Tag Archives: elementary school

November 19, 2025 · 7:00 am

A Squirrely Christmas (Clover & Pumpkin) by Megan K Palmer (Book Review)

Get ready for a nutty adventure in the heart of the forest with A Squirrely Christmas – a funny and heartwarming Christmas picture book for kids!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the forest animals, especially baby bunny can’t wait for their annual Christmas Tree Decorating Extravaganza. This year, the squirrels-Clover and Pumpkin-are in charge of decking out the grand Christmas tree. But are these two fluffy friends up for the challenge?

Join a lovable cast of forest creatures in this playful Christmas book for children ages 2-7 that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and turning the chaos of the holidays into fun. Laugh along as Clover and Pumpkin learn the true meaning of the season-working together, slowing down, and sharing Christmas cheer!

With adorable illustrations and a playful speech bubble story, this Christmas book is perfect for holiday read-alouds with toddlers and preschoolers, teachers and librarians looking for festive Christmas books, or a great Christmas gift for readers who love forest animals and holiday humor.

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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.

 

Christmas is quickly approaching, and I found the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit: A Squirrely Christmas by Megan Palmer. Each year, a different forest animal is selected to decorate a tree for the holiday; this year, it’s the squirrel’s turn to take the reins. The decorating extravaganza did not go smoothly for Pumpkin and Clover, the very energetic squirrel buddies. They quickly learned the repercussions for rushing the decorating process.

Christmas lights are pretty to look at, but more often than not, they can become a tangled mess, which is what these two forest friends experienced. They should have adopted the “slow and steady wins the race” approach to Christmas tree decorating, rather than competing to see who can finish first and becoming entangled in the strings. In the end, the squirrels learn the importance of taking their time and working together as a team.

A Squirrely Christmas is a wonderful and amusing holiday story. Kids will laugh at the colorful drawings of the squirrels’ bungled attempt to string the lights and Pumpkin’s face when he was caught eating on the job. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing the squirrels completed tree and the lovely polaroids of decorated trees from past years. Encourage your family or students to vote for the one they think wins best in show. I’m casting my ballot for team reindeer! Also, everyone is sure to learn something new about squirrels and evergreens on their facts page; I certainly did, so don’t skip these informative pages! Share your newfound knowledge with friends, classmates, and family members!

With a recommended reading age of 2-7 years, A Squirrely Christmas is the perfect choice for young readers. Its fun-filled storyline, amusing illustrations, and educational facts make it a must-have for the holiday season. Share this delightful book with your family and make it a part of your holiday traditions!

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤1/2
(rounded to 5 on Amazon and Goodreads)

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Meet the Author

Megan K. Palmer is a creator, writer, book reviewer, and educator. She’s obsessed with tears, laughter, and the writing process. Perhaps it’s because they go together at times. She graduated from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with an Ed.M. education at Brigham Young University.

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November 14, 2025 · 7:00 am

Wander by Holly Valero (Book Review)

Wander begins with a dreaming bear waking from hibernation, and meanders along across the seasons, exploring the environment, encountering wildlife and sharing new experiences before returning to hibernation at the end of the year.

This story is told from the bear’s perspective – imagined via rich bearish glyphs representing the bear’s language. A full glossary of pictographs serves as a reference to check your understanding.

Wander illustrates the richness, complexity and validity of all life.

The Apple Books version includes tappable glyphs with short definitions.

Ages 9+

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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.

 

Wander is a wordless children’s book that allows readers to infer what is happening on each page using expressive illustrations and pictorial symbols along the side of each page. Readers might wonder what these symbols mean. How do they relate to the beautifully crafted illustrative pages? At first glance, some symbols can be confusing for kids and (possibly) adults. There are a few symbols that kids should be able to deduce their meaning without guidance, such as the flame representing a hot or warm day, and the wavy lines representing water. There are animal symbols, too, which should not stump the author’s target audience: 9+ years. However, with 72 symbols in total, the author realizes readers will need help, so they have thoughtfully included a glossary page for the glyphs. My advice: bookmark these pages because you will need them!

Wander, with or without glyphs, is a book that sparks the imagination of children of all ages. The bright, bold illustrated pages are perfect to catch a baby and toddler’s attention. For kids three and older, the illustrative story will undoubtedly be a source of joy and serve as a valuable tool for cognitive development, allowing them to express their thoughts and interpretations of the pages.

