Tag Archives: picture book

What Would You Do? by CK Willie (Book Review)

This beautifully illustrated book with easy-to-read whimsical rhyme reaches out to children, or anyone of any age, to show them how to make their dreams come true. Whether they want to be an astronaut, a dragon tamer, build robots or ride in a hot air balloon, anything is possible if you believe in you!

No matter who you are or where you live, everyone has the same thing in common…dreams, dreams that may seem impossible. “What Would You Do?” shows that they are possible as long as you’re willing to believe in yourself. Our fears hold us back but one thing is true, our happiness lies just outside our comfort zone. So keep dreaming, believe in you and make those dreams come true!

So many things
in the world to try.
If you’re afraid
they may pass you by.
The pages of this book
will show you the way
to overcome your fears
so start reading today!

 

Amazon Purchase Link

 

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

 

Neophobia (fear of new things) can limit us from embracing new experiences and adventures. Yet, when we conquer our fears, the world becomes our playground. In this captivating children’s picture book, beautifully brought to life with vibrant illustrations, readers are prompted to ponder, “What would you do if you knew you couldn’t fail?” Imagine the possibilities. Where would you venture? What would you accomplish?

The children in this adventurous tale, spoken in rhyme, demonstrate incredible bravery as they climb the highest mountain and travel across the blue seas. They explore outer space, become robotic, and go toe-to-toe with a massive multi-colored dragon. We watch as a stylishly dressed Luchadores (Spanish for wrestler) gets the upper hand against their crocodile opponent. Great wrestling attire, especially the máscaras (Spanish for masks)! So pretty! Superhero kiddos make an appearance, too, while another child couldn’t resist monkeying around. I laughed at the kitten peeking out the shuttle door as a block of cheese and a kid astronaut floated close to the moon. The feline’s expression screamed, no amount of cheese in this galaxy will get me to step a paw outside this shuttle.

There’s so much more to explore in What Would You Do?, transforming the impossible into possible. Kids will love and laugh at the silly illustrations, such as the lion who loves to sing or the zebra who’s not thrilled to give out rides. They’ll cheer for the brave knight who rode to face the dragon in a wheelchair instead of a mighty stead. Readers will say, aw, as the boy reads his new pet dragon a bedtime story. No matter where the journey takes these kids, the writer’s mission is to encourage kids to believe in themselves and not allow fear to hold them back. So, take the author’s advice and repeat these four powerful words, “I believe in me,” and then go out and slay dragons!

While Amazon’s target audience for this book is 3-8-year-olds, the charming illustrations and diverse characters will captivate readers of all ages.

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

CK Willie lives in sunny Arizona and originally wanted to be a writer, though not necessarily a poet. However, her writing naturally rhymed, leading her to embrace poetry. She found delight in expressing feelings of doubt, insecurity and self-belief in playful and relatable ways for children. As a mother of four, a grandmother of nine and a great grandmother of two, she feels the greatest gift we can give children is confidence, believing in who they are and what they can do. The world is waiting for them! When she’s not writing, she is on the court playing pickleball and is learning to play Mahjongg.

Amazon Author Page Link

Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride by Freya Novak (Book Review)

Introducing Dallas Dingo, the quintessential “jack of all trades” at the Ragtag Hotel.

On a sweltering, sticky afternoon, Dallas cheerfully navigates the hotel’s elevator, zipping residents up and down with a bright smile.

In this lively community, you’ll meet a diverse array of captivating residents: a cheerful capybara flashing a toothy grin, a poised ostrich strutting with grace, a faint-prone quokka, a diminutive tarsier with large, soulful eyes, a whimsical armadillo rolling around playfully, and a worried okapi anxious about fitting into the elevator.

The atmosphere brims with anticipation as more animals squeeze in. Will they all manage to fit into the crowded, bustling elevator, or will someone be left behind? And what adventures await on the mysterious fourteenth floor?

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

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

 

At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride is Freya Novak’s first children’s book, and I suspect readers like me hope there’s more to come soon. Here’s why…

Back in the day, elevator operators were a standard fixture in hotels. They added a level of sophistication to the building. While the job is becoming obsolete, you can still find operators in historic establishments. As the doors to the Ragtag Hotel open, we meet Dallas Dingo, their elevator operator extraordinaire. Kids might wonder why riders needed a special person to push their floor number. That question could lead to a discussion of the evolution of the elevator and those who maintained it. For this story, the author kept it simple. Listen for the ping and wait for which animal is set to board the container next. No previous knowledge of elevator attendants is needed. Just sit back and enjoy the comedic ride.

