Tag Archives: children’s book

Maya and Waggers: I Have to Scoop What? by W. T. Kosmos (Audiobook Spotlight)


Enjoy the audiobook version of the critically acclaimed Maya and Waggers, read by Courtney Fabrizio, whose previous narrations include Nickelodeon Blue’s Clues and Paw Patrol. Courtney showcases an incredible range of funny and at times crazy characters in this series opener that has been hailed as “a hilarious tale about canine care” (Kirkus Reviews) and “a delightful read packed with humor and lessons about life” (The Book Commentary).

“I Have to Scoop What?” is a wild adventure for ages 7+ that unfolds on wacky Puddin’ Head Island—an island completely unprepared for a shipload of newly arrived dogs and puppies.

Maya and her best friend Lily are over the moon about caring for the new rescue puppy, Waggers. They even stay with Maya’s Uncle Puddin’ Head, whose love for his perfect lawn is as big as his dislike for the Sweeties. But there are just two problems. First, Maya refuses to scoop Waggers’ poop and comes up with crazy ways to deal with it in the neighbors’ yards. Let’s just say, the wacky neighbors aren’t very happy about it! Second, little does Uncle Puddin’ Head know, Lily is a Sweetie, hidden in plain sight!

Whether you’re looking for a story filled with laughter or one that teaches life lessons with heart and humor, this adventure is sure to delight and inspire

 

Audiobook Purchase Link

Listening Length: 2 hours

 

 

Chapter One Sample

Author’s note: “I love Courtney Fabrizio’s character voices! This scene sets up the rest of the book.”

 

 

 

Chapter 6 Sample: The Barkers

Author’s note: “This was my favorite chapter to write and listen to! Maya seeks a place for Waggers to poop. This was the wrong neighbor. Minimal spoilers.”

 

 

Audiobook Purchase Link

Listening Length: 2 hours

 

 

Click on any of the following links to be redirected to my review!

Amazon
Goodreads

Reedsy

 

Audiobook Purchase Link

Listening Length: 2 hours

 

 

Meet the Author

W.T. Kosmos is a humorist author and playwright whose works include the award-winning Blaze Union and the Puddin’ Head Schools, the Maya and Waggers series, and The Golden One. W.T. Kosmos is the wry alter ego (pen name) of a life-long educator.

Website Link

Amazon Author Page Link

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

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The Dad Who Had to Read a Bedtime Story by G.M. Reyes (Book Review)

A Rhyming Book About a Dad Who Had to Read a Bedtime Story

Dad just wants to play video games, or go to the gym, or just unwind. But there’s something in the way of his relaxing evening. His kids want him to read a bedtime story.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

In a child’s eyes, their parents are superheroes—super strong, never tire, and have all the time in the world. They don’t understand that their parents need time to recharge their battery after working all day, or maybe they need or have to do something that doesn’t include small tag-a-longs. The two darlings in this sweet children’s book had one teeny tiny request: Dad, please read us a bedtime story. Dad tried to politely turn down their request, saying he was in a hurry, but they were persistent, which is 100% relatable to many adults reading this book to their kids. 

Despite his initial reluctance, the dad in this story caved and agreed to read only one story. Nestled in bed with his two kiddos, the dad did what many parents do once they noticed the book’s length—he skipped a few pages. When your child is a baby or toddler, you can absolutely get away with summarizing the story. However, as your child grows up, they become more observant and will call you on the sneakiness. The fictional kids demanded their dad read the story againproperly this time.

Their father did a smashing job the second time around. He used different voices and even rapped some lines. I adored the drawing of him wearing a witch’s hat and nose, fairy wings, and a princess crown. But the real showstopper was the image of him with his hat flipped backward, shades on, bling around his neck while rapping into the microphone. I would laugh until my sides hurt if I witnessed my spouse recreating this scene. 

The Dad Who Had to Read a Bedtime Story would make a great book to read at nap time or bedtime. It would also make a great Father’s Day gift. 

I agree with Amazon’s recommended reading age: baby to 8 years. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

A dad of two who wants to write stories that his kids will want to read and enjoy.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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Quest For Different: Bucky’s Adventures by GD Sexton (Book Spotlight)

A Quest for Different – Bucky’s Adventures is a heartwarming children’s book that tells the tale of a rare piebald white-tailed deer named Bucky. Bucky embarks on a quest to find someone who is different like him. Along the way, he meets a little girl named Clara, who has and is equally special. The story beautifully illustrates the idea that being different is something to be celebrated and cherished. The vibrant illustrations enhance the storyline, making it a wonderful addition to any child’s library

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Meet the Author

GD Sexton is a musician, singer, songwriter and is half a duo along with JoAnn Durbin.
They are known as DoubleHearts of Doubleheartsmusic.com

Reedsy Author Link

Website Link

 

 

 

 

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A Sweet Surprise by Brittany Smith (Book Review)

Do you like sugar as much as Sam does?

