Tag Archives: children’s books

A Secret Hatch (Plaza Patatta Book 1) by Nanda Roep (Book Review)

The restaurant is called Plaza Patatta. Luna and Lisa are thrilled that their dad is building a kids’ restaurant in their giant new house. There’s just one problem: he can’t cook at all. While helping out, Luna and Lisa discover a mysterious hatch. Where could it lead?

Plaza Patatta is a fun and adventurous mystery for children aged 8 to 12, filled with humor and excitement. Perfect for fans of series like The Magic Tree HouseDiary of a Wimpy Kid, of Geronimo Stilton and ideal for both avid and reluctant readers. Plaza Patatta combines family, friendship, and a touch of suspense to keep young readers hooked from start to finish. After captivating young readers in The Netherlands, this delightful series is now available in English!

Perfect for readers aged 8 to 12, this beloved European series combines laugh-out-loud humor with page-turning mysteries. Plaza Patatta is loved by both reluctant readers and bookworms, making it a hit for kids of all reading levels.

Fans of The Boxcar Children, A Series of Unfortunate Events, or Goosebumps will love this action-packed series filled with fun surprises and unforgettable characters.

Looking for a perfect gift? Plaza Patatta combines entertainment with valuable life lessons about friendship, family, and curiosity. Ideal for long car rides, quiet afternoons, or bedtime reading!

Join Luna and Lisa as they turn their quirky family restaurant into the setting for endless adventures. Order your copy of Plaza Patatta today and discover why readers across Europe can’t get enough of this thrilling series!”


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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.

 

Luna, Lisa, and their two parents, Marian and Howard Richardson, have recently inherited a large farmhouse in Woodford from Howard’s great-aunt. Howard brainstorms what he will do with their “colossal” new home. I loved his reasoning for not wanting to raise dairy cows. I prefer not getting up early, either! A few more ideas were shared before Howard settled on opening a children’s restaurant. That idea would be brilliant if Howard could cook. Unfortunately, his kids do not think their dad’s cooking skills are remotely close to Wolfgang Punk’s or Gordon Ramsey’s. When Marian, the famous opera singer, is out of town, the girls and their dad fill their bellies with frozen pizza and instant meals unless Grandma comes over to cook. It’s noted that Grandma has an issue with her son staying home to care for the kids while his wife works. She believes a woman’s place is at home. That small-minded thinking is still present today, and her opinion is worth exploring during family or classroom discussions. That said, that whole section could’ve been omitted, and the story’s plot and events leading to the conclusion would not have suffered.

Ah, the plot line. The dad wants to open a restaurant, but his culinary skills are lacking. He admits that his specialty is throwing parties but vows to learn how to cook. Howard has a lot to learn about pairing flavors. Lasagna with peanut butter. Hot sandwich with salmon, broccoli, and ketchup. Pancake bread that sounded gross and harder to swallow than a mouth full of taffy. Oh my, they all sound disgusting, and the fictional kids agree. Ask listeners for their opinions on dad’s menu items. Encourage kids to share their wacky or unusual food pairings.

Lisa and Luna are concerned about the restaurant’s grand opening: Plaza Patatta, which means “the place where there are fries.” They are also concerned by the strange noises from a secret hatch hidden behind the staircase. What could be lurking under their new home: a ghost, wolves, or a tramp? The author’s use of “tramp” wouldn’t be my first pick for the possible noise maker, which is defined as “a homeless person who travels from place to place on foot.” The image depicted a “tramp” as a violent person, which is not the impression we should be teaching our kids.

The sisters’ discovery on the other side of the hatch was a complete surprise. It was an unexpected twist that could’ve been explored more. Maybe the author will revisit the hatch in other Plaza Patatta books. (No spoilers. Read the story for more details.) Many readers can guess that the dad’s culinary skills didn’t improve; however, what will amaze them is the restaurant’s unique, exciting, and creative design. The dad was right; he sure knew how to throw a party! Kids will be wishing they could visit the restaurant. Even adults will love the carefully thought-out design and food delivery system. Move over Check E. Cheese, Plaza Patatta is the place to be!

Plaza Patatta, the first story in the series, is an extraordinary tale full of excitement, adventure, and most importantly, humor. It invites you to guess what is down the hatch and at the end of the corridor, all while keeping you entertained with its witty narrative. The illustrations are phenomenal and highlight key moments of the story. I adored the unique chapter break-down. It was set up like a menu with chapter titles listed under appetizers, main courses, dessert, and side dishes. And the Who’s Who? was a brilliant way to introduce us to the cast (family).

Share this delightful and humorous story with kids ages 8-12 and check out the three delicious menu ideas, especially the Plaza Patattas (the fries.)

