Tuesday, December 13, 2022

#Review In the Nick of Time Too by Deedee Cummings #Christmas #Santa #multicultural



Book Details:
Category Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 28 pages
Genre Children/ Holiday
Publisher Make A Way Media
Release date:  November 2019
Content Rating: G. Children's Holiday Book.

Book Description:

Nick Saint and his best friend, Cooper, reunite in this warm holiday story about the magic of Christmas. A surprise visit leads to a journey of self-discovery and a deeper understanding of the true meaning of the holiday spirit.
Nick and Cooper receive a charge to spread kindness and hope in their everyday lives. Will Cooper listen to his friend and help Nick save the day again? Will you also be moved to action and accept Santa's challenge to spread kindness wherever you go?
My Review:
In this follow-up, to her original book (my review found here), I have to first mention the cover. I generally don't mention covers too much but this one opened my eyes. It prominently features a Black Santa which I think is fantastic! The author, writing for her own child, wanted her son to see himself in the books she writes. She accomplished that before I opened the book and I am here for it! Kudos!
Now, the story...
One of the best lines out of this story, "...love comes in all shapes and colors...Santa always looks like love." This quote came nearer to the end of the book and truly sums up the whole book.
The two character boys, are best friends who do everything together. However, Cooper, the white boy,on one Christmas Eve, learns that not everything is his color or celebration but that with acceptance, friendships can grow and that learning about others should never stop.
My review can't even do justice to the above message. It is beautiful from cover to story. It is a beautiful message that if truly listened to by the world, it would be a better place.
I will just leave it simply at that. Purchase this book for your kiddos, it is worthy of the 5 stars I am giving it.
BONUS:In the back of the book, there is a recipe for Nickydoodles. Don't know what that is? Well, my dear readers, but the book and find out!
Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author. The review here is 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
About the author:

Deedee Cummings believes in love and hope. Even when love and hope are hard to find. Young readers who see themselves in a book, and see what is possible, will develop stronger self-esteem, increased empathy, and an excitement for their future. These are the beliefs that drive Cummings to keep writing. As a mom, therapist, attorney, CEO of Make A Way Media, and award-winning author of more than fifteen diverse books, Deedee Cummings has a passion for making the world a better place. Her children’s books are not only fun for kids and adults to read, but they also work to teach therapeutic coping skills, reinforce the universal message of love, encourage mindfulness, and facilitate inclusion for all. Cummings is also the founder and creator of the Louisville Book Festival; a national literacy-based celebration that will occur every year in Louisville, Kentucky.



 

Monday, December 12, 2022

In the Nick of Time by DeeDee Cummings #Childrensbooks #holiday #bookseries

 

Book Details:
Category Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7), 28 pages
Genre Children/ Holiday
Publisher Make A Way Media
Release date:  November 2019
Content Rating: G. Children's Holiday Book.

Book Description:

A Timely Tale about a Little Brown Boy who Saves Christmas. Nick Saint never really put a lot of thought into his name until one snowy day in December when he accidentally receives a letter meant for Saint Nick. Realizing there is not much time left until Christmas, Nick opens the letter. The unexpected message inside ultimately leads him on a journey of understanding poverty, gratitude, and service to others while discovering the real meaning of the holiday spirit.

My review:
When Nick is caught up in his things, he is unaware that others may not live or have the things he has. In a twist of fate, he gets a chance to not only have his eyes awakened but to do something about it.
This book is heartwarming and a lesson for young and old alike to learn. The overall lesson in this book is for all of us to take care of one another. We should all be aware that not everyone has privilege and we should be grateful for what we do have. 
I loved the story line and the larger than life illustrations that only enhanced an already great book. The book is multicultural which is a plus,  a timeless book and perfect for the holidays.
I give it 5 holiday stars.
Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book from the author to review. The views here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network
Meet the Author:
Author Deedee Cummings

Deedee is a professional dreamer. She is also an author, therapist, attorney, and mom from Louisville, Kentucky. The books she writes focus on hope, diversity, social justice, and therapeutic skills for children and adults. Her work has been featured in HuffPost, Forbes, NPR, USA Today, Essence Magazine, Psych Central, Well+Good, and The EveryGirl, among other media outlets. Deedee is also the founder of Make A Way Media and The Louisville Book Festival. She believes literacy is a fundamental human right. Her work highlights inspiring messages that remind us all it is never too late to begin again. Cummings founded Make A Way Media in 2014 after struggling to find books with characters who looked like her own children and an extreme lack of stories that reflected their life experiences. Follow Deedee on Instagram for fun and informative updates as she continues to chase her dreams and bring them to life.

