Tag Archives: kindergarten

August 25, 2023 · 7:00 am

Tammy the Troll: A Dance in the Forest Once Upon a Dance (Book Review)

Grab a scarf. Join the Fun. Get moving and dance along with the kids, Tammy, and Ballerina Konora in this prop-based movement story. Perfect for preschool and kindergarten kids and classrooms.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Five friends are preparing to embark on an adventure in search of Tammy the Troll, a unique little creature with spiky purple hair and a diamond in her belly button. They must gather supplies before they leave to find Tammy’s home, a hollowed-out tree at the edge of the forest. As the kids pack, Konora (a real-life dancer) gets readers up and has them stretching and squatting. 

As we follow the kids on their journey, Konora encourages children to mimic her movements. When the fictional characters traverse over tree roots, up the side of the mountain, or walk across branches, Konora is there giving guidance on moves that children at home can do so they feel part of the adventure. Jumping. Spinning. Movement with scarves. Movement without. Kids will be in constant motion and love every minute of it. 

The band of friends brave heights, mice, sticky spiderwebs, and spiders on their grand forest adventure. Their perseverance paid off; they found Tammy the troll. And, let me say, her hair was fabulous! But their adventure doesn’t cease after they give Tammy her special gift. No, they must still navigate the waters before leading Tammy to their home. 

The fictional children were tuckered out from their long day and needed a nap. I assume many real-life children will also crave a rest, especially if they follow along with Konora’s very detailed and fun movements. 

After the story’s conclusion, there are optional extension activities, such as creating a friendship dance, practicing a bridge pose, and discussing dance/ballet stories like Swan Lake. 

Exercise is vital to everyone’s health. Tammy the Troll: A Dance in the Forest by Once Upon a Dance offers the chance to burn off some energy and stretch your muscles while always enjoying a fun story. 

This interactive storybook is perfect for preschoolers and kindergartners. 

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

 

 

 

Meet the Team! 

Once Upon a Dance is a mother-daughter team who share a passion for dance and storytelling. Teacher Terrel and Ballerina Konora create books that spark imagination and inspire children to move, breathe, and connect. Four series span ages 3-12: 

   • Dance Stories with Props (for age 3+) (2023)
   • Dance-It-Out! Creative Movement Stories (4-9)
   • Dancing Shapes: Ballet and Body Awareness (6-9)
   • Ballet Inspiration & Choreography Concepts (8-12)

Once Upon a Dance was named a top 10 author of 2022 by Outstanding Creator Awards, and they’ve been honored by over 40 book awards, 1000+ 5-star reviews, and a Kirkus Star. They donate all royalties to charities supporting the arts, animals, environment, or people. Visit DanceStories.com for more info.

 

@Once_UponADance (Instagram)

DanceStories.com 

 

 

Dance Stories with Props

• Quincy’s Sea Surprise (2024)

Dance-It-Out!

• Mira & Marvin’s Magic Mirror Mischief (2023)

• Mira & the Fairy Shoes (2023)

• Zara the Zombie (2024)

• Clara’s College Adventure (2024)

Dancing Shapes with Cats (2023)

Ballet Inspiration

• Falling into Dance with Ballerina Konora (2023)

• Turning it Around with Ballerina Konora’s Mom (2024)

 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

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

February 11, 2022 · 7:00 am

Olive and the Valentine’s Spell by Helen Millman (Book Review)

** 2022 Family Choice Award Winner **OLIVE AND THE VALENTINE'S SPELL by Helen Millman

 
​Olive is a sweet elementary school boy who is afraid to go to school on Valentine’s Day. . .because he thinks he’ll have to get married! Olive’s mom joins in his fight to defeat the “princess of love,” but along the way he learns an even bigger lesson, discovering the true meaning of love.

Olive and the Valentine’s Spell is an inspiring children’s book for all ages that shines a humorous light on Valentine’s Day and overcoming your fears.

 
Buy the Book:
Amazon ~ B&N ~ Mascot
 
 
 
 
 
 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from iRead Book Tours. I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
 
 
As a parent who’s raised two kids, my children didn’t have fears regarding Valentine’s Day like Olive did in Olive and the Valentine’s Spell by Helen Millman. However, there have been many times they’ve been afraid when it came to other firsts. So, with that said, I’m sure other children will be frightened or have questions regarding their first Valentine’s party. 


If you have children or take care of children, you know that we caregivers go to any lengths to take a child’s fear away. Much like the mommy in the story, we listen to a child’s fear(s), hold them tightly, reassure them everything will be all right, and maybe we’ll toss in a bit of magic. 


