August 25, 2025 · 7:00 am

Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Review)

A heartwarming adventure about friendship, inclusion, and finding your tribe.

Dingo and Penny do everything together—from games and homework to dreaming about exploring the great outdoors. So, when it’s time to join a local scouting group, they can’t wait to sign up… until they discover there’s no Girl Scouts troop in town.

Disappointed but determined, Dingo embarks on a mission to help his best friend chase her dream. What he discovers changes everything: a group called the Rangers—where boys and girls are welcome, diversity is celebrated, and adventures are just beginning.

 

In this gentle, empowering story, readers will follow Dingo and Penny as they:

  • Discover the power of friendship and loyalty
  • Learn how inclusive communities can open new doors
  • Join a diverse group of kids on their first big adventure

 

Dingo & Toad Join the Rangers is a fun, inclusive picture book for children ages 5–9 that encourages kids to embrace teamwork, outdoor exploration, and making space for everyone. It’s perfect for classrooms, families, and young readers who love scouting, camping, and stories with heart.

✨ Great for fans of:

  • The Berenstain Bears
  • Arthur
  • Scouts Honor

A perfect gift for budding adventurers and best friends everywhere.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique) 

 

Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers is an outstanding illustrated children’s book whose visual appeal perfectly complements the superb and relatable storyline.

 

Dingo and Penny, the alien best friends, are bursting with color and relatability! Despite their alienistic features, which set them apart from Earthlings (excluding cons and Halloween), their everyday activities are remarkably similar to ours. They love playing video games together, exploring, going on adventures, and just having fun. Their planet also has a Boy Scouts troop; unfortunately, they do not have a Girl Scouts one.

Scout organizations are a great way to learn new skills and make new friends, which is why they both wanted to join one. When one is not available, as in Penny’s case, the news can be very disappointing. This is why every community should have an all-inclusive scout group, like the Rangers, designed by the creative co-authors Lamar and Liana Golden.

As the besties meet their fellow troop members, the illustrator’s skills and imagination continue to shine. Tom McGrath’s alien creations were so adorable. I loved the purple bird with large eyes who wore tiny spectacles and the alien whose green eyestalks poked through their hat. Every creature, whether above ground or underwater, amazed me, and so did the vibrant scenery. Great color choices!

Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers is a spectacular book, from its storyline about the importance of inclusiveness, friendship, enjoying the outdoors, and learning new life skills to the bold, stunning illustrations. It’s the perfect gift idea for sci-fi fans, best friends, and those interested in or involved with scouting organizations.

Share Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers at your next troop meeting, with your students, and family. It’s a fun read for all ages, but the author’s target audience is children ages 5 to 9.

 

Be sure to check out Dingo Toad Helps a Friend and stay tuned for more details for the upcoming release, Dingo Toad Opens a Wormhole!

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Dynamic Duo! 

Lamar and Liana Golden are a dynamic father-daughter duo on a mission to captivate hearts, inspire minds, and leave a lasting legacy through the power of storytelling. With a shared passion for imagination and creativity, they weave tales that transport readers of all ages—from whimsical children’s stories that ignite wonder to gripping YA adventures and thought-provoking novels that linger in the soul.
 
For the Goldens, storytelling is more than a craft—it’s a family tradition. Lamar brings years of life experience, wisdom, and a knack for spinning unforgettable narratives, while Liana infuses their works with youthful energy, fresh perspectives, and a deep connection to the dreams and struggles of today’s readers. Together, they create a symphony of stories that resonate across generations.
 
Beyond their writing, Lamar and Liana share a zest for life’s simple joys. They’re adventurers at heart, often found savoring delicious food, laughing over spirited games, and seeking thrills at theme parks. These moments of connection fuel their creativity, reminding them of the importance of building a legacy of love, imagination, and goodness in the world.
 
Their dream is simple yet profound: to inspire readers everywhere, one story at a time, and to leave behind a world just a little brighter for having shared their journey. Join Lamar and Liana Golden as they open the door to extraordinary worlds and unforgettable adventures—you won’t want to miss a single tale.
 
You can contact us at lamar.golden1@gmail.com or via X (Formerly Twitter) @LNLGolden
 

Reedsy Author Link

 

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August 22, 2025 · 7:00 am

Milo’s Pet Problem by Romona Norton (Book Spotlight)

One boy. Too many wild ideas. The hilarious search for the perfect pet begins!

Milo has trees to climb, rivers to splash in, and endless adventures-but he wants a pet.

His mom says no unless he can find one in the woods.

Challenge accepted!

From a prickly hedgehog to a stinky skunk, Milo’s search for the perfect pet goes hilariously wrong at every turn.

But when he’s ready to give up, a surprise arrives that’s just right.

Milo’s Pet Problem is a funny, feel-good story about curiosity, determination, and one unforgettable quest for the perfect companion.

Amazon Purchase Link

Check out my review on Reedsy!

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Romona Norton, born in Guyana, began writing in 2012 inspired by her daughters. She self-published two books and later founded Coconut Tree Books and the lifestyle brand Cari Capri. Her stories spark curiosity, laughter, and a love for reading.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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August 18, 2025 · 7:00 am

Easy Extra Large Print Sudoku for Seniors by Steven Pomeroy (Book Review)

Finally, an extra large print format in an 8.5×11 inch book! Part of our Part of our Extra Large Print Puzzles for Visually Impaired series, you can easily read and write (pencil) notes within the puzzle squares!
This Easy format is perfect for beginners or for relaxing play. There are 160 full-page puzzles, and the solutions are included.

Why play Sudoku? Here are some great benefits:

  • Boost Cognitive Power: Engage your brain with puzzles that sharpen logic, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. Regular Sudoku play supports neuroplasticity, helping to maintain mental agility and potentially delay cognitive decline.
  • Build Focus and Confidence: Hone concentration and build confidence.
  • Stress Relief and Relaxation: Immerse yourself in the calming, meditative flow of solving Sudoku. Each completed puzzle delivers a satisfying sense of accomplishment, reducing stress and uplifting your mood.
  • Enhance Memory: Strengthen short-term memory by tracking numbers and possibilities, fostering mental clarity and recall with every puzzle you solve.
  • Perfect for All Ages: Whether you’re a curious beginner or looking to keep your mind vibrant, these puzzles are designed to be accessible, engaging, and rewarding for everyone.
  • Social Fun: Enjoy solo or share with friends and family for a fun, collaborative challenge that sparks connection and joy.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

Do you love playing Sudoku but find the small print game boards put a strain on your eyes? Have you longed for a bigger print version of this fun and popular logic game? Well, your search is over! Steven Pomeroy has created Easy Extra Large Print Sudoku for Seniors, but it’s not just for seniors. It’s for anyone with vision impairment or who loves supersized puzzles. This game book is designed to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the fun of Sudoku, regardless of their age or visual abilities. What if you have never played the logic-based number placement puzzle? The author has that covered too, thanks to the Sudoku tutorial, tips, and sample game board: a 9×9 grid with 81 squares divided into nine smaller 3×3 boxes.

Did you know that playing Sudoku is not just a fun pastime, but also a great way to keep your brain healthy? It’s been shown to keep the brain active, improve concentration, logical thinking, and pattern recognition, and even reduce the risk of cognitive decline. And the best part? It’s a lot of fun, especially when you start winning! So, let’s start playing!

I recommend ordering Easy Extra Large Print Sudoku for Seniors. Take it with you on vacation, especially on those long flights. Work the puzzles outside as you enjoy the fresh air and hopefully cooler temperatures. Pass the time in a doctor’s waiting room with these fun and addictive logic puzzles. Turn off the TV, curl up on the couch, and try to solve a page a day (9×9 grid). With 160 game boards, this puzzle book will keep you entertained for days, weeks, or even months! If you get stumped, review the tips and remember there is an answer key!

Easy Extra Large Print Sudoku for Seniors is perfect for every skill level, so why wait? Order your copy today and start enjoying the benefits of Sudoku! However, keep in mind that if you are not a pro (yet), bring a pencil or an erasable pen. No scratch paper is needed thanks to the ample writing space and extra lined paper in the back of the book.

Supersized puzzle boards and game tips make this book an excellent choice for anyone with vision problems, as well as for all skill levels. Answer key included!

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Thank you fellow readers to take the time to find out a little about myself. As for you stalkers… Na na nana na – you will NEVER find me! Just kidding – nobody is stalking me… as far as I know.

