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In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and J.T. Michaels

ABOUT THE BOOK

Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Written by J.T. Michaels

Ages 13-18 | 336 Pages

Publisher: J.T. Michaels | ISBN-13: 9781778035203

Publisher’s Synopsis: Author J.T. Michaels brings a fantasy tale of an ancient war, a modern-day murder mystery, mystical creatures, and memorable characters in his masterfully written young adult novel, Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone.

The Great War ended a century ago. Peace reigns across the eight countries. Epic tales of heroic men and women of those times are recounted in song and story. Yet, history seems to have forgotten a young battlefield healer, Tessa Marlise…

Sixteen-year-old Jimmy Chartron has just enrolled at the Navale Academy of Eagleon, his mind set on becoming an electrician. A chance magical encounter binds him to the trapped soul of Tessa Marlise. As Jimmy struggles to deal with this shocking development, murder and mystery unravel in the academy. Caught in the middle of everything, Jimmy realizes that a larger evil is afoot and that only two things can stop it: himself and the ghost in his head…

PURCHASE LINK

Amazon

Bookshop

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Author J.T. Michaels has always loved storytelling, no matter the medium. Being immersed in a different world, whether it’s through books or video games, has also been an obsession for him. Years after writing for his school magazine, he discovered he wanted to create his own worlds for readers, and his journey to fantasy writing began with Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone, the first volume in his epic fantasy series.   

J.T. gets inspiration for his books from everything around him, incorporating his friends as character ideas to make his stories as relatable and realistic as possible. He hopes his young readers come away from his stories having escaped from the real world for a bit and with a spark of magic that lasts long after the book is closed. 

When he isn’t writing enchanting fantasy novels for teens, J.T. enjoys running and spending time outside in the sunshine and hunkering down in a bookstore or library on rainy days. He lives in British Columbia, Canada, where he likes to indulge in a great cup of coffee. Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone is his debut novel, the first in a planned fantasy trilogy. 

For more information, visit https://www.jtmichaels.ca/.

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MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

JIMMY CHARTRON AND THE LOST KEYSTONE

Written by J.T. Michaels

This young adult novel combines the most popular genres for this age group of readers. Fantasy, ghosts, a murder, coming-of-age struggles, and strong characters all rolled into a fast-moving adventure written with humor and great dialogue. The setting consists of a peaceful world left behind after a devastating war that wiped out civilization a century ago. Myths and stories tell the tales of former heroes. A battlefield healer named Tessie attaches her lost soul to Jimmy, the protagonist, who has just enrolled in school to become an electrician.

Jimmy struggles to deal with this dilemma but soon finds himself embroiled in a murder mystery at the school. Readers become immersed in his struggles, the murder mystery, and the lives of other colorful characters at the school. Michaels artfully reveals the successes and failures of the characters through skilled dialogue and humor.

This young adult novel is the first in a series and has much to offer to its targeted audience of readers thirteen and older but has widespread appeal for adults.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a  Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone prize pack!

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

The Comfy Couch Reader Prize Pack

– Two Alice in Wonderland throw covers

– A side lamp with a unique horse stencil design

-A signed copy of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

One (1) grand prize winner receives:

The Books and Beverage Lover Prize Pack

– A Jimmy Chartron mug

-A Magic Mug with 3 Reveal Characters

-A signed copy of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Three (3) winners receive:

A signed paperback copy of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY

https://gleam.io/BiYWY/jimmy-chartron-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Monday, July 18, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Tuesday, July 19, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewA Growing Readers Podcast interview with author J.T. Michaels

Wednesday, July 20, 2022J.R.s Book ReviewsA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Thursday, July 21, 2022The Fairview ReviewA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Friday, July 22, 2022The Momma SpotA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Tuesday, July 26, 2022icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Wednesday, July 27, 2022Barbara Ann MojicaA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Thursday, July 28, 2022Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersAn article by author J.T. Michaels

Friday, July 29, 2022Confessions of a Book AddictA book giveaway of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Monday, August 1, 2022The Children’s Book ReviewAn Instagram Video Review

Tuesday, August 2, 2022Tales of a Wanna-Be Superhero MomAn article by author J.T. Michaels

Wednesday, August 3, 2022Lisa’s ReadingA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Thursday, August 4, 2022Because I Said SoA book review of Jimmy Chartron and the Lost Keystone

Mind Swapping Madness: Bonkers Short Stories Book 1

Written by Tom Moffatt

Illustrated by Paul Beavis

This book is a perfect choice for the reluctant reader. A good variety of stories on crazy topics that are sprinkled with lots of humor. For example, a boy trapped in the body of a fly, aliens who can’t wait to kidnap children, and toads waiting to be kissed by a human. Moffat twists traditional stories and invents new ones that will delight new readers. The length of the stories varies, and some can be read in five minutes. I am not a fan of children’s books with potty humor, this book contains none.

Recommended as a chapter book for new readers and those children who ordinarily will not pick up a book without coaxing.

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The Scenic Route: An Nsibidi Scripts Short Story

Written by Nnedi Okorafor

The author has written a short story based on the characters of his science fiction and fantasy Nsibidi scripts series.

The book series features friends Sasha and Sunny who live in Nigeria. They have special powers that allow them to see lots more than the average person. In this short story, the two friends land at O’Hare Airport in Chicago. They go on a short jaunt to visit the highlights of Chicago. Readers are treated to a tour of familiar sights seen through their unfamiliar eyes.

The book can be enjoyed by those who have not read books in the series but will probably whet their appetite to learn more about life in Nigeria and the mysterious powers they possess.

The series is recommended for ages twelve and older but this book is appropriate for younger children as well.

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In partnership with The Children’s Book Review and David Horn

ABOUT THE BOOK

Eudora Space Kid

Written by David Horn

Ages 6-10 | 97 Pages

Publisher: David Horn | ISBN-13: 9781736677407

Publisher’s Synopsis: Eudora is a typical 3rd grader. A typical 3rd grader who lives on a 36 deck AstroLiner. In space. A normal girl adopted by what you might call… aliens. Her mom is a dog-like species named a Pox and runs the onboard jail (brig). Her dad is an octopus-like species from the planet Pow. She is a girl who has normal ambitions, like being the chief engineer on an AstroLiner.

Eudora is a girl who comes up with a plan to prove her worth by improving her AstroLiner’s engines and breaking all known speed records. Will she succeed and earn a promotion? Or will she end up in the brig? Again…

Brilliant for engaging emergent and early chapter book readers.

PURCHASE LINKS

https://amzn.to/3j0gaIn

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David Horn is a huge science fiction fan. While his wife sometimes feels like they live in outer space, they really live in New Jersey with their two human daughters and one doggy daughter named Trixie. 

David loves reading science fiction books from both the old and new greats like Asimov, McDevitt, Scalzi, Howey, and more. He also loves reading his kids’ books like My Weird School, Just Grace, The Baby-Sitters Club, Ramona, and the list goes on.

David and his daughters also love watching sci-fi shows like Star Trek, Babylon 5, Stargate, and Star Wars. 

Eudora Space Kid started as stories he told his daughters at dinner.  They loved Eudora’s antics in space.  So now The Great Engine Room Takeover is his first book in the Eudora Space Kid early reader chapter book series.  He can’t wait for you to love Eudora’s stories too. 

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

MY REVIEW OF THIS BOOK:

MISCHIEF AND MAYHEM

Eudora the Space Kid: The Great Engine Room Takeover

Written by David Horn

Illustrated by Talitha Shipman

This is the first book in a chapter book series sure to delight beginning readers, especially those interested in space travel.

Eudora is a third grader who has been adopted by animal creatures from another planet. She and her older sister, Molly are earth orphans. They live on a spaceship named the Athena, where they travel through the galaxies maintaining peace among the federation. Eudora loves science and experimentation. She constantly gets in trouble for “inventing” things. As the tale opens, she is on a class trip to the flight deck when she decides to fire the plasma cannons. Eudora is put in the brig, but her mother is soon willing to forgive her. On another occasion, Eudora is determined to break the record for traveling past the speed of light. Eudora is determined to become a member of the Astro Fleet command. Do you think she will succeed?

Lots of black and white illustrations enhance the large easy-to-read font for new readers. The dialogue is fun to read, and the plot moves along quickly. Quirky characters and humorous antics create a winning combination for the six to ten age group.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Eudora Space Kid and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives: A signed copy of Eudora Space Kid and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card.

Three (3) winners receive: A signed copy of Eudora Space Kid.

CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

https://gleam.io/FBh2q/eudora-space-kid-book-giveaway

TOUR SCHEDULE

Sunday, August 15, 2021The Children’s Book ReviewA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Monday, August 16, 2021The Momma SpotA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Tuesday, August 17, 2021Over Coffee ConversationA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Wednesday, August 18, 2021Life Is What It’s CalledAn interview withDavid Horn

Thursday, August 19, 2021Glass of Wine, Glass of MilkAn interview withDavid Horn

Friday, August 20, 2021Satisfaction for Insatiable ReadersA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Monday, August 23, 2021The Fairview ReviewA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Tuesday, August 24, 2021Tales of a Wanna-Be SuperHero MomA book giveaway ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Wednesday, August 25, 2021Barbara Ann Mojica’s BlogA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Thursday, August 26, 2021icefairy’s Treasure ChestA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Friday, August 27, 2021Me Two BooksA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Monday, August 30, 2021A Dream Within a DreamA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Tuesday, August 31, 2021Some the WiserA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Wednesday, September 1, 2021Heart to HeartA book giveaway ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Thursday, September 2, 2021Library Lady’s Kid LitA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Friday, September 3, 2021Lisa’s ReadingA book review ofEudora Space Kid: The Great Engine Room

Game Spaced

Written and Illustrated by Justin M. Stone

This is the first book in a series for middle-grade readers who enjoy sci-fi, adventure and fantasy. Patrick and Trish are the male and female protagonists. They have been selected along with ten other children to travel to the planet Grimline-8..

All participants under the age of seventeen will spend the five year journey in cryogenic sleep. While in their pods, the children will be playing video games. That may sound like a dream come true for some middle-grade students. On the other hand, Patrick and Trish will be facing zombies, pirates, wolves, and the like in their virtual world. In theory, the skills they acquired would help them to cope in their new world.

The action moves quickly. Perhaps a little bit outlandish for some adults, but an enjoyable adventure read for its audience in grades three through six.

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Dragon Thunder (Dragon Dreamer Book 3)

Written by J.S. Burke

This book may be read as a solo sci-fi, fantasy adventure. I have been fortunate to read the first two books in this series and can fully appreciate the development and depth of the characters in Book Three.

The ice dragons fled their homeland due to a volcanic eruption. The golden dragons and creatures of the sea have all been forced to relocate. Drakor, leader of the ice dragons, is young and inexperienced. He is wary of Mardor who has already challenged him and lost. Now Drakor must gain the trust of the dragon colony who are wary of their leader.

There are two parallel stories. Readers follow Scree and Orm, the octopi who hunt the seas and ally themselves with the dragons. Arak leads the golden dragons who will need to decide whether to fight or trade with the ice dragons in the New World. There will be food shortages and new enemies like the Dwire, who become new threats to survival.

This book is a fascinating and intriguing combination of science fiction, fantasy, adventure, biology, environmental science and societal mores. Readers will experience many scenarios, war, peace, empathy, division, healing, and generational struggles.

A highly engaging read for middle-grade, young adult and adult readers.

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Brian: The Helmsworth Project: Book Two

Written by Madison Key

I did not read the first book in this science fiction, coming of age series, but I caught on after the first few pages. Sixteen-year-old Brian has managed to escape after his parents are killed and his home blown up. Brian’s sisters Claire and Jenna are under the protection of the FBI, as were his parents. He is being held off the coast of Mexico. It appears that his captors know of his psionic and pyrokinesis powers. While being held, Brian keeps in mental touch with his sister. But he is having difficulty figuring out who is the real enemy and being forced into submission to do their bidding.

Will Brian be able to untangle the web of deceit in time to get back to his sisters and safety? This book of fewer than fifty pages moves along quickly. Middle-grade, young adult and adult science fiction, and genetic engineering fans who enjoy a light, fast-moving read will probably like this series.

Alicia and the Light Bulb People in Star Factory 13

Written by Barbara Roman

Illustrated by Vladimir Cebu

Ten-year-old Alicia is shopping with her mother for new lamps. Her mood is upbeat as she walks through Walker’s Furniture store two weeks before Christmas. Suddenly, she is mesmerized by a beautiful Christmas tree which appears in the middle of the floor. Alicia stares at its beautiful star and is whisked away to the 13th floor on an elevator that opens to a light bulb factory. She finds herself in a factory where light bulbs are retired after they stop working. Alicia meets Carelia, the fairy goddess who oversees the factory. Carelia informs Alicia that the light bulbs must pass a test to determine whether they might become stars and that she needs Alicia to help her. Alicia is confused and upset. She doesn’t understand why she is needed and how she wound up in a place where there is no past or tomorrow, but she will learn much about unique personalities, utilizing our talents, and working cooperatively. What is expected of her and why was she chosen? Will Alicia ever get back to her world? Did she ever leave it?

This book is a charming fantasy, mystery, and science fiction read. It might be considered both a chapter book or a short story. The fifty-page length makes it a good choice for reluctant readers. Cebu creates dazzling illustrations and the large font size make it a good choice for beginning readers, while the intricate plot and well-developed characters will appeal to middle-grade and young adult audiences.

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Sascha Martin’s Rocket Ship

Written by John Arthur Nichol

Illustrated by Manuela Pentangelo

 

Sascha Martin is a second-grade genius. One day he brings a rocket ship to class and places it on a table with a sign that says, “Do not touch.” Well, you can guess what happens when one of the students pushes the button. It launches into space creating all manner of havoc in the school. The rocket tears holes in the walls, the roof, and damages the athletic fields. It carries a few teachers as well as Sascha into the atmosphere to the horror of the those watching from the ground. Will they successfully return to earth?

This book is part of a series about the exploits of Sascha. It is written in rhyme, which sometimes appeared a bit off, though these rhymes could be peculiar to Australia. Illustrations are delightfully clever and sharp. My rating was lowered in part because the book contains a few errors in punctuation and grammar, but many middle-grade students who enjoy science fiction, adventure, and humor will find it an easy and enjoyable read.

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Spy Dogs (1): A Suspicious Neighbor

Written by Amma Lee

 

This book is the first in a series of spy dog detective mysteries. Puggy is an adorable pet who is totally devoted to Bill, his human master. When Puggy notices a new neighbor dragging a large black plastic bag into the house next door, he immediately becomes suspicious. Puggy peeks into the neighbor’s window and discovers lots of computers, strange mechanical devices, and caged dogs. Puggy learns that many dogs in the area have recently been kidnapped so he develops a plan to spy on the neighbor and unravel the mystery. Puggy is astonished to learn that this neighbor is actually an alien who has a plan to use the dogs to control humans. The faithful dog must mislead his master and risk his own life in an attempt to unravel the mystery. This book is the first in a series and ends on a cliffhanger.

This series is of interest to mystery and adventure enthusiasts. I believe it will especially appeal to middle-grade audiences.

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