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The Big Ideas Of Buster Bickles, Kaley Durney
The Big Ideas Of Buster Bickles, Kaley Durney
Children's Book and Media Review
Buster has many great, big ideas. But his peers think they are all silly ideas and laugh at him. Buster’s mom wants to help Buster, so she takes him to see his Uncle Roswell. Uncle Roswell needs Buster to help him out by coming up with some ideas for his What-If Machine. Buster has plenty of ideas to try, and they keep getting bigger and bigger. Then the ideas get too big, and Buster creates an idea to have the What-If Machine bring them back to reality. Buster and Uncle Roswell are so happy to be back. Buster even has …
Penny & Jelly: Slumber Under The Stars, Kaley Durney
Penny & Jelly: Slumber Under The Stars, Kaley Durney
Children's Book and Media Review
Penny and Jelly are so excited for the sleepover under the stars at the recreation center! The only problem is that pets are not allowed, so that means Jelly can’t go. Penny tries to make different kinds of Jelly, like a Jelly made of yarn, one of clay, and one of paper, but none of them are right. Penny is about to leave for the sleepover under the stars but finds it hard to leave Jelly. But then she comes up with a great idea. She invites her friends, both human and animal, to come have a slumber party under …
Flip & Fin: Super Sharks To The Rescue!, Kaley Durney
Flip & Fin: Super Sharks To The Rescue!, Kaley Durney
Children's Book and Media Review
Flip and Fin are the shark twins. They want to be heroes just like the ones in their favorite cartoons. While doing awesome tricks, they notice a red and yellow beach ball. The human people must be missing it, so Filp and Fin set out to return the beach ball and become heroes. Once they near the shore, the humans start to panic. Flip and Fin don’t understand why they are running and swimming away. Then they figure out that the humans are scared of the beach ball. They pop it so the humans won’t be scared.
Guy-Write: What Every Guy Writer Needs To Know, Rebecca Lambert
Guy-Write: What Every Guy Writer Needs To Know, Rebecca Lambert
Children's Book and Media Review
With this book in hand, kids can not only read about their favorite topics, but they can write about them as well. This book teaches kids how they can write engaging stories that use humor, gross stuff, sports, superheroes, battles, scary stories, emotional writing, and more. The book focuses on using effective description to show what is happening to the characters, rather than simply telling the reader what is happening. This book also includes interviews with skilled writers of different genres. These authors offer valuable insight into effective writing techniques.
Born Bad, Jaimee Pease
Born Bad, Jaimee Pease
Children's Book and Media Review
Born Bad is a playful story surrounding the struggles of identity. Wolf is unhappy in who he is supposed to be and wanders around the animal kingdom, hopeless that he will ever be able to change. Along his journey, he meets many animals, each with their own shortcomings. Only when he observes the self-confidence and mutual support of his new friends does Wolf find the courage to embrace who he wants to be. C.K. Smouha’s simple phrases and diverse characters pair vividly with Stephen Smith’s bold illustrations to offer a humorous spin on clichéd idioms.
The Wolf In Underpants, Samantha Bullock
The Wolf In Underpants, Samantha Bullock
Children's Book and Media Review
The Wolf in Underpants chronicles the misfortune of a small woodland village blighted by a menacing wolf. But is the wolf really that bad? The village animals all seem to think so as they swap tales and cultivate a sole industry of protecting themselves from the aforementioned foe. But all that changes when they suddenly come face to face with the wily wolf himself! Fear changes to understanding as the wolf describes his seemingly threatening past behavior as merely symptoms of a chilly backside. Fortunately, a pair of cozy woolen underpants knitted by a kindly old lady recently remedied the …
Stickmen's Guide To Your Beating Heart, Beverly Jones
Stickmen's Guide To Your Beating Heart, Beverly Jones
Children's Book and Media Review
The Stickmen's series always focuses on educating in a new and memorable way. In this particular Stickmen book, readers will learn all about the circulatory system. This book contains all the information that students need to know about the heart. The process it takes to keep blood pumping throughout the body is explained in detail alongside colorful and interesting illustrations. Readers young and old can learn something new from this book as they study the astonishing muscle called the heart.