Follow Sam as he discovers many sweet treats and surprises throughout his day. A giraffe in purple pyjamas, chocolate crocodiles and some gummy snakes are only the start.

Is there ever a thing as too much sugar?

Join Sam throughout his day and see. 


Amazon Purchase Link
InHouse Bookstore
Etsy

 

 

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

 

Kids love candy! They would eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if allowed. Sam, the shining star of this children’s book, has yet to meet a sugar-based treat he didn’t like. He wishes he could eat gumdrops, lollipops, cotton candy, ice cream, candy canes, candy apples, and more every day, whenever he wanted! Not a bad wish! If it weren’t for the potential for cavities, I would follow Sam’s lead and eat chocolate for breakfast, jelly beans for lunch, and gummy snakes for dinner, too. 

Sam does not have an off switch when it comes to sugary delights. The images show Sam hiding candy when a craving hits: under the couch, behind the bed, up the stairs, and even in his hair. Only a kid would eat candy covered in hair. The illustrator also shows empty, colorful wrappers scattered all over the floor. While Sam’s tastebuds were all for eating more candy, his stomach rejected the idea. Sam suffered the painful effects of overindulging in sweet treats—the dreaded bellyache. He also experienced a sugar crash. Parents and many young readers will empathize with Sam’s belly woes. His story paints a beautiful picture of why less is more. 

The author and their design team did a fantastic job constructing A Sweet Surprise. Families will love the playful and creative way the text is displayed. My two favorite pages are the upside-down words and the page where words are arranged to mimic a staircase. The brightly colored illustrations will activate everyone’s sweet tooth, even those who prefer savory over sweet! And the unicycle-riding giraffe wearing purple pajamas will tickle your funny bone! 

I recommend this wonderful and vibrant storybook to children ages two years and up. I also suggest a trip to the candy store, playing Candy Land, or both!

Join Sam as he shares his love for all things sugary! Don’t forget to bring your favorite sweet treat along the way! 

 

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

 

 

 

Meet the Author

 

If you think Sam has a sweet tooth you should meet Brittany. After experiencing the side effects of having too much sugar far too often. She decided this book would be a great way to help show people that candy is not always as fun as it seems.

Growing up on the East Coast of Canada. She has spent many years at summer camp discovering the best the tuck shop had to offer. Some might think she survives off apple juice and her hidden stashes of candy. Which only makes sense that she is a Pastry Chef in Sydney.

Kangaroo Cove Publishing

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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Early Reader Workbook by Andrea C. McLean (Book Spotlight)

Open a world of wonder for your little learner with this engaging Early Reader Workbook! Designed to spark a love for reading long before pen meets paper, this delightful book builds on your child’s existing vocabulary and uses familiar pictures to bridge the gap between spoken words and their written forms.

Through playful activities, your child will embark on a delightful journey filled with:

  • Connecting Names and Pictures: Familiar objects come alive as children learn to associate their everyday vocabulary with words written on the page. The child no longer just hears the word “car” but now sees and understands “C-A-R.”
  • Upper and Lowercase Adventures: Letter recognition takes center stage! Children embark on a quest to identify both uppercase and lowercase letters, laying the foundation for future reading fluency.
  • Sounds and Letters Unite: The magic of phonics unfolds as children discover how letters connect to form familiar sounds, weaving together the building blocks of words they already know.
  • Coloring and Cutting Fun: Learning extends beyond the page! Coloring vibrant illustrations and carefully cutting out letters not only enhances motor skills but also fosters creativity and color recognition.

This charming workbook is much more than just an alphabet primer. It’s an invitation to embark on a magical journey to discover the world of words. Watch your child’s face light up as they make the remarkable connection between spoken words and their written forms, taking their first step on the exciting path to becoming a lifelong reader.

So, grab your crayons, unleash your inner explorer, and prepare to be spellbound by the wonder of language with this interactive Early Reader Workbook!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Andrea C. McLean is a board-certified life, career, and executive coach. She is a global leadership coach and mentor focused on developing women leaders in corporate and university settings. Andrea has a spirit of encouragement and a passion for inspiring others on their journey toward achieving personal transformations. She can be reached at andrea@acmcoachinggroup.com and you can follow @andreacmclean on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and LinkedIn for more inspiration.
 
 
 

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