On a scorching day, the animals in the storybook are all heading to the same floor, 14. Colin Capybara is the first to join Dallas Dingo on the elevator, greeting him with a ‘Hola,’ which is ‘Hello’ in Spanish. This greeting and others in the story are translated for readers, enhancing their understanding of different languages without distracting them from the main dialogue or scenery. The consistent use of dark blue for the greetings and their translations is a fantastic feature that allows readers to learn simple greetings in multiple languages, adding an educational element to the story.

This particular contraption was the clown car of the elevators. When you think no more animals could possibly fit, the machine rings, signaling a new rider is about to board. I loved the variety of animal riders. The author chose animals rarely seen in many children’s picture books. Oona Ostrich, Queenie Quokka, Tiny Tarsier, Ami Armadillo, and Oma Okapi accompanied Colin Capybara and Dallas Dingo on the lift as they climbed to level 14. Why to level 14? What awaits the six passengers there? It has a lot to do with the sweltering heat outside. As temperatures rise for many of us, readers might guess what’s on every animal’s mind to beat this blistering heatwave. (Read the story to see if your guess is correct!)

At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride was filled to the brim with positive qualities.It featured a variety of animals that readers, young and old, may not recognize. Yeah, that includes me with the okapi. What a delightful and unique-looking animal that shares characteristics with giraffes and zebras. This story also enlightened viewers on how other ethnicities greet one another, hopefully generating interest to learn more words from the languages presented: Spanish, Swahili, Lingala, and Filipino. And the icing on the cake was the comedic aspect. I didn’t think Oona Ostrich would fit on the elevator with their large body, but they did. I really didn’t believe Oma Okapi would squeeze their striped backside into the lift, but they proved me wrong, too. The hilarity hit the mark when the elevator finally began climbing to the 14th floor with all seven animals on board (six riders plus the operator). Their facial expressions spoke volumes! Would they make it, or would their combined weight break the box? READ the story and find out.

Looking to beat the heat this summer? Seeking a book that’ll have your kids LOL? Read At the Ragtag Hotel: The Elevator Ride and then consider cooling off like the animals in this fantastic tale!

My recommended reading age is 6 years and up.

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

 
Freya Novak’s passion for reading began at a young age when she discovered Enid Blyton’s “The Magic Faraway Tree.” This experience ignited her imagination and inspired her to become a writer. For her debut children’s book, Freya chose to use a pseudonym.

Reedsy Author Link

 
 
 

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Sugar Bee the Fairy by Camie Putchaven (Book Review)

Sugar Bee the Fairy is a gentle and magical journey where kindness grows with every flower. Sugar Bee is no ordinary fairy with a mission to teach children the power of respect and kindness. Whether it’s showing love to buzzing bees, being gentle with forest friends, or caring for the Earth beneath their feet. Sugar Bee sprinkles lessons of compassion and harmony wherever she goes. Kindle includes two crafts to make at the end of the book!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

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

 

Sugar Bee the Fairy is a heartwarming tale about a sweet fairy who spreads kindness wherever they go. Their home is a beautiful place, surrounded by lush woods, fragrant wildflowers, and cute wildlife. The artist, Moran Reudor, has done a remarkable job in bringing this world to life with their detailed illustrations. From the red mushroom’s gills to the squirrels’ bushy tails, and especially Sugar Bee, every page is a visual delight. Readers of all ages will be captivated by the beautiful illustrations and Sugar Bee’s stylish honey bee inspired outfit.

Have you heard this saying, “One’s man trash is another man’s treasure?” Sugar Bee embraces that phrase, exploring and collecting “lost treasures that no one wants anymore.” Besides spreading kindness around the neighborhood, she enjoys recycling old items into new creations. Nice use of the empty plastic bottles! Very creative! (Read the book to view how the fairy reused the recycled items.)

Besides showing the world love by reusing discarded items, Sugar Bee helps restore peace between two raccoons tussling over a sweet treat. Her quick thinking simmered tempers and left the raccoons happy. The forest animals learned a valuable lesson that day. Kids, too. Be kind to one another. Instead of fighting or arguing with someone, stop and think about what you can do to have a peaceful outcome. The solution might be easier than you think.

Sugar Bee the Fairy by Camie Putchaven is a beautiful children’s book that promotes peace, kindness, and recycling or reusing items. Share this lovely story with your children 3-8 years. Encourage your family or class to think of ways to reuse items around their homes instead of tossing them away. Teach kids the importance of respecting and caring for others and our planet. Give to others what you’d want in return: respect and kindness.

