Showing posts with label #childrennonfiction. Show all posts
Showing posts with label #childrennonfiction. Show all posts

Saturday, March 15, 2025

Magical Elements of the Periodic Table by Sybrina Durant #GuestPost #science #childrensnonfiction

Hello my fellow readers. Today I welcome to my blog a guest poster, Sybrina Durant. She is here to talk about her book and her insight into writing it. Welcome, Sybrina, take it away.

~Michelle, Reading Authors Network



Where the Muse Leads, I Must Follow

By Sybrina Durant

Way back in the 1980’s my muse inserted an idea into my head to write a novel about a tribe of

12 metal horn unicorns with magical powers. Their powers were based on the properties of their

particular metal and how the metals were used in our everyday modern lives. I spent about 25

years world-building and refining the personalities and stories of each individual unicorn. That

charming book is still out there to be enjoyed by fantasy lovers.

Fast forward to 2022 and I decided I wanted to write an alphabet book. I don’t know why that

crazy muse of mine led me there but it just wouldn’t let go of the idea that, even though there

were already thousands of alphabet books in the world, it was my duty to introduce another one.

I decided a unicorn alphabet book would be cute and learned there were already over 50 of

those. Hmmm…more bad news for my book. How in the world could I make mine different?

Then the strangest thought struck. I could make it about unicorns and the periodic table. I

already had 12 metal horn unicorns representing different elements from the periodic table. All I

needed were 14 more to have a book representing all 26 letters of the alphabet. Yay!

Except I soon hit another roadblock. Turns out, not all letters of the alphabet are represented in

the periodic table. Who knew? Well, a lot of scientifically inclined individuals might know, but I

didn’t. And I was inclined to stop right there but my muse kept harassing me to figure something

out. What to do? I started researching what certain elements were called in other languages and

found enough that started with the missing alphabet letters that allowed me to finish the book.

Success! Magical Elements of the Periodic Table Presented by The Metal Horn Unicorns was

born.

That soon made me realize that I couldn’t quit there. After all, that book only represented 26

letters of the alphabet and there are 118 elements in the periodic table. A monumental task

stood in front of me. What in the world was that extremely pushy muse thinking? I guess she

thought that I was up for the task.

I went on to write another “alphabet” book about 26 more elements of the periodic table which

was presented by Elemental Dragons. Then, came this book, Magical Elements of the Periodic

Table Presented By The Alchemical Wizards – Book 1 in which I completely abandoned the

alphabet theme. And in case you’re wondering, there will be a book 2 featuring wizards and

their elements. It will be published later this year. Shortly after that, I’ll be publishing the last

book in the series which will finish out the periodic table and will be presented by Actinide

Knights and Radioactive Goblins.

To make it even more fun filled, I’ve created activity pages, trading cards, an elemental periodic

table poster and even an elemental bingo game featuring all of these characters and the

elements they represent. Visit my website (https://www.magicalptelements.com) to browse all

of those things and more, plus while you’re there, click the links at the top of the page to access

my research pages so you can easily check my facts and learn more on your own about each

element.

You never know where your muse will lead you but it is usually to something wonderful. When I

created my magical metal horn unicorn tribe 40 years ago, I had no idea I would one day create

illustrated periodic table books meant to inspire kids to want to learn more about the world of

science. Researching these elements has certainly inspired me to keep learning. I truly hope it has that

 same positive effect on all who read them.

Thursday, February 6, 2025

Review: I Have A Dream by Dr. Martin Luther King/Illustrations by Kadir Nelson #childrensnonfiction #liveCD #speeches #BlackHistoryMonth




Summary:

On August 28, 1963, on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial during the March on Washington, Martin Luther King gave one of the most powerful and memorable speeches in our nation's history.

My review:

It is not the first time that I have seen in print or heard the now famous speech, by Dr. Martin Luther King. It is one that still rings true to this day.

However, I picked up this book from my local library to honor Black History month and WOW, I am so impressed. Dr. Martin Luther King's words were so powerful by them selves but then compare it with this illustrator and you have one excellent children's book!

For each page turn, I was drawn in by the illustration but then the words I heard as if the pastor himself was reading it aloud today. The plus, plus side for the book is a CD that is included so children can hear the original speech in the pastor's own voice.