Maddy Mcguire, Ceo: Crafting For A Cause, Jana Carter
Maddy Mcguire, Ceo: Crafting For A Cause, Jana Carter
Children's Book and Media Review
Maddy and her friend Darcy want to buy Christmas gifts for their school teachers. Amina, a refugee from Syria, and her family are new to the neighborhood. Maddy, Darcy, and Amina discover that despite their differences, they have much in common and become fast friends. They hatch a plan to start a gift-wrapping business and work together to create their supplies. When Amina leaves, Maddy and Darcy decide to change their plan. They know that Amina's grandparents are still in war-torn Syria and that Amina desperately wishes her family could be reunited. Wouldn't it be better to give Amina the …
Cool Duck & Lots Of Hats, Liz Kazandzhy
Cool Duck & Lots Of Hats, Liz Kazandzhy
Children's Book and Media Review
This two-in-one early reader book combines simple stories with amusing illustrations that will surely captivate young readers. The first story begins with a hot cat, a hot dog, and a cool duck. When the cat ends up chasing the duck into the pond, with the dog following closely behind, they all get the benefit of cooling off in the water. In the second story, a boy and his parents are on a hike with their dog when the wind blows each of their hats off—first Sam’s “big hat,” then Dad’s “big, big hat,” and finally Mom’s “big, big, big hat.” …
My House, Liz Kazandzhy
My House, Liz Kazandzhy
Children's Book and Media Review
Jim, a cute orange cat, is more than happy to take you on a tour of his house. Starting from the outside, he introduces readers to the house’s roof, windows, and doors. Then he goes inside and continues. “This is my living room,” he says while sitting comfortably in a rocking chair. “This is my kitchen,” he narrates, knocking a mug off the counter in the process. Readers then follow him upstairs to see the bedroom and bathroom. Soon, Jim’s owner, Jane, comes home and makes him dinner. As the tour ends, Jim returns to his tree outside and declares, …
I Love You More Than…, Liz Kazandzhy
I Love You More Than…, Liz Kazandzhy
Children's Book and Media Review
Not all parents have the opportunity to be with their young children full-time. In this story, a father who is often separated from his son tells of the many reasons he loves him. In the beginning, he reassures him by saying, “My child. I am not always with you as much as I’d like. And when we’re not together, I miss you. You are always running around in my mind and chilling inside my heart.” As the book goes on, the father gives many “I love you more than …” statements, followed by a related memory. For example, “I love …
Charlotte The Scientist Finds A Cure, Nan Rao
Charlotte The Scientist Finds A Cure, Nan Rao
Children's Book and Media Review
When a mysterious illness affects inhabitants of the forest, Charlotte is eager to find the cause. Inspired by her grandfather who is a well-respected physician, Charlotte develops a theory and sets out to test it with methodical steps. Despite being small and inexperienced, Charlotte does not get intimidated by those who doubt her abilities. She overcomes obstacles and not only finds the cause of the illness but also develops a cure that ultimately saves the forest!
Beware Of The Crocodile, Taran Burnett
Beware Of The Crocodile, Taran Burnett
Children's Book and Media Review
Imagine that you notice some squinty eyes and a snout poking out of the water—it is a crocodile waiting for his next meal! Beware of the Crocodile is an informational book that discusses the sharp teeth, eating patterns, and care of baby crocodiles. The gruesome details of how a crocodile eats are not included, but descriptive verbs like lunge, splash, and thrash give the reader an idea of what meal time is like. Learning that crocodiles can go weeks without food if they have a large meal is fascinating. Additionally, intriguing facts about how a mother crocodile cares for its …
Have I Ever Told You?, Nan Rao
Have I Ever Told You?, Nan Rao
Children's Book and Media Review
As parents, there are so many things we wish our children can hear from us. This book by Shani King puts these thoughts into words perfectly. The book asks the reader directly if they have been told they can be anything they choose to be. It asks if the reader knows that people in all professions are encompassed by those from different cultural backgrounds. The book then delivers affirmation to the reader that they are loved and thought of all the time—that their flaws are what make them special. Amongst many positive messages, the book tells the readers that they …
Hank The Pet Sitter #7: Fawn The Very Small Deer, Taran Burnett
Hank The Pet Sitter #7: Fawn The Very Small Deer, Taran Burnett
Children's Book and Media Review
Hank is hired to take care of the neighborhood deer when his friend leaves town. There is an early snow storm in October, and despite the cold weather, Hank feeds the deer with care. Each night he puts a bowl of apples and nuts out on the lawn. Eventually, he begins to wonder if the deer are eating the food he leaves out for them. However, there is no sign of the deer. Hank enjoys trick-or-treating with his friends and the next day, he is determined to spot a deer. He waits in the cold, then he waits by the …
