Tag Archives: children’s book

January 22, 2024 · 7:00 am

Mikey’s Treasure (Mikey’s Adventure) by Missy Moe Hap (Book Review)

Mikey is an uncut key;
He dreams of belonging to a lock that guards treasure.
His dream comes true,
But not how he expected.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Mikey was the smallest uncut key at the Green Moss corner shop with one repetitious daydream: he wanted to be the key to a treasure chest. One day, after a frightful encounter with a mechanical monster with sharp teeth, he danced joyfully to discover his daydream might actually come true. Before him was a real pirate, or so Mikey thought. When Mikey slid down into George’s pocket, or the pirate, as Mikey could call him, he quickly found he was not alone. I didn’t think giving ordinary keys a distinct personality was possible, but the illustrator made each key stand out. Pembroke looked adorable with his gray mustache, monocle, and black suit. He looked very British! Snobby’s shading to his head reminded me of a car tire, so I was not shocked to discover he was a car key. 

Pembroke, Snobby, and Dotty each knew their purpose for George, but what was Mikey’s? Patience is a virtue, but curiosity also killed the cat. Mikey’s lack of patience came with consequences. The tiny key didn’t want to wait and see what he unlocked, so he left the safe confines of a pocket and soon found himself captured in a magpie’s beak. However, luck proved to be on Mikey’s side, and everything worked out. 

Without giving away the touching ending, I will say that Mikey’s purpose, what important treasure he guarded, will touch many hearts—if not children, then definitely adults. Besides being a heartwarming story, it’s an interactive book, too. Once you finish the book, the writer asks for your help finding the 20 hidden keys. Admittedly, I was so impressed with the central illustrations and text that the hidden keys escaped my notice. Of course, knowing they were out there, I had to scan each page to locate each one. What a fun game! Kids will love the story and hunting for the 20 keys! 

I recommend this story for children three years and older. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Mother of two background in construction I gave a copy of the manuscript to my friends daughter. She loved the story but asked where’s the pictures. So I turned it into a book.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

January 15, 2024 · 7:00 am

When Pookie Met Tushka by Jorge Tello Aliaga (Book Review)

Over 1 million downloads and 5 Years in the Top Ten – Pookie and Tushka are back!


* Features gorgeous watercolor illustrations and educational facts about penguins and polar bears.*

The famous penguin who played piano and his best polar bear friend are back. Literally, millions of children have grown up following Pookie and Tushka but not many know how their story began.

Finally, this story is told in “When Pookie Met Tushka – A Cool Tale of Polar Friendship”: Pookie, a penguin with big dreams, journeys to the magical Icelands, where an unexpected friendship with Tushka, a young polar bear, helps them conquer challenges and uncover the essence of true friendship.

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 the wild, polar bears and penguins live in two different locations. Penguins live in the Antarctic (to the south), while polar bears call the Arctic (to the north) home. Their paths only cross in the fictional world, like in When Pookie Met Tushka. Pookie, a small penguin, wanted to become a great musician and bring joy to the world through his music. Where he lived, though, nobody seemed to understand his dream. Therefore, he decided to travel to Iceland, hoping to discover like-minded, creative animals. Pookie had the love and support of his family, which many people don’t have. He was one lucky penguin!

When Pookie arrived at his destination, things didn’t go as planned. An avalanche tossed him around; he lost his belongings in the mound of snow and felt defeated. That’s when his luck would change. I loved how the main character’s dialogue was in a particular color, so readers could always infer who was speaking. Pookie’s was in bright blue, and Tushka’s was in orange. Even Pookie’s mom had their own assigned dialogue color! Too bad Pookie’s father didn’t. It was bolded bright blue. Still, the others were a brilliant design idea!

Pookie left hoping to share his musical talents but found a friend in the new, strange land instead. He educated the young polar bear pup on what a penguin was and made the bear’s tears vanish over the disappearing stars. The bear helped the flightless bird with a poor sniffer find his belongings. Their kindness and helpfulness to one another created an instant bond, and a friendship blossomed between two unlikely pairings.

The book teaches children that friendship comes in all shapes, sizes, and colors. It promotes being kind and helpful to others, which is always a valuable lesson for young kids. After the story, there is also an avalanche of cool penguin and polar facts. I’m sure everyone will learn a thing or two in this section; I sure did!

I hope Pookie’s musical dream eventually comes true! I bet others will too!

I recommend the book to children 2-8.


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

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.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

January 11, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Sleep Switch : How to help kids fall asleep fast by Laurie McMillan (Book Review)

Does your child find it hard to fall asleep? If they do, then The Sleep Switch is for you!