Run, don't walk and get you a copy right now. You will not be disappointed. If you don't believe me look to the fact that this book won the Coretta Scott King and Parent's Choice Awards.

5 absolute stars!

Disclosure: I picked up a copy of this book from my local library. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours.

~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Where to find this book:

Amazon


Friday, January 31, 2025

Review: Athletes who Changed the Game by James Buckley Jr & Ellen Labrecque #sport #multicultural #childrensnonfiction




Synopsis: 

While these athletes came from different backgrounds and overcame unique struggles, they had one thing in common: they would not take "You can't" for an answer. With a don't-give-up attitude, these fearless firsts fought for what they believed in and created a better sports world.


My review:

As the latest Olympics just took place in 2024 and we are on the cusp of The Superbowl and Spring training seasons, this book seemed like a winner to read.


I come from a family who are sport enthusiast and with over 50 athletes featured in this book, it was fun to see the ones I knew and the ones I did not.  I enjoyed learning about their backgrounds and the different barriers they went through to become the great athlete they were or currently are.

Divided into sections, readers are able to find easily a sport that might be of interest. On pages 118-119 also gives the exact person and sport to follow. However, I found the book fascinating just reading from front to back. On pages 116-117 gives a complete timeline beginning in 1899 to present day of different athletes accomplishments.

This book is by far a terrific resource book for all.

5 stars!

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

Where to find the authors:

Amazon     Goodreads


Saturday, February 24, 2024

#Review: The Young Activist's Dictionary of Social Justice by Ryse Tottingham #socialjustice #tolerance #Childrensnonfiction #childadvocates #dictionary #anti-racism, #lbtq




About the book:

This essential new resource is packed with easily understandable definitions of timely concepts. Each beautifully designed spread represents a letter and provides concise, age-appropriate definitions, with subject matter spanning issues like racial justice, climate change, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights, income disparity, voter engagement, and immigration.

My Review:

This has to be one of the most interesting book reviews I have ever done. The reason is, this book is essentially a dictionary, but not just any dictionary. This is a book of terms that are now used in the 21st century. 

Designed in A-Z format, the terms are laid out clear and concise. The terms are great information for any child, and for that matter adult, to understand. The terms are accurate for today.

In addition, there are 15 side page illustrations that feature a prominent person throughout history that has advocated for justice as a young child. I found these to be helpful and great to coincide with different dictionary terms and corrects some history that had been previously altered.

I recommend this book as an addition to all classrooms and homes.

5 stars.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. The views here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. NOTE:I am aware of others opinions on different subjects presented in this book. I review books based on the work, not on societal opinions. It is horrible that I must put this caveat to my review but if you  leave any kind of hatred or bullying messages, I will remove them promptly and report you.

~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Tuesday, February 7, 2023

Black Boy, Black Boy by Ali Kamanda and Jorge Redmond #BlackHistoryMonth #dreambig #childrensnonfiction

About the book:

Inspiring book that allows  black boys to imagine all the great things they can do while celebrating remarkable moments from Black history!

My review:

Walt Disney was quoted as saying, "If you can dream it, you can do it." 

Martin Luther King had a dream he looked to fulfill and he did it, along with other black boys and men like President Barack Obama and Arthur Mitchell. These are just a few of the nine men highlighted in this awesome children's book aimed at black boys.

This book is illustrated by Ken Daley with large and bold pictures. Each follows a rainbow road to a different person that highlights the person's achievement. Each page gives black boys the opportunity to set their life like each man and to dream big.

I love this book and highly recommend it! 5 stars!!!

PS. I have heard through the grapevine that there will be a second book out from black girls. I cannot wait to read that one too!

Disclosure: I received an ARC copy of this book for review. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network



Friday, October 7, 2022

Poetry for Young People: Edgar Allan Poe Edited by Brod Bagert #review #poetry #Halloween #childrensnonfiction




About the book:

The creator of unforgettable tales of horror that remain classics to this day, Edgar Allan Poe may be best-known as a nineteenth-century short-story writer, but he was also a great poet who composed verses that expressed his emotions and feelings. 

My review:

This book is a collection of some of the poet, Edgar Allan Poe's, poetry. The book is intended to help young people learn and appreciate Poe's writings. The book includes: an introduction of Poe's life and works, a table of contents, a footnoted dictionary of words, and an index in the back.

