Tag Archives: elementary school

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.

Amazon Author Page Link
Website Link
Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Wiggles McGee- The Magic Within by Sogol Johnson (Book Review)

Wiggles McGee: The Magic Within is a heartwarming and empowering picture book that gently guides children-and their grown-ups-through the ups and downs of big feelings. At its core, this story is about the quiet power of self-compassion, resilience, and the inner magic that comes from choosing kindness, especially toward ourselves.

When a tough moment sends Wiggles McGee into a whirlwind of frustration, he begins a journey of discovery grounded in the ancient Zoroastrian values of Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds. With the loving support of his teacher and friends, Wiggles learns that kindness isn’t just something we give to others-it’s something we first learn to offer ourselves. Whether it’s speaking gently to our own mistakes or pausing to breathe when emotions feel too big, the story shows that true connection starts from the inside out.

Designed with both children and caregivers in mind, the book weaves together playful storytelling, emotional literacy, and somatic wisdom in a way that feels accessible and real. Included at the end are a few simple, trauma-informed nervous system exercises-perfect for those everyday meltdowns, tough transitions, or tender moments when a deep breath can go a long way.

Wiggles McGee: The Magic Within is more than a story-it’s a practical invitation to slow down, get curious, and build emotional resilience as a family. It reminds us all that even in our messiest moments, there’s magic waiting to be found.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

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

 

Wiggles McGee- The Magic Within begins by amazing audiences with Wiggles McGee’s construction talents. However, his joy quickly turned to anger when his train tracks suddenly broke apart in epic proportions. Confused. Sad. Angry. His body was overflowing with negative emotions, a feeling we all can relate to at times. He let them loose, knocking over an easel and scaring classmates. His teacher, Miss Huggleberry, didn’t scold him or negate his feelings. After a few calming breaths, Miss Huggleberry was ready to share how she deals with big emotions. It’s called Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds.

Good Thoughts asks readers to name something kind about themselves, replacing negative thoughts with positive ones. The point of Good Words is to spread happiness and kindness even when we are upset. When McGee focused on what he said during his angry outburst, he realized how his words scared his classmates. He learned it’s never okay to take your anger out on others. In the last step, Good Deeds, Miss Huggleberry asks her student to think of a kind act he can do for others and himself.

We all experience “big” feelings and might not always handle them properly. Wiggles McGee- The Magic Within is a children’s picture book, but the Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds method is not just for children. It’s a universal message that we could all use a reminder to be kind to ourselves and spread kindness, even when we are upset. Caregivers might also struggle with how to handle their child(ren)’s angry outbursts. In “Bonus Tips for Grown-ups,” the author emphasizes that children are not born knowing how to handle their emotions, and I agree. We must help them navigate their feelings by modeling appropriate behavior and providing them with tools to handle them. There are nine “science-backed, nervous-system supportive ways to show up for a child” when big emotions occur. I encourage all caregivers to read this section carefully because, as the writer so eloquently stated, “These small acts of presence create lasting change.”

Wiggles McGee-The Magic Within is a delightful and educational picture book that will appeal to readers of all ages. While the tip page is aimed at adults, the charming illustrations are sure to captivate everyone. Personally, I was drawn to the teacher’s wavy hair, which was beautifully highlighted and grew wilder with each frame. The book also offers some light-hearted moments that will bring a smile to your face. I found one scene, in particular, toot-riffic!

Join McGee on his journey to manage his emotions using Good Thoughts, Good Words, and Good Deeds! My recommended reading age is 2-9 years.

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Sogol Johnson, MA, ACC, is a trauma-informed coach and the author of Wiggles McGee. A former Fortune 500 design leader, she traded boardrooms for bedtime stories with a vision to prevent childhood trauma before it starts. She lives in sunny California, where her days are filled with storytelling, coaching, watercolor painting, and joyful adventures with her son—who constantly reminds her what presence really means.

Amazon Author Page Link

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Rocky’s Courageous Rescue by Michelle Krumenacher (Book Review)

Do you want to encourage your kids to be bold, brave, and courageous?

In Rocky’s Courageous Rescue, a small rock hyrax named Rocky is called on to help with an important task that only a small hyrax could complete. Read along as Rocky learns what matters most to God and how even a small hyrax can accomplish great things for God.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

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

 

Have you ever heard of a rock hyrax? The rock hyrax, a unique and fascinating small mammal native to Africa and the Middle East, takes center stage in the captivating tale of Rocky’s Courageous Rescue.

In this beautifully illustrated children’s book, we meet Rocky, a rock hyrax who wishes he could jump as far as his friends. But his short legs, which have failed him more than once, make him doubt his abilities. With the help of a friend, he finds the courage to leap off a rock. Rocky didn’t have the most graceful landing, causing him to feel emotions many of us feel when we fail in front of others: humiliation and embarrassment. This incident leads Rocky to question if he will always be the smallest hyrax. His mother’s response incorporates her/the author’s faith: “God doesn’t look at the outside; He looks at the heart.” Whether you believe in God or not, the underlying message applies to all. Size has no relevance to who you are; your heart and actions are what truly define you. During one rainy night, Rocky demonstrated he had a kind and generous heart.

