Book Review: Click, Clack, Quack to School

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Book received at no charge to facilitate review.

Get ready for the excitement, for the stomping of feet, the hooting and hollering and the for clucking. Wait! What do the rules say again?

On Wednesday, Farmer Brown gets an invitation to be a guest at Dinklemeyer Elementary School and to "Bring the animals too." He rushes to get the animals ready. With all of the excitement, the cows moo, the chickens cluck, and the pigs oink but Farmer Brown explains that school is serious and quiet. The animals must obey the rules. Suddenly school doesn't sound so fun.

When the animals make it to school and the recess bell rings, things get a little wacky. While the silly story starts on a promising note, the ending falls a little flat. Somehow, I feel like I missed the punchline. A silly but quick read for those who enjoy the Click, Clack series.

Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information

Publisher:  Atheneum Young Readers (July 3, 2018

ISBN: 9781534414495

Ages: 4-8

Teddy's Favorite Toy by Christian Trimmer & Illustrated by Madeline Valentine

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Book received at no charge to facilitate review.

Teddy never has a dull moment in his room with all of his cool toys ranging from hula hoops to fire trucks. One toy takes center stage as his all time favorite, Bren-Da, Warrior Queen of the Pacifica. Bren-Da has the best manners and the sickest fighting skills.

When Bren-Da's leg snaps off, Teddy tries to no avail to fix her. Instead, he leaves her wrapped in bandages and heads off to school. He returns to find Bren-Da missing. Seeing his dismay at losing his favorite toy, his superhero mom pulls out her special skills to go for the rescue. Can she do it? 

A touching look and what it means to get past gender stereotypes. Great for those who aren't afraid of what others think.

★★★★☆

Publishing Information:

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers (February 27, 2018)

ISBN: 978-4814-8079-6

Hardcover: 40 pages

Ages: 4-8

This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Car by Kate Dopirak and Illustrated by Mary Peterson: Book Review

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Little car doesn't want to go to bed. Instead he zips around town saying goodnight to all of the other vehicles he's friends with. From honking to tractors to hearing toots from taxis and buses, Little Car enjoys his night on the town. When the ferry arrives to take the last load of cars, Little car motors on to the waiting platform. With sleepy eyes, Little Car tries to make it back to his garage. Will he make it?

Though the rhyme works with the tune of Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star, it's also perfect to read aloud. Shades of blue have a calming effect parents will love at bedtime while the budding reader will love the Little Car's bright color. A solid bedtime story that youngsters and parents will enjoy over and over again.

★★★★☆

Publishing Information:

Publisher: Beach Lane Books (Feb. 13, 2018)

ISBN: 9781481488037

Ages: 4-8

This book can be purchased HERE.

Sam & Eva by Debbie Ridpath Ohi Book Review

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Just as Sam starts to draw an epic velociraptor, Eva wants to collaborate with him. If that's not bad enough, Eva can't tell the difference between a pony and velociraptor. Eva joins anyway with her interpretation and soon the two are locked in a creative clash that includes lightning and explosive confetti.

Soon Eva tires of their artistic masterpiece, leaving Sam to draw solo. Though Sam gets rid of Eva like he wished for from the beginning, he discovers it's not the same. Will they ever get the chance put their talents to work together again? 

Lively characters create a frenetically playful story perfect culminating in a sweet lesson on how to work together. Perfect for the budding artist 

Rating ★★★★★

Publishing Information

Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers (Oct. 17, 2017)

ISBN: 9781481416283

Ages: 4 & up

This book can be purchased on Amazon.

Stanley's Store by William Bee: Book Review

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Stanley the hamster is back and hard at work getting ready for a busy day at his store. He's unloading fruits and vegetables from his truck while inside Hattie helps Myrtle find cheese, lots of cheese. It's a good thing for Myrtle that the store offers delivery. In the meantime, Shamus and Little Woo have plenty of groceries for Stanley to ring up. It looks like Little Woo got a little carried away with the sweets. Thanks to Charlie, not everything goes as planned at Stanley's store.