The author did an excellent job of explaining the meanings behind each poem and the thought process that Edgar Allan Poe had when writing each one. The book reads smoothly and is accompanied by haunting illustrations by Carolynn Cobleigh, which makes an overall great text for learning.

Even though I personally knew some of Poe's works, it was interesting to me to read and learn the unknown ones to me.  At the same time, it was sad to see that the man was tormented so much by the death of loved ones, illness, and alcoholism.

This book is certainly aimed at older children who are studying poetry but I highly recommend it to adults as well. His life and work should never go unnoticed. 

Note: I purposely, wrote and reviewed this book on the day of Edgar Allan Poe's untimely death on October 7, 1849 at the age of 40.

I give this book a 5 Pumpkin (Raven) review.

Disclosure: I obtained a copy of this book from a local Little Free Library for my own collections. The views here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network 

Friday, June 3, 2022

Grandpa Doesn't Know It's Me by Donna Guthrie #review #Alzheimers #grandparents #diseases #childrensnonfiction

This 32-page book tells the tale of a grandparent who has been struck with Alzheimer's disease. Told from the point of view of a granddaughter, the story follows how her grandpa made all of these memories with her from the time she was born. Soon he begins to forget things like why he went into a store and then more complex things like soup on the stove.

This story is somewhat a difficult read, especially if a child has family who have the disease. However, it is also a positive book that allows the reader to see that even with family who has 

Alzheimer's and may not have the memories, the child can still remember and help in some way. The book helps children to see that the disease is not their fault and does not have to be scary. Children learn that just being present in a loved ones life is the best they can possibly do even if that person no longer knows them.

This book was illustrated in black line drawings and orange and white color.

On a personal note, I wish in some ways that I had this book earlier in life. I had family members who "forgot" me and it was a difficult thing to deal with. Besides this book, there are resources for families to utilize. I encourage you to use all of them.

I give this book 3 stars.

~Michelle, Reading Authors Network




Wednesday, September 29, 2021

A Child Called You by JD Wise #review #giveaway #picturebook

 


Genre: Children's Picture Book


Winner of a Mom’s Choice Award

This book is about you! That’s righttt, it is about YOU! You can love others for who they are by showing them kindness without judgement. The first book in the Kindness is for Everyone series, this book will teach you that celebrating our differences is the true expression of kindness the world needs.


Add to Goodreads

Amazon * Mascot Books


JD Wise is a West Virginian-born author who believes that the world can be changed for the better, by one person, one time, doing the right thing.

“Just think what would happen if we all did that,” said Wise.

Wise is happily married to the love of his life. Together, they have four wonderful children, who are the true inspiration for the book.


MY REVIEW HERE


$10 Amazon giftcard,

Print Copy of A Child Called You

- 1 winner each!


a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sunday, July 11, 2021

Finding Family in a Far-Away Land An Adoption Story by Amanda Wall # giveaway #review #memoir #childrens #nonfiction


Synopsis:

Every adoption experience is uniquely different but the yearning to have unconditional family love is universal. Two Indian sisters, Priya and Ari, experience what it's like to be adopted into a multi-cultural, interracial family. Walk alongside these two charming, dynamic girls as they journey through the adoption transition to a new country full of new experiences! 

My review:

My Dad was adopted and I have always been fascinated by adoption stories. That is why I wanted to read and review this book. The story is told in first person from the perspective of Priya, the older of the two sister that were adopted by American parents. (This confused me a little bit as the author's name is not Priya.) 

Priya begins by telling about their life in India prior to their adoption. It was not the best as they lost their parents and for awhile, fended for themselves. They both were sick children. This was a sad beginning to the book but it also highlighted just a small percentage of things that adopted children may have endured.  Eventually sent to an orphanage, the two were adopted and taken to the U.S. on their first airplane ride. It was lucky they were both adopted together.

Fast forward, the girls only being able to speak their own language, navigated many new things and surprises.  The book describes things like pets, foods, and even a trip to the zoo. Priya compares and contrasts all these things and the new wonders. I enjoyed this part of the book very much as this being an international adoption, children would have culture shock. It was nice to learn a little about India as well. What was also nice was to see their new parents embraces their differences but did not try to completely change the girls either.

The book to me seemed to end abruptly but it illustrated at the same time that the girls were doing okay and adjusting to their new lives. At the end of the book there is a glossary of terms. Although a nice addition, I think it would have been better to have them in with the read-a-long.

