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

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

Dream of Empty Crowns: (Chosen King Book 1)

Written by M.J. Sewall

In the Kingdom of the Thirteen, youth are required to enter their names in a lottery system to choose a future ruler. Gordon does not give a thought about being chosen. When his name is drawn, he has no idea of how to deal with his fate.

This middle-grade series features the conflict between good and evil, family intrigue, peer struggles, fantasy, and a few elements of steampunk.

Will Gordon survive the turmoil and what will be the fate of his kingdom? Read Book One in the series to begin the journey.

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Cutie Sue and the Christmas Miracle: A Child: A Heartwarming Magical Children’s Book

Written by Kate Melton

Illustrated by Ira Baykovska

This book is part of a series of children’s books based on the Cutie Sue character.

In Book 4, Cutie Sue prepares her Christmas list for Santa and works hard with her family to get ready for Christmas. But Sue feels a bit down when she receives the material things on her list with the exception of one – snow.

Sue’s mom reminds her to be grateful and thinks about those who are less fortunate. Sue goes out into the neighborhood seeking the lonely, and needy. She learns the true meaning of Christmas and gets a surprise as well.

The illustrations are soft and lovely. Most of the rhymes flow well. I would recommend the book, especially for readers five through eight.

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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH THE CHILDREN’S BOOK REVIEW AND LORI ADAMS

ABOUT THE BOOK

Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Written by Lori Adams

Ages 9-12 | 336 Pages

Publisher: Spyhop Publishing | ISBN-13: 9781737131205

Publisher’s Synopsis: When a young girl learns she is the Last Heir of the legendary pirate Davy Jones, she is whisked away to begin life aboard an enchanted schoolship for Pirate Heirs where danger and excitement awaits.

Contemporary kids who happen to be Heirs of the most villainous and celebrated pirates in history. Superstitions, mysteries, curses, secrets, strange ocean creatures, undead pirates, and seafaring legends will thrill middle-grade readers in this rollicking, globe-trotting adventure.

Avalina Jones, the Last Heir of the infamous pirate Davy Jones, has never heard of Sea Magic, flying dinghies, Pirate Heir schoolships, phantom islands, undead pirates, or creatures called Half Ones. And she has never understood her strange connection to water. But when a beautiful woman arrives in a swirling waterspout, Avalina’s life explodes with more adventures than she can possibly imagine. She takes her rightful place aboard a giant Pirate Heir schoolship teeming with Heirs of the world’s most nefarious pirates.

Raised as a Landlubber, Avalina quickly realizes bizarre and danger are normal aboard Pirate Heir schoolships-food fights back, school supplies giggle or explode in your face. And not everyone can be trusted.

When Avalina is accused of a terrible crime, she must prove her innocence or risk being banished from the schoolship forever-and this in the middle of a crucial Treasure Hunt!

Avalina races to unlock the secrets of the ship, and makes a dangerous discovery that threatens everyone aboard. With the help of her new friends Charlie, Pippa, and Bummy, Avalina draws closer to the truth, unaware that a deeper, darker fate awaits.

Author Lori Adams expertly delivers a story that is timeless, bringing together elements of sea lore, magic, and adventure. The first book in a seven-book series, Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm, is a romping tale for middle graders who are searching for the next enduring fantasy classic.

PURCHASE LINKS

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

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781737131205

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

LORI ADAMS is the author of the Avalina Jones series for middle-grade readers (Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm (#1) as well as two young adult series: The Kate March Mysteries: Speak Easy (#1) set in Hollywood during the Roaring Twenties, and the Soulkeepers Series: Forbidden, Awaken, and Unforgiven, a paranormal fantasy set in the quintessential but fictitious town of Haven Hurst, Connecticut and first published through Random House.

Lori was born and raised in Oklahoma but moved to Southern California where she lives with her family. She loves traipsing along SoCal’s wonderful beaches, watching Angel’s baseball, Cowboys’ football. Aside from writing, Lori loves reading and watching Classic Hollywood Movies.