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

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Meet the Author

Nanda Roep is a Dutch writer and publisher, known for her work in both children’s literature and adult fiction. Her feelgood novels, often with a sharp edge, are frequently compared to those of Liane Moriarty and Joël Dicker. As the driving force behind Uitgeverij Nanda, she is dedicated to bringing her stories and creative projects to life.

With a strong background in the cultural sector—including books, theater, and animation—she constantly explores new ways to tell stories, whether through picture books, cosy mysteries, or interactive projects. Currently, she is expanding her work to international markets with English translations and continues to develop fresh, innovative concepts for readers of all ages.

✨ Her stories weave together love, secrets, quiet strength — and the mysteries that shape us.

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Good Job, Arya! by Miranda Miller and P.J. (Book Review)

BOOM! The doors swing open—and here comes Arya Bear.

She’s not here to do tricks.

She’s not here to talk.

She’s here to help—just by being exactly who she is.

With her pink bow, wild hair, and a tail that wags 100 miles per hour, Arya brings joy, calm, and just the right kind of chaos to the people who need it most.

Inspired by real-life visits, Arya Bear Adventures: Good Job, Arya! follows a registered therapy dog as she comforts kids and families during her hospital work. This gentle, heartwarming story helps young readers understand the powerful role therapy dogs play—just by showing up and being themselves.

Written by Yup’ik author Miranda Miller and her 4-year-old co-author, P.J., this book brings real moments to life through the eyes of a young child and his best furry friend. Perfect for ages 3–5, dog lovers, classrooms, and anyone who’s ever felt better just because a dog was there.


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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.

 

What is a therapy dog, and how does it differ from a service dog? Service dogs are trained to help one person with specific tasks, like guiding a blind person or alerting someone with diabetes when their blood sugar is high or low. On the other hand, therapy dogs help many people by providing comfort and companionship. These canine caretakers visit hospitals, schools, and nursing homes to help people feel calm, happy, and safe. Arya is an energetic therapy pooch who loves their job. Her tail moves at lightning speed, eager to help those in need. With a shake of her head, the pink ribbon falls, their hair poofs up, and many patients’ low spirits are instantly lifted. And if Arya’s wild fur and pink leg warmers don’t cause you to smile, wait until she presents her belly and rolls back and forth. No one can resist the silly dog. Or can they? Has Arya finally met someone whose mood can’t be lifted?

Arya notices a boy sitting all by themselves outside a hospital room. No tears. No smile. The therapy dog calmly approaches the quiet child and waits to see how the boy responds to them. Therapy animals enjoy making people feel better, so I imagine other canines would be just as confused as Arya when their presence and tricks appear to have no effect on the darling child. However, Arya’s patience and dedication are unwavering. Her efforts were celebrated with smiles, laughter, and hugs, proving that patience is oftentimes the key to success and inspiring us all with her resilience.

Arya’s visits play a vital role in a patient’s recovery. Arya and other therapy dogs’ visits can help lower stress, anxiety, and blood pressure while raising spirits. They, like doctors and nurses, are medical superheroes!

Good Job, Arya! is a cute, heartwarming story demonstrating service dogs’ remarkable impact on a patient’s emotional and physical health and even their visitors’ state of mind. This story is perfect for dog owners or canine fans, medical waiting rooms, or anyone who needs a reason to smile today.

My recommended reading age is 2-7 years.

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

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Meet the Authors

Miranda Miller and Arya.

Miranda Miranda is an Indigenous Alaskan (Yup’ik) author, entrepreneur, and mother who writes with heart, purpose, and deep cultural pride. Based in Anchorage, Alaska, she blends the warmth of her Yup’ik roots with the joy and wonder of storytelling, inspired by her own life, her son’s imagination, and her beloved therapy dog, Arya Bear.

Miranda’s stories aren’t just tales—they’re lived experiences. Her debut children’s book series, Arya Bear Adventures, celebrates emotional wellness, connection, and kindness—infused with real-life hospital visits, community heroes, and the healing magic of animals. Each character is thoughtfully based on someone from her real world, from nurses to her own family.

A passionate advocate for authenticity and Indigenous representation in children’s literature, Miranda is building a storytelling legacy that reflects the love, resilience, and imagination at the heart of her family and culture.

 

 

 

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Storma’s Unexpected Adventure: The Tales of Storma by Gina Bayar (Book Review)

A magical journey through a desert of wonders, wildlife, and unexpected friendship.

 

When a dreamy young unicorn sets out in search of the sparkling ocean, she accidentally arrives in the vast, sun-drenched Gobi Desert instead. But what begins as a mistake quickly turns into an unforgettable adventure.

In this beautifully illustrated picture book, readers journey with the unicorn as she meets the rare and wise Mazaalai (the critically endangered Gobi bear) and a kind Bactrian camel who becomes her gentle guide. Together, they explore golden dunes, singing sands, ancient dinosaur footprints, and hidden oases—discovering the wonders of one of the world’s most unique and underrepresented ecosystems.

Blending enchanting fantasy with rich, real-world educational content, The Unicorn and the Gobi Adventure introduces children to the beauty and biodiversity of the Gobi Desert, while nurturing curiosity, compassion, and the joy of discovery.

Perfect for readers aged 4–8, this story celebrates friendship, environmental awareness, and the magic of life’s unexpected paths.

 

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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.

 

Does your child love unicorns? Do they love stories involving magic or magical powers? Do they enjoy exploring new places and learning facts to share with friends or family? If you answered yes to any of these questions, your child will want to read Storma’s Unexpected Adventure.

Storma loves living in the Enchanted Forest with her family, but she wants to see more of the world and visit the places from her parents’ stories. Storma didn’t have wings like Pegasus, but she did have a magical power that made traveling a breeze: She could travel to any location just by closing her eyes and picturing the destination. Now, that’s a magical trick I’d like to have, and I’m sure other readers will want it to!

Storma used her unique magical powers to whisk themselves to a “grand ocean.” Unfortunately, her destination didn’t have an ocean in sight. Did her powers fail her? Not exactly. Her timing was a little off, like a few million years. Storma’s Unexpected Adventure takes readers across the desert, where we meet interesting characters and discover facts about the desert and those who call it home, then and now. Kids are not the only ones who might learn a thing or two about the Gobi Desert. For instance, thanks to this beautifully told story, I found out the desert is home to the rarest bear in the world, and the wind makes music there too! How fascinating!

These are not the only two interesting tidbits you’ll learn as Storma and Polka (camel guide) go in search of the “ocean.” Read the story and discover the hidden gems of the Gobi Desert. Also, check out Did You Know? to learn more about the fascinating Gobi bear, the Mazaalai! It’s a great bonus feature of the book. It’s too bad the author didn’t include fun fact pages dedicated to the desert and camels. A glossary would also be a helper tool for young readers.

This children’s book beautifully captures the Gobi Desert’s unique wildlife. The sunset scene, in particular, is lovely. The vibrant colors against the different shades of sand create a mesmerizing visual. Each scene is reminiscent of the magnetic story activity play sets, with the sticker-quality plant and animal drawings looking like they could be plucked off the page and moved to different locations. It’s a testament to the illustrator’s skill and will captivate children and parents alike. (Special note: Gina Bayar is the book’s writer and illustrator.)

Storma’s Unexpected Adventure takes readers on an extraordinary journey through the Gobi Desert, where they learn there’s more to the landscape than initially seen. Share this story with kids aged eight and under. Ask them to share where they’d visit if they had Storma’s unique magical power. Expand your knowledge and look up what else calls the desert home, past and present. Also, be on the lookout for Storma’s next story, Storma’s Gift! (Release date TBD.)

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

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Meet the Author

Gina Bayar is an author and illustrator of imaginative picture books that celebrate kindness, nature, and the magic of unexpected journeys. A lifelong dreamer and mom of two, she inspires young readers to explore, care for the planet, and believe in themselves.
 

 

 

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Bull & Bear Build a Bright Future With Bonds by Craig A Robinson (Book Review)

Bull and Bear are back with another exciting adventure that teaches young readers about the power of investing in bonds! At the advice of their trusted advisor and friend Piggy Banks, Bull & Bear visit Eagle, who manages the Moneyland Treasury, to learn about how bonds work to build new schools, parks, and roads and why they’re essential for making communities better. They also discover how bonds can help protect their savings while helping others. Through fun and engaging illustrations, this story shows kids how they can be part of building a brighter future by diversifying their investments. Perfect for young readers curious about money and how it helps create the world around them!

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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.

 

Bull and Bear return with another captivating adventure, this time delving into the educational world of investing in bonds.

Are you interested in teaching your kids or students about bonds, assets, diversifying, and other money-related terms but don’t know where to start or how to simplify the information? I recommend reading Bull & Bear Build a Bright Future with Bonds, starting with its dictionary. Understanding key terms like municipal (mun) bond, diversify, bear and bull market, stocks, and maturity will assist readers in understanding the story more. Yes, the writer did a fabulous job weaving money terms, such as principal and yield, into the story; however, reviewing the words in the glossary might clear up any confusion for younger audiences going forth in this creative and informative story.

After familiarizing yourself with the glossary, it’s time to embark on a journey with Bull, Bear, and their friends in Moneyland. Adding a city map with creatively named streets and landmarks, such as Shareholder Square and Bond, Risk and Reward River, provides a unique opportunity to expand your financial knowledge. These names can serve as talking points for families and classrooms, inspiring readers to delve deeper into the world of finance. Plus, the map was just plain cute. Especially seeing the two friends ride down Wall Street on their bikes. Nice red helmet, Bear!

As we follow Bull and Bear to Moneyland Treasury, Eagle breaks down how bonds help our community and are a stable investment in this topsy-turvy economy. Help your city while earning interest… it was a no-brainer for Bear and Bull. It was, in their words, the best thing to do.

While Bull & Bear Build a Bright Future with Bonds is designed for children aged 5-10, it offers a fun and engaging learning experience for readers of all ages. The delightful characters and rhyming sentences, courtesy of the talented Craig Robinson, make learning about bonds an enjoyable experience. Share this book with your family or students and consider adding bonds to your portfolio.

Bull & Bear Build a Bright Future with Bonds did have an extensive glossary; however, kids might be puzzled by the financial sphere, which was not listed in the book’s dictionary. Also, while fans should recall the Golden Rule, this term might be foreign to new readers; therefore, I suggest adding it to the dictionary. All in all, Bull & Bear Build a Bright Future with Bonds does what the other books in the series do: it educates through creative storytelling and likable characters!

Check out every Bull and Bear money-themed book; they are educational and fun!

 

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

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Meet the Author

Author Craig A. Robinson has worked in the investment management industry for over twenty years, Craig has firsthand knowledge of our country’s lack of financial literacy and what it costs the average American. He wrote a children’s book to introduce the topic of financial literacy to children.

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Daddy Needs a Beer by Greg Betz (Book Review)

Being a dad is hard. Laughing about it is mandatory!

Packed with laugh-out-loud honesty, Daddy Needs a Beer is the brutally funny, baby-told tribute to fatherhood that’s every bit exhausting, challenging, and the best gift dad never knew he needed.

Perfect for:

  • Dads who tell the worst jokes

  • Husbands who “supervise” bedtime

  • Father’s Day shoppers

Grab a copy, crack a beer, and give Dad what he really wants this year — a break and a good laugh.

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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.

 

Parenthood is exhausting. From the moment our little ones enter our lives, we are on the go, go, go. It’s a messy and (yes) stinky job. We are our child(ren)’s chef, bather, butt wiper, playmate, doctor, teacher, and much more. Is it no wonder so many parents are operating on fumes by the end of the day? And let’s be real here: many parents enjoy an alcoholic beverage at the end of the day if time permits it or you’re not too fatigued to enjoy it.

Daddy Needs a Beer is a delightfully humorous story from a baby’s perspective. From the morning the infant awakens till it’s time to say good night, the baby acknowledges everything their father does without complaint while also weaving in the topic of a beer into each daddy-baby moment. The dad’s reaction to changing a diaper, a task all parents can relate to, is a perfect example. His smile while holding the dirty diaper with two fingers is a scene that could easily be from any parent’s life, and it’s sure to bring a chuckle to your lips.

The adorable baby in Daddy Needs a Beer loves every moment spent with their father, as do numerous other children. They remark they have nothing to fear when their dad throws them up into the air while recognizing that babies are heavy so that the act will tire the parent’s muscles. Oh, how true that is! Babies and toddlers love to be picked up, but it takes a toll over time. Babies aren’t the only ones who can benefit from a nap. Though the child could not verbalize their appreciation in words, their laughter and smiling face spoke volumes. Every smile, giggle, and hug makes all the sore muscles and sleepless nights worth it.

Every father-child moment featured in Daddy Needs a Beer has happened or will happen with you and your little one. Remember these points for those who are iffy about reading a book where a child keeps putting dad and beer in the same thought. Kids are quite perceptive, so their mental thinking, “Daddy is earning that beer,” is probably more accurate than we think. Second, many parents drink cocktails, beer, wine, or spirits, so let’s not tip our noses to the comedic storyline. Lastly, the dad didn’t drink while the baby was awake. He waited until the child was asleep for the night. Again, this is a move many parents make every day.

Messes come in all sizes, and mealtime is high on that list with young children. I laughed at the prints along the floor and wall, in the father spoon-feeding his baby. That is a lesson to all parents: use a highchair next time so the child can’t crawl away. I love that the illustrator presented the father in a blue silhouette. It allows fathers reading the story to picture themselves as the central star.

Daddy Needs a Beer is a wonderful, amusing story that shows how hard parents work and, most importantly, the child’s appreciation for everything we do. Daddy Needs a Beer is perfect for soon-to-be fathers or as a Father’s Day gift. “Grab a copy, crack a beer, and give Dad what he really wants this year — a break and a good laugh.”

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

I’m a first-time author sharing a lighthearted, heartfelt look at fatherhood. This playful, rhyming picture book captures the messy, funny, and loving moments that make parenting unforgettable—for kids and parents alike.
 

 

 

 

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