Special note: The book’s synopsis states the Kindle version possesses two craft projects, found at the end of the book. My ARC did not have them, but if your family loves crafting, you’ll want to check them out!

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Camie Putchaven is a registered veterinary technician, mobile pet care business owner, and now a children’s book author! Inspired by her love of animals, nature, writing, and nurturing young minds, she created Sugar Bee the Fairy.
 

 

 

 

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Elephants DO Forget: How Emory Found His Memory by P.E. Shadrick (Book Spotlight)

WITH THE HELP OF GOOD FRIENDS, YOU CAN FIND YOUR WAY HOME


Deep in the sun-dappled forest, Emory, a majestic but forgetful elephant, finds himself disoriented and lost. But just when he needs them most, two unlikely heroes swoop in – a parrot with a flair for the dramatic and a frog with a heart of pure gold. Together, they embark upon a thrilling quest, navigating twists and turns, and facing challenges that test their bravery and ingenuity. As they journey on, Emory’s new friends safely guide him home, proving that with kindness, support, and friends by your side, even the most confusing paths can lead to a brighter way.

This heartwarming tale puts a creative twist on the old adage “an elephant never forgets,” instead showcasing the resilience of friendship and support in the face of memory loss. Drawing inspiration from P.E. Shadrick’s father’s experience with dementia, this story whisks young readers away to a world of vibrant characters and lush landscapes, gently introducing them to the complexities of memory loss in a loved one.

Perfect for children aged 3-6 who love adventure, animals, and the magic of friendship.

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Check out my review on Reedsy!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Author

From an early age, Atlanta, Georgia-born, P.E. Shadrick was surrounded by masterful storytellers. Carrying forward a shared love of boundless creativity, she pursued opportunities of artistic expression in design and writing, eventually settling into a career in marketing & communications.


Reedsy Author Link

 

 

 

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Sugar Bee the Fairy by Camie Putchaven (Book Review)

Sugar Bee the Fairy is a gentle and magical journey where kindness grows with every flower. Sugar Bee is no ordinary fairy with a mission to teach children the power of respect and kindness. Whether it’s showing love to buzzing bees, being gentle with forest friends, or caring for the Earth beneath their feet. Sugar Bee sprinkles lessons of compassion and harmony wherever she goes. Kindle includes two crafts to make at the end of the book!

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

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

 

Sugar Bee the Fairy is a heartwarming tale about a sweet fairy who spreads kindness wherever they go. Their home is a beautiful place, surrounded by lush woods, fragrant wildflowers, and cute wildlife. The artist, Moran Reudor, has done a remarkable job in bringing this world to life with their detailed illustrations. From the red mushroom’s gills to the squirrels’ bushy tails, and especially Sugar Bee, every page is a visual delight. Readers of all ages will be captivated by the beautiful illustrations and Sugar Bee’s stylish honey bee inspired outfit.

Have you heard this saying, “One’s man trash is another man’s treasure?” Sugar Bee embraces that phrase, exploring and collecting “lost treasures that no one wants anymore.” Besides spreading kindness around the neighborhood, she enjoys recycling old items into new creations. Nice use of the empty plastic bottles! Very creative! (Read the book to view how the fairy reused the recycled items.)

Besides showing the world love by reusing discarded items, Sugar Bee helps restore peace between two raccoons tussling over a sweet treat. Her quick thinking simmered tempers and left the raccoons happy. The forest animals learned a valuable lesson that day. Kids, too. Be kind to one another. Instead of fighting or arguing with someone, stop and think about what you can do to have a peaceful outcome. The solution might be easier than you think.

Sugar Bee the Fairy by Camie Putchaven is a beautiful children’s book that promotes peace, kindness, and recycling or reusing items. Share this lovely story with your children 3-8 years. Encourage your family or class to think of ways to reuse items around their homes instead of tossing them away. Teach kids the importance of respecting and caring for others and our planet. Give to others what you’d want in return: respect and kindness.

Special note: The book’s synopsis states the Kindle version possesses two craft projects, found at the end of the book. My ARC did not have them, but if your family loves crafting, you’ll want to check them out!

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Camie Putchaven is a registered veterinary technician, mobile pet care business owner, and now a children’s book author! Inspired by her love of animals, nature, writing, and nurturing young minds, she created Sugar Bee the Fairy.
 

 

 

 

Leave a Comment

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