Rocky displayed courage in this sweet, inspiring, and faith-infused children’s book. When fear surfaced, he turned to God, a common response among many people during times of difficulty or distress. Did God guide him across the gap to a friend in a precarious predicament? Those of faith would agree that someone was watching over the small but mighty rock hyrax, watching over all the animals.

Everyone has that one thing they’d love to change, including Rocky, the adorable gerbil-looking hero. In Rocky’s Courageous Rescue, kids learn that we are perfect just the way we are. Rocky hated being the smallest, but his short stature turned out to be the ideal fit for the touch job, saving Boulder’s life.

Rocky’s Courageous Rescue encourages us to love ourselves and embrace our uniqueness. For Christians, it reminds readers to lean on God in both good and troubled times. Whether you’re religious or not, Rocky’s Courageous Rescue is an uplifting and inspiring story about finding your courage and believing in yourself; it’s a tale that can resonate with a broad audience.

Amazon has the book set for children aged 3 to 8 years. Some words might be too advanced for pre-k listeners, but they will still enjoy the story and its darling illustrations. I recommend sharing Rocky’s journey with your kids and reading What is the Rock Hyrax?” In this informative section, we learn that these cute, gerbil-looking animals have roots in the Bible, they have a very interesting body structure, an unforgettable alarm sound, and much more.

Rocky’s Courageous Rescue is a remarkable story featuring an adorable and rarely utilized animal in a children’s book, the rock hyrax. Share this book with your kids or students and learn more about this fascinating creature. Watch as Rocky pushes his doubts and fears aside to become the story’s hero!

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Michelle Krumenacher is an up-and-coming author. Her first book is a children’s book entitled Rocky’s Courageous Rescue. Michelle was inspired by her safari trip in Kenya to write a story about the not-so-well-known rock hyraxes, which her family fell in love with.

Michelle is married to the man of her dreams, and they homeschool their 3 boys. Michelle is passionate about Jesus, orphans, travel, and her family. Michelle and her family work with an organization called World Renewal Burundi. You can find out more HERE.

Goodreads Link
Website Link
Instagram Link
Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Review)

A heartwarming adventure about friendship, inclusion, and finding your tribe.

Dingo and Penny do everything together—from games and homework to dreaming about exploring the great outdoors. So, when it’s time to join a local scouting group, they can’t wait to sign up… until they discover there’s no Girl Scouts troop in town.

Disappointed but determined, Dingo embarks on a mission to help his best friend chase her dream. What he discovers changes everything: a group called the Rangers—where boys and girls are welcome, diversity is celebrated, and adventures are just beginning.

 

In this gentle, empowering story, readers will follow Dingo and Penny as they:

  • Discover the power of friendship and loyalty
  • Learn how inclusive communities can open new doors
  • Join a diverse group of kids on their first big adventure

 

Dingo & Toad Join the Rangers is a fun, inclusive picture book for children ages 5–9 that encourages kids to embrace teamwork, outdoor exploration, and making space for everyone. It’s perfect for classrooms, families, and young readers who love scouting, camping, and stories with heart.

✨ Great for fans of:

  • The Berenstain Bears
  • Arthur
  • Scouts Honor

A perfect gift for budding adventurers and best friends everywhere.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers is an outstanding illustrated children’s book whose visual appeal perfectly complements the superb and relatable storyline.

 

Dingo and Penny, the alien best friends, are bursting with color and relatability! Despite their alienistic features, which set them apart from Earthlings (excluding cons and Halloween), their everyday activities are remarkably similar to ours. They love playing video games together, exploring, going on adventures, and just having fun. Their planet also has a Boy Scouts troop; unfortunately, they do not have a Girl Scouts one.

Scout organizations are a great way to learn new skills and make new friends, which is why they both wanted to join one. When one is not available, as in Penny’s case, the news can be very disappointing. This is why every community should have an all-inclusive scout group, like the Rangers, designed by the creative co-authors Lamar and Liana Golden.

As the besties meet their fellow troop members, the illustrator’s skills and imagination continue to shine. Tom McGrath’s alien creations were so adorable. I loved the purple bird with large eyes who wore tiny spectacles and the alien whose green eyestalks poked through their hat. Every creature, whether above ground or underwater, amazed me, and so did the vibrant scenery. Great color choices!

Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers is a spectacular book, from its storyline about the importance of inclusiveness, friendship, enjoying the outdoors, and learning new life skills to the bold, stunning illustrations. It’s the perfect gift idea for sci-fi fans, best friends, and those interested in or involved with scouting organizations.

Share Dingo Toad Joins the Rangers at your next troop meeting, with your students, and family. It’s a fun read for all ages, but the author’s target audience is children ages 5 to 9.

 

Be sure to check out Dingo Toad Helps a Friend and stay tuned for more details for the upcoming release, Dingo Toad Opens a Wormhole!

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Dynamic Duo! 

Lamar and Liana Golden are a dynamic father-daughter duo on a mission to captivate hearts, inspire minds, and leave a lasting legacy through the power of storytelling. With a shared passion for imagination and creativity, they weave tales that transport readers of all ages—from whimsical children’s stories that ignite wonder to gripping YA adventures and thought-provoking novels that linger in the soul.
 
