Lost and Found by Oliver Jeffers #review #friendship #picturebooks

About the book:

What is a boy to do when a lost penguin shows up at his door? Find out where it comes from, of course, and return it. But the journey to the South Pole is long and difficult in the boy’s rowboat. There are storms to brave and deep, dark nights.To pass the time, the boy tells the penguin stories. Finally, they arrive. Yet instead of being happy, both are sad. That’s when the boy realizes: The penguin hadn’t been lost, it had merely been lonely.

A poignant, funny, and child-friendly story about friendship lost . . . and then found again.

My review:

This adorable picture book tells the tale of a penguin who shows up at a boy's door. At is one that maybe first the boy tries to find out where the penguin belongs but eventually finds a life friend.

The cute story that accompanies this book is a lesson that some adults in our world could learn. That is, just be a friend, learn to get along with people that may be different from you.

Honestly, if I had a penguin to cuddle up with, I would read them this story!

4 stars.

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

Where to find the author:

Lost and Found: Jeffers, Oliver, Jeffers, Oliver: 9780399245039: Amazon.com: Books

Pumpkin Soup by Helen Cooper #review #picturebooks #Halloween #Autumn #CountdowntoHalloween2025

 

Summary:

Deep in the woods in an old white cabin, three friends make their pumpkin soup the same way every day. The Cat slices up the pumpkin, the Squirrel stirs in the water, and the Duck tips in just enough salt. But one day the Duck wants to stir instead, and then there is a horrible squabble, and he leaves the cabin in a huff. It isn't long before the Cat and the Squirrel start to worry about him and begin a search for their friend.

My review:

Pumpkin soup, the best three animal friends ever tasted because they made it the same way every night. Each friend has a job to do to make the soup, and it is status quo, until it wasn't and duck wants to do something different. Uh, oh!

I loved this book because it showed how we all have different talents and our specific talent helps to create something special. However, it also shows how sometimes, we want to grow out of what we have been expected to do and learn to do something different. This will always upset what is, including friendships. Still, it is a learning process for all involved and patience is often the key. Maybe things will seem chaotic, and feelings might be hurt as in the case of this book. But in the end, it will be alright.

The illustrations were bold and beautifully illustrated in autumn colors and added so much to the story itself.

Don't believe me? This book received an award from the library association for its illustrations.

I give this book 5 pumpkins.

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

Where to find the author:

Amazon

I'm Not Scary by Raahat Kaduji #review #picturebooks #bats #halloween

Summary:

Bat just wants to make friends, but everyone is scared of him!

When other animals see Bat’s shadow at their window, they’re terrified and think he’s a monster. How can Bat show them that he just wants to share some cake?

My review:

Have you ever been gossiped about of things that were not true about you? This poor little bat gets the reputation of being a monster. What is a little bat to do when he has no friends? Well, bake of course and hope for the best. 

This story clearly illustrates how with a little effort, you can get to know someone else that is not like you, but you can still be friends with. It also shows how gossiping can lead to misunderstanding. Even the littlest of children can get the simple concepts of this book.

I loved the story line juxtaposed with the larger-than-life illustrations with all the autumn colors you would expect for the season.

I give this book 4 pumpkins.

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

~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Where to find the author:

Amazon

A Woggle of Witches by Adrienne Adams #Halloween #CountdowntoHallowen2024 #picturebooks

My Review

This not-too-spooky book is about a group of witches who live in the forest and sleep on hammocks in the trees. They take off one night after eating dinner and have a ton of fun.

The story is cute and follows along for a quick read. The story is not that impressive but this is a Halloween picture book and can be overlooked.

The illustrations, although dark in nature, are adorable and create great movement that actually tells the story better than the words. Each turn of the page made me grin to see what the witches were going to do next.

4 stars.

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

#Review: Curious George Goes to a Costume Party by Margaret & H.A. Rey #childrenspicturebooks #bookseries

Synopsis:

George is excited to attend his first costume party, but there's just one problem--he doesn't have a costume! Will the mischievous little monkey be able to find the perfect one without starting too much trouble?

Mrs. Gray's party isn't just any party--it's a costume party, and George and the man with the yellow hat aren’t wearing costumes! No matter—there are plenty in an old trunk upstairs, and soon George is trying on all kinds of outfits. But it's not long before George gets in the bed sheets. His new look may give the guests a scare at first, but in the end George is the life of the party!

My review:

I did not necessarily grow up with the Curious George series of books but I did love them. This edition is simply great.

To have George trying out Halloween costumes is pure fun. Of course he wants to know what he looks like and all sorts of havoc happen.

I love how George is well, curious, and always keeps working on things until he figures it out. His ever present yellow-hatted friend is always there to support him. This book also had a cast of other characters that obviously love George. Who wouldn't love him even when he is in mischief? In this book, he tries out so many costumes until he finds just the right size. Don't we all do that?

One of the things I love about this book, like others, is the color that is injected throughout and that the illustrations are real. The stories always make you want to smile and simply feel good.

5 stars.

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

~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

#Review First Woman by Aren Capella #picturebooks #childrensbooks #NativeAmerican #Multicultural

Synopsis:
This is the story of the first woman on Earth's spiritual quest to find her place among the other animals on Earth and to discover the qualities that make her uniquely human.

