Tag Archives: picture book

June 1, 2023 · 7:00 am

What Bird Heard (Traveler Series, Book 2) by Tricia Gardella (Book Review)

In Book 2 of this Traveler Series, Mouse and Bird are busy at work resolving Bird’s Book 1 mistake– trying to fly an airplane to the moon. Everyone knows it takes a rocket. But are there any other things Mouse and Bird need to be aware of?

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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.

 

What Bird Heard, book two in the “Traveler” series, picks up where its predecessor left off – trying to figure out how to get Mouse to the moon. 

We all have aspirations in life and reasons behind life choices/goals. Mouse’s reasoning for wanting to visit the moon is simple; he’s looking for cheese. Oh yes, this tiny rodent hasn’t gotten the memo that the moon isn’t made of cheese. 

The farm animals band together and use their resources from the scrap heap to construct a rocket. Their design was quite good based on the materials they had. The core was a soda code, and the base was from a can of tuna. The top, a funnel.

Construction, manufacturing, engineering, and space travel involve problem-solving. In the case of Bird and Mouse’s rocket, they need fuel. What Bird Heard teaches children to work as a team to brainstorm ideas. Why? Because teamwork makes the dream work, of course. 

When a creator’s design doesn’t go as planned, it’s essential to understand that alternative solutions must be considered and utilized. Good lessons to pass on to young minds!

Through talking to his friends, Mouse realized that the location was the issue; his goal was to see the world. Earth is a vast land with countless sights to explore. A trip to a library opened Mouse’s eyes to the wondrous world around him and made him realize they were so much to see, touch, taste, and experience here on Earth. Maybe one day the rodent will make it to the moon, but for now, he’s content to explore the planet he calls home. 

What Bird Heard had a couple of pages where the text overlapped the background; most of the text was clear. The illustrations were fantastic, like in “ABSURD,” SAID BIRD (Traveler Series Book 1).”

What Bird Heard encourages creativity, problem-solving, and exploration. I recommend this book to children 3-8.

 

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤1/2

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author
 

Tricia’s books are influenced by ranch, animals and family life. She has tried it all, and almost mastered some: canning, cooking, knitting, fiber arts, rug-making, gardening. She has a BA in Ancient History and lots of grand children, giving her much food for thought. She lives in California.
 
 
 
 
 

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May 23, 2023 · 7:00 am

When Mom Travels for Work by Kristopher Goeden (Book Review)

WHEN MOM TRAVELS FOR WORKhelps kids understand why parents sometimes need to leave their loved ones when they travel for work. The story explains why parents work, what they do while they are gone, and how important their children are to them even when they’re away.

This picturesque child’s book explains mommy has to leave for work, but her love and thoughts are always with you.
In When Dad Travels for Work, we met a sweet boy whose father had to travel for his job. In When Mom Travels for Work, we meet a mom traveling down a curvy road while her daughter sleeps peacefully at home.

Sometimes dads must travel for work, and sometimes it is the mother. While a mom is away on business, the rest of the family must work as a team to tackle chores. They might not all be fun, but being kind, supportive, and helpful is important.

Thanks to technology, when a parent is away, you can see and talk to them with a few simple clicks. Facetime or Zoom calls bring families together when circumstances cause them to part.

When Mom Travels for Work explains to children that some parents must go away so they can provide for them. Their job pays for the food they eat, among other things. It also explains just because your mom is away on business, that doesn’t mean she isn’t thinking of you or missing you—quite the contrary. A parent’s love is constant no matter where they are resting their head at night. They count the minutes until they see you again.

The drawings were lovely again, like with When Dad Travels for Work. I love the warm tones and how they beautifully illustrate the love in this happy family.

**Remember to check out the illustrated maze before the title page or at the back of the book. It’s a fun mini game that children would adore navigating. Encourage them to start at “home” and travel down the winding roads to reach each destination on the map. Just watch out for motor vehicles!