For the Goldens, storytelling is more than a craft—it’s a family tradition. Lamar brings years of life experience, wisdom, and a knack for spinning unforgettable narratives, while Liana infuses their works with youthful energy, fresh perspectives, and a deep connection to the dreams and struggles of today’s readers. Together, they create a symphony of stories that resonate across generations.
 
Beyond their writing, Lamar and Liana share a zest for life’s simple joys. They’re adventurers at heart, often found savoring delicious food, laughing over spirited games, and seeking thrills at theme parks. These moments of connection fuel their creativity, reminding them of the importance of building a legacy of love, imagination, and goodness in the world.
 
Their dream is simple yet profound: to inspire readers everywhere, one story at a time, and to leave behind a world just a little brighter for having shared their journey. Join Lamar and Liana Golden as they open the door to extraordinary worlds and unforgettable adventures—you won’t want to miss a single tale.
 
You can contact us at lamar.golden1@gmail.com or via X (Formerly Twitter) @LNLGolden
 

Reedsy Author Link

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

Afraid of the Dark: Liana and the Shadow in the Closet by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Review)

Liana and the Shadow in the Closet is a heartwarming and empowering story about facing fears and finding comfort in the dark. Liana is afraid of the shadowy figure she sees in her closet at night. But with the help of her older brother, Marco, she learns that the shadow isn’t a monster—it’s just her clothes! With a little imagination, a nightlight, and some comforting words, Liana discovers that the dark isn’t so scary, after all.

This delightful story teaches young readers how to face their fears, create a comforting bedtime routine, and use their imagination to turn scary thoughts into fun ones. Perfect for children aged 4-8, Liana and the Shadow in the Closet offers valuable lessons in overcoming nighttime anxieties, making it an ideal bedtime read.

Key Themes:

  • Facing fears of shadows and the dark
  • Creating a comforting bedtime routine
  • Using imagination to overcome fear
  • Sibling support and family bonding

This book is part of the Afraid of the Dark bedtime series, designed to help children feel safe, confident, and empowered to tackle their nighttime fears head-on.

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

Bedtime fears are a shared experience among children, a fact that we as parents and caregivers can all relate to. They often imagine something hiding in their closet or under their bed. The shadows outside can cast eerie shapes on their walls. The wind and tree limbs can create spooky scratching sounds against windowpanes, sending shivers down their spine and making their hearts race. However, remember that there’s always a reason behind these fears, and we can always find ways to ease a child’s anxiety and help them have a peaceful night’s sleep, as seen in Liana and the Shadow in the Closet from the Afraid of the Dark bedtime series.

Liana, a sweet little girl, adores her room, except when the lights go out at bedtime. Every night, she would see a dark shape in her closet—a scary monster. It would move and grow, and as it did, Liana’s heart would beat faster. But Liana wasn’t alone in facing her fears. She had a caring big brother, Marco, who didn’t dismiss her concerns but instead helped her confront them. He also guided her to find a solution to banish any future bedtime fears.

Read Liana and the Shadow in the Closet to any child who shares Liana’s one-time fears. Follow Marco’s example and help the anxious child understand what they are truly seeing in the shadows or (in many real-life scenarios) hearing outside. Apply Marco’s illuminating idea to ward off future fears. Make this story a part of your bedtime routine and help empower your kids to face their fears head-on, instead of hiding away under the covers and losing out on much-needed sleep.

A beautiful sibling bond shone bright in Liana and the Shadow in the Closet. Each illustrative page felt like a screenshot from a cartoon. That’s the highest praise to an illustrator.

Share this beautiful and heartwarming story with children aged 3 to 9 years.

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Talented Team!

Lamar and Liana Golden are a dynamic father-daughter duo on a mission to captivate hearts, inspire minds, and leave a lasting legacy through the power of storytelling. With a shared passion for imagination and creativity, they weave tales that transport readers of all ages—from whimsical children’s stories that ignite wonder to gripping YA adventures and thought-provoking novels that linger in the soul.
 
For the Goldens, storytelling is more than a craft—it’s a family tradition. Lamar brings years of life experience, wisdom, and a knack for spinning unforgettable narratives, while Liana infuses their works with youthful energy, fresh perspectives, and a deep connection to the dreams and struggles of today’s readers. Together, they create a symphony of stories that resonate across generations.
 
Beyond their writing, Lamar and Liana share a zest for life’s simple joys. They’re adventurers at heart, often found savoring delicious food, laughing over spirited games, and seeking thrills at theme parks. These moments of connection fuel their creativity, reminding them of the importance of building a legacy of love, imagination, and goodness in the world.
 
Their dream is simple yet profound: to inspire readers everywhere, one story at a time, and to leave behind a world just a little brighter for having shared their journey. Join Lamar and Liana Golden as they open the door to extraordinary worlds and unforgettable adventures—you won’t want to miss a single tale.
 
You can contact us at lamar.golden1@gmail.com or via X (Formerly Twitter) @LNLGolden
 

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

1 Comment

Filed under Uncategorized