 

“The Sleep Switch” is a delightful children’s book that captivates young minds while teaching them valuable relaxation techniques. In this enchanting tale, different children discover their own sleep switch—their natural ability to calm their bodies and minds for a peaceful slumber. Through mindfulness, meditation, and gentle breathing practices, they embark on a whimsical journey that sooths every part of their being.

You will appreciate the soothing narrative that guides your little ones toward a restful night’s sleep. With every page, a different child learns to embrace relaxation, taking deep breaths and experiencing the sensations within their bodies. The story lovingly bids goodnight to each part of the body, encouraging a sense of gratitude and relaxation from head to toe.
This book, “The Sleep Switch” combines this age-old wisdom into an easy-to-follow book for children that could help them:

  • Get a better night’s sleep
  • Reduced stress or worry
  • Improve attention
  • Fall asleep faster
  • Establish a lifelong sleep routine
  • And more…

“The Sleep Switch” is not just a story; it’s an essential tool for parents to teach their children how to unwind and find serenity before bedtime. With its charming illustrations and calming words, this book is perfect for children aged 3 and above, helping them drift off into dreamland with ease.

Learning how to relax themselves to sleep will empower your child for a lifetime.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

School, work, chores, errands, sports, hobbies, work-outs, life keeps us moving, but that doesn’t always translate into falling asleep as soon as our head hits the pillow. For many of us, our minds and bodies didn’t get the memo it’s time to power down and recharge our metaphorical batteries. We toss. We turn. We count sheep. We stare at the ceiling or watch the clock in frustration. A child who can’t sleep equals a parent who can kiss sleep goodbye, too. 

The Sleep Switch is an illustrated children’s book, but adults can also benefit from the breathing and relaxation techniques. Breathe in through your nose and out your mouth, simple instructions that can make a big difference in your sleepy time routine. The writer introduced the idea of settling into a comfy sleep position and then saying good night to sixteen body parts, starting at your head and finishing with a “good night” to your toes. With every “good night” spoken, the day’s stresses and excitement get pushed further down until they disappear. A body becomes more relaxed; your head is at peace, and you are ready to enter dreamland. 

As an adult, I found reading this story during the daytime relaxing. The calming words and the illustrations of children resting did cause me to yawn. For that, I recommend including the book in your nap time routine. 

Amazon’s recommended reading age is between 3-9 years. That is a perfect suggested age group. The rhyme scheme would make a fantastic story for independent readers. Everyone, kids and adults, will be amazed by the beautiful, colorful illustrations, especially the glowing string lights (artist: Wathmi de Zoysa). Most importantly, this story should make falling asleep a breeze. 

Read The Sleep Switch by Laurie McMillan and then enjoy the sweet sounds of your snoring child(ren). 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Laurie McMillan is a wife, a mom, a Yaya, inventor, and lifelong meditator.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , ,

January 8, 2024 · 7:00 am

The Taekwonderoos: Rescue at Rattling Ridge by Michael Panzner (Book Review)

Come Join the Adventure!

Hop into an action-packed adventure with George, Brianna and Jackson, kangaroo friends who are masters of taekwondo. When they spot a frightened joey trapped at the top of treacherous Rattling Ridge, the three Taekwonderoos spring into action, using their kicking, jumping and spinning skills to navigate cliffs, boulders and ravines on a daring rescue mission. This thrilling tale of bravery celebrates how courage, quick-thinking, and teamwork can overcome any challenge.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Taekwondo is a Korean martial art whose practice is well-known to improve a student’s posture, flexibility, balance, and stamina. Besides the physical benefits, it also improves mental health by increasing self-esteem, confidence, and self-discipline. It also enhances a person’s focus, which is important when delivering strikes and kicks. Taekwondo also teaches compassion, courage, and kindness, qualities that George, Brianna, and Jackson needed when they raced off to help a kangaroo in distress.

When the trio discovered the joey (young kangaroo) afraid, alone, and helpless on the cliff, the friends banded together to save the youngster from danger. They relied on their individual strengths and assisted each other to complete a job. George’s sharp mind enabled him to plan out their mission. Jackson’s fast-moving paws and precision kicks made constructing a ladder out of vines and branches look easy-peasy. The rocks were no match for Brianna’s impeccable reflexes. All three of them worked as a team, kicking, spinning, and chopping their way into a beautiful, sturdy bridge that could transport them safely over the ravine.

The death-defying rescue mission at Rattling Ridge in Australia reminded the trio that they could overcome challenges by working together. They stressed that bravery and quick thinking are crucial when facing danger. They also mentioned how discipline, focus, and determination are powerful allies. More importantly, the three kangaroos gained a new respect for one another.

The Taekwonderoos: Rescue at Rattling Ridge is an action-packed children’s book that teaches readers the importance of teamwork, helping others, utilizing your strengths, and summoning courage when tackling any challenge. In addition to that, it also has phenomenal illustrations that will impress and delight readers, young and old.

I recommend the story for preschoolers and up. 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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.

Amazon Author Page Link
Instagram Link
Facebook Link
X Link

 

Illustrator
 
Lora Look is an illustrator with a master’s degree in fine art. She has dedicated 12 years of training (art school, college, university) to having the skills necessary to create beautiful illustrations and achieve the best results for her authors. When she draws, she imagines children with family or friends flipping through the pages of a book, looking at the pictures, and immersing themselves in the magical world of colors and words. She hopes she makes the world a better place.

 

1 Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

January 4, 2024 · 7:00 am

Mama’s Love Language by Elisa Stad (Book Review)

The Flavor of Belonging in Culturally Diverse Families

Jade is a girl who lives in two worlds and, coming from a multicultural family, she’s on a quest to understand her identity and where she truly belongs.

She is trying to find her place in the world but feels different from the other kids at school. Back home, Jade’s parents have their unique approach to love and care. Sometimes Jade is embarrassed by Mama’s accent and she can’t understand why she is not just like any other mother she knows.

The real adventure unfolds when Jade starts rebelling against her mother’s traditional ways of showing love, especially through food. It’s a struggle that takes her on a path of discovery, as she learns about her family’s rich heritage and her mother’s challenging past in Vietnam and as an immigrant.

Jade then discovers that even though Mama doesn’t hug or say I love you, the healing aroma of ginger, green onions, and chicken broth does.

“Mama’s Love Language” is a heartwarming children’s book that addresses the universal theme of belonging and the beauty of cultural diversity. Through Jade’s story, children will learn that being different is not only okay but something to be celebrated, and that love can come in many shapes and forms.

This book is ideal for children the ages of 4-9

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

It can be challenging to find your place in the world. People raised in interracial or multicultural households often question their cultural identity. Jade felt like she lived in two worlds since her mother was Chinese and her father was American. She wondered, Who am I? As Jade ponders this question, we gain insight into how she viewed her parents and, subsequently, how she viewed herself. 

Jade mentioned that her dad works late but is always there to tuck her in at night. He loves giving hugs, unlike her Mama. Jade notes that her Mama isn’t a hugger. She does, however, pick her up from school every day. She ensures homework is completed, bellies are full, and vitamins are consumed. Jade mentions being embarrassed by her mother because people had trouble understanding her due to her accent. Jade was annoyed her mother couldn’t pronounce the “d” in her name and always called her “Jay.”

The illustrated group shot of the children’s self-portraits expresses Jade’s need to look and act like someone she’s not. Like Jade, people often try to alter themselves to fit into what society calls “normal,” but that rarely leads to happiness. This scene would create a great talking point with your child or class. Ask them if they ever feel like they don’t belong.

Voices were raised. Tears were shed. However, once tempers calmed down, the family had a real eye-opening conversation. Jade discovered why her Mama was vigilant in making sure her daughter studied hard and ate well. She learned that parents can show love in many ways. Some give hugs and kisses. Some show love through food and caring for you when you’re sick. Jade came to appreciate her Mama and embraced her Chinese heritage, which made everyone happy! 

The story includes a few challenging words that children might need help understanding or pronouncing. But this gives children room to expand their knowledge, which I loved! Share this story with your family and teach children to love where they came from and who they are!

The author’s recommended reading is 4-9 years. 


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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Elisa Stad, for the majority of her career, was a brand and international business executive for luxury goods and consumer product companies. After experiencing working in over 40 countries, she acquired a passion for globalization and the sharing of cultures based on her experiences. Elisa is also focused on inspiring the youth through her efforts in healthcare inequities through Stad Center of Pain, Palliative, and Integrative Medicine and serves on college boards at USC, UCSF and Harvard.

Elisa grew up in a mixed-race household, as a daughter of a Vietnamese refugee mother and American father. She grew up in a multicultural home, searching for identity. She also moved homes often in her childhood including to Asia and within the US to Idaho and California.

She always wanted to share with other young children the beauty of humanity and how we can celebrate our unique gifts. You can find her enjoying ballet, visiting local Asian street markets, practicing yoga, and focusing on her spiritual practice. Elisa lives in Southern California with her husband, 3 children and a bernedoodle.

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

1 Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Tagged as , , , , , , , , , ,