Tag Archives: children’s book

My Trip to the Hair Salon by Neda Koljuskov (Book Review)

Join Timmy on his journey through getting a haircut at a children’s hair salon! This picture book story, written by an experienced children’s hairstylist, aims to help you and your little one overcome commonly encountered struggles with this small yet important milestone!

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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.

 

Timmy awakens with enthusiasm. Why? It’s his best friend’s birthday, and she’s having a big party with all her classmates! Timmy is noticeably excited about picking out a present for the party; however, he’s less than enthusiastic about stopping at a salon for a haircut. Children have mixed reactions to haircuts, especially on their first-ever visit. Timmy shares his concerns with his parents. He asks if they, meaning the stylist, will cut him. A practical question and one your child might be asking themselves. Even though Timmy doesn’t feel he needs his hair trimmed, his shaggy mane blinds him, causing a collision with his adorable canine companion, Buster. So, off to the salon they go!

Fear of the unknown can cause anxiety, panic attacks, or (depending on age) tantrums. Timmy has no idea what to expect, and the uncertainty manifests in tears, with the young boy repeatedly telling his parent he does not need a haircut. 

Thankfully, salons have transformed over the years. When I was a kid, each one I entered looked the same. The same style of chairs is positioned along a wall, facing a large mirror. But as the years passed, I noticed more salons opening designed especially for children. When Timmy entered the kid-themed hair salon, his fear vanished. No stuffy chairs here! Instead, it was like a magical wonderland filled with toys, cartoons playing on multiple TVs, and chairs that looked like they belonged in an amusement park. 

The chairs and the cartoons were a great distraction, but they didn’t eradicate all Timmy’s fears. Soon, he remembered why he was there. The snipping of the scissors and the buzzing clipper can scare little kids. It sure did for Timmy. Even though the salon had all the fancy bells and whistles, I loved how the writer demonstrated the importance of a patient, friendly hairdresser. 

Children will have many milestones in life; I recommend reading this book to your kid(s) and (hopefully) easing any fears regarding their first haircut.  

 

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

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Meet the Author

My mom has been a hairstylist for over 20 years, most of this time at a children’s hair salon. In her experience, she’s been in countless situations where kids are terrified of getting their hair cut. This inspired her to start us on this journey of writing this children’s picture book!

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Three Little Pigs and The Good Wolf by Avery Smart (Book Review)

In this charming retelling of the classic tale, “The Three Little Pigs and The Good Wolf” the author weaves a delightful narrative filled with whimsy, humor, and unexpected twists. The three little pigs, each with their distinct personalities, set out to build their homes, unaware of the lurking danger posed by the big ‘bad’ wolf.

As the story unfolds, readers are treated to a heartwarming journey of friendship, resilience, and the realization that sometimes, appearances can be deceiving. The author infuses the narrative with valuable life lessons, emphasizing the importance of not judging others based on preconceived notions. The unexpected alliance between the pigs and the wolf adds a unique and refreshing twist to the familiar fable, making this book a captivating read.

The storytelling is complemented by vibrant illustrations that bring the characters and their world to life. The author’s vivid descriptions and engaging dialogue capture the imagination, making it an ideal bedtime or classroom read. Beyond the surface-level narrative, the book encourages readers to reflect on themes of empathy, kindness, and the potential for unlikely friendships. It’s a must-read for those seeking a fresh perspective on a beloved classic.

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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.

 

Most of us know the classic children’s story The Three Little Pigs. In it, the wolf intentionally blows down the piglets’ homes made of straw and sticks and attempts to knock down the brick house as well. The famous wolf is labeled a villain for good reason. Readers will be introduced to a more thoughtful animal in Three Little Pigs and The Good Wolf. Children will discover this wolf is a sweet, caring canine, not a scary beast. 

This story contains some elements that the original fable possessed. Three pigs do go off to build their homes from the same materials found in the famed edition. A wolf goes to each home and asks to come inside. However, this wolf didn’t huff, puff, and knock down their homes with sinister intentions. He did not want to make them his late-night snack. Yes, he accidentally dismantled the straw and stick home. He tried to extinguish a fire, not cause the straw structure to fall. The stick home tumbled down, too, but again, the wolf didn’t have food on the brain. No, he had an important story and item to share! 

The three little pigs judged the wolf by his outward appearance. They reacted based on old fairytales and didn’t think twice about giving the wolf the benefit of the doubt. They were filled with shame once they realized the error in their ways. This was not an angry, hungry beast wanting to satisfy his hunger; it was just a friendly animal trying to do the right thing. The wolf found something that didn’t belong to him and wanted to return it to its rightful owner: the three pigs’ grandma. 

This story teaches valuable lessons. One, don’t judge a book by its cover. Second, friends come in all sizes, colors, and forms. Lastly, don’t be quick to dismiss someone. Listen and be kind. 

The artwork was out of this world! I can’t rave enough about it. The artist did a masterful job updating the piggies’ look from the famed story we’ve grown accustomed to. I loved how expressive their faces became, especially when the wolf came knockin’, or the oinkers went a runnin’. The artist didn’t stop with the three little pigs; they painted many emotions on the wolf’s face, showing a softer and friendlier side of the famous, menacing, canine breed. While I loved the illustrator’s skill, the text sometimes became muddled. On occasion, the background overpowered the text in the foreground. Despite that, I highly recommend sharing this story with your family or class!  

Amazon’s recommended reading age is baby-5 years. I would change that scale to 2-6 year olds. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

Meet the Author

Avery Smart, a vibrant author who resides in the heart of the lively family chaos with her three energetic kids. Nestled in the midst of parenting, she channels her passion for nurturing well-mannered children into delightful tales.

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Say Please, Ellie: Learning How To Say The Magic Word (Ellie The Chick Book 2) by Avery Smart (Book Review)

Ellie is a little chick who wants to do many things at once.

She often struggles with expressing her many wants politely. Can you lend a hand with her manners?

In this edition of Ellie the Little Chick series, the story walks us into essential moral lesson for young children who may struggle with courtesy. The emphasis is clear: always remember to say “please” before asking for something.

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

 

How could anyone resist reading Say Please, Ellie after viewing the cover!? Ellie is super cute with her little round body, big, bright blue eyes, and beak that appears to be smiling. The artist did a phenomenal job illustrating the chick in different situations and poses. I loved them all, but as a mother with a child who loves playing dress-up, my favorite was the chick dressed as a mini version of her mommy. What a fashionista! 

Cute illustrations aside, this book is on an important mission: to teach or remind children to say “please.” When a child speaks a few words, it’s important to introduce basic politeness terms into their vocabulary: please and thank you. As children grow, they should understand to add kind words to sentences. If we instill kindness and politeness at a young age, kids will grow up as kinder adults and then pass on the values/manners learned to their own children. Plus, asking instead of demanding makes a person sound nice, not rude.

 

Join Ellie as she scratches items off her to-do list:

  • Build a blanket fort
  • Make paper airplanes
  • Have a tea party
  • Go on a bug hunt.
  • Play dress-up.

Be sure to make your fun list, and don’t forget to say “please” and “thank you” as you carry out each activity! 

I recommend sharing  Say Please, Ellie with children six years and under. 

 

Words to ponder…

“Politeness and consideration for others is like investing pennies and getting dollars back.” ⁠—Thomas Sowell.

“Good manners are just a way of showing other people that we have respect for them.” ⁠—Bill Kelly.

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Avery Smart, a vibrant author who resides in the heart of the lively family chaos with her three energetic kids. Nestled in the midst of parenting, she channels her passion for nurturing well-mannered children into delightful tales.

It is within this dynamic environment that she draws inspiration, transforming her deep-seated passion for fostering well-mannered children into captivating tales.

Avery’s writing becomes a heartfelt expression of her commitment to instilling values in the younger generation. Her three lively kids not only serve as a source of inspiration but also as eager test subjects for the lessons embedded in her stories.

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Polar Animals Coloring Book by Jorge (Book Review)

Dive into the frosty wonders of the Icelands with our ‘Polar Animals Coloring Book for Kids Ages 4-8: Featuring Pookie the Penguin and Tushka the Polar Bear.’ This engaging book not only offers a delightful coloring experience but also provides fun educational facts and activities about Arctic Hares, Reindeer, Sea Otters, Arctic Wolves, and Wolverines.

What to expect inside:

• Enjoy 50 individual designs showcasing polar wonders.
• Designs are single-sided, featuring adorable characters like Pookie the Penguin and Tushka the Polar Bear against detailed Arctic backgrounds.
• Learn about polar animals with age-appropriate backgrounds, including icebergs, snowflakes, and igloos.
• Mazes, Shadow Matching, Freehand Drawing, and over 40 fun educational facts about the polar regions.
• Large paper size format tailored for small hands to explore and learn.

This isn’t just a coloring book; it’s an immersive Arctic adventure that enhances your child’s creativity and knowledge. The book includes inspirational messages about friendship and self-esteem, inspired by characters from the award-winning book ‘Pookie and Tushka find a little piano.’

Activities and educational facts about the polar regions and its unique inhabitants will captivate young minds, making this book a perfect gift for young explorers. Order your copy today and let the polar coloring and learning journey begin!

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

 

This coloring book differed from others on the market. The most significant difference I noticed was the cool facts accompanying almost every page. Ex. “Icebergs are like gloating mountains made of ice! Even though we see only a small part above the water, most of the iceberg is hidden below!” Here’s one more “cool fact”: “Arctic hares change the color of their fur from brown in the summer to white in the winter, helping them hide from predators like foxes and owls.”

The cool facts are found on nine get-to-know-the-character pages, such as Vale the Arctic Hare and Pookie the Penguin. They’ll located on the polar matching games, mazes, and drawing pages. Watch your kid get excited as they recognize scenes from the series! 

The 50 individual designs are a perfect activity for days when it’s too cold outside. There are large images with plenty of open space, which would be perfect for toddlers. There are smaller objects requiring precision and double-page coloring scenes. While a toddler could also scribble on these, these coloring pages would be ideal for three years and up. 

Need a break from the cold or screens? I recommend this coloring book and every reading book by their talented creator (Jorge). 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Jorge (or Jorge Antonio Tello Aliaga for short) is a writer and illustrator born and raised in Lima, Perú. He has created books, toys, and apps that have received several awards including a “Children’s Book of the Year” award. His experience includes having worked for Apple, Adobe, Cisco and Oracle.

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The Sunny Day Squad: The Quest for the Caringstone by Michael Panzner (Book Review)

Making the world a brighter place
 
Join The Sunny Day Squad – Ollie the monkey, Poppy the puppy, Daisy the rabbit, and Ted the horse – on a heroic journey from Gaggle Grove to find the fabled Caringstone, a magical gem that can make the saddest child smile. Using their unique talents, the four friends work together to overcome obstacles, solve problems, and spread joy. This heartwarming tale celebrates the power of friendship, bravery, and perseverance – a perfect story for bedtime…or anytime!
 

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

 

Under the sun of Gaggle Grove lives four close friends known as The Sunny Day Squad. Ollie the monkey, Poppy the puppy, Daisy the rabbit, and Ted the horse each possess a trait that will aid them in their adventure: assisting Captain Bravebutter in locating a remarkable gem that can make even the saddest child smile. The gem is better known as the Caringstone. 

During their important mission, Ollie the monkey swings branch to branch, leading the group through the forest. Music got a llama up and moving thanks to Daisy the rabbit’s musical talents. Poppy the puppy’s sweet disposition and Ollie’s monkeying around charmed three beavers into helping them cross a stream. 

Ted the horse’s ingenuity made climbing a cliff a breeze. 

Ted’s words rang true that day: “Where there’s a will, there’s a way.” Captain Bravebutter also spoke the truth when he said they found the Caringstone because they showed bravery, clearness, teamwork, and determination. 

As the four friends reflected on the day, they acknowledged they only succeeded because they were there for each other. Plus, they made the most of their talents. I agree. When people cooperate, listen to one another, and work as a team, they’ll be stronger for it. These are great lessons to teach young children. 

I recommend sharing The Sunny Day Squad: The Quest for the Caringstone with children 3-8 years. The story teaches valuable lessons, and the illustrations are adorable as well. While every image had its charm, I particularly loved the smiling flowers and Ted, the glasses-wearing horse. So, very, very cute!

 

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

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Meet the Author

Michael Panzner is a long-time freelance writer who’s always been a child at heart. Inspired by the countless stories he’s shared with his children and grandchildren, Michael crafts tales designed to entertain, spark the imagination, and instill values like kindness, courage, empathy and perseverance. Having lived and worked in various locales, including the U.S. Northeast, North Carolina, and London, England, Michael now resides in Tampa, Florida, with his wife, Catherine, and their loyal dog, Geoffrey.

For more about me, please visit michaelpanzner.com.

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Polly Mooney is a freelance illustrator based in the UK, with a BA (Hons) and MA in Illustration and Animation. Creating mostly digital art on her iPad, she enjoys bringing adorable characters, especially cute animals, to life.
 
Online, she shares her artistic journey through her YouTube channel, “Pollygone Illustration,” and extends her creativity to real-world products she designs, illustrates, and sells on her website.
 
 

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