In a jungle where sloths love to take it slow, Pogo stands out as the one who just can’t stop moving! While everyone else hangs around for lazy afternoon naps, this energetic sloth zooms through the trees, splashes through puddles, and turns the peaceful jungle into his personal racetrack! When Pogo meets someone who moves at a very different pace, he discovers that sometimes the greatest adventures happen when you slow down. Join Pogo on his heartwarming journey as he learns that true friendship isn’t about how fast you go, it’s about making room for everyone to belong just as they are.
Christopher Barnes is a Boston-based children’s author and science teacher. His stories celebrate self-acceptance, curiosity, and friendship, drawing inspiration from his children, students, and love for animals,
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.
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: ❤❤❤❤
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.
After moving to a new home in the forest, Bunny and Fawn quickly settle into a peaceful life with their new friend, Bear. Their days are filled with fun and adventure-until one night, Bunny hears something strange lurking in the dark. Determined to uncover the truth, Bunny leads Fawn and Bear on a thrilling quest to find out what’s prowling outside their home. But when they finally come face-to-face with the mysterious creature, they are more surprised than they ever imagined.
(review request submitted by the author for an honest critique)
Bunny and Fawn are back, embarking on an exciting adventure to solve a great mystery: what creature lurks in the forest? Put your thinking caps on and join them on this thrilling journey!
The story begins by giving readers a recap of The Adventures of Bunny and Fawn, explaining how the friends came to live close to a brown bear named Bear. The three animals loved being neighbors. The drawing of Bear playfully tossing Bunny into the water was both cute and funny, and so was the one where Bear tossed the “creature” into the water, too.
The creature’s identity was a great mystery. I had an idea of what it was going to be before opening the book, but I was in for a surprise. Have your child or class guess its identity and see if their guess is correct. Ask your audience if they have heard of the mysterious creature’s name before, and then explain its meaning. It’s not a simple, common name like ‘Bunny’ and ‘Bear.’ (No spoilers.)
The Adventures of Bunny and Fawn beautifully illustrate why it is crucial not to make assumptions about someone. Instead of judging someone by how they look, take a moment to get to know them. You might learn something new or even make a new friend!
Join Bunny, Fawn, and Bear as they embark on a quest to discover who left the hoof prints, made the strange noises, and also had glowed like a flashlight in the night. Laugh as you watch Bear poke his head out from a fall-colored tree top and see Bunny holding tight to Fawn’s neck as they poke their heads out from the middle of a bush.
Great mystery. Funny illustrations. This story is sure to be a hit with family and educators. It did have a couple of hard-to-read spots, but other than that, it was picture-perfect and very entertaining.
Recommended reading age is 3 to 8 years.
Heart Rating System: 1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) Score: ❤❤❤❤
I enjoy writing stories for awesome kids like you! I love making books about friendship and fun. When I’m not writing, I’m usually exploring with my wife, attending sporting events, and cooking on the grill.
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.
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: ❤❤❤❤❤
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.
After moving to a new home in the forest, Bunny and Fawn quickly settle into a peaceful life with their new friend, Bear. Their days are filled with fun and adventure-until one night, Bunny hears something strange lurking in the dark. Determined to uncover the truth, Bunny leads Fawn and Bear on a thrilling quest to find out what’s prowling outside their home. But when they finally come face-to-face with the mysterious creature, they are more surprised than they ever imagined.
I enjoy writing stories for awesome kids like you! I love making books about friendship and fun. When I’m not writing, I’m usually exploring with my wife, attending sporting events, and cooking on the grill.