The illustrations were done by the author in line drawing and water color. They were not overly spectacular but at the same time, they were colorful enough and did well with the story. The simplicity of them fit.

Overall, the book was good and I think it did point out some things about being adopted without going into overly too much detail. However, it reads more like a short memoir than about adoption itself. The book is meant for 4-10 year old's.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars.

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

Where to find the author:

Giveaway:

Enter the Giveaway:

 

FINDING FAMILY IN A FAR-AWAY LAND Book Tour Giveaway

 


 

Saturday, April 24, 2021

#Review: Mickey On the Move by Michelle Wagner #deaf #cochlearimplants #disabilities #childrennonfiction

 


Book Details:

Book Title:  Mickey on the Move by Michelle Wagner
Category:  Children's Non-Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Mascot Books
Release date:   Jan, 2021
Content Rating:  G for everyone.

Book Description:

In this bighearted book, the real story of a young boy with deafness in his ears is aided by his mother and teachers in navigating new school experiences. Mickey is just like everyone else, except he wears cochlear implants and has to do things just a little differently than most. This charming tale reminds us that we can all find happiness if we lean on and support each other.

Buy the Book
Amazon ~ B&N


My review:
There are so few books that talk about cochlear implants. So, I was really excited to receive this book from the author. I happen to be a person who is mostly deaf and has received a cochlear implant in my right ear. 

This is a true story about a boy named, Mickey and his Mom. Mickey's Mom helps him to prepare for school where he is the only deaf student. They go over sign language and how to cope in a school where everyone hears. His Mom is extremely supportive. (slight spoiler) There is one part in the book where Mickey gets overwhelmed and has to call his Mom. She walks him through this and everything is a-okay. Mickey has friends and all is great in the world. I liked the story over all.

I did, however,  have one major issue with the book and I personally would like the author/illustrator to fix it. That is, the reader never sees Mickey's cochlear being worn. In fact, the only time that an actual cochlear is see is at the beginning of the book where there is an illustration of what it looks like, but again, never on Mickey. I think if you are going to write a book about the subject it should be seen. It is a part of who Mickey and people like me are.

I can't give the book 5 stars mainly for the reason stated above but the story is good and does illustrate what deaf children may deal with in school. 4 stars.

Disclsoure: I received a copy of this book from the author. The views posted here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. 
~Michelle



Meet the Author:

Born and raised in Chicago, Michelle Wagner was always a very positive and outgoing woman. Her energetic love for children and zest for life was admired by everyone who knew her. Michelle is a realtor whose career background involved restaurants and always helping other people. She has dedicated time and support to charities and events to help other children with hearing loss and assist families as they work through the different approaches to raising a special needs child in a typical environment.

connect with author: website ~ instagram
 

Monday, February 8, 2021

It's Me by Jeff Kubiak #review #giveaway #middlegrade #multicultural #kindness #diversity

 




Book Details:

Book Title:  It's Me by Jeff Kubiak
Category:  Middle-Grade Non-Fiction (Ages 8-12),  57 pages
Genre:  Children's/Middle Grade, Non-fiction, own voices
Publisher:  EduMatch Publishing
Release date:   November 14, 2020
Content Rating:  PG. Although the book reads like a graphic novel, it does contain topics dealing with racism and other social issues.

Book Description:

It's Me is dedicated to every person who has ever felt less about who they are or want to be because of someone else’s opinion, feelings, or prejudice. Let's ditch the prejudiced labeling, and embrace our Human Race for the diversity, inclusivity, equity, and individuality we all deserve.

My Review:

As someone who is "different" in the "normal" society, I am able to resonate with this book quite well.

The book attempts to remove labels projected on different people throughout the book, unfortunately to do that, the labels have to be seen in order to remove them. 

Each page is about a real person who is still struggling to find their place in society. Most all of the colorful photos have names changed to protect them but still their feelings are heard through each individual's own words. In any case, the reader clearly is able to see the adults and children and the labeling that has been thrust upon them. Each persons words are then ended by the words, "It's Me" thus the title of the book.

I do want to mention that there are several topics addressed in this book that often we as society will quarrel about. I think that the book opens opportunity for conversations that are not only on point in today's world, but an opportunity to show kindness.

