Tag Archives: picture book

The Dad Who Had to Read a Bedtime Story by G.M. Reyes (Book Review)

A Rhyming Book About a Dad Who Had to Read a Bedtime Story

Dad just wants to play video games, or go to the gym, or just unwind. But there’s something in the way of his relaxing evening. His kids want him to read a bedtime story.

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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.

 

In a child’s eyes, their parents are superheroes—super strong, never tire, and have all the time in the world. They don’t understand that their parents need time to recharge their battery after working all day, or maybe they need or have to do something that doesn’t include small tag-a-longs. The two darlings in this sweet children’s book had one teeny tiny request: Dad, please read us a bedtime story. Dad tried to politely turn down their request, saying he was in a hurry, but they were persistent, which is 100% relatable to many adults reading this book to their kids. 

Despite his initial reluctance, the dad in this story caved and agreed to read only one story. Nestled in bed with his two kiddos, the dad did what many parents do once they noticed the book’s length—he skipped a few pages. When your child is a baby or toddler, you can absolutely get away with summarizing the story. However, as your child grows up, they become more observant and will call you on the sneakiness. The fictional kids demanded their dad read the story againproperly this time.

Their father did a smashing job the second time around. He used different voices and even rapped some lines. I adored the drawing of him wearing a witch’s hat and nose, fairy wings, and a princess crown. But the real showstopper was the image of him with his hat flipped backward, shades on, bling around his neck while rapping into the microphone. I would laugh until my sides hurt if I witnessed my spouse recreating this scene. 

The Dad Who Had to Read a Bedtime Story would make a great book to read at nap time or bedtime. It would also make a great Father’s Day gift. 

I agree with Amazon’s recommended reading age: baby to 8 years. 

 

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

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Meet the Author

A dad of two who wants to write stories that his kids will want to read and enjoy.

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Quest For Different: Bucky’s Adventures by GD Sexton (Book Spotlight)

A Quest for Different – Bucky’s Adventures is a heartwarming children’s book that tells the tale of a rare piebald white-tailed deer named Bucky. Bucky embarks on a quest to find someone who is different like him. Along the way, he meets a little girl named Clara, who has and is equally special. The story beautifully illustrates the idea that being different is something to be celebrated and cherished. The vibrant illustrations enhance the storyline, making it a wonderful addition to any child’s library

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Meet the Author

GD Sexton is a musician, singer, songwriter and is half a duo along with JoAnn Durbin.
They are known as DoubleHearts of Doubleheartsmusic.com

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Wash Your “T” and Close Your Eyes: Skincare for BIPOC Children by Patrice Tartt Chappelle and Bron Echols (Book Review)

Skincare is not just for adults. It’s for children too, so Wash Your “T” and Close Your Eyes.

A young boy starts his school day with a morning routine of washing his face and brushing his teeth, but soon realizes that using generic soap and water and his mom’s lotion will not be enough for his adolescent skin. Visited by the Magical MelanFairy, Bron learns the importance of proper skincare, starting with washing the T-zone of his face. The MelanFairy comes to teach all children, primarily Black and brown children to love the skin that they have and how to take care of it, too.

Written by the co-founders of MelanBrand Skin, Patrice Tartt Chappelle and Bron Echols, Wash Your “T” and Close Your Eyes shows kids that taking care of their skin is important at every age, especially during the pre-teen years. The practical tips can help keep your child’s skin healthy and hydrated year-round.

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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.

 

Did you know that your skin is your body’s largest organ? It’s true! That’s why good skin care is important at any age! Like our heart, lungs, and other vital organs, we must take steps to keep our skin healthy. Bron, the shining star of Wash Your “T” and Close Your Eyes: Skincare for BIPOC Children, demonstrates the importance of proper skin care all year long! 