My Review:

This is such a beautiful children's book. It is a mythical tale that tells how all creatures came into being and in particular the first woman on Earth. All the creatures are connected by the Great Mother Wolf who birthed them all, but all found their own way.

As one who is partially Native American, I loved this story. Even though the book is meant to be mostly a picture book, the story itself is complex and yet, understandable. The last creature to develop takes her time to learn and grow; this of course is exactly how we are as humans.

The illustrations within the book only add to the lovely story. The illustrator did a fine job of matching and the story could have even been told based on the illustrations alone. Fantastic!

I am giving this book 5 stars. 

Disclosure: A digital copy of this book was given to me to review. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

About the author:

Aren Cappella was a writer and artist who lived in the town of Sonoma in Northern California. She was an entrepreneur who owned and operated a small bakery in Sonoma with her business partner. Aren died of breast cancer in 1998 at the age of 42. 

Goodreads

Review: You Are A Story by Bob Raczka @childrensbooks

Blurb: An empowering reflection on the many things we are and the ways we relate to the world.

My Review: Do you listen to other people's stories? Do you know you have your own to tell? Seriously, you do!

This darling children's picture book tells the tale of how YOU are unique and only you can tell your story.

The "story" in the book stays true to a picture book as it is simple and easy to understand. It is the illustrations that really do it for me. Bold and large the pictures make this book, and the words enhance it. This is different as usually, it is the other way around.

This would be a great book for preschool through kindergarten and pair it with an enrichment about self or write their own stories.

4 stars!

Disclosure: I checked out this book from my local library. The views here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Boomer The Curious Bunny by Diann Floyd Boehm #spotlight #childrensbooks #animals

Boomer the Curious Bunny

by Diann Floyd Boehm

Genre: Children's Animal Picture Book 

What will Boomer find?

Boomer is a curious bunny who loves excitement. Staying home doesn’t offer him the same fun it gives his brothers and sisters, so he hops off to see what he can see. When he does, what do you think awaits him?

Join this adorable furry rabbit as he heads off into the city where he meets a range of characters and goes on a variety of adventures. Will his discoveries be the joyful experiences he expects?

***
Written for children ages 3 to 9. This is a delightful tale for parents to read with their kids or for young readers to enjoy.

Amazon *  Goodreads

Diann Floyd Boehm is an award-winning, bestselling author. Her books inspire not only imagination but also self-empowerment, kindness, and inclusion. As a humanitarian, Diann has traveled extensively, meeting many people, and experiencing many cultures. She believes in sharing the joy of diversity, the beauty of individuality, and blessings of community with her readers.

Diann is the co-host with Dr. Jacalyn on USAGLOBALTV . Together, the duo brings entertaining topics alive, aspiring to spread global knowledge, awareness, and hope. They welcome various guests to discuss relevant issues to modern living, including everything from books to business.

Another wonderful endeavor of this amazing lady is Story Garden. Being a professional educator, Diann understands the importance of literacy.  She knows reading aloud has a vital impact on oral and written communication skills . Therefore, she coordinates a program for authors to read books online for kids and adults alike to enjoy!

Diann is a loving wife, mother, and grandmother. She enjoys quilting and singing. In addition to spending time with her loved ones, she treasures the opportunity to meet new people and experience new things.

Website * Amazon *

Review: Los Gatos Black on Halloween by Marisa Montes #multicultural #CountdowntoHalloween2023 #animals #childrensbooks #picture books

 

This larger than life picture book for children tells the tale of all the spooks that come out for a huge Halloween party. The book starts off with black cats who screech. The ending is fun and unexpected as all these creatures come from all over. But who is it that breaks up the party?

The book is written in full rhyme. Each page features large pictures with all of the colors that one would expect at Halloween. The illustrator did a fantastic job of this. That in itself is awesome, but what makes this book even more cool is that it is in English and Spanish to describe all of the characters. A glossary in the back is a nice addition to help those whose first language is not Spanish.

I seriously love this book and it would be a good edition for the Halloween season shelf. Don't believe me? This book was given an award for excellence.

I give this book 5 pumpkins.

Disclosure: I borrowed a copy of this book to read and review from my local library. The opinions expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours.

~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Katerina's Big Sister Surprise by Athanasia Adam #spotlight #childrensbooks

Date Published: June 2023

 

 

Katerina Big Sister Surprise" is an engaging and heartwarming story perfect for children & toddlers. When Katerina discovers that she will soon become a big sister, her imagination takes her on an exciting journey of what it would be like to have a little brother or sister. Through her adventures, Katerina's best friend, a baby stuffed tiger, is always by her side.

 

Join Katerina on her journey as she learns the joys and responsibilities of being a big sister, and the special bond that comes with it. Katerina can't wait to share her love for her new soon to be sibling. From practicing feedings to diaper changes, she quickly learns that being a big sister is both fun and rewarding. With beautiful illustrations and a heart-warming story "Katerina's Big Sister Surprise" is the perfect book to help toddlers prepare for the arrival of their new sibling. This charming tale is sure to delight young readers and parents alike and is perfect for families preparing for a new addition.