Tuesday, December 6, 2022

Needles the Forgotten Christmas Tree by Richard Wagner #review #christmas #childrensbooks #picturebooks #hope


Summary: 

The world is not always a perfect place. Needles, a scraggly little tree, must endure criticism, laughter, and setbacks to realize his goal of becoming a beautiful Christmas tree. 

My review:

This sweet book is about hope and being you in spite of what others may think of you. This book is about determination to shine even if others don't say you are good enough. Believe in yourself, like the little tree,Needles,did! He was good enough to be the best Christmas tree ever for a little girl who needed to have a bit of Christmas when things were not so bright for her. He had hope that he would be even when it seemed lost. He gave hope to the little girl and it was important to her.

I honestly almost teared up and the loveliness of such a simple tale. The illustrations only enhanced a sweet, sweet story. I think you will love it too and it should be a holiday tradition to read.

5 Christmas stars!

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author. The review here is 100% my own opinions and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Where to find the author:

https://www.amazon.com/Needles-Forgotten-Christmas-Richard-Wagner-ebook/dp/B0BNLWZP2T/ref=sr_1_2?crid=NRGAPG9FOMZR&keywords=Richard+Wagner+Needles+the+Forgotten+Christmas+Tree&qid=1670385941&sprefix=richard+wagner+needles+the+forgotten+christmas+tr%2Caps%2C360&sr=8-2on

Humbug Day by Gitte Tamar #Childrensbooks #picturebooks #Christmas


 Children's Fiction, Picture Books, Christmas, Children's Picture Books

Date Published: Nov. 6, 2022

Join a child through a series of whimsical illustrations as their views on Santa shift upon realizing their best friend, Jimmy, does not receive equal treatment at Christmas.

Brigitte, "Gitte," Tamar was born in a small rural Oregon town. Growing up, she was enthralled by scary tales featuring poetic tones and consistently gravitated towards writing darkened narratives. In the different storylines, Brigitte explores the harsh realities of social issues faced by today's generations. This includes the dark outcomes brought on by peer pressure, addiction, homelessness, mental illness, childhood trauma, and abuse. She feels it is essential to share narratives that refrain from sugarcoating the topics society tends to shy away from.



Brigitte, "Gitte," Tamar was born in a small rural Oregon town. Growing up, she was enthralled by scary tales featuring poetic tones and consistently gravitated towards writing darkened narratives. In the different storylines, Brigitte explores the harsh realities of social issues faced by today's generations. This includes the dark outcomes brought on by peer pressure, addiction, homelessness, mental illness, childhood trauma, and abuse. She feels it is essential to share narratives that refrain from sugarcoating the topics society tends to shy away from.

Contact Links

Website: https://www.brigittetamar.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/22065458.Gitte_Tamar


Purchase Link

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BLL77LGS

Spiritual Writing by Deborah Levine Herman #writing #spiritual #giveaway #spotlight

 


2nd Edition


Inspiration & Personal Growth, Publishers & Publishing Industry

Date Published: 12.05.2022

Publisher: Micro Publishing Media


Spiritual Writing from Inspiration to Publication 2nd Edition is an inspiring, motivating, and captivating look at the spiritual life and the falling to write. It is based on the premise that there are writers who write because they want to and those who write because they have to. Spiritual writers are drawn to the process by a sense of mission. However, the spiritual writer’s mission and the realities of publishing are often at odds. This unique book provides the nuts and bolts and dos and don’ts of how to get published in this often-misunderstood arena. The author updated this second edition to include the digital world and the expanded opportunities this brings for nontraditional publishing.


Contact Links

Website: http://www.soulodysseybooks.com

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/13698570-deborah-herman

Purchase Link

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Spiritual-Writing-Inspiration-Publication-Deborah/dp/1953321135


Giveaway

FOUND HERE



Friday, December 2, 2022

Guest Post: Pups and Purrs by Sunny Weber #middlegrade #bookseries #animals #pets #giveaway

Book Series Details:

Category: Middle-Grade Fiction (Ages 8-12)
Genre:  animals/pets
Publisher:  Pups & Purrs Press
Release date:  Oct 6, 2017, Aug 8, 2019, August 23, 2019, 
Content Rating: G
Book Series Description:

Mission: Humane education through storytelling.

Each book in the Pups & Purrs series features Classic Coming of Age stories with multi-layered themes and messages for a wide variety of readers.

Ages 7-10 will enjoy the surface of the stories; ages 10-13 will begin to see the messages; ages 13 and up will begin to identify with the deeper themes.

Each book reflects issues children experience and the animal characters give voice to emotions that children often cannot.
Where to purchase:

Guest:
Welcome guest, Sunny Weber who is the author of Pups and Purrs book series.

