Posts tagged ‘family relationships’

EVERY DAY CAN BE AN ADVENTURE

Catch Up!

Written by Cazzy Zahursky

Illustrated by Sam Cabbage

A family enjoys a picnic in a local park. When a bottle-cap falls off the table, their dog Buddy runs away with it. He just wants to play fetch. But that bottle-cap finds itself on an unexpected journey when different animal groups in the park commandeer it to use for fun. The boy runs around trying to regain possession while readers are treated to a riotous adventure.

The funny picture book features huge, colorful illustrations and large font. It is a fun read aloud for adults or beginnng readers. Characters are multicultural and diverse including children with disabilities.

Highly recommended for children ages two through five.

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A MAGICAL EXPERIENCE

The Last Fairy Door (Bok 1 of the Titania Series

Written by N. A. Davenport

Amy’s dad is ill and she must temporarily move in with her grandmother. She cannot anticipate the adventure that awaits her when she discovers the fairy land of Titania.

This is the first book of a well-written series. The characters, whether human or fantasy, are carefully detailed and endearing. Language is descriptive and appealing with enough twists and turns to keep the plot lively and interesting.

I would highly recommend the book to its middle-grade target audience, but I must admit adults will find it just as enjoyable.

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MAKING LIGHT OF A NOT SO FUN TOPIC

How to Fight a Cold

Written by Adam T. Newman

Illustrated by Susan G. Young

It’s no fun to have a cold. Children are not the best of patients. In this whimsical tale, the protagonist is a young boy who wakes up with all the symptoms of a bad cold. His mother tucks him back into bed and informs him he will not go to school today.

The little boy does not know how to fight a cold, but he meets Boogie in a dream. Boogie takes him on a journey to meet the worst elements of a cold. He shows the boy how to defeat them.

This book has beautiful illustrations that will have both children and adults amused. The rhyming text and large font are pleasing to the youngest reader. Children learn a lot about colds and how to combat them.

This book is a sequel to How to Catch a Cold and part of a series that will appeal particularly to boys but appropriate for all elementary school age readers.

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An Important Book for Families

Schoochie and Skiddles: Schoochie’s Adoption Story

Written by Tom Tracy

Illustrated by Dustin James

Scoochie has been adopted by two men. She understands that her mother needed help in raising her. Scoochie explains the steps in the adoption process and how she feels loved and accepted. The subject is handled in a non-judgmental way that clearly explains the adoption process for children of all ages to understand. Non-traditional families with two dads as the adopters willing to maintain a relationship with birth mother and sister are presented simply and logically so that even the youngest child may grasp the situation. This picture book is part of a series that focuses on the non-traditional family.

I would highly recommend it for all parents, teachers, elementary and middle-school children as a springboard for discussion about both adoption and non-traditional families.

SEARCHING FOR EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES FOR YOUR FAMILY?

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HONEYCAKE: A Helping Hand

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW AND MEDEA KALANTAR

ABOUT THE BOOK

Honeycake: A Helping Hand

Written by Medea Kalantar

Illustrated by i Cenzial

Ages 4+ | 33 Pages

Publisher: Medea Kalantar | ISBN-13: 9781777289768

Publisher’s Book Summary: In the sixth installment of the delightful Honeycake book series, Nala’s uncles, Victor and George, take her to a fundraiser where she meets Alexis, a girl with an artificial arm. Through her interactions, Nala learns that you are never too young to lend “a helping hand,” that it’s okay to be different, and that being different doesn’t stop you from doing great things in life.

PURCHASE LINKS

All proceeds from each book sale go to The War Amps CHAMP Program as Medea Kalantar’s charity of choice.

Amazon

Bookshop

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Medea Kalantar is a Reiki master and practitioner, a Guinness World Record Holder, and a multi-award-winning, best-selling author of the Honeycake Book Series(TM). Inspired to write these books when she became a grandmother, Kalantar’s stories are based on her own family, whose members come from many ethnic backgrounds. This unique mix is a perfect recipe—just like the spices in a honey cake. That is why she calls her grandchildren her little Honeycakes.

With all the negativity in the world, Medea Kalantar’s series is a much-needed glimmer of hope and positivity. The Honeycake Book Series(TM) teaches valuable life lessons, giving children the tools to overcome obstacles in their everyday lives. The Honeycake books teach children about diversity, acceptance, kindness, mindfulness, trust, and gratitude. This series will enlighten, empower, educate, and entertain children and their families for generations to come.

https://www.instagram.com/honeycakebooks/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18921007.Medea_Kalantar

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

HONEYCAKE: A HELPING HAND

Written by Medea Kalantar

Illustrated by i Cenizal

Edited by Cheryl C. Malandrinos

Nala is so excited. She is wearing the beautiful pink dress that her married uncles bought for her and she is going to attend a special fundraiser with them. They tell her she will meet a remarkable girl named Alexis.She is surprised to find out the event is being held at a store. At the party, Nala meets children who have different types of physical disabilities. What really amazes her is the fact they have learned to lead independent lives and remarkable achievements.

Alexis is beautiful in spirit as well. She has managed to raise ten million dollars with her charity. Not only does Nala meet many new friends. she learns that being different is not a handicap if you are motivated to achieve great things. Nala is inspired to follow in her footsteps.

The book contains a glossary to explain terms that might be unfamiliar to the elementary school reader. Kalantar also reveals a bit about the real life character behind the story.

This book contains many important lessons for young readers. It is beautifully illustrated with multicultural illustrations that show different cultures and display many types of disabilities. I would recommend it be placed on the shelves of libraries and classrooms to be used as a valuable diversity discussion tool.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win 6-book set of the Honeycake series with bookmarks—including a copy of Honeycake: A Helping Hand autographed by Madea Kalantar!

All proceeds from each book sale go to The War Amps CHAMP Program as Medea Kalantar’s charity of choice.

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

– A signed hardcover copy of Honeycake: A Family of Spices

– A signed hardcover copy of Honeycake: Help, I Swallowed a Butterfly

– A signed hardcover copy of Honeycake: Special Magical Powers

– A signed hardcover copy of Honeycake: A Circle of Trust

A signed hardcover copy of Honeycake: Counting All My Blessings

– A signed hardcover of Honecake: A Helping Hand

Bookmarks

Four (4) winners receive:

A signed hardcover copy of Honeycake: A Helping Hand

Five (5) winners receive:

– A signed paperback copy of Honeycake: A Helping Hand 

https://gleam.io/W9SFI/honeycake-a-helping-hand-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Friday, November 18, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Monday, November 21, 2022Me Two BooksA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Tuesday, November 22, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Wednesday, November 23, 2022Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Thursday, November 24, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewAn interview with Medea Kalantar
Friday, November 25, 2022The Momma SpotA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Monday, November 28, 2022The Frugal GrandmomA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Tuesday, November 29, 2022Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview with Medea Kalantar
Wednesday, November 30, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Thursday, December 1, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review of Honeycake: A Helping Hand
Friday, December 2, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewInstagram Reel of Honeycake: A Helping Hand

SLEEP TIGHT

A Little Sleepy

Written by R.J. Furness

Illustrated by Kathyrn Short

Dorothy Dormouse is curled up in her nest getting ready for her winter nap. Every time she dozes off, she is awakened by a loud noise. It seems that many animals like squirrels and badgers are busy gathering and storing food. Then Dorothy learns about other animals like bats and hedgehogs who want to hibernate as she does.

The book contains attractive illustrations with lots of action words to keep the script lively and fun to read out loud. It teaches children about hibernation and empathy for animals. Recommended for young children under the age of five as a wonderful bedtime story or read-aloud book.