 

 Athanasia Adam is a real estate professional and a mom in NYC. Inspired by her amazing niece Katerina, Athanasia embarked on the journey to capture the joy and imagination of childhood in her debut children's book, "Katerina's Big Sister Surprise". Drawing from her personal experiences as a mom and the hilarious antics of her niece, Athanasia weaves a heart warming tale of a toddler's imaginative journey into the world of becoming a big sister. Katerina's Big Sister Surprise is sure to delight and inspire children as they embark on their own sibling adventure.

 

Contact Links 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thelearningbrat/

 

Purchase Links

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Katerinas-Sister-Surprise-Athanasia-Adam/dp/B0C3J5H4X4/

#Review: Best Buddies: What's In A Name? by Mother Melania #Giveaway #bookseries #childrenspicturebooks #freebookpromo #homelessness

 

Category:  Children's Fictions (ages 3-7), 32 pages

Genre:  Children's Picture Book

Publisher:  Holy Assumption Monastery

Release date:   December, 2022

Content Rating:  G - This is a children's picture book. It does deal with homelessness, but in a way that is appropriate for young children. There is nothing graphic and no bad language.

     BOOK PROMO: GET IT FREE HERE

Synopsis:

A homeless teen befriends a dog. The teen struggles with what to call the dog. Set out on adventure to find out.

My review: 

I want to start out by saying that this book was written for children to help them have compassion for people who are homeless. It was written in collaboration with a teen who is homeless himself.

Even though the illustrations are simple and repetitive, I like that they look like they are from torn paper art. This is different for book illustrations and somewhat refreshing. Honestly, I think this is the best part of the book.

I would call this a picture book without a doubt. I think the intention was for it to be more than that but fell short as the photos are what takes over. The writing is pretty much non-existent otherwise. I would like to see more. As I am sure the author is aware, there is so much more than homeless people befriending a pet. However, all of it together, it does get a point across and maybe her goal for this first book in an apparent series.

One perk to this book is the author included worksheets and coloring pages and that is a nice touch. For that reason and the illustrations, I am giving this book a 3 star.

Disclosure: I received a digital copy of this book for review. The views expressed here are 100% my own and may differ from yours. Note: I post books from a variety of religions and spiritual affiliations. This book does not necessarily reflect my own journey. ~Michelle, Reading Authors Network

Where to find the author:

                                                                            

                                                                             website 

Mother Melania is the Abbess of Holy Assumption Monastery in Calistoga, CA. She grew up in a house that always had tons of children around, her poor parents had to read to her till they were hoarse, and from the moment she learned to read, she always had her nose in a book. So, it was only natural for her to grow up to write children's books.

She has written three series of specifically Orthodox children's books - all in verse - which celebrate the high points of God's work of salvation in the Person of Christ. Her remaining series teach children the virtues in a fun, non-preachy way.

Giveaway:

Win signed copy of BEST BUDDIES: WHAT’S IN A NAME?, plus $25 Amazon Gift Card (one winner / USA only) (ends Jun 30)

GO HERE

Children Who Dance in the Rain by Susan Justice #review #multicultural #privilege #picturebooks

 

Book Details:

Category:  Children's Fiction (Ages 3-8),  32 pages
Genre:  Children's Picture Book
Publisher:  Compassion Project Press
Release date:   May 2023.

Book Description:

Sophie gets bored quickly and won’t even eat her food without looking at her tablet. She’s thrilled to hear of her family’s upcoming trip to a magical place called India, a land she’s only heard of in stories. Once there, she quickly realizes that the underprivileged children living in the mud colony possess a joy and contentment she can’t explain. Sophie sets out on a journey of discovery, but what she finds may change her world forever. This tale about the true meaning of happiness and the power of gratitude is based on true events.

My Review:

In my mind, this book is timely. In a world where everything seems techno based, it is difficult to think that some people do not have the next best thing in their hands. Here we meet a girl who doesn't want to go to school, does not want to eat in favor of her tablet, and is annoyed when it rains. Boo hoo for you I think. 

Later in the book, this same girl takes a trip to India with her parents. There she meets children who do not have or barely have basic necessities. It is a wake up call as she learns that these children are grateful for what they do have and rejoice in when they dance in the rain.

This book, apparently a true story, teaches all about privilege and how we should never take for granted what we have and to appreciate what has been given.

Coupled with awesome, bold, illustrations this book,mostly a picture book, is a winner. 5 srars!

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

Amazon 

Goodreads

Meet the Author:

Susan, a legal advocate for children’s rights, has long harbored a dream of crafting a tale that would empower young readers to understand and champion the rights of their peers. Drawing upon her own experiences as a young person comprehending privilege, she was inspired to write a book that would not only entertain but also inspire her readers to consider pressing social issues and to actively strive to make the world a better place for all children.

connect with the author: website 

Enter the Giveaway:

Win signed copy of CHILDREN WHO DANCE IN THE RAIN by Susan Justice (one winner) (USA only) (ends June 9)

CHILDREN WHO DANCE IN THE RAIN Book Tour Giveaway