I liked what the author was trying to do and I do think it works to an extent. At least the point of the book is that even with struggles, each person depicted might just be like you and to give them a chance.

This book is not aimed at children younger than eight and it is understandable why. However, with the resources included in the back, which are several, including a glossary, parents can still talk to the younger set and begin to instill those conversations that I mentioned above.

Terrific book that I think should be included in all homeschool and classroom settings.

5 stars

Disclosure: I was given a copy of this book from the author. The review presented here is 100% my own opinions that may differ from yours. ~Michelle

Buy the Book
Amazon

Meet the Author:

Jeff loves children's literature , “One Drop of Kindness” is Jeff's first published children's book. It's Me reads like a fun graphic novel, but it is entirely non fiction. Every character in the book is a real student, or educator. It is so important for us to give access, equity, inclusion, and compassion to all those we meet. "Seeing" each other and embracing our differences are jewels to life! Jeff taught for ten years as an elementary school teacher in grades 4, 5, and 6 and has seven years of administrative experience. He's always looked at education from a different lens: from someone who hated and struggled with school. Jeff vows to always do his best to help increase opportunities for all students to feel heard, noticed, celebrated, challenged and safe. Jeff works hard to push back against the old model of “Industrialized Education” and fight compliance. There is not a day that goes by that he is not looking ahead to improve teacher pedagogy, student engagement and digital access for all. Being a former world class swimmer and coach and looks at education from perspectives that others don’t. Jeff knows what it takes to fail, struggle, win and go through the daily challenges that we all face. 

connect with author:  website ~ facebook  ~ goodreads





Enter the Giveaway:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 



Tuesday, February 2, 2021

Mia and Nattie by Marlene M. Bell #Kidlit #nonfiction #giveaway @ewephoric

Synopsis:
Nattie’s mouth was a little crooked. Her legs were a bit shorter than usual, and one horn was too straight, like a unicorn’s horn. But Mia thought Nattie was perfect.Nattie’s mouth was a little crooked. Her legs were a bit shorter than usual, and one horn was too straight, like a unicorn’s horn. But Mia thought Nattie was perfect.

My review:
This is the true story of a little lamb who was abandonded by its mother because she could not feed her.
I loved the sweetness between the little girl, Mia, and the lamb. Mia's willingness to stand up to her Grandmother for something she believed in was admirable. At the same time she learned to be patient.

I think some children will get these concepts. However, I think the true message is to take care of each other and be kind. All children will know that with love of animals.

Terrific story.

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

About the author:
Marlene M. Bell is an award-winning writer, artist, and crazy sheep lady who resides in beautiful East Texas. Her renown sheep photographs grace the covers of many livestock magazines where she also writes newsy articles about raising sheep from her hands-on experience.
The third book in the Annalisse Series releases in 2021. Calico Raven is an international mystery with touches of romance--at a killing pace. Stolen Obsession— and Spent Identity, books one and two, received numerous awards including the Independent Press Award for Best Mystery in 2020. Her mysteries can be found on marlenembell.com.
In 2020, Marlene offers the first of her children's picture books, Mia and Nattie: One Great Team! Based on true events from the Bell’s ranch, it's a touching story of compassion and love between a little girl and her lamb. Marlene shares her life with her husband and dreadfully spoiled horned Dorset sheep: a large Maremma guard dog named Tia, and cats, Hollywood, Leo, and Squeaks. The cats believe they rule the household—and do.

GIveaway: 
One Autographed Mia and Nattie picture book, One Nattie Plushie , One Boo Boo Ball ™ , (1) $50 Amazon Gift Card (1 winner) (US only) (ends Feb 12)



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Friday, January 8, 2021

Review: M.C. Plays Hide & Seek by Eva Grayzel #selfhelp #cancersurvival #kidlit @EvaGrayzel @iReadBookTours.




About the book:

M.C. is a cancer cell who shares just enough information about the nature of the disease to promote dialogue and minimize fear. The scary part of cancer is the unknown. Learn about doctors who look for cancer. Understand feelings children experience and learn ways to cope. Empower children with knowledge and how to make a difference. 

My review:

Cancer is a subject that is hard enough for adults to deal with but with children, it is downright scary. This book is guide that helps children unmask the scary part or at least one would hope so.