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EMBARRASING GEORGE virtual book tour and giveaway #EmbarrassingGeorge

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Foreword Publicity.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Embarrassing George

Written by Kimber Morgan

Illustrated by Jessica Kwan

Ages 4+ | 34 Pages

Publisher: Creative, Simple Wonder Press | ISBN-13: 9781737038641

Publisher’s Book Summary: Everyone in George’s family is so embarrassing. His mom can’t cook, his sister is constantly making kissy faces to her phone, and his brother’s wardrobe consists of nothing but costumes. To top it off, George’s dad is known for going outdoors in his underwear!

Will Family Night at school reveal all of their quirks?

Or will George want to hide under his desk to avoid them?

PURCHASE LINKS

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.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Jessica Kwan is the illustrator behind Bad Attitude Bunny Illustration, though her attitude is generally not that bad. She hails from San Francisco and is currently based in northern Sweden. She enjoys drawing characters with funny expressions and anything inspired by nature and animals. She is always looking for the next collaboration, but during her spare time, she likes to: travel, read, do crosswords, and pet the neighborhood cats. Some things she dislikes are sand, mosquitoes, and melted ice cream.

Visit her on Instagram @badattitudebunny and her website, badattitudebunny.com.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Embarrassing George and a Fire HD 8 Kids tablet!

One (1) winner receives:

– An autographed copy of Embarrassing George

– A Fire HD 8 Kids tablet, 8″ HD display, ages 3-7, 32 GB, Blue Kid-Proof Case

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/jHfKa/embarrassing-george-book-giveaway

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

I AM SO EMBARRASSED

Embarrassing George

Written by Kimber Fox Morgan

Illustrated by Jessica Kwan

It is time for family night at school and George dreads it. Why? He thinks his family is weird and embarrassing. George has inherited the family’s preferred first name passed down from generation to generation and he hates it. His older sister is obsessed with her phone, his younger brother wears only costumes, his mother burns the food, and his father routinely goes outside in his underwear. What will they do to embarrass George at school? George does not want to find out.

Kwan’s illustrations are hilarious. They keep kids and adults in stitches. I laughed my way from page to page. Readers may be surprised at the ending. Are all families as weird as George’s family? A little weird may be a good thing.

TOUR SCHEDULE

Tuesday, September 13, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Embarrassing George
Wednesday, September 14, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review of Embarrassing George
Thursday, September 15, 2022Book Zone ReviewsAn interview with Kimber Fox Morgan
Tuesday, September 20, 2022Crafty Moms ShareA book review of Embarrassing George
Wednesday, September 21, 2022The Momma SpotA book review of Embarrassing George
Thursday, September 22, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Embarrassing George
Monday, September 26, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Embarrassing George
Tuesday, September 27, 2022Me Two BooksAn Embarrassing George book activity
Wednesday, September 28, 2022Because I Said SoA book review of Embarrassing George
Monday, October 3, 2022J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of Embarrassing George
Tuesday, October 4, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn article by Kimber Fox MorganMost Embarrassing Moments
Wednesday, October 5, 2022Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review of Embarrassing George

GRADY WHILL AND THE TEMPLETON CODEX VIRTUAL BLOG TOUR AND GIVEAWAY #GradyWhill

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Carole P. Roman.

ABOUT THE BOOK

Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex

Written by Carole P. Roman

Ages 8-18 | 243 Pages

Publisher: Chelshire, Inc. | ISBN-13: 9781950080434

Publisher’s Book Summary: Templeton Academy, the superhero high school, is finally open!

The prestigious academy is recruiting the best of the best to enroll in its student body. The school is as mysterious as it is exclusive. Grady Whill thinks there is nothing special about him to make the grade. However, his best friend, Aarush Patel has been selected and thinks Grady has the right stuff. Even school bully, Elwood Bledsoe is attending.

If Grady is fortunate enough to be picked, his guardian has forbidden him to attend. Will a family secret prevent Grady from becoming the superhero he was destined to be?

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon

Audible

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Carole P. Roman is the award-winning author of over fifty children’s books. Whether it’s pirates, princesses, spies, or discovering the world around us, her books have enchanted educators, parents, and her diverse audience of children of all ages.