Your series has three books. Why did you tie them together is a series?

Each book in the Pups & Purrs Series features classic-coming-of-age stories with multi-layered themes and messages for a wide variety of readers.

Ages 7-10 will enjoy the surface of the stories; ages 10-13 will begin to see the messages; ages 13 and up will begin to identify with the deeper themes. The books are written to be timeless, universal, and continuously educational.

Each book reflects issues children experience and the animal characters give voice to emotions that children often cannot. See the discussion guide on the Dog at the Gate page for ideas on how you can draw a child into helpful conversations, using the animal “bridges” in problem-solving communication between troubled, naïve child and trusted adult guide.



Meet the Author:

Sunny Weber has over 30 years in animal welfare advocacy. She has experience in rescue, fostering, medical care, service and therapy dog evaluation and training, shelter and sanctuary work and specializes in the rehabilitation of fearful animals. Sunny has rehabilitated then re-homed hundreds of dogs, cats and horses.

connect with the author: website ~ goodreads 

Giveaway: Find it HERE

Tuesday, November 29, 2022

#Review: Are You A Pineapple by Kathyryn A. Zolman #childrensbooks #NationalPictureBookMonth #giveaway


Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-7)38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books
Release date:   May, 2022
Content Rating:  G. Suitable for everyone.


About the book:

Kevin has a beautiful new puppy! But what should he name her? Kevin knows the puppy is special, but he’s about to find out just how smart she is when she helps Kevin choose her own name!

My review:

When it comes to pets, they have personalities just as their human counterparts do. This is a picture book, fictionalized, about a real dog. The dog has just become best friends with his new owner who does not know what to name him.

It was fun to see all of the names that is picked and the reasons for the names but this dog has other ideas.

The book reminds us (me) that we all have an identity that makes us, us. In this case, the dog's identity could not be found until the right name came into being. Wow!

I loved the larger than life colorful pictures done by Walter Policelli. His illustrations made an already cute story even cuter.

This book gets a 5 high paws from me.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Where to find the author:


Kathryn A. Zolman never expected to write a children’s book, but when Pineapple came into her life and she heard the story of how this sweet, smart dog got her name, she thought it would make a fun book for parents to read to their children. Pineapple is a Bull Mastiff, German Shepherd, Chow mix, and much like a real pineapple, she knows how to stand tall and is very sweet on the inside!

Kathryn is an avid dog lover. Along with her husband and daughter, they have raised three Doberman Pinschers, each with their own unique personality and character. Kathryn is an advocate for not only raising children to respect all animals, but also to be thankful for the pure joy that they bring to our lives. In writing this book, Kathryn seeks to spread a positive message and hopes it will help children express more gratitude in their lives.

Amazon

Goodreads

Tuesday, November 22, 2022

#Spotlight: A Dress the Color of the Moon by Jennifer Irwin #AdultFiction #WomensFiction


 

Sunday, November 20, 2022

Fairy Grandmother #Bookseries #childrensbooks

 

Fairy Grandmother Series

All books are on sale for $1.99 thru Cyber Monday.

photo add-to-goodreads-button_zpsc7b3c634.png

 

 


Fairy Grandmother: Millie Goes to Antarctica


Fairy Grandmother, book 1

 

Picture Book

Date Published: November 24, 2021

Publisher: Beaches and Trails Publishing


A sweet book full of adventure and wonder for kids of all ages!

Every Saturday, Millie spends the day at her grandmother's house. There are no toys and no TV, but it's still the best part of her weekend. You see, Grandma is actually a fairy! With a twirl of her magic spoon, she sends Millie on exciting journeys to magical faraway places.


Don't forget to claim your bonus content on the publisher's website!

Available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian!


Purchase link

 

 


Fairy Grandmother: Millie Goes to the North Pole


Fairy Grandmother, book 2


Picture Book

Date Published: December 12, 2021

Publisher: Beaches and Trails Publishing

 

A delightful holiday book that's sure to become a Christmas tradition!

Every Saturday, Millie spends the day at her grandmother's house. There are no toys and no TV, but it's still the best part of her weekend. You see, Grandma is actually a fairy! With a twirl of her magic spoon, she sends Millie on exciting journeys to magical faraway places.

This is the second book in the Fairy Grandmother Series. Books can be read in any order.


Don't forget to claim your bonus content on the publisher's website!

Available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian!


Purchase link



Book Title: Fairy Grandmother: Millie Goes to China


Fairy Grandmother, book 3


Picture Book

Date Published: March 30, 2022

Publisher: Beaches and Trails Publishing


Join Millie on a new adventure!