Wander is full of expressive imagery, where, as the saying goes, a photo really does say a thousand words. We watch as a bear emerges from hibernation during spring to greet the seasonal changes. His watchful expression is mirrored by the puffy-looking, but adorable, bubble bees. He greets a bright two-tone caterpillar who probably wishes the bear slept a bit longer. The bear’s exploration of the seasonal changes leads him to a stream where his path crosses with a reptile. As summer turns into fall, the sweet bear finds himself in a precarious situation. Young readers can infer the mood during the autumn months by looking at the characters’ eyes; no decoder needed for these pages! The animal’s journey in Wander comes full circle, beginning with a large, brown bear waking from hibernation and concluding with snowflakes signaling it’s time to hibernate once more.

Wander, a brightly colored pictograph storybook, is recommended by the author for children nine years and older. While the pictographs and in-depth conversation are suitable for this age group, the illustrations are timeless, making it a book that families can cherish for many years to come.

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Born in Miami, Florida in the early 1960’s, Holly Valero grew up on a sheep farm in rural Pennsylvania. A life-long writer, artist and advocate for equality and social justice. Holly lives in Southern Maine with her partner, Janet McKenney.

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November 7, 2025 · 7:00 am

Aloe Vera’s Special Gift by Jeanette Gil (Book Review)

Discover the Healing Power of Being YOU! 🌿

A heartwarming picture book about self-worth, kindness, and the hidden magic of aloe vera.

When Aloe Vera looks around the garden, she sees brilliant blossoms and dazzling petals—while she feels plain and prickly in comparison. No one seems to notice her… until a summer day brings sunburns, scrapes, and rashes—and Aloe steps in to help.

As Aloe uses her soothing gel to heal her garden friends, she begins to understand something powerful: what makes her different also makes her extraordinary.

“Aloe Vera’s Special Gift” is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that gently weaves together themes of self-acceptance, emotional resilience, and the real-life benefits of aloe vera plants. Perfect for ages 3–8, this uplifting story helps young readers recognize their own unique value—and reminds us all that true beauty isn’t always what we see on the surface.

Kids will learn:

  • Everyone has unique gifts that matter
  • Kindness and empathy make us strong
  • Nature is full of healing wonders
  • Being different is something to celebrate

Whether read at bedtime, in a classroom, or during a SEL (Social-Emotional Learning) circle, this book is a gentle reminder to bloom exactly as you are—and to see the beauty in every leaf, petal, and person.

Ideal for:

  • Children ages 3–8
  • Nature lovers and little gardeners
  • SEL and mindfulness programs
  • Classrooms, therapy sessions, and home libraries
  • Fans of “The Invisible String” and “What If Everybody Did That?”

🌸 Plant the seeds of self-love and healing—add “Aloe Vera’s Special Gift” to your bookshelf today!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

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

 

Aloe Vera is a thick, prickly plant that, from the outside, may look ordinary, but on the inside, it possesses extraordinary healing powers. Sunburns. Itchy skin. Chapped areas. Aloe can soothe skin issues caused by the changing seasons. Aloe learns this amazing fact after wishing she were more like the pretty and pleasantly fragrant neighboring flowers.

Aloe Vera wished she had bright pets like Rose and smelled as lovely as Lavender. Perhaps then the birds and insects would visit her, and she wouldn’t feel so lonely. No longer feel unseen. As the story progresses, Aloe and the viewing audience learn that true beauty comes from within through kindness and compassion.

Aloe didn’t always feel beautiful or special, but they soon discover just how special they are thanks to a rabbit with a not-so-lucky foot. Bunny wasn’t the only animal in need of Aloe’s amazing, cool, soothing gel. Read the story to discover who else stops by for Aloe’s help. See what happens to the garden flowers when the seasons change. Watch a lonely plant find its smile as it embarks on a transformative journey, coming to understand what is more important in life: not how you look, but who you are on the inside.