The book introduces M. C. a gender neutral character who tells what it does in the body and how hard it is to find it. M.C. shares the different kinds of doctors and what they do to try to find it. M.C. gives basic information and is a conversation starter for feelings for children. It does not go much further than that and gives symptoms or what a patient might look like. Maybe it was not supposed to. Again, it only let's children a glimpse of what it really is.

The only thing I did not like about the book is that M.C. looks pretty much like s green booger from the nose in human form. I am not sure this was the way to go but then, how do you make a cancer cell look like to a child? Hmm?

Otherwise, I liked the photos and illustrative ideas to try to help children and maybe, even an adult too.

Overall, I am giving this book 3 1/2 stars.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book from the author. The review here is 100% my own and may differ with your opinions. ~Michelle

Where to find the author:


Eva Grayzel is a motivational speaker, storyteller, and cancer survivor. When her children were five and seven years old, she was diagnosed with cancer. Their fear of losing her was deep, real, and suppressed. When she got a second chance at life, she created the Talk4Hope book series to help children understand cancer and make it less scary.

website ~facebook ~ instagram

Giveaway:

FIND IT HERE


Thursday, May 21, 2020

Spies, Code Breakers, and Secret Agents by Carole P. Roman #Review #WWII #codes #Childrensnonfiction




Synopsis:
Discover World War 2’s hidden heroes and villains. Spies, Code Breakers, and Secret Agents explores the intriguing world of spy craft and shows you what goes on behind the scenes in war.

From spy schools and ciphers to sneaky tools and secret armies, this guide takes you on a declassified tour of the undercover operations that helped decide the outcome of World War 2. There’s also more than a dozen short spy-ographies that cover some of the most famous (and infamous!) agents that were active during the war
My review:
I was so excited to get this book. I am not overly fascinated by things about WWII but I do like to read about it. This one intrigued  me for two reasons.

The first being it was a book written specifically for children. That is not too surprising considering the author has so many children's books under her belt. More than likely she wrote for an interest from a grandchild. 

The second reason is that this one is different than other children's books on the subject, is it is about spies and World War II secret codes. I like that! I was intrigued by the multiple real-life spies like Julia Childs. Did you know? I liked reading what they did and how they did it without getting caught. Photos were included for the different spies that were mentioned.

I also liked reading about the different codes used and how they were broken by code breakers. The author illustrated some of these codes which made it that more intriguing. One of the code breakers that she mentioned in the book was the Navajo Code Breakers. I was happy to see them mentioned.

This book is simply packed full of information and well worth reading for children and adults as well. There was nothing in this book that I did not like!

This book gets 5 ... _ ._ ._. ...  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

Where to find the author:

Amazon

Monday, April 6, 2020

Egypt (If You Were Me and Lived In...Series) by Carole P. Roman #atozchallenge #review




I love the "If You Were Me and Lived In..." series of books by Carole P. Roman. I am privileged to have almost the entire collection from around the world. This one is a view of Egypt.

As with all of her books from this series, she follows a general format which includes: city capital, name for parents, names for children, money used,foods eaten, places to visit, school name, holidays. 
This time some of those words were hard even for me to pronounce! Thank goodness for that glossary of terms in the back.

This book seemed to be a little bit more sophisticated than the first few I read. It gave much more detail and she seemed to have upgraded for a more reading emergent child. 

I knew about the Nile River but did not know that you could travel up and down it on an everyday trip. Wow, what fun! 
Since I am fascinated with Egyptian lore, all the information about the pyramids and rulers was great too.

Want to learn more? I highly recommend this book and the whole series.  Amazon
Another 5 star book to me.

Disclosure: I purchased this book for my own collections. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours.  ~Michelle



Wednesday, April 1, 2020

Amadeus Mozart by Ibi Lepscky #nonfiction #music #review #atozchallenge2020




This book is one of a series of four books that tells the tale of children geniuses.
It was interesting in the fact it gave details of Mozart's life as a child, not as an adult.

I could not say he has a "normal" childhood though as he (spoiler) was taken to courts of royalty to play piano, violin, and other instruments. He was often seen as entertainment than for his genius. Still, he was a child.

I love how the book showed his childish ways like chasing after his sister and his pet. I also loved that his parents recognized him as a genius and encouraged him to work hard but let him be that child he was at the same time.

In the end, we have been graced by the brilliant music he would eventually create for our pure enjoyment.

Dislosure: I purchased a copy of this book for my own collections. The views here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle