This novella explores the drawbacks of the foster care system and the emotions of children who are its victims. The author has had first hand experience with the system and presents her story from the point of view of fourteen year old Allie. She and her younger twin siblings, Luke and Madeleine have been ripped away from their mother many times. This time they find themselves on a farm.
Allie is determined to get them back to their urban home. She uses her experience to try to manipulate the system and the social worker. When she finds herself in the care of Jo-Jo and a few other foster children, Allie is flummoxed. While she is determined to get back home as fast as she can, this family’s approach of both tough love and common sense has her baffled. It seems that Allie’s mother is determined to sabotage her efforts because every time she has a chance to show herself a good mother, she proves just the opposite. Finally the day arrives when they have an unsupervised overnight visit with their mother; the children find themselves in trouble again. How will Allie decide to handle it this time?
This book is both an examination of foster care and a coming of age story. Kearns knows how to develop her characters and pull the heart strings of her readers. At the same time, the touches of humor like Allie falling into cow dung and getting kicked when pretending to understand how to milk a cow take the edge off an otherwise too serious topic. I recommend the book for children ages ten and up. They will find many topics with which to identify as well as being given an opportunity to explore aspects of serious family issues.
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Story of a foolish king, his selfish wife and seven princesses involved in a deceitful plot. Once there was a foolish king who squandered his subjects’ money, so he was strung up by his toes! Now the brother of this king was so afraid of a similar fate that he permitted all his minsters and advisers to make his decisions. Eventually his subjects insisted he take a queen; he decided on the spinster daughter if a king from a faraway kingdom. She made many demands to which the king agreed. There was one problem he could not solve. The princess did not want more than one child running around the palace; the king had seven daughters.
The king’s advisers concocted an elaborate ruse Six of the daughters would be hidden far away in the castle. Only the eldest would be seen by the new queen. As each of the daughters grew old enough to marry, each of them would secretly leave the castle. Because the daughters looked so similar, the king hoped that his wife could be deceived. Though she was suspicious the ruse succeeded until twelve years had passed and the queen began to age. She grew increasingly jealous of the fact that the princess remained beautiful. The queen removed all the mirrors and banished old women from the kingdom because they reminded her that she was losing her own youth
The youngest princess and the court physician scheme to find a solution, but it backfires. What will happen to the king, the queen, the seven princesses and their kingdom? Is there a lesson to be learned?
The cover of the book is beautifully illustrated; the plot is fairly well developed with a clever ending. I think this book will appeal especially to middle grade students and young teens. Humor, fantasy and fairy tale are nicely interwoven.
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Prince Iggy and the Kingdom of Naysayer (The Adventures of Prince Iggy Book 1)
Written by Aldo Fynn
Illustrated by Richie Vicencio
Young Iggy attends the Naysayer Academy where all the boys and girls of the kingdom are forced to study. They never leave and must eat the same horrible porridge everyday. Miss Spitfire, their teacher, tortures the children both physically and mentally. To make matters worse, Iggy is teased and bullied by all the other children. In the land ruled by King Naysayer, disobedience is punished by torture. Dishonesty and selfishness are considered virtues not faults. Long ago Iggy had mysteriously floated to the shores of this kingdom; he does not know his parents or origin
One day the children decide to throw Iggy down a trash well. He screams for help. A man throws a rope down to rescue him, but then kidnaps the boy and throws him in the back of a wagon. Iggy can’t understand why; but the man named Captain Swell tells him that the ring Iggy wore on his finger proves that he is the prince from the Rose kingdom, who was kidnapped long ago. At first Iggy does not believe his good fortune. To gain back his power he must get back the ring that King Naysayer has stolen from him. Along the journey, Iggy meets a fortune teller, Professor Jones, and an eccentric named Henry O’Henry who will collaborate with him to restore his throne. Will Iggy triumph over adversity? Does he return to Naysayer and punish his tormentors?
This book is intended for tweens and young teens. The black and white line drawings with a graphic novel look break up the story and make the short chapters more visual and interesting. I must give warning that there is some rather coarse language and some pretty nasty examples of bullying behavior which make it inappropriate, in my opinion, for children younger than ten. Lots of adventure, mixed with twists and turns in plot, a bit of magic and fantasy, and the type of humor that appeals to this age group make the book a nice package for the middle grade reader. Parents and teachers might want to preview the book if children will be reading the book independently.
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This is part of the author’s 1929 series and the first of them I have had the pleasure of reading. I must admit that it was the title which attracted my interest. That is not to say the book is without substance. Even though the book is less than one hundred pages, Gardner deftly paints the character and emotions of three families who have endured much hardship during the depression. They no longer have financial resources, but make up for it in love and generosity of spirit.
The reader travels through the Christmas season of 1933 beginning on December 19 and ending on December 25. Three friends, Jonathan, Caleb and Ian work hard on their fishing boat to provide the bare necessities for their families. They and their wives have promised not to exchange gifts so they can afford something for the children. The reader watches the self-sacrifice of the parents as they secretly figure out ways to please each other. One of their children, Jean desperately wants to buy a doll for his sister Amy. His friend Owin understands his pain and hides his own savings for Jean to find. The fact that Owin can see and hear “angels” and knows when deceased relatives are present is a nice holiday touch. You are reminded of O’Henry and feel the real meaning of Christmas. These characters are exquisitely drawn; the reader feels their ups and downs as well as their happiness and their pain.
Highly recommend this book around holiday time or any time you want to feel uplifted. This novella weaves together a dose of history, life’s struggles, humor, family life, holiday traditions and appealing characters in one neat package. Recommended for tweens, teens and adults.
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WISHING A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL MY READERS CELEBRATING THE HOLIDAY!
Sixth grader Joe Dearborne has a reputation for being fearless. After all, he runs into a burning house to rescue a puppy, broke his leg while trying to rescue a cat from a tree, and rescued a girl who had slipped through the frozen ice. Joe’s best friend, known as Green Beans, tells all of this to Willy Randolph, a local reporter. In the event of danger, Joe is just not able to feel fear. But Joe has a big problem, he has promised his father that he would stop doing dangerous things.
When his father hears about this latest escapade, he grounds Joe. The next day, Joe decides he will pick up a poisonous snake in the hopes that it would make him feel afraid. He succeeds, but not in the way he had hoped because his is bitten and becomes seriously ill. As the rest of the story unfolds, Joe will meet a new housekeeper who does her best to make his life miserable, his father’s business wanes, readers meet his zany Aunt, and Joe meets a new friend named Meg. Joe will need to grapple with fear in new and unexpected adventures.
This middle grade adventure combines coming of age issue, family relationships, elements of mystery and a bit of humor. I especially like the introduction of a new vocabulary word with its meaning at the beginning of the chapters. The plot has enough twists and turns to keep readers on their toes, and enough character development makes you want to believe in them. In my opinion, the book has most appeal to middle grade boys and girls, but it can be enjoyed by teens as well.
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I used to live in a house that still had remnants of a World War I victory garden popping up between the flowers so I was immediately drawn to this book. So glad that I picked it up this historical fiction tale.
Shearin does an amazing job of capturing the spirit of the three main characters and best friends, ten year olds, John, Joe, and Chewie. The story opens in Appleside, NJ, a small town on December 6, 1941. These three boys and their families will suddenly find their lives turned upside down when Pearl Harbor is attacked and their country enters World War II. The author makes the setting authentic by mentioning things like sitting around the old radio and Fireside Chats of FDR, Life magazine, the 5 & 10 Cent store, and popular games like horseshoes and marbles. These boys spring to life with antics like chewing on their collar, secret door knock signals, and pranks like filling grumpy, Mr. Hutchins’ outhouse with snow. Some things never change; there are the typical classroom hijinks and even incidents of bullying.
When the war breaks out, the boys decide to form a club in an effort to help the war effort. They call it the ABC Club. Recognizing the injustice of rounding up Japanese, German and Italian nationals, they fear the loss of friends in their community. A grumpy neighbor morphs into a new friend when their kindness toward him leads to an unexpected change of circumstances and a new avenue of patriotism.
Middle grade students will empathize with these boys and the difficulties they encounter in adjusting to frightening circumstances. Recommended for children ages nine and older. This is a well-written book with developed characters and plot and is a compelling read for adults as well. Next year’s sequel will continue the story as the course of the war unfolds.
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First in a series of early chapter books for beginning readers. Children will enjoy reading the large print and chapters of a few pages each. The main character is Bentley the dog who has adventures with animal friends and enemies like Rodney the Cat and Meezel the Weasel.