If your 3 to 7-year-old has difficulty adjusting to mom working outside the home or with their parent having to go on a business trip, read them When Mom Travels for Work. It’s a story worth reading!

Book Details:

  • Beautifully illustrated in stunning detail.
  • An engaging and rhythmic read for adults to read to their children when a parent is away from home.
  • Meaningful reminders to children why they are so special written in rhyme and easy to remember.
  • A great conversation starter to discuss roles within the home and how the children can be helpful and contribute.
  • Includes a maze activity in the front and back cover for children to complete.
  • Great for bedtime, reading aloud, group discussion, and improving children’s own reading skills.
  • Includes a few challenging words which offer wonderful opportunities for vocabulary enrichment.
  • Ideal for children ages 2-10.
  • Makes a thoughtful gift.

Perfect for:

  • Traveling Parents
  • Emerging preschool and kindergarten readers
  • Gift for birthday, baby shower, business conference giveaways and any occasion
  • Fans of books about business, travel, and family life.

 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

In When Dad Travels for Work, we met a sweet boy whose father had to travel for his job. In When Mom Travels for Work, we meet a mom traveling down a curvy road while her daughter sleeps peacefully at home. 

Sometimes dads have to travel for work, and sometimes it is the mother. While a mom is away on business, the rest of the family must work as a team to tackle chores. They might not all be fun, but being kind, supportive, and helpful is important. 

Thanks to technology, when a parent is away, you can see and talk to them with a few simple clicks. Facetime or Zoom calls bring families together when circumstances cause them to part. 

When Mom Travels for Work explains to children that some parents have to go away so they can provide for them. Their job pays for the food they eat, among other things. It also explains just because your mom is away on business, that doesn’t mean she isn’t thinking of you or missing you—quite the contrary. A parent’s love is constant no matter where they are resting their head at night. They count the minutes until they see you again.

The drawings were again lovely, like with When Dad Travels for Work. I love the warm tones and how they beautifully illustrate the love in this happy family. I was pleased to see this book also featured the same maze as in When Dad Travels for Work.

If your 3 to 7-year-old has difficulty adjusting to mom working outside the home or with their parent having to go on a business trip, read them When Mom Travels for Work. This picturesque child’s book explains that mommy has to leave for work, but her love and thoughts are always with you. It’s a story worth reading! 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

Check out Kristopher Goeden’s website for free coloring pages and mazes! https://www.kristophergoeden.com/

 

 

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May 22, 2023 · 7:00 am

When Dad Travels for Work by Kristopher Goeden (Book Review)

WHEN DAD TRAVELS FOR WORK helps kids understand why parents sometimes need to leave their loved ones when they travel for work. The story explains why parents work, what they do while they are gone, and how important their children are to them even when they’re away.

For many parents, their job requires them to work outside the home. Sometimes, it even involves flying thousands of miles away. Often, they are gone for several days. When Dad Travels for Work by Kristopher James Goeden explains why parents work, what they do while they are gone, and how important their children are to them even when they’re away.

Parents must work to provide for their families: food, shelter, clothing, and more. While they are away, kids typically help out at home. The young boy in this picture book helped with everyday chores without complaint. He wheeled the trash bins to the road, mowed the grass, and made his bed. He did it with a smile on his face!

This charming story alerts children that a father misses his family dearly when he’s gone. Even though his body may be hundreds or thousands of miles away, his thoughts are with his family every second of every day.

When Dad Travels for Work shows a father’s love for his family and how this particular dad travels so he can provide for them. It shows the joy this loving family experiences when they are reunited. SWEET!

A parent’s need to travel for work can be challenging for little kids to adjust to. They may not understand why their parent must leave them. I encourage you to share this charming story with 2 to 8-year-olds who need help understanding a parent’s need to travel for work. It will also help a child realize their parent is missing them as much as they are missing their parent.

Remember to check out the illustrated maze before the title page or at the back of the book. It’s a fun mini game that children would adore navigating. Encourage them to start at “home” and travel down the winding roads to reach each destination on the map. Just watch out for motor vehicles!