Aloe Vera’s Special Gift is an uplifting picture book that encourages kids to embrace who they are, focus on their inner beauty, and spread kindness with its heartwarming storyline and vibrant illustrations. Share this touching story with your family or students and let them see the marvelous, real-life benefits of aloe vera plants. Amazon’s recommended reading age is 3-8. This is an excellent age bracket for story comprehension and discussions. Even though babies and toddlers won’t understand the dialogue, they’ll love looking at all the flowers, insects, and animals, making this a story kids will enjoy for years.

Order your copy today and share the beauty of aloe vera!

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Jeanette Gil is a passionate Cuban American storyteller with a deep love for nature and the power of healing. As a devoted advocate for kindness, self-care, and personal growth, Jeanette enjoys writing stories that inspire young minds to embrace compassion and empathy. Jeanette brings a unique perspective to children’s literature, creating stories that resonate with both children and parents alike.

Most importantly, Jeanette is a proud grandmother to two amazing babies, who inspire her every day. Her garden in Miami, where a particular aloe plant hosts a sunbathing lizard each afternoon, sparked the inspiration for this debut book. When not writing, she enjoys tending to her plants, reading, spending time at the beach, relaxing in the sun, and engaging in family and community activities.

Aloe Vera’s Special Gift is Jeanette’s first children’s book, reflecting her commitment to nurturing young hearts with messages of love, care, and healing. She finds endless inspiration in the simple beauty of life and the joy of connecting with loved ones.

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October 27, 2025 · 7:00 am

Polly, Stubby & Al by Donahue B. Silvis (Book Review)

BEN and SARA DONOVAN live in a small community called Wolfe Lake with their two daughters, six year old MEGAN and eight year old KATIE. They have two pets, Polly a multi-colored talking parrot and Stubby a tan colored, bowlegged bulldog. Ben owns a small landscaping business. Sara is a housewife and animal lover. One day Sara, Megan, Katie and Stubby are walking in the woods. They see an injured black crow lying on the ground. Sara picks up the crow, takes him home and nurse’s him back to health. When healed and turned loose the crow does not return to the wild. He chooses to remain with the family. They name him Al and he becomes one of their pets.

The family had become used to Polly’s chatter but a week later they’re amazed when Al speaks. Their everyday life, as they know it, is about to take an abrupt and hilarious change. From that day forward nothing is the same, in the Donovan household, as Al becomes a funny and mischievous character.

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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.

 

Polly, Stubby & Al will make you laugh, make you cry, and might prompt your children to ask for a pet crow and not just any ordinary crow, one with a split tongue. Why this particular kind of crow, you may ask. We quickly learn that a crow’s split tongue enables them to speak. This ability generated many humorous scenes with Al, the talking crow, as the main star. Al wasn’t the only chatterbox in the Donovan household; Polly, the parrot, also entertained the family with their words. The real, unexpected jaw-dropping moment was when the parrot altered their voice to sound like Mama Sara and AL. They used this talent to prank the crow and Stubby, the bowlegged bulldog. Too funny.

Many families have dogs as pets. Some homes might even have a parrot, but a crow isn’t your typical idea of a family pet. So, how did Al, the crow, find his way into their family? It was a chance encounter. Sara saw the bird injured and nursed it back to health. She intended for him to live out in the wild; however, Al had other plans, and the family soon discovered he was indeed a very special bird. Al enjoyed joining Megan and Katie at the lake as the young sisters fished. He came when Mama Sara called his name. The crow’s word choices and his mischievous antics were very entertaining to watch.

Al’s naughtiness will have you laughing. If the text doesn’t make you giggle, some of the colorful illustrations will. As I said in the introduction, this story will make you laugh, but it’ll also make some cry. The storm scene was very moving. I cried when Al cried out for “Mama.” I figured he would be saved, but the journey to their reunion and then the reunion itself had me reaching for tissues again and again. Maybe they will for you, as well. Even though I adored every funny and sad scene, there were unfortunately several editing mistakes. That said, I recommend another editing pass.

Though the story needed more TLC, it is still a remarkable chapter book. I recommend sharing with your children, ages 5-10.

 

Author’s note: “Polly, Stubby & Al is a true story. It’s about my grandparents and their two young daughters, who are my mother and aunt. It took place in the 1920s.”