Bron has a morning routine: brush, floss, wash his face, and then lotion up before getting dressed and heading downstairs for breakfast. Typically, his beauty regimen worked, but not today. His mom noticed her son’s face looking dry and attributed it to the winter weather. Many kids understand how the hot sun can affect their skin during the summer months but might not realize that cold months affect our skin, too. Kids will learn that skincare products are not universal. This means that what works for your parents, siblings, or friends might not work the best for you. Bron’s mother explains they need to find the right blend of products that effectively tones, cleanses, and moisturizes his particular skin. 

Bron didn’t have only his mother looking out for his skin’s needs; he also had a darling melanated fairy watching out for them. The Magical MelanFairy didn’t clearly explain what melanated means; they did state that melanated people came in different shades (skin tones). She announces “her mission as the Magical MeanFairy is to teach all children, primarily Black and brown children with melanated skin, to love the skin that they have and how to take care of it, too.” She says, “…we must adequately cleanse our face and ensure it is properly hydrated and moisturized.” This is what we refer to as healthy hygiene.

The Magical MelanFairy gives Bron Fresh Facial Cleanser from MelanBrand Skin, a natural skincare company for Black and brown people—a company Bron and his mother co-founded in real life! The fairy instructs the young boy to wash his T-zone, which is his forehead, nose, and chin. His magical guest gave Bron more than one skincare gift and also explained why each one should be used. Bron passed on his knowledge to his class during his Black History Month presentation. 

Bron and his mom provided step-by-step visual and written instructions on how to wash your “T.” The duo also included their web address, three images of their products, and a couple of paragraphs discussing the company’s mission. Bron, his mother, and the Magical MelanFairy want you and your family to have the best skin possible, and so do I. I recommend sharing this story with your family and checking out MelanBrand Skin’s product line! 

 

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

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Meet the Authors

Meet Bron Echols, the 13-year-old Co-CEO and co-founder of MelanBrand Skin, LLC. At the age of 11, Bron’s mother recognized the need for a more tailored skincare routine beyond basic soap and lotion for him. Despite regular use, Bron struggled with dryness and ineffectiveness, prompting his mother to take action.

In a pivotal moment before his 12th birthday, Bron’s mother diverted funds from a traditional celebration, investing $1,200 into kickstarting his skincare venture. She imparted the significance of building a lasting legacy and generational wealth. Bron embraced the opportunity, and thus began his journey.

Established in 2023, MelanKids Skin emerged as a testament to Bron’s vision. Offering an all-natural skincare range suitable for various skin types, it specifically caters to the unique needs of young melanated skin. MelanBrand products address sensitivities including eczema, psoriasis, and acne-prone skin.

Traditionally, discussions on hygiene with children often overlook the importance of a structured skincare routine. While oral care and bathing take precedence, facial skincare remains neglected. MelanBrand Skin seeks to change this narrative, providing a dedicated line for children with melanated skin, ensuring proper care from the very first glance.

MelanBrand Skin (Store Link)

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

 

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A Sweet Surprise by Brittany Smith (Book Review)

Do you like sugar as much as Sam does?

Follow Sam as he discovers many sweet treats and surprises throughout his day. A giraffe in purple pyjamas, chocolate crocodiles and some gummy snakes are only the start.

Is there ever a thing as too much sugar?

Join Sam throughout his day and see. 


Amazon Purchase Link
InHouse Bookstore
Etsy

 

 

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

 

Kids love candy! They would eat it for breakfast, lunch, and dinner if allowed. Sam, the shining star of this children’s book, has yet to meet a sugar-based treat he didn’t like. He wishes he could eat gumdrops, lollipops, cotton candy, ice cream, candy canes, candy apples, and more every day, whenever he wanted! Not a bad wish! If it weren’t for the potential for cavities, I would follow Sam’s lead and eat chocolate for breakfast, jelly beans for lunch, and gummy snakes for dinner, too. 

Sam does not have an off switch when it comes to sugary delights. The images show Sam hiding candy when a craving hits: under the couch, behind the bed, up the stairs, and even in his hair. Only a kid would eat candy covered in hair. The illustrator also shows empty, colorful wrappers scattered all over the floor. While Sam’s tastebuds were all for eating more candy, his stomach rejected the idea. Sam suffered the painful effects of overindulging in sweet treats—the dreaded bellyache. He also experienced a sugar crash. Parents and many young readers will empathize with Sam’s belly woes. His story paints a beautiful picture of why less is more. 

The author and their design team did a fantastic job constructing A Sweet Surprise. Families will love the playful and creative way the text is displayed. My two favorite pages are the upside-down words and the page where words are arranged to mimic a staircase. The brightly colored illustrations will activate everyone’s sweet tooth, even those who prefer savory over sweet! And the unicycle-riding giraffe wearing purple pajamas will tickle your funny bone! 

I recommend this wonderful and vibrant storybook to children ages two years and up. I also suggest a trip to the candy store, playing Candy Land, or both!

Join Sam as he shares his love for all things sugary! Don’t forget to bring your favorite sweet treat along the way! 

 

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

 

 

 

Meet the Author

 

If you think Sam has a sweet tooth you should meet Brittany. After experiencing the side effects of having too much sugar far too often. She decided this book would be a great way to help show people that candy is not always as fun as it seems.

Growing up on the East Coast of Canada. She has spent many years at summer camp discovering the best the tuck shop had to offer. Some might think she survives off apple juice and her hidden stashes of candy. Which only makes sense that she is a Pastry Chef in Sydney.

Kangaroo Cove Publishing

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A Visit to the Doggie Doctor (The Everyday Adventures of Papa & Paws Book 11) by Papa Paws (Book Review)

Today, Molly Paws and her sisters are visiting the vet for a checkup. They explore the office while waiting for their appointment. The doctor checks their ears, eyes, mouth, and heart. Will they be rewarded with a treat for being well-behaved patients?

Children’s picture book about a sweet little doggie named Molly Paws and her family.

  • Created by a dog dad, every story is based on a real-life event.
  • Toddlers and preschoolers ages 0-5(ish) will enjoy the cute illustrations of the dogs.
  • Moms, dads, and grandparents will love reading the heartwarming stories.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Molly and her siblings are getting a checkup at the Poochieville Vet Clinic today. The four dogs have mixed feelings about the trip. Why are they there if they aren’t sick? Will they get a shot? Canines, like children, experience nervousness and fear over doctor’s appointments. Many pet owners will relate to dogs who put on the brakes when they try to enter the building. Even mild-mannered felines will hiss and lash out because they don’t see the vet as a fun zone. 

As the dogs wait for their turn with Doctor Barkly (cute name, by the way), they learn the importance of regular checkups. Yes, they might get a shot, but it’s quick and only hurts a teeny bit. Plus, vets usually give a treat for being so brave! Kids might remark that they get a sticker or lollipop after they receive a shot. 

Children don’t have tails, paws, or fur, but there are some similarities between their doctor appointments and the animals’ vet visit. We both get weighed, have a light shine in our eyes, and get our ears checked out. A doctor always listens to our heart to make sure it sounds healthy and strong. Yes, there will be a time for vaccines, but not at every visit. (Read the story to find out who got a pass on getting a shot!)

Papa Paws’ stories are always entertaining with adorable illustrations. Macy looked cute in their cone of shame. Zozo was darling in her pink bow! Oh, and I loved how the author used the sweet pooches to sneak in math lessons. The price of the doggie treats was extremely high; however, I believe the dollar amount included all the examinations. At least, I hope it did! 

I give this book 5 paws up and recommend it to children 3-6 years! 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Nicholas J. Nawroth is Papa Paws. He is a dog lover and artist. At age 9, he created his first comic book featuring his dog, Woody, and has been drawing ever since. He has never lost touch with his childlike wonder and love of dogs, which he shares in his stories. In his free time, he enjoys snuggling up on the couch with the family to watch movies.

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Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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