Tag Archives: humor

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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Darkwing Duck: F.O.W.L. Play Collection by Amanda Deibert (Comic Book Spotlight)

I loved watching this animated show, and I still find enjoyment reading Darkwing Duck’s comic adventures. #KidAtHeart

He is the terror that flaps in the night…

He is the ferocious fowl who plucks the evil eye from the face of foul play…

He is Darkwing Duck!

Alongside his trusty sidekick Lauchpad McQuack, Darkwing hyper-vigilantly defends St. Canard from the dastardly, devilish demons who would wage wanton war! By night, our caped defender lurks in the shadows, striking fear (and maybe confusion?) in the heart of the criminal underworld…but by day, no one suspects that Darkwing is also mild-mannered Drake Mallard, a well-meaning father to his adorable adopted daughter, Gosalyn! Can Darkwing successfully navigate his two separate lives, all while looking incredibly cool and impossibly handsome?

(Hint: Probably not, but…) You’ll have to read to find out!

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Meet the Author

Amanda Deibert is an award-winning television and comic book writer. Her comic book writing includes DC Super Hero Girls, DC’s The Doomed and the Damned, Teen Titans Go!, Batman & Harley Quinn, Wonder Woman ’77, Serena Williams collaboration: Serving Up Justice, and the New York Times #1 Best Selling anthology Love Is Love for DC Comics, Red Sonja for Dynamite and John Carpenter’s Tales For A HalloweeNight Vols. 2-7 for Storm King Comics and the graphic novel Work for a Million for Penguin Random House’s McClelland & Stewart,. She is currently writing for He-Man and The Masters of the Universe on Netflix. Other TV writing credits include work for CBS, SyFy, Hulu, Quibi and four years as the writer for former Vice President Al Gore’s annual climate broadcast, 24 Hours of Reality.

IG: @amandadeibertofficial

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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: ❤❤❤❤❤

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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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Pete and Suzie by Samantha Ahearne (Book Review)

Pelicans and Seagulls are diving rivals and have been enemies for as long as anyone can remember. Pelicans and Seagulls are not alike. That is until Pete the Pelican and Suzie Seagull meet at morning yoga. Can these two very different birds become friends or will Suzie Seagull be eaten by a Pelican?

A heartwarming story about friendship and kindness.

Don’t judge a bird by it’s feathers!

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

 

Pete and Suzie is a fun read, showing how feathered enemies overcame differences and put aside a long-standing feud to become friends. 

 

The Pelicans and Seagulls have been enemies for as long as any feathered animal can remember. How or when the rivalry started is unknown; however, one incident cemented the dislike between the diving rivals: the fish nab at the (bird) Olympics. Oh, how I wish the pages dedicated to the “incident” were animated. I can’t be the only one who wants to watch various birds compete in synchronized swimming. I’d also like to see Sully the Seagull swoop down and relieve the Pelican of their fish. I can practically hear the gasps of horror from the Pelicans. The big-beaked birds never saw him (aka Sully) coming! 

The transition from this swimming scene to the present situation was not smooth. It almost felt like two different stories. As readers focus on the here and now, they quickly learn the birds may have similar physical characteristics but are not alike in many ways. Pelicans are quiet and love practicing in a neat line. Why? I have no idea. Seagulls are loud birds, which many young readers know from the animated film Nemo. The illustrator did a marvelous job showing readers how energic and “loud” seagulls can be. The up-close, squawking bird images deserve two thumbs up! 

The two water birds distanced themselves from one another until one sunny Saturday when Suzie Seagull’s brother double-dared her to talk to the Pelicans. Suzie didn’t bat an eye; she accepted his dare. If Suzie was scared, she never showed it. Her bravery was inspiring! As an introvert, I am not sure I could’ve spoken with the strangers without my anxiety levels rising. It’s good that she’s a brave bird because she (and we) learned so much from them. For example, we discovered what chakras are and what the seven colored chakras represent. Suzie’s visit also taught readers how to do a couple of yoga poses and breathing techniques that anyone can use to calm and center their mind. 

Of course, a tale of feuding birds wouldn’t be complete without a good old-fashioned misunderstanding. Without spoiling the fun, let’s just say that feathers were ruffled for no good reason. And the illustrations that bring this chaotic scene to life? They’re downright hilarious, especially when it comes to Suzie’s brother. What a drama king! 

Did the bird foes become friends? They sure did. I loved the scenes showcasing how they were not so different after all and the author’s adorable name choice for who made the birds’ beverages. Read the story for more details! 

Pete and Suzie is more than just a story about birds. It’s a lesson in empathy and understanding. It teaches us not to judge people without getting to know them, to be open to new friendships and experiences, and to put aside grudges and misunderstandings. It’s a call to kindness and unity, a reminder that we should build friendships, not walls.

Recommended reading age is 3-8 years.

 

Side note: “Seagulls” and Pelicans” were capitalized in the review to mimic how it was presented in the story.

 

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

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Meet the Author

Samantha Ahearne is an eternal optimist, who hopes to inspire kindness and acceptance through her story writing. She was born and raised in London, England and now lives in Houston, Texas.
 

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Pete and Suzie and the Party Penguins by Samantha Ahearne (Book Review)

In Hazy Bay, the big debate concerns who might be the greatest diver of all time, a pelican or a seagull.

Imagine the disruption to the pelican seagull debate when penguins arrive to dive!

How will the pelicans and seagulls react to the new competition?

Don’t judge a bird by it’s feathers.

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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.

 

The Hazy Bay newspaper’s headline read that the penguins were selected to dive this year at the Hazy Bay Sports Day. This revelation stunned the pelican and seagull community. The water birds had no idea what a penguin was and if they could perform better than them. They assumed penguins could fly, which young kids discover is false. The illustrations showing the birds looking up at the sky in search of the penguins were amusing. Readers will feel the birds’ confusion as they look left, right, and behind them without sighting these mysterious penguin guests flying toward them. The funny, illustrative scenes continue as we watch all three types of birds strike a yoga pose. Yes, you read that right—these birds practice yoga! And Puffy’s (the penguin) demonstration of how they got their name was adorable! Oh, and Puffy’s dance skills were quite the showstopper, too. I would love to see Puffy and Mumble (Happy Feet) engage in a dance-off!

The pelicans and seagulls made the mistake of judging the penguins without getting to know them. However, they learned a profound lesson as they watched the penguins perform their diving routine: you cannot judge a bird by looks alone. This lesson is not just for birds, but for all of us. It’s a gentle reminder not to form opinions based on appearances, but to take the time to get to know someone and then form an opinion based on how they treat you and others.

Pete and Suzie and the Party Penguins is a wonderful story that teaches kids to be kind to others, not judgy. It’s marked for children 4-8 years, but kids of all ages will love the comical illustrations and the penguin’s remarkable water performance. I recommend sharing this story with your family or students. Great message. Nice introduction to yoga and affirmations. Plus, funny illustrations that’ll have your little ones giggling.

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Samantha Ahearne is an eternal optimist, who hopes to inspire kindness and acceptance through her story writing. She was born and raised in London, England and now lives in Houston, Texas.
 

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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