Her best-selling book, The Big Book of Silly Jokes for Kids: 800+ Jokes! has reached number one on Amazon in March of 2020 and has remained in the top 200 books since then.

She published Mindfulness for Kids with J. Robin Albertson-Wren.

Carole has co-authored two self-help books. Navigating Indieworld: A Beginners Guide to Self-Publishing and Marketing with Julie A. Gerber, and Marketing Indieworld with both Julie A. Gerber and Angela Hausman.

Roman is the CEO of a global transportation company, as well as a practicing medium.

She also writes adult fiction under the name Brit Lunden and has created an anthology of the mythical town of Bulwark, Georgia with a group of indie authors.

Writing is her passion and one of her favorite pastimes. Roman reinvents herself frequently, and her family calls her the ‘mother of reinvention.’ She resides on Long Island, near her children and grandchildren.

For more information, visit http://www.caroleproman.com/.

https://www.facebook.com/CarolePRomanAwardWinningAuthorAndBooks/

https://twitter.com/caroleproman?lang=en

Amazon Author Page

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex

Written by Carole P. Roman

What an interesting middle-grade novel. An interesting combination of genres and themes, coming of age, fantasy, adventure, peer, family, and school relationships. Whill and his best friend, Aarush, long to gain admission to an elite new school Templeton Academy, but Whill’s guardian is opposed. The Middleton Middle Schools bully Elwood torments Aarush who is autistic, Whill is often in trouble because he sticks up for his friend.

Despite the odds, Whill, Aarush, and Elwood all gain entrance to Templeton. Upon arrival, the students realize this is no ordinary place. Whisked away to a mysterious location, with no outside contact and communication, they learn that they must uncover the meaning of a codex inscribed on an obelisk. Their classes include subjects like subconscious thinking. What will Whill and Aarush learn about their past and their hidden superpowers? Will they succeed in their quest? This first book ends at the completion of year one.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an awesome Dooney Press Gift Pack of books and more fun goodies!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

– A signed copy of Grady Whill and the Templeton Code

– A waxed canvas backpack

Nine (9) winners receive:

– A signed copy of Grady Whill and the Templeton Code

CLINK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/F7c48/grady-whill-and-the-templeton-code-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, September 12, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Tuesday, September 13, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Wednesday, September 14, 2022Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Thursday, September 15, 2022The Momma SpotA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Friday, September 16, 2022Writer with WanderlustA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Monday, September 19, 2022J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Tuesday, September 20, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Wednesday, September 21, 2022Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview with Carole P. Roman
Thursday, September 22, 2022Crafty Moms ShareA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Friday, September 23, 2022Lisa’s ReadingAn article by Carole P. RomanBlending the superhero genre with the classic school story
Monday, September 26, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Tuesday, September 27, 2022Book Zone ReviewsA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Wednesday, September 28, 2022Twirling Book PrincessAn article by Carole P. RomanSuperheroes and why they make good characters for kids books
Thursday, September 29, 2022Because I Said SoA book review of Grady Whill and the Templeton Codex
Friday, September 30, 2022Shooting Stars MagAn interview with Carole P. Roman

The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey – virtual book tour and giveaway #thecrystalbeads

In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Purple Butterfly Press.

ABOUT THE BOOK

The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey

Written by Pat Black-Gould

Illustrated by Katya Royz

Ages 8+ | 40 Pages

Publisher: Purple Butterfly Press | ISBN-13: 9781955119207

Publisher’s Synopsis: A Star of David necklace or a rosary?

In 1939 Poland, a young girl is asked to give up one of these and accept the other without understanding why. However, what she must part with happens to be her most prized possession—a precious gift given to her by her father before he died.

The child’s mother then teaches the girl a “game” to prepare her for what is to come. As the Nazis invade the country, the mother is forced to make a heartbreaking sacrifice.

