Wednesday, August 31, 2016

My Grandparents Love Me by Claire Freedman and Judi Abbot: Book Review

Book received at no charge to facilitate review.

"I'm off to Gran and Grandpa's house with a big smile on my face." So begins the tender look into the special bond between grandparents and their grandchild. With so many activities to do with Gran and Grandpa, it's no wonder the little zebra loves to go to their house. From building a rocket with Grandpa to eating Gran's cupcakes, every day with loving grandparents is a day to celebrate.

The use of brilliant colors and happy animals in the background by illustrator, Judi Abbot add to the sweet sentiments expressed in the text. Any grandparent would revel in a read aloud with their grandchild with this sweet book and any grandchild would savor the love they feel on their grandparent's lap.

Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information:

Publsiher: Simon & Schuster Books For Young Readers (Aug. 30, 2016)
ISBN: 978-1-4814-7937-0
Pages: 32
Ages 4-8









Saturday, August 27, 2016

About Marine Mammals: A Guide for Children: Book Review

Book received at no charge to facilitate review.

With about 125 species of marine mammals in oceans around the world, Catherine and John Sill introduce children to a select few. Meet seals and whales or the small sea otter who looks so cute floating on his back the reader might wish he could snuggle up with him.

Through detailed drawing and painted in watercolor, the mammals unique characteristics help in identification for the budding marine biologist or conservationist. A glimpse at different habitats help the reader determine what part of the world to find certain species. The simple text leaves plenty of room for the visual experience and the glossary provides a wealth of knowledge for the reader who wants to learn more. A reliable addition to the series and is sure to give the young reader an appreciation of marine life.
Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information:

Publishers: Peachtree Publishing (August 2016)
ISBN: 978-1-56145-906-3
Total Pages: 48
Ages: 3-7







Friday, August 12, 2016

Book Review: Seven and a Half Tons of Steel



Book received at no charge to facilitate review.
For those who experienced the shock and horror of the September 11 World Trade Center tragedy, it's hard to imagine that many young people have no clue to what happened. Just in time for the September 11 anniversary, Seven and a Half Tons of Steel introduces a whole new generation to the aftermath of the tragedy and what could rise from the ashes.

A beam of steal saved from the rubble is carried to a foundry in Louisiana to build a navy ship called the USS New York. In the midst of another catastrophe, Hurricane Katrina, the steal beam is fashioned into the bow of the navy ship. The solemn event is accentuated with muted illustrations by Thomas Gonzalez that give the young reader a sense of awe without overwhelming with sadness. Author Janet Nolan masterfully creates the mood and provides additional information about the USS New York for those readers who to learn more. A respectful way to introduce youngsters to a sad part of history.

Rating ★★★★☆


  Publishing Information

Written by Janet Nolan
Illustrated by Thomas Gonzalez
Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (August 2016)
ISBN: 9781561459124
Ages: 6-10

Book can be purchased from the following retailer:




Monday, August 8, 2016

A Tiger Tail (Or What Happened to Anya on Her First Day of School by Mike Boldt: Book Review


Book received at no charge to facilitate review.

The first day of school is scary enough but for Anya it's about to get worse. Anya wakes up to and discovers, to her dismay, that she has grown a tiger's tail. No way will her new school let her in with a a tail, right? Her mother assures her it brings out her wild side and goes well with her hair. Her dad compares it to the time he got glasses. Either way, her parents are not going to let her miss school and Anya is about to find out that she will be allowed inside.

Anya does everything to hide her tail but a collision with another boy as she gets off the bus ruins her plans. However, it leads to a new discovery about the boy. One that helps make Anya's first day at school better than she had anticipated.

Young readers will delight in the situational humor Boldt masters with exaggerated digital images while learning to embrace uniqueness and diversity.

Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information

Publisher: Simon and Schuster Books for Young Readers (July 5, 2016)
ISBN: 9781481448857
Ages 4-8

This book can be purchased at the following retailer: