Rocky’s Courageous Rescue by Michelle Krumenacher (Book Review)

Do you want to encourage your kids to be bold, brave, and courageous?

In Rocky’s Courageous Rescue, a small rock hyrax named Rocky is called on to help with an important task that only a small hyrax could complete. Read along as Rocky learns what matters most to God and how even a small hyrax can accomplish great things for God.

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

 

Have you ever heard of a rock hyrax? The rock hyrax, a unique and fascinating small mammal native to Africa and the Middle East, takes center stage in the captivating tale of Rocky’s Courageous Rescue.

In this beautifully illustrated children’s book, we meet Rocky, a rock hyrax who wishes he could jump as far as his friends. But his short legs, which have failed him more than once, make him doubt his abilities. With the help of a friend, he finds the courage to leap off a rock. Rocky didn’t have the most graceful landing, causing him to feel emotions many of us feel when we fail in front of others: humiliation and embarrassment. This incident leads Rocky to question if he will always be the smallest hyrax. His mother’s response incorporates her/the author’s faith: “God doesn’t look at the outside; He looks at the heart.” Whether you believe in God or not, the underlying message applies to all. Size has no relevance to who you are; your heart and actions are what truly define you. During one rainy night, Rocky demonstrated he had a kind and generous heart.

Rocky displayed courage in this sweet, inspiring, and faith-infused children’s book. When fear surfaced, he turned to God, a common response among many people during times of difficulty or distress. Did God guide him across the gap to a friend in a precarious predicament? Those of faith would agree that someone was watching over the small but mighty rock hyrax, watching over all the animals.

Everyone has that one thing they’d love to change, including Rocky, the adorable gerbil-looking hero. In Rocky’s Courageous Rescue, kids learn that we are perfect just the way we are. Rocky hated being the smallest, but his short stature turned out to be the ideal fit for the touch job, saving Boulder’s life.

Rocky’s Courageous Rescue encourages us to love ourselves and embrace our uniqueness. For Christians, it reminds readers to lean on God in both good and troubled times. Whether you’re religious or not, Rocky’s Courageous Rescue is an uplifting and inspiring story about finding your courage and believing in yourself; it’s a tale that can resonate with a broad audience.

Amazon has the book set for children aged 3 to 8 years. Some words might be too advanced for pre-k listeners, but they will still enjoy the story and its darling illustrations. I recommend sharing Rocky’s journey with your kids and reading What is the Rock Hyrax?” In this informative section, we learn that these cute, gerbil-looking animals have roots in the Bible, they have a very interesting body structure, an unforgettable alarm sound, and much more.

Rocky’s Courageous Rescue is a remarkable story featuring an adorable and rarely utilized animal in a children’s book, the rock hyrax. Share this book with your kids or students and learn more about this fascinating creature. Watch as Rocky pushes his doubts and fears aside to become the story’s hero!

 

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

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Meet the Author

Michelle Krumenacher is an up-and-coming author. Her first book is a children’s book entitled Rocky’s Courageous Rescue. Michelle was inspired by her safari trip in Kenya to write a story about the not-so-well-known rock hyraxes, which her family fell in love with.

Michelle is married to the man of her dreams, and they homeschool their 3 boys. Michelle is passionate about Jesus, orphans, travel, and her family. Michelle and her family work with an organization called World Renewal Burundi. You can find out more HERE.

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Luminous Ties by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Spotlight)

 

When Ellie Winters discovers Zyx, an alien stranded on Earth after a crash, her world changes forever. Known as a “nerd” and an outcast at her high school, Ellie has never felt like she belonged—until Zyx shows her she’s capable of far more than she imagines.

As they forge an unbreakable friendship, Zyx teaches Ellie to embrace her inner strength, blending advanced alien technology with a magic-like energy that unlocks her potential. But their growing bond is threatened when Zyx’s ship is discovered, drawing the attention of relentless government agents.

Now, Ellie must outwit forces far greater than herself to protect Zyx and the future he represents. In a climactic journey of courage and sacrifice, Ellie will discover that the brightest lights come from within—and the ties we form with others are what truly make us strong.

Luminous Ties is a thrilling and emotional YA sci-fi novel about resilience, friendship, and finding your voice, perfect for fans of Skyward by Brandon Sanderson and Defy the Stars by Claudia Gray.