This beautifully illustrated picture book is loosely based on a true story. Although told through the eyes of a young girl, the book is written for readers of all ages. It also contains two study guides. One is for children, parents, and teachers. The other is for adults who may gather in places of worship, book clubs, and small groups. Discussion topics include themes of compassion, empathy, and diversity.

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop.org

Barnes and Noble

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pat Black-Gould, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and an author. Her short stories have appeared in several literary journals and anthologies.

Many years ago, Pat heard a powerful story that haunted her until she committed it to paper. The Crystal Beads was first published in Jewish Fiction. net in 2020. The short story then won first-place honors in two writing competitions conducted by the National League of American Pen Women, Washington, D.C.

The first was an award by the Pen Women Florida State Association. She then received the Flannery O’Connor Short Story Award as part of the National Biennial Letters in Competition. Pat felt it important to bring the story to a younger audience. At that point, she rewrote it as a children’s book. She hopes that The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey, will do justice to the story she once heard and carry its message to younger generations.

Pat’s writing explores topics such as compassion, tolerance, and diversity. She continues to examine these themes in her upcoming novel, Limbo of the Moon, written with her co-writer, Steve Hardiman.

For more information, visit www.patblackgould.com.

https://www.facebook.com/PatBlackGould

https://www.instagram.com/patblackgould/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/patricia-black-gould-ph-d-a418082b/

https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22197226.Pat_Black_Gould%20

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

THE HOLOCAUST FOR CHILDREN

The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey

Written by Patricia Black-Gould

Illustrated by Katya Royz

The story opens in 1939 Poland. A little girl named Lalka treasures the Star of David necklace that her father gave her shortly before he died. Suddenly, Lalka’s mother asks her to remove it and instead gifts her a set of crystal beads called a rosary. They will be playing a game. Lalka must learn all about its secrets.

Shortly after, Lalka’s mother enrolls her in a convent school where she will live and go to Catholic school. She is confused and upset but follows the instructions her mother had given her. When two men come to interrogate her, Lalka faces a difficult decision.

Gould writes about the holocaust story in a way with which elementary and middle-school readers understand. Readers empathize and absorb its impact through Lalka’s experiences. The book is sensitive and well-written. Royz illustrates it with compassion and tenderness.

The discussion guides for both children and adults are carefully crafted. They provide the tools to assure a fruitful learning environment. Gould also explains how children may become involved as active participants in the Children’s Holocaust Project.

I highly recommend the book to parents and teachers of children ages five through twelve.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey!

Four (4) winners receive:

A signed copy of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/PvMG9/the-crystal-beads-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, July 11, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Tuesday, July 12, 2022Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview with author Pat Black-Gould
Wednesday, July 13, 2022The Momma SpotA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Thursday, July 14, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Friday, July 15, 2022Writer with WanderlustA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Monday, July 18, 2022Me Two BooksA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Tuesday, July 19, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Wednesday, July 20, 2022Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Thursday, July 21, 2022The Twirling Book PrincessAn article by author Pat Black-Gould
Friday, July 22, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Monday, July 25, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Tuesday, July 26, 2022Shooting Stars MagAn article by author Pat Black-Gould
Wednesday, July 27, 2022J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Thursday, July 28, 2022Crafty Moms ShareA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey
Friday, July 29, 2022Because I Said SoA book review of The Crystal Beads, Lalka’s Journey

IF ONLY WE COULD MEET…

My Dad, My Rock, Children’s Picture Book

Written by Victor Dias de Oliveira Santos

Illustrated by Anna Forlati

A warm and sensitive picture book that will captivate dads, granddads, and grandchildren alike.

Oliver reminisces about the grandfather he has never met. He decides to tell his grandfather about the son he has never known. As Oliver talks about his dad, readers learn about a father’s many roles as a friend, advisor, teacher, and playmate.

The soft, pastel watercolors of the illustrations perfectly complement the tale. I highly recommend the book for families of children ages four through eight.

Looking for more quality family books, follow my Pinterest Board at https://pinterest.com/bamauthor

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