Every Saturday, Millie spends the day at her grandmother's house. There are no toys and no TV, but it's still the best part of her weekend. You see, Grandma is actually a fairy! With a twirl of her magic spoon, she sends Millie on exciting journeys to magical faraway places.

This is the third book in the Fairy Grandmother Series. Books can be read in any order.


Don't forget to claim your bonus content on the publisher's website!

Available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian!


Purchase link

 


Book Title: Fairy Grandmother: Millie Goes to Africa


Fairy Grandmother, book 4


Picture Book

Date Published: September 1, 2022

Publisher: Beaches and Trails Publishing


Follow Millie to South Africa!

Every Saturday, Millie spends the day at her grandmother's house. There are no toys and no TV, but it's still the best part of her weekend. You see, Grandma is actually a fairy! With a twirl of her magic spoon, she sends Millie on exciting journeys to magical faraway places.

This is the fourth book in the Fairy Grandmother Series. Books can be read in any order.


Don't forget to claim your bonus content on the publisher's website!

Available in English, French, German, Spanish, and Italian!


Purchase link

 


About the Author

Marie-Hélène is a Canadian author. She writes young adult quest and adventure stories rooted in the world of fantasy, magic and time travel. With important coming of age lessons at the core of her writing, children and young adults alike will revel in the fantastical journeys of her characters. When not immersed in the worlds of magic and mystery, you’ll find Marie-Hélène hiking, cycling, or lying on the beach with a good book.

To date, Marie-Hélène has published two YA fantasy series, a standalone novel set in the Eastern Townships of Quebec, a speculative fiction short story anthology, four YA Ghost Stories, and a series of whimsical picture books for children aged 3 to 7. A retired teacher, she lives in Quebec, Canada with her children.


Contact Links

Website

Amazon Author Page


RABT Book Tours & PR

Tuesday, November 15, 2022

A Leap In The Darkness by Ray Petrolino #middlegrade #excerpt #giveaway #fantasy



Date Published: 10-28-2022

Publisher: Beasts at the Feast Press


ABOUT THE BOOK:

Magic stirs and a little dog speaks: the kingdom will fall. But will humans listen?

Jake is a fluffy little dog who just happens to be one of the Sculptor's "wise ones" . . . but nobody's told him. He's certain he's ordinary, and he knows he doesn't deserve living in a rags to riches fairy tale where he’s been rescued from his hardscrabble life by the King of Gorseland and pampered and loved by his two royal children, Janice and James.

But the good life is threatened with the arrival of the sorcerer, Beezeldorn, and his raven. Beezeldorn is a seeming charlatan: a crowd-pleaser with his sleight-of-hand and cheap spectacle. But his power from dark magic runs deep, on display in town when he heals a leper.

The queen senses the danger and pays for her instincts with her life.

Jake knows something is wrong, but what can he do? Beezeldorn is always one step ahead, moving into the castle, earning the king’s confidence, and befriending James. Even Janice is drawn to him.

Now it's up to Jake to protect his family . . . before it's too late . . . for the king . . . and his kingdom.


EXCERPT:

A silent, shrouded figure, her head wrapped in tattered strips of linen, stood before him.

Jake could hear Nigel whimpering and Maisie hissing. Jake shivered, but kept his head

lifted up, keeping a resolute gaze on the stranger’s thin eye slits.

“You’re lost,” the figure said, gesturing to the tunnel near the little dog. “Choose that

path and you choose the side of the weak.”

The figure peeled back the wrappings from its head. “Look at what he has done for me.”

Jake’s mouth dropped; he was staring up at the woman from town . . . the leper who had

been healed and transformed by Beezeldorn into this creature of absolute beauty shimmering

before him.

“Let me show you the source of that power,” she said.

The other animals gasped in awe as they inched closer to her.

The woman cast a radiant smile down at Jake and then turned and walked away, toward

an upward curving tunnel on the opposite wall. Nigel and Winston eagerly followed after her,

their backsides shaking and wagging joyfully like little pups. Vincent hesitated and then tracked

after them. Maisie remained seated and looked back and forth from Jake to the small parade

moving away from them.

Jake growled and sprang forward, barking. “She lies!”


WHERE TO FIND THE AUTHOR:


Ray Petrolino is an award-winning screenwriter and author.

He lives in North Carolina with his wife and family and their dog Jake (not just any dog, but a talking bichon with an unfulfilled set of demands).

When Ray is not writing, he's listening to his dog (and sometimes his wife); or he can be found working on film sets, playing drums at his house, or playing drums at someone else's house.

Website: http://www.raypetrolino.com

Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BGNMKGQZ



Giveaway

Amazon Gift Card