Tag Archives: young readers

November 19, 2025 · 7:00 am

A Squirrely Christmas (Clover & Pumpkin) by Megan K Palmer (Book Review)

Get ready for a nutty adventure in the heart of the forest with A Squirrely Christmas – a funny and heartwarming Christmas picture book for kids!

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the forest animals, especially baby bunny can’t wait for their annual Christmas Tree Decorating Extravaganza. This year, the squirrels-Clover and Pumpkin-are in charge of decking out the grand Christmas tree. But are these two fluffy friends up for the challenge?

Join a lovable cast of forest creatures in this playful Christmas book for children ages 2-7 that celebrates friendship, teamwork, and turning the chaos of the holidays into fun. Laugh along as Clover and Pumpkin learn the true meaning of the season-working together, slowing down, and sharing Christmas cheer!

With adorable illustrations and a playful speech bubble story, this Christmas book is perfect for holiday read-alouds with toddlers and preschoolers, teachers and librarians looking for festive Christmas books, or a great Christmas gift for readers who love forest animals and holiday humor.

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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.

 

Christmas is quickly approaching, and I found the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit: A Squirrely Christmas by Megan Palmer. Each year, a different forest animal is selected to decorate a tree for the holiday; this year, it’s the squirrel’s turn to take the reins. The decorating extravaganza did not go smoothly for Pumpkin and Clover, the very energetic squirrel buddies. They quickly learned the repercussions for rushing the decorating process.

Christmas lights are pretty to look at, but more often than not, they can become a tangled mess, which is what these two forest friends experienced. They should have adopted the “slow and steady wins the race” approach to Christmas tree decorating, rather than competing to see who can finish first and becoming entangled in the strings. In the end, the squirrels learn the importance of taking their time and working together as a team.

A Squirrely Christmas is a wonderful and amusing holiday story. Kids will laugh at the colorful drawings of the squirrels’ bungled attempt to string the lights and Pumpkin’s face when he was caught eating on the job. Kids and adults will enjoy seeing the squirrels completed tree and the lovely polaroids of decorated trees from past years. Encourage your family or students to vote for the one they think wins best in show. I’m casting my ballot for team reindeer! Also, everyone is sure to learn something new about squirrels and evergreens on their facts page; I certainly did, so don’t skip these informative pages! Share your newfound knowledge with friends, classmates, and family members!

With a recommended reading age of 2-7 years, A Squirrely Christmas is the perfect choice for young readers. Its fun-filled storyline, amusing illustrations, and educational facts make it a must-have for the holiday season. Share this delightful book with your family and make it a part of your holiday traditions!

Heart Rating System:
1 (lowest) and 5 (highest) 
Score: ❤❤❤❤1/2
(rounded to 5 on Amazon and Goodreads)

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Meet the Author

Megan K. Palmer is a creator, writer, book reviewer, and educator. She’s obsessed with tears, laughter, and the writing process. Perhaps it’s because they go together at times. She graduated from the Harvard Graduate School of Education with an Ed.M. education at Brigham Young University.

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October 27, 2025 · 7:00 am

Polly, Stubby & Al by Donahue B. Silvis (Book Review)

BEN and SARA DONOVAN live in a small community called Wolfe Lake with their two daughters, six year old MEGAN and eight year old KATIE. They have two pets, Polly a multi-colored talking parrot and Stubby a tan colored, bowlegged bulldog. Ben owns a small landscaping business. Sara is a housewife and animal lover. One day Sara, Megan, Katie and Stubby are walking in the woods. They see an injured black crow lying on the ground. Sara picks up the crow, takes him home and nurse’s him back to health. When healed and turned loose the crow does not return to the wild. He chooses to remain with the family. They name him Al and he becomes one of their pets.

The family had become used to Polly’s chatter but a week later they’re amazed when Al speaks. Their everyday life, as they know it, is about to take an abrupt and hilarious change. From that day forward nothing is the same, in the Donovan household, as Al becomes a funny and mischievous character.

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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.

 

Polly, Stubby & Al will make you laugh, make you cry, and might prompt your children to ask for a pet crow and not just any ordinary crow, one with a split tongue. Why this particular kind of crow, you may ask. We quickly learn that a crow’s split tongue enables them to speak. This ability generated many humorous scenes with Al, the talking crow, as the main star. Al wasn’t the only chatterbox in the Donovan household; Polly, the parrot, also entertained the family with their words. The real, unexpected jaw-dropping moment was when the parrot altered their voice to sound like Mama Sara and AL. They used this talent to prank the crow and Stubby, the bowlegged bulldog. Too funny.

Many families have dogs as pets. Some homes might even have a parrot, but a crow isn’t your typical idea of a family pet. So, how did Al, the crow, find his way into their family? It was a chance encounter. Sara saw the bird injured and nursed it back to health. She intended for him to live out in the wild; however, Al had other plans, and the family soon discovered he was indeed a very special bird. Al enjoyed joining Megan and Katie at the lake as the young sisters fished. He came when Mama Sara called his name. The crow’s word choices and his mischievous antics were very entertaining to watch.

Al’s naughtiness will have you laughing. If the text doesn’t make you giggle, some of the colorful illustrations will. As I said in the introduction, this story will make you laugh, but it’ll also make some cry. The storm scene was very moving. I cried when Al cried out for “Mama.” I figured he would be saved, but the journey to their reunion and then the reunion itself had me reaching for tissues again and again. Maybe they will for you, as well. Even though I adored every funny and sad scene, there were unfortunately several editing mistakes. That said, I recommend another editing pass.

Though the story needed more TLC, it is still a remarkable chapter book. I recommend sharing with your children, ages 5-10.