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 Partial Sample of the…

Prologue

The vast night sky unfolded like an endless tapestry, its stars flickering with quiet majesty. To some, it was a symbol of wonder, a reminder of infinite possibilities. To others, it was an ocean of darkness, filled with unseen dangers and uncharted paths. For one traveler, it was both—a place of beauty and peril that demanded precision with every step, every choice.

The traveler’s ship moved gracefully through the asteroid belt, its sleek frame gleaming with an ethereal light. Advanced technology hummed softly within, guiding it through the labyrinth of celestial debris. But even the most advanced navigation systems could falter. A rogue asteroid, spinning unpredictably, veered suddenly into the ship’s trajectory. Alarms screamed to life, red lights flashing in a chaotic rhythm as the traveler scrambled to react.

A momentary miscalculation. A fatal turn.

The ship jolted violently, spinning out of control. Instruments sparked, systems failed, and the vast blue-and-green orb of a nearby planet loomed closer. The traveler gripped the controls, attempting to stabilize the descent, but gravity had taken over. The ship became a streak of fire against the sky, hurtling toward the planet with unstoppable force.

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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
 

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Green Horizons by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Spotlight)

What would you sacrifice to save the future?

In a world where climate disasters are engineered for profit, BioCore reigns supreme—controlling resources, governments, and lives. But when Skye Parker stumbles upon evidence of their crimes, she becomes the face of a global resistance determined to bring them down.

With a team of misfits by her side, Skye launches a bold campaign to expose BioCore’s greed and corruption. But as the stakes rise, so do the risks. Facing devastating betrayals, impossible choices, and BioCore’s final gambit to destroy everything they can’t control, Skye must rally the world to stop a company willing to sacrifice it all.

Green Horizons is a gripping dystopian thriller that blends high-stakes action, complex characters, and a powerful message about resilience and hope. Perfect for fans of The Hunger Games, Divergent, and The Maze Runner, this heart-pounding story will leave you breathless—and ready to fight for change.

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The Price of Progress

 

The sky was dying, bleeding ash and fire across the horizon. Below, New Angeles teetered on the edge of ruin, its crumbling skyscrapers jutting like broken teeth from the rising tides. To those who could afford it, there were climate sanctuaries, domes of clean air and artificial sunlight. For everyone else, there was this—a world of unbreathable air and endless survival.

Seventeen-year-old Skye Parker adjusted her gas mask as she crouched on the edge of a dilapidated rooftop. The mask fogged slightly with each exhale, a constant reminder of how far humanity had fallen. In her hands, she held a damaged drone, its sleek frame scarred by something sharp and unforgiving. Its blinking red light cast faint, uneven pulses against her gloved fingers.

“Think it’s worth anything?”

Skye didn’t look up. She didn’t need to. That was Leo Martinez, her best friend and resident pain in the ass, leaning against a rusted railing like they weren’t perched above a city ready to devour them whole. His usual smirk was audible in his voice.

“It’s not about worth,” she muttered, her focus on prying open the drone’s casing. Wires spilled out in a tangle of frayed circuits, and her hands worked with practiced precision. “It’s about what it knows.”

Leo tilted his head, watching her like one might watch a stray cat deciding if it wanted to trust you. “You keep chasing ‘what it knows,’ and one day, it’s gonna know too much. You know BioCore doesn’t like when people get curious.”

Skye’s grip on the drone tightened, her voice sharpening. “Yeah? Well, I don’t like BioCore. So I guess we’re even.”

Leo snorted, crouching beside her. His spray can rattled faintly in his bag. “You’ve got a death wish, you know that? What’re you even looking for?”

“Answers,” she said flatly. “And maybe a way to fix this mess while I’m at it.”

Leo’s laughter was dry, bitter. “Fix it? Skye, this mess doesn’t get fixed. It gets bought and sold by guys in suits who’ll never set foot in a place like this.”

Skye finally looked up, her eyes sharp behind the mask. “That’s what they want you to think.”

Before Leo could reply, the drone in her hands crackled to life. Its embedded screen flickered, displaying a distorted image—a set of coordinates, a timestamp, and a single word.

EMBER.


I hope you enjoyed a look at the story’s prologue. It’s not all of it. Only a portion to (hopefully) peak your interest. 

 

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Meet the Authors! 

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
 

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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.

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(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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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.

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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.

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