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

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Written by Lori Adams

Avalina has lived in an orphanage from the age of four. Soon after her tenth birthday, Avalina develops strange powers like breathing underwater. A mysterious, beautiful woman appears to her in a swirling waterspout and turns her life upside down.

This creature swoops her up in a magical dinghy to a phantom pirate ship. Avalina learns that she is the last surviving heir of Davy Jones. This ship is a school for pirate heirs divided into four houses that compete to decipher a pirate map and retrieve its treasure.

Avalina must prove that she is not guilty of an awful crime. There are thrills, adventures, secrets, and legends along the way. Through it all, Avalina is not afraid to stand up for rights, fight the bullies, and work hard. Middle-grade readers will love the wonderfully descriptive language of Sea Magic, ghost pirates, fantasy sea creatures, and strange places. Highly recommended for adventure seekers and fantasy lovers, especially those in the eight to twelve age range.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an Avalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

An autographed copy of Avalina Jones: And the Eye of the Storm

An Avalina Jones quote tote

A Hands-Off Me Gigglin’ Grog mug

An Avalina Jones fridge magnet

An Avalina Jones bookmark

Two (2) winners receive:

An autographed copy of Avalina Jones: And the Eye of the Storm

An Avalina Jones bookmark

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY.

https://gleam.io/NKlWV/avalina-jones-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, November 29, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewTour Kick-Off

Tuesday, November 30, 2021The Teacher BookwormA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the StormAn interview with Lori Adams

Wednesday, December 1, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Thursday, December 2, 2021Twirling Book PrincessA book giveaway ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Friday, December 3, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Monday, December 6, 2021Lisa’s ReadingAn article by Lori Adams

Tuesday, December 7, 2021J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Wednesday, December 8, 2021Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Thursday, December 9, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the StormAn interview with Lori Adams

Friday, December 10, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Monday, December 13, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Tuesday, December 14, 2021A Homeschooling MomA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Wednesday, December 15, 2021Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Thursday, December 16, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Friday, December 17, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Monday, December 20, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

Tuesday, December 21, 2021Crafty Moms ShareA book review ofAvalina Jones and the Eye of the Storm

A Gift from Santa: This is based on a true story

Written and Illustrated by Zuzana Svobodová

It is almost Christmas. Jacob excitedly watches the snowflakes swirling outside his window. He is busy writing his Christmas lists. Jacob wonders if Santa receives gifts. He decides that he will return his appreciation by finding the perfect gift for Santa.

Jacob wants to visit the North Pole but his mother reminds him it is too far and there is not enough time. So Jacob goes to the store with his mom. He cannot find that perfect gift. After thinking hard, Jacob decides that he should give something of his own to Santa. Will he be able to make that sacrifice?

The book is based on a true story. It is a lovely way to teach children about the true spirit of Christmas. Appealing illustrations and a beautiful plot combine to make this picture book a winner for children to listen to each year. Recommended especially for readers ages three through eight but a charmer for any age.

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In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Idle Time Press

ABOUT THE BOOK

Boy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Written by Cynthia C. Huijgens

Ages 8-12 | 187 Pages

Publisher: Idle Time Press | ISBN-13: 9781732925847

Publisher’s Synopsis: On his thirteenth birthday, Max Mead wakes up battered and bruised in the villa of his grandfather, a famous antiquities expert, in Cairo. He has a hard time remembering how he got there, but slowly details of his quest to locate his missing grandfather begin to emerge. But the Lieutenant, leader of a ruthless antiquities trafficking gang, has left Max with more than a few nasty bruises.

PURCHASE LINKS

Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Eyf0gR

Bookshop.org: https://bookshop.org/a/2078/9781732925847

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK

Boy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Written by Cynthia C. Huijgens

This is book two of a series The author provides a summary at the beginning which allows first-time readers to catch up on the plot.

Max Mead awakes bruised and battered on his thirteenth birthday. As the fog lifts, his memory returns. He envisions a cave of stolen Egyptian antiquities. A gangster called the Lieutenant had kidnapped Max.

Max’s grandfather inherited a magical cabinet of curiosities from his father which Max used to travel back in time. Max’s grandfather wants Max to continue his mission of restoring the stolen ancient artifacts to Egypt and bringing the criminals to justice. Can Max learn the skills necessary to transition from a novice to an expert?

