 oz of tea From Adagio Teas
  • Truffles from Moonstruck Chocolates
  • Gardenia hand cream
  • A set of Jane Austen playing cards
  • A $15 gift certificate to Jasmine A. Stirling’s Austenite Etsy Shop, Box Hill Goods

Two (2) winners receive:

• A copy of A Most Clever Girl: How Jane Austen Discovered Her Voice, signed by author Jasmine A. Stirling

The giveaway begins March 16, 2021, at 12:01 A.M. MT, and ends April 16, 2021, at 11:59 P.M. MT.

Click on the link below

http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/3d5cb282211/

TOUR SCHEDULE

March 16	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Book Review
March 17	Life is What It’s Called	www.lifeiswhatitscalled.blogspot.com	Interview
March 18	Library Lady’s Kid Lit	https://janemouttet.wordpress.com/	Book Review & Guest Post
March 19	Austen Prose	https://austenprose.com/	Book Preview & Guest Post
March 20	A Dream Within A Dream	http://adreamwithindream.blogspot.com	Book Review
March 21	Barbara Ann Mojica’s Blog	https://bamauthor.me	Book Review
March 22	Jane Austen’s World	https://janeaustensworld.wordpress.com/	Interview
March 23	Satisfaction for Insatiable Readers	https://insatiablereaders.blogspot.com	Book Review & Guest Post
March 24	icefairy’s Treasure Chest	http://icefairystreasurechest.blogspot.com/	Book Review
March 25	Heart to Heart	tynea-lewis.com	Book Review
March 26	Confessions of a Book Addict	http://www.confessionsofabookaddict.com	Guest Post
March 27	Eccentric Eclectic Woman	http://finamoon.blogspot.com	Book Review
March 28	J.R.s Book Reviews	https://jrsbookreviews.wordpress.com/	Book Review
March 29	My Jane Austen Book Club	http://thesecretunderstandingofthehearts.blogspot.com/	Interview
March 30	Jane Austen in Vermont	https://janeausteninvermont.blog/	Book Review & Guest Post
March 31	Some the Wiser	https://somethewiser.com	Book Review
April 1	Austenesque Reviews	www.AustenesqueReviews.com	Book Review
April 2	Absolutely Austen	https://absolutelyausten.com/	Book Review
April 3	Faith, Science, Joy, and Jane Austen	brendascox.wordpress.com	Book Review
April 4	Fairview Elementary School (Library)	https://fveslibrary.blogspot.com/	Book Review
April 5	Comfy Chair Books	https://comfychairbooks.com/	Book Review
April 6	Reading Is My SuperPower	https://readingismysuperpower.org	Book Review
April 7	ShootingStarsMag	www.shootingstarsmag.net	A Beyond the Book Activity
April 8	Glass of Wine, Glass of Milk	glassofwineglassofmilk.blogspot.com	Book Review
April 9	Book Q&As with Deborah Kalb	http://deborahkalbbooks.blogspot.com/	Interview
April 10	The Fictional Cafe	https://www.fictionalcafe.com/	Review + Interview
April 11	Ingenious Baby	https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkNfesiHAPnqc4STgBn-Ljw	Interview
April 12	The Children’s Book Review	https://www.thechildrensbookreview.com/	Guest Post
April 13	Tucked In Tuesday	https://www.instagram.com/tutoringyoutoexcellence/	Instagram Live: Tucked in Tuesday

Little Bluebird: A Hero in Me and You

Written by Erin Murphy

Illustrated by Mykyta Harretts

Edited by Nadara Merrill

A very short book for preschoolers. This picture book teaches we may look different on the outside, but our uniqueness is also our strength. Cute illustrations that are multicultural and include disabilities.

Recommended for toddlers and preschoolers.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

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

The Boy Who Painted the World: A Middle Grade Novel

Written by Melody J. Bremen

While the subtitle of this book indicates a middle grade novel, this book can be enjoyed by adults as well. It tells the story of Indigo, a ten-year-old boy who is abandoned by his mother. He finds a friend with Jade, an older teen, who tries to take care of him until fate intervenes. They are separated and Indigo is forced to fend for himself. Indigo has a passion for painting. It fuels his desire to survive. He is resilient and resourceful. While Indigo is wary of trusting others, he gradually learns to reach out and experience a connection to others.

Bremen does a marvelous job of painting her characters and developing them for her readers. Each page reveals a different layer. This book is addictive, once opened the reader will have difficulty putting it aside. Readers cannot wait to discover what will happen to Indigo and his newly found friends and enemies.

This is a powerful story about resilience, homelessness, and adoption. These issues are addressed within a moving novel that encourages deep thought and discussion. Highly recommended for readers aged ten and older.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

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

Right Before Sleep (Milo and Cat)

Written and illustrated by Miro Tartan

Milo is trying to get to sleep. His pet cat snuggles with him. Putting their heads together, the two friends are determined to find a way to fall asleep. After trying some common tried and true remedies like counting sheep, drinking warm milk, and putting on warm socks, they decide to play music and then make the bed comfortable. Still, they are unsuccessful so the friends try to combine them together. Will they ever find a way to close those eyes?

This is a cute, rhyming picture book for toddlers and preschoolers who find it difficult to wind down at the end of the day. Remarkably, the solution is quite simple.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the RSS FEED BUTTON in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

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

Idia of the Benin Kingdom (Our Ancestries)

Written by Ekiuawa Aire

Illustrated by Alina Shabelnyk

Idia is the daughter of a warrior in the African village of Benin. One night she has a strange dream. She sees a woman first fighting a vicious battle and later treating the wounded with herbs and medicine.

Idia is a vivacious child who loves to dance and play, but the dream continues to trouble her. What can this mean? Women do not fight as warriors. So, one day she asks her father to teach her about warfare. He informs Idia that this is not the province of girls but promises to answer her questions if she works hard on her dancing. At the same time, Idia asks her mother to teach her about medicine and healing. As Idia continues to mature, she learns both the skills of the warrior and those of the healer.

When it comes time for Idia to marry, the young prince asks for her hand. A native doctor performs a ritual ceremony and Idia falls into slumber. She experiences the same dream which now reveals to her clearly its meaning and what her decision needs to be.

This is a beautiful picture book with an important message for young female readers. It also contains a map and interesting history of the kingdom of Benin. While the book is targeted for readers in the four to eight age range, the text is rather advanced and will appeal to older readers as well.

If you enjoyed reading this post, please subscribe by clicking on the word Follow or by hitting the orange RSS FEED button in the upper right-hand corner of this page.

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