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

I’m an alumnus of the renowned Pasadena Playhouse Drama School; then, I graduated from Florida Atlantic University. As a member of the Screen Actors Guild, I worked in movies as an actor and screenwriter. I’ve also written seven novels, eight screenplays, and one illustrated children’s book.

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October 6, 2025 · 7:00 am

Monsters Don’t Say Meep: Even the tiniest roar can make the biggest difference by Bridgetta Tomarchio (Book Review)

It was supposed to be a magical night…
until a few mischievous kittens turned it into chaos.
Can the tiniest voice save the day?

At Monster Scare Prep School, every monster is practicing their scariest roar. But when Meep tries, all that comes out is a squeaky little “meep.” The others laugh—until real trouble strikes, and Meep may be the only one who can save the day.

Will he find his roar—or discover that being himself is more than enough?

Funny, playful, and full of heart, Monsters Don’t Say Meep is a laugh-out-loud monster adventure about courage, individuality, and the magic of being yourself—reminding us that sometimes the smallest voice makes the biggest impact.

Perfect for bedtime, classrooms, and storytime, this book will have kids (and adults) cheering for their own true voices.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Halloween is quickly approaching, and as kids decide which costume to wear this year, the students at the Monster Scare Prep School are practicing their scariest roars for The Monsters’ Ball’s biggest roar contest. Every monster that took the stage gave their mightiest roar, but when it was Meep’s turn, all he could manage was to squeak out a “meep.” The two-horned, green monster’s failed attempt was met with laughter from its classmates, causing their shoulders to slump in embarrassment or humiliation. Many readers will empathize with Meep’s situation and reaction.

Meep faced laughter on more than one occasion over their weak roar. Each time, the mockery instantly dampened his spirits, but he vowed to find his roar in time for the ball. This determination and perseverance in the face of adversity is a powerful message that will inspire and motivate young readers. But the million-dollar question is, did Meep find their roar? Did they win the contest? Those questions will be answered when you read the book, and I hope you decide to share it with your family or students!

Monsters Don’t Say Meep had a wonderful collection of colorful monsters. There were monsters with two eyes or one huge eye. Monsters with horns, spikes, or even both. There were monsters with bright, white teeth, as well as several that were toothless. There were a few surprise party crashers and a DJ duck spinning the turntable. Yes, you read that right…Monsters Don’t Say Meep had a duck for a DJ!

Monsters Don’t Say Meep did have a few design issues and one noticeable editing mistake; overall, though, it was a delightful story that discourages laughing at someone’s mistake while encouraging young listeners to keep trying. The creature’s laughter did hurt Meep’s feelings, but it didn’t deter them from their goal. This is a powerful lesson in empathy and understanding, and we should all follow Meep’s example: keep striving to reach your goal(s)!

Monsters Don’t Say Meep teaches kids that it’s okay to be look or sound different, to embrace what makes you unique. This story had many endearing qualities. The scene featuring the monsters “polishing their fangs” and “fluffing their fur” was quite humorous. While the bat’s wings and nose were a bit off the mark, the animal was still adorable. I bet young viewers will giggle over Meep’s headpiece and his expulsion of air.

I recommend sharing the book with kids aged 3-8 years. Use this story as a lead-in to an art activity: designing a monster or a jack o’lantern. Make it a part of your classroom party! At school or at home, Monsters Don’t Say Meep teaches important lessons to young listeners while entertaining them with its cute, colorful, Halloween-themed illustrations.

Help your kids find their voice by reading Monsters Don’t Say Meep!

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Bridgetta Tomarchio is an author, ghostwriter, and PR powerhouse who has helped countless entrepreneurs and creatives bring their stories to life. Founder of Plot Twist Ink, she coaches writers from concept to bestseller, drawing on 20+ years of experience in media, publishing, and publicity. Her career spans actress, host, producer, and publicist for celebrities and high-profile clients, giving her an unmatched eye for storytelling that captivates both readers and the media. Bridgetta’s own writing blends raw honesty, empowerment, and heart—whether she’s crafting memoir, children’s adventures, or bold fiction. Her greatest inspiration is her 5-year-old son, Lucian, who fuels her imagination and serves as her enthusiastic “guinea pig” for children’s stories. With every project, Bridgetta weaves purpose, passion, and authenticity—helping others find their voice and transform their stories into legacies.

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