 

Author’s note: “Polly, Stubby & Al is a true story. It’s about my grandparents and their two young daughters, who are my mother and aunt. It took place in the 1920s.”

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

I’m an alumnus of the renowned Pasadena Playhouse Drama School; then, I graduated from Florida Atlantic University. As a member of the Screen Actors Guild, I worked in movies as an actor and screenwriter. I’ve also written seven novels, eight screenplays, and one illustrated children’s book.

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October 6, 2025 · 7:00 am

Monsters Don’t Say Meep: Even the tiniest roar can make the biggest difference by Bridgetta Tomarchio (Book Review)

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.

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Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

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: ❤❤❤❤

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

 

Meet the Author

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.

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August 22, 2025 · 7:00 am

Milo’s Pet Problem by Romona Norton (Book Spotlight)

One boy. Too many wild ideas. The hilarious search for the perfect pet begins!

Milo has trees to climb, rivers to splash in, and endless adventures-but he wants a pet.

His mom says no unless he can find one in the woods.

Challenge accepted!

From a prickly hedgehog to a stinky skunk, Milo’s search for the perfect pet goes hilariously wrong at every turn.

But when he’s ready to give up, a surprise arrives that’s just right.

Milo’s Pet Problem is a funny, feel-good story about curiosity, determination, and one unforgettable quest for the perfect companion.

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Check out my review on Reedsy!

 

 

 

Meet the Author

Romona Norton, born in Guyana, began writing in 2012 inspired by her daughters. She self-published two books and later founded Coconut Tree Books and the lifestyle brand Cari Capri. Her stories spark curiosity, laughter, and a love for reading.

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August 15, 2025 · 7:00 am

Afraid of the Dark: Liana and the Shadow in the Closet by Lamar Golden and Liana Golden (Book Review)

Liana and the Shadow in the Closet is a heartwarming and empowering story about facing fears and finding comfort in the dark. Liana is afraid of the shadowy figure she sees in her closet at night. But with the help of her older brother, Marco, she learns that the shadow isn’t a monster—it’s just her clothes! With a little imagination, a nightlight, and some comforting words, Liana discovers that the dark isn’t so scary, after all.

This delightful story teaches young readers how to face their fears, create a comforting bedtime routine, and use their imagination to turn scary thoughts into fun ones. Perfect for children aged 4-8, Liana and the Shadow in the Closet offers valuable lessons in overcoming nighttime anxieties, making it an ideal bedtime read.

Key Themes:

  • Facing fears of shadows and the dark
  • Creating a comforting bedtime routine
  • Using imagination to overcome fear
  • Sibling support and family bonding

This book is part of the Afraid of the Dark bedtime series, designed to help children feel safe, confident, and empowered to tackle their nighttime fears head-on.

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

Bedtime fears are a shared experience among children, a fact that we as parents and caregivers can all relate to. They often imagine something hiding in their closet or under their bed. The shadows outside can cast eerie shapes on their walls. The wind and tree limbs can create spooky scratching sounds against windowpanes, sending shivers down their spine and making their hearts race. However, remember that there’s always a reason behind these fears, and we can always find ways to ease a child’s anxiety and help them have a peaceful night’s sleep, as seen in Liana and the Shadow in the Closet from the Afraid of the Dark bedtime series.

Liana, a sweet little girl, adores her room, except when the lights go out at bedtime. Every night, she would see a dark shape in her closet—a scary monster. It would move and grow, and as it did, Liana’s heart would beat faster. But Liana wasn’t alone in facing her fears. She had a caring big brother, Marco, who didn’t dismiss her concerns but instead helped her confront them. He also guided her to find a solution to banish any future bedtime fears.

Read Liana and the Shadow in the Closet to any child who shares Liana’s one-time fears. Follow Marco’s example and help the anxious child understand what they are truly seeing in the shadows or (in many real-life scenarios) hearing outside. Apply Marco’s illuminating idea to ward off future fears. Make this story a part of your bedtime routine and help empower your kids to face their fears head-on, instead of hiding away under the covers and losing out on much-needed sleep.

A beautiful sibling bond shone bright in Liana and the Shadow in the Closet. Each illustrative page felt like a screenshot from a cartoon. That’s the highest praise to an illustrator.

Share this beautiful and heartwarming story with children aged 3 to 9 years.

 

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

Amazon Purchase Link

 

 

Meet the Talented Team!

Lamar and Liana Golden are a dynamic father-daughter duo on a mission to captivate hearts, inspire minds, and leave a lasting legacy through the power of storytelling. With a shared passion for imagination and creativity, they weave tales that transport readers of all ages—from whimsical children’s stories that ignite wonder to gripping YA adventures and thought-provoking novels that linger in the soul.
 
For the Goldens, storytelling is more than a craft—it’s a family tradition. Lamar brings years of life experience, wisdom, and a knack for spinning unforgettable narratives, while Liana infuses their works with youthful energy, fresh perspectives, and a deep connection to the dreams and struggles of today’s readers. Together, they create a symphony of stories that resonate across generations.
 
Beyond their writing, Lamar and Liana share a zest for life’s simple joys. They’re adventurers at heart, often found savoring delicious food, laughing over spirited games, and seeking thrills at theme parks. These moments of connection fuel their creativity, reminding them of the importance of building a legacy of love, imagination, and goodness in the world.
 
Their dream is simple yet profound: to inspire readers everywhere, one story at a time, and to leave behind a world just a little brighter for having shared their journey. Join Lamar and Liana Golden as they open the door to extraordinary worlds and unforgettable adventures—you won’t want to miss a single tale.
 
You can contact us at lamar.golden1@gmail.com or via X (Formerly Twitter) @LNLGolden
 

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