While being scared is no laughing matter, Vanessa Alexandre bought a smile to my face with her adorable illustrations. I loved the children’s expressions, and Cali’s glasses were just the cutest! The fairy was also darling. 


There are a couple of words that might need to be defined: humbly and oh vey. While I can see readers (ages 3-7) following along when being read to, I think it’ll prove challenging for them to read independently. No worries though – they’ll be old enough to read this story solo sooner than you think! 

No matter the age, I think it’ll be enjoyed by many! 


Happy Valentine’s! 

 
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤
 
 
 
 
 
​Meet the Author:
Author Helen Millman
​​
Children’s author Helen Millman is a loving wife and mom. Her three young boys continually inspire her with their wild adventures and vivid imaginations. They even helped inspire her to write her new book, Olive and the Valentine’s Spell!

While living in Vero Beach, FL, she spends her time writing, reading, singing, and growing through her life’s experiences. She knows the importance of “seeing the bright side of life” and encourages her readers to “choose love, even when it seems impossible”. A friendly, optimist Helen has always loved to read to her own children and remembers how much her imaginative voices really helped bring the stories to life. She invites her readers to gather with a beloved book, for it truly is one of the best places to snuggle, giggle, imagine, and make unforgettable memories – together.

​
connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram

 
 
 
 
 
 

1 Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

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

June 22, 2021 · 7:00 am

Bobos Babes Adventures: The Missing Egg by Karen M. Bobos (Book Review)

BOBOS BABES ADVENTURES: THE MISSING EGG by Karen Bobos

Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  28 pages

 
 
In the magical land of Harmony, the Bobos Babes love adventure and helping friends in need. When they find out that the swan family has lost a soon-to-hatch swan egg, they are quick to help … before it’s too late! Young readers and their families will enjoy the return of the Bobos Babes and their animal friends in this second title in the fanciful read-aloud picture book series. The Bobos Babes Adventures collection brings families stories of exciting exploits, magical missions, and caring friendships, showcasing that kindness, generosity, and thoughtfulness always win.
Buy the Book:
Amazon
Bobos Babes
 
 
 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from 
iRead Book Tours.
I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
 
 
Bobos Babes Adventures: The Missing Egg by Karen M. Bobos was an adventurous tale highlighting the goodness in people. Three sisters, all living in a land called Harmony, were known for their good deeds. Angel Scarlett, Princess Daphne, and Cora (the fairy) used their magical powers to spread joy and help those residing in their charmingly named land. 


In this tale, the Bobos Babes banded together to help a swan find his missing unhatched baby. During their search for the bundle of joy, we meet three of swan’s buddies. 


Young readers will love all the animals and the sweet sisters. For the animal friends, Emily Hercock (illustrator) gave all of them a distinct personality. For me, I loved sunglass-wearing Armando, the armadillo. 


As for the three sisters, their dresses were not all pink, and this will please young kids who don’t fancy the color pink—like my daughter. 


On a side note, I loved the “Did you know” bubble in the story. I did not know the fun fact. (no spoilers) 🙂

 
 
 
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤
 
 
 
 
Karen M. Bobos
Author Karen Bobos

 
Bobos began writing poetry and stories at the early age of ten. She is a life-long Chicagoan who now raises her family in the downtown area. During the 2020 Coronavirus Pandemic, Chicago also became a city of unrest. Trying to keep her three young daughters in a world of magic during such scary times, the Bobos Babes Adventures were born. Her goal was to create a world of Harmony for her family and hopefully for others to escape, even if only for a moment. The first book of the series, The Case of the Giggles, was published in December 2020. The Missing Egg launched in March 2021. Thus far, she has written ten Bobos Babes Adventures and two chapter books. Two additional books, The Lion’s Secret and The Bobcat Birthday Party, are coming in 2021.
connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram
 
 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

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

May 31, 2021 · 7:00 am

Rambee Boo’s Lake Vacation by Reena Korde Pagnoni (Book Review)

Rambee Boo's Lake Vacation by Reena Korde Pagnoni

Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  24 pages

 
The Rambee Boo Crew take a summer vacation to the Lake. Rock and Rambee are having so much fun that they don’t realize that Rambee Boo keeps dropping his Sock. Will Sock make it home with the duo at the end of the trip?
 
Buy the Book
Amazon ~ Waman Books
 
 
 
 I received a complimentary copy of this book from
iRead Book Tours.
I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
 
 
Frances Rose Español really brought Rambee Boo’s Lake Vacation to life with the stupendous, brightly-colored illustrations. Rambee Boo is mischievous and adorable. He’s your typical puppy. You know, always on the go and ready for the next adventure. 


Hiking, swimming, fishing, boating, Rambee Boo is up for everything Rock, his human friend, wants to do as long as he has his favorite Sock with him. Luckily for Rambee Boo, the (human) mom always makes sure he has it nearby for his next adventure. 


After reading Rambee Boo’s Lake Vacation, follow the directions on the back cover and see if your child can remember every place Rambee Boo left Sock. Once done, I’d suggest heading over to Reena Korde Pagnoni’s website, where she has many activities that’ll entertain and delight your child, such as coloring pages, word searches, and designing cards. Unfortunately, unless you have a printer, you won’t be able to print them. However, these pages would be helpful in a daycare or school setting. 


No matter if you use the bonus activities or not, Rambee Boo’s Lake Vacation will soon become a favorite book in many households. 

 
 
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤
 
 
 
 
 
Reena Korde Pagnoni
Author Reena Korde Pagnoni

 
I began writing THE RAMBEE BOO SERIES after we added a fur baby to our family, during the Covid-19 pandemic quarantine. The characters in the series are based off my youngest son Rocky (aka Rock), and our rambunctious puppy Rambo (aka Rambee Boo). Whenever there’s trouble, these two are usually at the center of it! I graduated from West Windsor-Plainsboro High school in 2000 and went on to get my B.A. from Rutgers University, New Brunswick. I currently live in New Jersey with my husband, my three children and of course…my Rambee Boo! I’ve always had a great love for children’s books and started collecting them in college. I am thrilled to have the opportunity to write my own series to add to our collection. I hope these books will continue to grow and foster children’s love for reading. I can only hope that my readers enjoy reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them!

connect with the author: website ~ facebook ~ instagram ~ goodreads

 
 
 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

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

May 10, 2021 · 7:00 am

Does Grandma Remember Me? by Evita Sherman (Book Review)

DOES GRANDMA REMEMBER ME? by Evita Sherman

Children’s Fiction (Ages 3-7),  38 pages

 
It is always challenging to watch a loved one grow older and face new, confusing obstacles that always seemed easy. Does Grandma Remember Me? shows how love transcends age and difficulties, even when things become overwhelming.
 
This new book from author Evita Sherman is the first in a new children’s book series. It will put the disease of Alzheimer’s and dementia in perspective for young readers.
 
Buy the Book
Amazon ~ B&N ~ Target
Mascot Books
Add to Goodreads
 
 
 
I received a complimentary copy of this book from
I voluntarily chose to read and post an honest review.
 
Dementia is a very grown-up word for kids to grasp. Most little ones wouldn’t know how to pronounce it, let alone define it. While the condition’s ins and outs are far from simple, Evita Sherman breaks it down so children can understand the basics: forgetfulness and confusion. 
 
Through the endearing illustrations courtesy of Chayla Bolden and Evita Sherman’s storytelling, we witness the fear, confusion, sadness, and love from a child’s point of view and a grandmother’s. Does Grandma Remember Me? gives children hope. While they might be scared by specific situations, they are now more prepared to handle them. Hugs, kisses, holding a hand, all these small gestures go a long way in lifting spirits and binding two hearts. 
 
If dementia affected someone you know and you’re unsure how to explain it to your child(ren), I encourage you to read this story with them. I’m sure after reading it, they’ll run off to hug their grandparent. <3
 
 
Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤❤
 
 
 
 
Meet the Author
Author Evita Sherman
 
Evita’s passion is assisting the elderly, especially those living with dementia. Her mission is to help people age in the manner they envision for themselves and not through the lens of others. She works to provide data and resources to assist elders in effectively aging-in-place and equips their families and friends to support their loved ones amidst uncertainty. Working in the elder care field as a licensed nursing home administrator, senior living marketing professional, and Certified Aging-in-Place Specialist (CAPS), Evita witnesses both elders and families make tough decisions. Some of those decisions result in despair, while others result in healing. The key to enabling elders to live life to its fullest is to help them find their voices and exercise their right to choose.
 
Evita collaborates with family and friends to ensure that her mother, who lives with dementia, and her father, recently diagnosed with mild cognitive impairment, maintain their voices and make well-informed choices as their disease progresses.

connect with the author: goodreads
 

 
 

Leave a Comment

Filed under Uncategorized

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