In the first chapter readers are introduced to the family including the children Rebecca and Jonathan as well as Aunt Fanny who promptly sits on the couch and breaks it. Bentley, the puppy, is always blamed for breaking things and getting into mischief; all he wants is to be helpful and loved. When Rebecca loses her stuffed bear named Old Fur Face, Bentley hatches an ambitious plan to seek out and find it. This leads to a series of adventures with Rodney, the cat who despises him, a swim in the ocean, an encounter with a weasel, and an unexpected surprise upon arriving home that evening. Does Bentley ever get the recognition he deserves and will Rebecca find the missing teddy bear? At the conclusion of the adventure, Jones gives an enticing preview of the next book in the series in which Bentley observes a monster looking in the window!
This promises to be a wonderful series for beginning readers. Jones seems to have found winning elements, a combination of endearing animal and family characters, humor, adventure, and family lessons to be shared. Highly recommend for young readers ages six through nine and for teachers looking to refresh their read aloud selections. Parents might also read a chapter a night as a bedtime story.
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Title: Lobo Goes to the Galapagos (The Adventures of Lovable Lobo) | Author: C.L. Murphy | Publication Date: August 27, 2014 | Publisher: Peanut Butter Prose | Pages:32 | Recommended Ages: 3 to 7
Summary: Lobo returns in this adventure, sweeter and a bit salty this time. This lil’ wolf pup finds that there’s nothing like a little sea air to bring out the best in him and his unlikely tag-alongs. Take a trip to the Galapagos with Lobo and his right-hand raven, Roxy, as they help an injured, new feathered friend return home. Lobo faces some fears and witnesses the joy that comes from helping others in this “birds of a different feather DO flock together” tale.
Book Preview
MY REVIEW: LOTS TO LOVE
What an adorable tale of friends helping friends in need! Lobo, the wolf pup, calls out to his friend, Roxy Raven in his tree when he observes that a creature with blue feet has just fallen from the sky. After patching the creature’s broken wing with a band aid, they learn that his name is Bobby Bobo. They decide that they will help Bobby get back to his home beach..
That leads them on an exciting adventure where they will meet new friends like Sunny the Seagull and Coconut, the sand crab. After visiting several beaches, the friends are still unsuccessful. Will Bobby ever find his home and what will happen to his new friends?
The illustrations are bright, bold, colorful and cleverly laid out to appeal to even the youngest reader. A simple map included at the end is a plus. Murphy uses alliteration and repeat word phrases effectively to make the story lyrical and appealing. There are lots of cute touches like Sunny doing “sand angels.” Children will enjoy this story of animal friends and the lessons they teach about persistence, safety, loyalty and devotion.
I highly recommend this beautiful book as a bedtime story, class read aloud or as a gift to a special child in your life. Appropriate for all ages but especially for preschoolers and children in early elementary grades.
“Who knew geography and learning about animals could be this much fun? Lobo Goes to the Galapagos is my new favorite children’s book and is highly recommended. ” ~ Jack Magnus, Readers’ Favorite
“While Ms, Murphy’s uniquely whimsical and vibrant illustrative style is perfectly suited for the wild, tropical feel of this colorful book, and easily captures young readers’ attention, there is also a subtle, quiet beauty to the storyline’s overarching themes of friendship, trust, perseverance, and goodwill. Lobo’s tenacious and giving spirit are delightfully captured in this fifth installment of puppy-fueled fun. In fact, it’s sincerely so easy to fall in love with “Lovable” Lobo that I’d happily follow this well-meaning, big-hearted, wolf pup to the very ends of the earth!” ~ 5 Star Review, Indie Author Girl, Amazon
“What an adorable story! I read this to my nephew and he couldn’t stop giggling at the silliness of Roxy as well as Lobo’s cute friends Bobby, Sunny, Coconut and Sandra. The author was very clever in portraying a tale of friendship, adventure and excitement that is sure to enthuse young minds around the world.” ~ 5 Star Review, Gina D., Amazon
About the Author: C.L. Murphy
While new to the children’s book writing and illustrating scene, C.L. Murphy (Cathy) has been doodling her way through life since she won a school wide poster contest in the third grade. She’s had the pleasure of working as an artist in residence, creating cartoons and painting murals with the children at local elementary schools. She adores the wonder and curiosity of young children.
She feels that creating picture books is something that she was destined to do, after years of filing away so many ideas, while raising her two sons. She is a member of SCBWI.
She lives amongst the wildlife in an enchanted forest in the beautiful Oregon wilderness with her husband and menagerie. She has always appreciated nature and animals have always played a major role in her life. The inspiration for the Lovable Lobo character came from a wolf that she raised for over 14 years.
Check out her book series and discover that you, too, will find Lobo lovable.
Prize: One winner will receive a $100 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash prize (winner’s choice)
Contest Ends: October 23, 11:59 pm, 2014
Open: Internationally
How to enter: Please enter using the Rafflecopter widget below.
Terms and Conditions: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED BY LAW. The winner will be randomly drawn through the Rafflecopter widget and will be contacted by email within 48 hours after the giveaway ends. The winner will then have 72 hours to respond. If a winner does not respond within 72 hours, a new draw will take place for a new winner. Odds of winning will vary depending on the number of eligible entries received. This contest is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook. This giveaway is sponsored by C.L. Murphy and is hosted and managed by Renee from Mother Daughter Book Reviews. If you have any additional questions – feel free to send and email to Renee(at)MotherDaughterBookReviews(dot)com.
Treasure From The Past (Big Honey Dog Mysteries Easter Special Edition)
Written by H.Y. Hanna
This is a special Easter mystery adventure tale in the Big Honey Dog Mystery series. In this chapter book geared for nine to twelve year olds, the beautiful Great Dane and canine friends assist their human owners in solving a mystery from the past.
At the outset, the reader meets Big Honey and some of her canine friends who are playing outdoors while their masters celebrate a beautiful Easter day. The talk turns to the top of the slope where they spy mysterious onion shaped domes in which rumor says a creepy witch lives. Suka, the Siberian Husky, swears she wears black and has creepy claws. Of course they decide to investigate and are startled to find an ominous black figure before them. Turns out to be a old woman guarded by her huge black dog. Our canine friends call out to their owners who come to the rescue.
But the true mystery is about to materialize. The poor old woman named Irina is starving and in danger of losing her house. Years ago she escaped the Russian Revolution with her mother and Nanny. Hidden among their few belongings were a valuable Faberge jeweled egg and a red ruby. After Irina’s parents died, she was forced to sell most of her belongings to pay off their debts. Hidden in a letter that her grandmother wrote are the clues to solving the mystery of where these valuables are hidden. Together with Mishka, Irina’s faithful dog, the indomitable canines head up to the attic to search for clues. They are attacked by a barn owl, but nothing deters them from their mission. Will the fearless canine friends be able to save the day for Irina and Mishka?
The novella is well written combining mystery, history and humor. It is fun to real a tale told from the canine viewpoint. The animals walk their humans outside and cleverly gain the upper hand. Highly recommended for children age nine and up. Adults will find the short story appealing and amusing as well.
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I am delighted to take part in the Blog Tour for this book for which I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. It is an interesting middle grade chapter book story that combines so many wonderful elements.
This story relates what happens to the Munson family after their parents are killed in a car accident. Susie, the eldest at age eleven, narrates the tale. Other members of the family include Tucker, age nine, and twins Jesse and Mindy, age five. They have recently moved into a dilapidated house purchased by their Aunt Julie, who is now their legal guardian. Mindy has been traumatized by her parents’ death and refuses to speak. Her only communication is occasional whisperings to her twin Jesse. All the children still see a psychologist weekly.
Their adventures are told by Susie even though most the imaginary characters are seen through the mind of young Mindy. Oh, yes, this house is haunted. There are monsters, spiders, ghosts, dragons, a leprechaun and something sinister that lives in the basement. Together with Danny and Anna, the kids who live next door, the children spend the summer exploring the huge backyard and house. The older children suspect that Mindy is imagining all these things, yet they hear the noises and see the clues left behind like a toy triceratops and a red feather. When the new school year comes around, the children are apprehensive about beginning all over again. At first Mindy is bullied because she does not speak. The winter brings more adventures like a new boarder named Adam who lives in the cottage, an abominable snowman, and a close call when Tucker falls through the frozen pond.
In little more than one hundred pages, Bennett manages to deal with so many issues: death, bullying, unsolved mysteries, coming of age, blended families, and childhood fears. The story is told with lots of humor, authentic dialogue, and well-developed characters. Chapters are short; many have charming pencil drawn illustrations. This keeps the book interesting for the younger reader. Length of chapters make it a good choice for a classroom read aloud. Highly recommended for boys and girls ages seven through twelve. Don’t miss it!
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March 1, 2015
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