When The Bees Buzzed Off!, Taran Burnett
When The Bees Buzzed Off!, Taran Burnett
Children's Book and Media Review
A community of insects begins to panic when they discover the bees have disappeared. They search high and low to find the bees. The insects understand the role that the bees play in pollinating plants like fruits and vegetables that they like to eat. Without the bees, their community will surely perish. As they journey through the undergrowth of leaves and grass, they discover why the bees left. The community works together to create a space for the bees to invite them to return. Readers will not only be entertained by the witty comments from the insects, but they will …
Brave Ballerina: The Story Of Janet Collins, Nan Rao
Brave Ballerina: The Story Of Janet Collins, Nan Rao
Children's Book and Media Review
What does it take to become a prima ballerina? African American ballerina Janet Collins inspires others through her journey to become an renowned dancer. Though born in the time of racial segregation, Janet does not let societal pressure and racial discrimination dissuade her from pursuing her dream. Even as a little girl, Janet with the support of her family already demonstrates her talent for dancing. In the face of obstacles she stands strong. Through her hard work and unique interpretation of multiple dance styles, Janet shows the world her amazing abilities.
Crayola: El Color En La Cultura, Katherine Cooper
Crayola: El Color En La Cultura, Katherine Cooper
Children's Book and Media Review
The world is full of vibrant colors. The clothes that people wear can represent a favorite soccer team. In some countries, certain colors represent freedom. Colors are used to celebrate holidays like Easter or Chinese New Year. Colors can be used for special occasions, like weddings, to represent love or happiness. There is an endless possibility of what colors can mean.
Scooby-Doo: Super Spies, Deborah Le Starge
Scooby-Doo: Super Spies, Deborah Le Starge
Children's Book and Media Review
All the Scooby-Snacks have been eaten, books have been read, and games have been played, and now Scooby and Shaggy are bored. So what do they do? Pretend to be spies, of course! They start by spying on Daphne but discover that she's missing. Now the pair must search the house and piece together the clues. In the end, Daphne returns home, and the mystery is solved.
The Night Flower, Gabrielle Borg
The Night Flower, Gabrielle Borg
Children's Book and Media Review
The saguaro (sa-WAH-ro) cactus is a plant that grows in the Sonoran desert. Its flowers bloom on only one night each year. The animals that come to see the saguaro cactus bloom include pollinating fruit bats, howling mice, rattlesnakes, and more. Join these creatures as they explore the desert landscape and wait for the one night each summer that the beautiful saguaro flowers can be seen in full bloom.
Mary Engelbreit's The World Is Yours, Gabrielle Borg
Mary Engelbreit's The World Is Yours, Gabrielle Borg
Children's Book and Media Review
Filled with illustrations and quotes, this book tells a story of hope and encourages readers to continue on, even as life gets hard. Quotes from individuals such as Mother Teresa, William Shakespeare, and Helen Keller are accompanied by a matching illustration. Humor and helpfulness is molded in with color, imagination, and the joys of growing up. Children will face ups and downs in life, but they can become their best selves.
Maybe A Mermaid, Gabrielle Borg
Maybe A Mermaid, Gabrielle Borg
Children's Book and Media Review
Anthoni Gillis has always dreamed of having a “True Blue Friend,” like her mom, Carrie, had growing up. Constantly moving around hasn’t made that easy, but she thought that maybe this summer would be different. Carrie surprises Anthoni on the last day of school with a packed car and plans to go to the Showboat Resort. Unfortunately, the resort is nothing like she pictured. The summer gets worse when Carrie admits the real reason they came to the Showboat—she is hiding from her debt. The Gillis girls make a plan—meet potentials, sell cosmetic products, and get out of debt by …
Crayola Spring Colors, Beverly Jones
Crayola Spring Colors, Beverly Jones
Children's Book and Media Review
Spring is simply stunning. Colors in all sorts of shades are found all around. They are found in nature, animals, and even in the changing weather patterns. Colors are pleasing to the sense of sight and are a wondrous blessing to behold when experiencing the world around us. Crayola has been inspired by spring and its colors and has gifted their crayons with beautiful names to represent their true vibrance. Spring time is a time for bright blue bird eggs and radiant flowers. It's a time for green plants and prismatic rainbows. It's a wonderful time to be alive.
I Am Pan, Tessara Garrett
I Am Pan, Tessara Garrett
Children's Book and Media Review
I am Pan tells the various tales of the Greek god Pan. From his silly birth to inventing panic to fighting the monster Typhon, Pan himself tells about his life. The book talks about the origins of things like panic, the first eclipse, marathons, and even the strange noises that come from Mount Aetna in Sicily. Pan tells silly tales of how King Midas got the ears of a donkey, how he is always competing with Apollo musically, and how the rumor of Pan’s death came to be. It is overall a light-hearted addition to Greek mythology folklore.
The Peace Dragon, Tessara Garrett
The Peace Dragon, Tessara Garrett
Children's Book and Media Review
Sherwyn is adventuring one day when he runs into another adventurer: a big, scary dragon! But wait, she’s not so scary after all. In fact, she’s really nice! When Sherwyn looks a little closer, he finds she is even covered in hearts: she is Omani the Peace Dragon. Sherwyn and Omani become fast friends, and Sherwyn wants her to find a loving home in his village. He takes her home, and the villagers are not so thrilled about this “big, scary dragon,” but together Sherwyn and Omani teach them to look a little closer.
Word Of Mouse, Erica Sonzogni
Word Of Mouse, Erica Sonzogni
Children's Book and Media Review
Isaiah is a little mouse who does great things. He is accustomed to hearing the screams of people when they see him. But that all changes when he loses his family to a laboratory and befriends a human named Hailey. With the help of Hailey and his new mischief (a group of mice), Isaiah is able to free his original family from the laboratory in which experiments are being performed.
Oliver Finds His Way, Karen Abbott
Oliver Finds His Way, Karen Abbott
Children's Book and Media Review
Little Oliver is playing outside while Mama and Papa bear work at fall tasks. Oliver is distracted by a blowing yellow leaf and gives chase into the forest. Deeper and deeper he runs until he realizes that he is lost. Alone and afraid little Oliver begins to cry, but then he realizes that he needs get it together. What can he do to find his way back home? He roars and roars again until he hears an answering roar in the distance. Following the roars of his parents, Oliver is able to find his way back to familiar ground and …
Sheep Go To Sleep, Karen Abbott
Sheep Go To Sleep, Karen Abbott
Children's Book and Media Review
People count sheep to fall asleep, but what are five insomniac ewes to do? The trusty sheep dog knows! One by one he settles each sheep for the night. One needs a hug, another a drink, a blanket is calming for another. As the dog makes each flock member comfortable and secure they settle into the hay for a good night's rest. In the morning the diligent dog is found under a haystack snoozing too!
Grumpy Goat, Karen Abbott
Grumpy Goat, Karen Abbott
Children's Book and Media Review
Grumpy Goat is devoted to his gut. All he wants to do is eat. He is only concerend about where he wants to eat, when he wants to eat, and not being bothered by the other animals while he eats. This used to be the happiest farm, but Goat's surliness brings all of the animals down. Then, while munching the grass, Goat sees a dandelion. He thinks that it is dandy indeed and he cares for the blossom through the summer. The animals join him in appreciating the bloom until fall comes and his lovely plant falls apart in the …
The Bear Ate Your Sandwich, Karen Abbott
The Bear Ate Your Sandwich, Karen Abbott
Children's Book and Media Review
A hungry bear is lured into a berry filled truck where he falls asleep. The truck takes him to a new forest that looks suspiciously like a town. He explores all of the sights and smells as he wanders through the concrete forest and even tries the slide in the playground. And there. In the park. Is a tempting, sumptuous sandwich in a lunchbox. Bear can't help himself—he sneaks the sandwich and swallows it whole. He turns to discover that several dogs have seen him devour the delight! He runs away and sees his forest in the distance. He returns …