Max’s parents have always favored his sister who wants to become a gold medal fencing champion. When they decide to leave Egypt, Max refuses to leave and convinces them to allow him to train under his grandfather. He will need to learn about all the cabinet’s secrets and face life-threatening danger to succeed. Is Max up to the task?

This action-packed historical adventure sustains interest. Middle-grade readers will identify with Max’s coming-of-age struggles, the family conflicts, and his love of adventure. Highly recommended for readers who enjoy fantasy, history, and adventure.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Cynthia C. Huijgens writes for children of all ages, including children’s picture books. She holds a BA in Art and Design, Masters in Education, and is a certified K-12 Art Teacher. Cynthia graduated from Simon Fraser University’s The Writer’s Studio.

For more information, visit https://www.idletimepress.com.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a Boy Between Worlds prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

• An autographed copy of Boy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector
• Two (2) 100% pashminas purchased from a vendor in the Khan el Kahlili, Cairo
• A custom bookmark
• An Idle Time Press t-shirt

Three (3) winners receive:

• An autographed copy of Boy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/VYdQF/boy-between-worlds-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, December 6, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Tuesday, December 7, 2021Over Coffee ConversationsA guest article byCynthia C. Huijgens

Wednesday, December 8, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Thursday, December 9, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Friday, December 10, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Monday, December 13, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Tuesday, December 14, 2021Tales of A Wanna-Be SuperHero MomAn activity to pair withBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Wednesday, December 15, 2021Book Bug CAA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Thursday, December 16, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA guest article byCynthia C. Huijgens

Friday, December 17, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

Monday, December 20, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofBoy Between Worlds: The Novice Collector

The Flip: A Haunting on Long Island

Written by Michael Phillip Cash

A fast read with interesting characters and a nice blend of genres. Brad and his wife Julie are house flippers. Julie would love to earn enough money to quit her day job to join her husband, who is a full-time contractor.

What could go wrong when they purchase an old Victorian house named Bedlam in Cold Spring? Plenty. Turns out the original owners, Gerald and Tessa decide to put their ghostly talents to the test by torturing the new owners.

Why were Gerald and Tessa killed? Readers learn about the history and the mystery of the abandoned property as they follow the clues and become absorbed in the lives of its inhabitants, past and present.

Highly recommend this entertaining read for young adult and adult audiences.

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Maximus the Platypus Finds His Family

Written by Andi Cann

Illustrated by Eduardo Paj

This is a charming, cute, picture book about a platypus who gets washed down the river while sleeping. Maximus frantically searches for his family. Along the way, Maximus meets a beaver, an otter, and a duck. They all have some similarities to Maximus, but none are an exact match.

Maximus has always been big for his age. Will he ever be able to fit in? Does he get home to his family?

The soft and colorful illustrations are appealing to young readers. Slightly older children in the five to eight year old age range will find the book a delightful read aloud.

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Fatechanger: Penny Lost

Written by L. M. Poplin

Penn is a fourteen-year old girl who knows her way around the streets of Boston. Clever and curious, she attends one of Boston’s finest public schools and loves the library. On the other hand, Penn has learned to be tough, she was born with a heart defect, and her father left suddenly when she was seven.

One day, Penn is off exploring the city when she meets an old woman who gives her a penny to make a wish on. When she gets into trouble for stealing and uses it, she is transported back to 1915.

Penn’s whole world is turned upside down. She is now an orphan who struggles to survive. Penn worries how she will survive without her medication and if she can get back home. Penn gets mixed up with thieves and gangs. She masquerades as a boy. All she really wants is to fit in and find a true friend.

Will her secret be discovered? Can she find a way back to the twenty-first century?

The author paints colorful characters that succeed in involving the reader emotionally. There are lots of twists and turns to keep readers actively engaged. Recommended for teens and adults.

If you enjoyed this post, please subscribe to my book reviews, videos, teaching resources, and book series. Check them out at http://www.LittleMissHISTORY.com