So I grew up in Rochester, NY where there are all four seasons. Winters are great if you enjoy outdoor Winter sports or bowling – or Buffalo Bills football 🙂

I have a tendency to inject humor or science or sports into my writings. In other words, a funny nerd-type who fancies himself as an NFL running back. Not sure about the running back thing these days – maybe a few decades ago!

I hope you enjoy my books. If you do, don’t forget to write a review!

Amazon Purchase Link
Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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August 15, 2025 · 7:00 am

Afraid of the Dark: Liana and the Shadow in the Closet by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Review)

Liana and the Shadow in the Closet is a heartwarming and empowering story about facing fears and finding comfort in the dark. Liana is afraid of the shadowy figure she sees in her closet at night. But with the help of her older brother, Marco, she learns that the shadow isn’t a monster—it’s just her clothes! With a little imagination, a nightlight, and some comforting words, Liana discovers that the dark isn’t so scary, after all.

This delightful story teaches young readers how to face their fears, create a comforting bedtime routine, and use their imagination to turn scary thoughts into fun ones. Perfect for children aged 4-8, Liana and the Shadow in the Closet offers valuable lessons in overcoming nighttime anxieties, making it an ideal bedtime read.

Key Themes:

  • Facing fears of shadows and the dark
  • Creating a comforting bedtime routine
  • Using imagination to overcome fear
  • Sibling support and family bonding

This book is part of the Afraid of the Dark bedtime series, designed to help children feel safe, confident, and empowered to tackle their nighttime fears head-on.

 
 
 
 
 
 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
 
 

Bedtime fears are a shared experience among children, a fact that we as parents and caregivers can all relate to. They often imagine something hiding in their closet or under their bed. The shadows outside can cast eerie shapes on their walls. The wind and tree limbs can create spooky scratching sounds against windowpanes, sending shivers down their spine and making their hearts race. However, remember that there’s always a reason behind these fears, and we can always find ways to ease a child’s anxiety and help them have a peaceful night’s sleep, as seen in Liana and the Shadow in the Closet from the Afraid of the Dark bedtime series.

Liana, a sweet little girl, adores her room, except when the lights go out at bedtime. Every night, she would see a dark shape in her closet—a scary monster. It would move and grow, and as it did, Liana’s heart would beat faster. But Liana wasn’t alone in facing her fears. She had a caring big brother, Marco, who didn’t dismiss her concerns but instead helped her confront them. He also guided her to find a solution to banish any future bedtime fears.

Read Liana and the Shadow in the Closet to any child who shares Liana’s one-time fears. Follow Marco’s example and help the anxious child understand what they are truly seeing in the shadows or (in many real-life scenarios) hearing outside. Apply Marco’s illuminating idea to ward off future fears. Make this story a part of your bedtime routine and help empower your kids to face their fears head-on, instead of hiding away under the covers and losing out on much-needed sleep.

A beautiful sibling bond shone bright in Liana and the Shadow in the Closet. Each illustrative page felt like a screenshot from a cartoon. That’s the highest praise to an illustrator.

Share this beautiful and heartwarming story with children aged 3 to 9 years.

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Talented Team!

Lamar and Liana Golden are a dynamic father-daughter duo on a mission to captivate hearts, inspire minds, and leave a lasting legacy through the power of storytelling. With a shared passion for imagination and creativity, they weave tales that transport readers of all ages—from whimsical children’s stories that ignite wonder to gripping YA adventures and thought-provoking novels that linger in the soul.
 
For the Goldens, storytelling is more than a craft—it’s a family tradition. Lamar brings years of life experience, wisdom, and a knack for spinning unforgettable narratives, while Liana infuses their works with youthful energy, fresh perspectives, and a deep connection to the dreams and struggles of today’s readers. Together, they create a symphony of stories that resonate across generations.
 
Beyond their writing, Lamar and Liana share a zest for life’s simple joys. They’re adventurers at heart, often found savoring delicious food, laughing over spirited games, and seeking thrills at theme parks. These moments of connection fuel their creativity, reminding them of the importance of building a legacy of love, imagination, and goodness in the world.
 
Their dream is simple yet profound: to inspire readers everywhere, one story at a time, and to leave behind a world just a little brighter for having shared their journey. Join Lamar and Liana Golden as they open the door to extraordinary worlds and unforgettable adventures—you won’t want to miss a single tale.
 
You can contact us at lamar.golden1@gmail.com or via X (Formerly Twitter) @LNLGolden
 

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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August 13, 2025 · 7:00 am

A Mysterious Christmas Visitor by Barbara Leary (Book Review and Kickstarter Campaign)

On a quiet farm on Christmas Eve, a young girl settles in by the fire with a good book—until a crash in the woods shatters the stillness. Accompanied her community of woodland animals, she steps bravely into the shadows to face whatever might be lurking in the dark, only to find a creature that needs her help. What follows is a funny, whimsical tale told in lyrical rhyme and vibrant illustrations—a story of unexpected encounters, connection, and the magic that can find you when you least expect it. With themes of courage, empathy, and understanding, it invites young readers to imagine a world where kindness leads the way.

The rhyme is a fresh take on “A Visit from St. Nicholas,” known popularly as “The Night before Christmas,” attributed to Clement Clark Moore.

The book includes four pages of fun facts about the awesome animals who power Santa’s sleigh, blending entertainment with a bit of education to satisfy the natural curiosity of young readers.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Reedsy Discovery.  I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.

 

The holidays are fast approaching, and A Mysterious Christmas Visitor is the perfect book to get readers into the holiday spirit!

It was the night before Christmas, and a darling girl was nestled under a blanket, reading a book by firelight. Her house is filled with the lovely aroma of freshly baked cookies and piping hot stew. All is quiet inside the farmhouse, but outside, something is stirring in the darkness. The sweet young lady swallows her fear and ventures out into the cold winter’s night, but not without an axe. Brilliant idea, especially since she has no idea what awaits her in the dark woods.

The young girl, a beacon of bravery, ventured out alone into the snowy forest. When she spotted the ‘monstrous Thing’ and what she assumed was its glowing purple eye, she didn’t flee. Instead, she weighed her options: run, stay and fight, or offer them some of their delicious food? When the ‘monstrous Thing’ came into view and spoke, the child needed a moment to collect herself and allow her brain to register what was happening. For many readers, the instinct would’ve been to run back to the safety of the house. But she didn’t. And it’s a good thing she didn’t, because they were about to have a once-in-a-lifetime moment. 

The Christmastime character’s story of how they ended up in these woods was amusing. Their facial expression when offered the stew was a moment of pure comedy. Read the story to find out why, but don’t worry, no animals were harmed in the making of the stew!

A Mysterious Christmas Visitor is a wonderful story told through lyrical rhymes and beautiful illustrations. Some rhyme choices may require explanation to younger audiences, such as the use of “warily,” “altitude,” “barbarian,” and “adieu.” Some readers may also be unaware that “venison” refers to deer meat, a key element in understanding why the reindeer’s expression is so memorable in one scene.

Besides delivering a lovely Christmas story, the writer included a section on why reindeer are amazing. There, readers will discover interesting facts about these beautiful animals. For example, a reindeer’s eye color and hooves change depending on whether it’s winter or summer. They are also super-fast runners! Catch these fun facts, plus many more, in the final pages of this delightful children’s book.

Get in the holiday spirit and read A Mysterious Christmas Visitor to your little ones today! My recommended reading age is kids 9 years and younger.

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤1/2

Amazon Purchase Link

Kickstarter Campaign: To Fund a Spanish Edition of “A Mysterious Christmas Visitor”

 

 

 

Meet the Author
Join Their Kickstarter Campaign! 

Award-winning indie author Barbara Leary has launched a Kickstarter campaign to fund a Spanish-language edition of her latest picture book, A Mysterious Christmas Visitor. Told in lyrical rhyme and brought to life by illustrator Marrieta Gal, this heartwarming holiday tale for ages 9 and under follows a young girl who discovers a frightened reindeer hiding in the shadows and learns that courage and kindness can lead to unexpected friendship. The book has already been released in English and includes a bonus section of fun reindeer facts for curious kids. With translation by Camila Larrea—one of Barbara’s former grad students—the Spanish edition aims to offer children from bilingual and Spanish-speaking families a story that feels like it was written just for them. 

 

Backers can choose rewards starting at $5 in either language, including beautifully illustrated e-book and print editions, sticker sheets, holiday cards, and digital goodies. Shipping is planned for November. You can check out the pre-launch page here: 

Kickstarter Campaign: To Fund a Spanish Edition of “A Mysterious Christmas Visitor”

 

Reedsy Author Link

Amazon Author Page Link

 

 

 

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