Book Details:

  • Beautifully illustrated in stunning detail.
  • An engaging and rhythmic read for adults to read to their children when a parent is away from home.
  • Meaningful reminders to children why they are so special written in rhyme and easy to remember.
  • A great conversation starter to discuss roles within the home and how the children can be helpful and contribute.
  • Includes a maze activity in the front and back cover for children to complete.
  • Great for bedtime, reading aloud, group discussion, and improving children’s own reading skills.
  • Includes a few challenging words which offer wonderful opportunities for vocabulary enrichment.
  • Ideal for children ages 2-8.
  • Makes a thoughtful gift.

Perfect for:

  • Traveling Parents
  • Emerging preschool and kindergarten readers
  • Gift for birthday, baby shower, business conference giveaways and any occasion
  • Fans of books about business, travel, and family life.

 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 


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

 

For many parents, their job requires them to work outside the home. Sometimes, it even involves flying thousands of miles away. Often, they are gone for several days. When Dad Travels for Work by Kristopher James Goeden explains why parents work, what they do while they are gone, and how important their children are to them even when they’re away.

Parents must work to provide for their families: food, shelter, clothing, and more. While they are away, kids typically help out at home. The young boy in this picture book helped with everyday chores without complaint. He wheeled the trash bins to the road, mowed the grass, and made his bed. He did it with a smile on his face! 

This charming story alerts children that a father misses his family dearly when he’s gone. Even though his body may be hundreds or thousands of miles away, his thoughts are with his family every second of every day. 

When Dad Travels for Work shows a father’s love for his family and how this particular dad travels so he can provide for them. It shows the joy this loving family experiences when they are reunited. SWEET!

A parent’s need to travel for work can be challenging for little kids to adjust to. They may not understand why their parent must leave them. I encourage you to share this charming story with 3 to 7-year-olds who need help understanding a parent’s need to travel for work. I’ll also help a child realize their parent is missing them as much as they are missing their parent. 

Remember to check Csilla Szegedi’s illustrated maze before the title page or at the back of the book. It’s a fun mini game that children would adore navigating. Encourage them to start at “home” and travel down the winding roads to reach each destination on the map. Just watch out for motor vehicles! 

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

Check out Kristopher Goeden’s website for free coloring pages and mazes! https://www.kristophergoeden.com/

 

 

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May 12, 2023 · 7:00 am

The Migrating Millimunger by Charlotte Chaplin (Book Review)

On the shore of Blue Bear Island,
One dark and stormy night,
Washed up a Millimunger
In a boat with a green light.

After being chased away from home by a crocodile, Millimunger lands on Blue Bear Island. Sadly, the island’s inhabitants are not very welcoming. Can one special bear change the others’ minds?

Find out what happens to Millimunger and enjoy finding the crab as you read along.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Millimunger is forced to leave her home when she is chased away by a hungry crocodile. Sadly, the inhabitants of Blue Bear Island are less than welcoming when Millimunger washes ashore. Why? Well, Millimunger did not resemble the bears on the island. The islanders were blue, while Millimunger had pink fur, a red nose, and ears that looked like pink pom poms on a pink stalk. Due to Millimunger’s appearance and the fact they were a stranger on Blue Bear Island, the blue bears assumed the worst about Millimunger’s intentions. This behavior is a common occurrence in our society. Unfortunately, we judge on appearances way too often and often unfavorably. 

In real life, there are those who stand up for the mistreated. In The Migrating Millimunger by Charlotte Chaplin, the smallest blue bear, Baby Bear, broke down in tears. They were distraught over their family’s treatment of a bear who just wanted to belong. This small bear changed the minds of many. They helped the other bears see the error of the ways, which propelled the islanders into action to make amends to Millimunger.

The Migrating Millimunger promotes kindness and acceptance, which should and must be instilled in our children, starting when they are very young. 

The Migrating Millimunger is a lovely book with a spectacular message and wonderfully bright illustrations. Alice Pieroni, the illustrator, impressed me with their designs. Each bear had their own clothing style that made them stand out as individuals. And, Millimunger was the cutest pink bear I have ever seen! Oh, I love the banner at the end, and so will other supporters of the PRIDE community. 

Parents, share this picture book with your children. 

Educators, share it with your class.

Together, let’s create a more accepting society! 

At under 30 pages, I recommend The Migrating Millimunger for children two years of age and older. 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

Charlotte Chaplin is a professional writer who loves writing entertaining stories for little people. She has a BA (Hons) degree in English Literature from the University of Sussex and is the proud author of ‘The Migrating Millimunger.’ She grew up, and still lives in, South East London, UK.
PROFILE URL

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April 30, 2023 · 7:00 am

Tiny Tales by Vanessa Newman (Book Review)

“Tiny Tales” is a collection of five friendly fables for young children and young-at-heart adults with positive messages and charming illustrations. A collaboration between an American writer, Vanessa Newman, a Ukrainian artist, Anastasia Yatsunenko, and designed by artist Richard Newman.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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

 

Tiny Tales is a collection of five friendly fables for young children and young-at-heart adults with positive messages and charming illustrations. 

Each fable is only a handful of pages long, a perfect size for children with limited attention spans. The stories contain easy and advanced words making it an ideal reading material for kindergarten through 2nd grade. 

 

“Posey in Charge” centers around a large cat who’s “large and in charge” until she meets her ultimate foe, a ball. The orange furball set out to show the ball who’s boss. The cat’s antics are hilarious. Kids will love the story and the adorable main illustration of the kitty! I wish the short tale had an image of the kitty protecting his turf, though. I know kids would like to see it. 

“Bumble Bee” teaches children that it’s okay not to do things like everyone else. Be like the fun bee in this short tale. Take your time, enjoy life, and don’t change yourself for someone else’s benefit, even for royalty.  

Chippy the chipmunk loves to gossip and couldn’t wait to share what he heard, even to the displeasure of whose stories he was spreading. When Chippy meets a boy who lost his turtle, he seeks out his forest companions for help. Due to Chippy’s history, no one wanted to be around him; they feared he’d tell others what they discussed. He lost his friends’ trust. 

“Chippy Chitters” teaches children that sharing stories (gossip) can hurt people’s feelings, make them angry, or lead to lost friendships. Chippy realized it’s best only to share information when it is needed. 

Gabe, the mouse, didn’t feel special. He had an average physique and no plan for the future. He wasn’t sad or mad, but he wasn’t happy either. Others referred to him as the “no-fun” mouse. He felt something was missing from his life but had no clue what. Adults experience these feelings, and children do as well. They can be overwhelming for any age. 

Gabe found his missing piece. He discovered that his balancing skills brought joy to others, which also filled him with joy. Like the previous tales, “Synonymouse” weaves a powerful message through a whimsical story. Even if you look like someone else, it doesn’t mean you don’t possess your own talents and abilities. We all have something about us that makes us unique. My special ability is picking objects up with my toes. 

“Tess the Toucan” features a bird with a positive attitude and a willingness to help her friends with any task. No matter the request, Tess answered, “Yes I can.” She worked nonstop, even when her body wanted her to sleep. 

Tess realized it’s unhealthy always saying “yes” and it’s okay to say “no.” Through this fable, children will grasp the importance of setting boundaries. Maybe they’ll even understand why their parents have to say “no” occasionally. 

Tiny Tales was a quick read with easy-to-follow storylines. With more illustrations, the recommended reading age would be three and older. As is, the targeted audience should be five through eight.  

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author 

I have been writing since I was eight and have self-published 10 children’s books and 3 novels. I’m also a freelancer who has contributed to hundreds of articles, courses, and blogs online. I like to write grown-up humor (Dr. Seuss meets Dr. Ruth) and children’s books.

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