Bee's use of bright colors and bold illustrations capture the attention of the preschooler but the fun really belongs to Stanley. Who can't help but love this hardworking and charming hamster?

Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information

Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (3/1/2017)

ISBN:  978-1-56145-868-4

Page Count: 32

Ages: 3-7

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Picture Book Review: Never Follow a Dinosaur by Alex Latimer

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A puzzling set of footprints lead Joe and his sister Sally on a quest to find out where they came from. They most certainly had to come from a dinosaur and not just any dinosaur but a hungry, heavy dinosaur with very tiny feet.

As Joe and Sally follow the clues, they discover that besides being hungry, the dinosaur loves swimming and dancing but also has a headache and a sore foot. Joe and Sally must prove to their dad that the dinosaur is not extinct so they build the perfect dinosaur trap. Latimer's hilarious penciled illustrations of the dinosaur trap adds fun to the craziness of their quest. The lovable dinosaur wins the hearts of the determined siblings in such an absurd way that the young reader will be looking all over for tracks so he can find a lovable dinosaur too.

Rating ★ ★ ★ ★☆

Publishing Information

Never Follow A Dinosaur

Written and Illustrated by Alex Latimer

Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (September 2016)

ISBN: 978-1-56145-704-5

Ages: 4-8

This book can be purchased on Amazon

Book Review: Seven and a Half Tons of Steel

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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:

Stanley The Mailman by William Bee: Book Review

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Stanley knows what it's like to work hard and he's at it again. He's getting up before the sun to sort through letters and packages. He drives off on his scooter to get the mail delivered. First stop is Myrtle's house to drop off her order from Paris. Little Woo gets a present from his grandparents Stanley delivers a lot of love letters to Charlie. You go Charlie!  But not everyone is happy with what Stanley brings.

Through bright illustrations and cartoon like characters, toddlers will delight in learning what it takes to be a mailman. Read it aloud enough and those toddlers will be waiting on the porch for their very own package from their mailman. A charming look at what comes in the mail along with what it takes to get it there.

Rating: ★★★★☆

This book can be purchased from the following retailer:

The Brownstone by Paula Scher with Pictures by Stan Mack BOOK REVIEW

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With winter coming, Mr. Bear and his family must prepare for their long winter nap. Just when they turn off the light they hear, "DO-RE-MEOW" from across the hall. With Miss Cat across the hall, the Pigs and Mice on the second floor and Mr. Owl and the Kangaroos on the top floor, it's nearly impossible for the Bear family to sleep at all.

Faced with a plethora of problem neighbors, the Bear family realize moving away isn't an option. Instead the neighbors try compromising by changing places in the Brownstone. It takes a lot of tries to get it right.

Keeping track of  humorous scenarios and constant reshuffling feels like putting together a puzzle. The cartoon like illustrations adds to the zaniness. Besides creating plenty of snickers, The Brownstone perfects the importance of compromise.

Rating: ★★★★☆

This book can be purchased on Amazon:

Picture Book Review: Stay! A Top Dog Story by Alex Latimer

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Book received at no charge in exchange for an honest review.

Ben loves his dog, Buster and thinks he's the best dog in the entire world. His parents think otherwise. Buster has a knack for leaving messes wherever he goes and gets too excited about things that move like squirrels and especially the postman.

Sadly, Ben must leave Buster behind with Grampa when he goes away on vacation. But how will he know how to take care of him? Ben makes sure he leaves lists, diagrams and pictures for him but it's not enough. He frets that he has forgotten something and writes letters and postcards. The only problem is that he still forgets to tell Grampa not to take Buster to the post office and when Grampa makes the mistake of dragging him along, Buster wrecks havoc. Grampa sets out to change Buster's bad behavior but will it work?

Dog lovers will love the playful antics of the slightly naughty, Buster, and will love the humor in the quirky notes Ben leaves behind. A fun and visually stimulating look at what dog ownership is all about.

Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information

Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (Sept. 2015)

Written and Illustrated by Alex Latimer

ISBN: 978-1-56145-884-4

Ages: 4-8

This book can be purchased from the following retailers:

Book Review: Stanley's Diner Written & Illustrated by William Bee

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Disclosure: Book received at no charge in exchange for an honest review.

A visit to Stanley's Diner will take the reader inside the busy kitchen where Stanley cooks eggs, tomatoes, and mushrooms. Stanley's friend, Hattie, works with him in the diner. Together they feed the hungry customers. When it comes time to celebrate, Stanley cooks up a special cake. Keep the pages turning to find out why.

Digitally rendered artwork with clean lines set the tone for the simple yet charming look at what it takes to work in a diner.

Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information:

Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (September 2015)
ISBN: 978-1-56145-802-8
Ages: 3-7

This book can be purchased from the following retailers:

BOOK REVIEW: Simon's New Bed by Christian Trimmer and Art by Melissa van der Paardt

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Disclosure: Book received at no charge in exchange for an honest review.

Simon can't wait to try his new bed but the poor dog has a problem. He's not the only one who thinks his bed looks comfy. Miss Adora Belle, the cat, has made herself at home on Simon's bed. He tries to no avail to get her out. Howling and barking doesn't work. He even drags her around the yard  but Adora Belle just won't budge. Simon finally comes to the conclusion that sharing may be the only way he will get to try his bed. But will it work?

The digitally rendered illustrations capture perfectly the feelings of Simon from his upturned mouth at the happy thought of trying his new bed to his sad surprise in his droopy face in finding Adora Belle right in the middle. The sly and contented looks of Adora Belle add to the humor. While the lesson of making the best of what you have will resonate with the young reader, the illustrations will get them coming back for another lesson in reading expressions.

Rating ★★★★☆

Publishing Information

Publisher: Atheneum Books for Young Readers (Aug. 25, 2015)

ISBN: 978-1481430197

Grades: P-3

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Spot the Monkey in the Jungle by Stella Madiment and Joelle Dreidemy: Book Review

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FTC Disclosure: Book received at no charge to facilitate unbiased review.

Get out your looking glass and swing on by. A bright, colorful jungle awaits. 

While searching for the cute monkey, your bound to learn some fun facts along the way about other jungle animals. Did you know that little birds fly into the mouths of crocodile to pick meat off their teeth? The jungle is full of other things to find and other interesting facts.

Watch the reader interact Spot the Monkey in the Jungle with curiosity and joy all while increasing vocabulary and teaching differentiation through adjectives. A fun book that will help stimulate conversation while reading together.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Publishing Information:

 QEB Publishing (April 1, 2015)
ISBN-13: 978-1609927288
Pages: 24
Ages: 3-5

This book can be purchased from the following retailers:

Book Review: Made by Raffi by Craig Pomranz and Illustrated by Margaret Chamberlain

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Book received at no charge to facilitate review.

Raffi feels different from all of the other boys at school. While they like to play rough and make a lot of noise, Raffi preferred to sit quietly by himself. While looking for a quiet spot, he finds his teacher knitting and can't hide his fascination at her creation. He jumps at the chance to learn to knit and gathers yarn in every color of the rainbow for a scarf for his dad.

As his project grows, he tries to ignore the taunting of the other children on the school bus.  He receives unwavering support at home when he asks his parents if there is such thing as a "Tomgirl." Raffi expands his skills for the school play and gains the admiration of his classmates in the process.

Made by Raffi celebrates children's unique difference with pizzazz and color in a spirited story that will win the hearts of those who feel different as well as those who want to celebrate differences. Move over Calvin Klein, the young reader may want to take over the world of fashion design.

Rating: ★★★★☆

Publishing Details:

Publisher: Francis Lincoln Children's Books (July 29, 2014)

ISBN: 978-1-84780-433-4

40 pages

Ages: 5-9

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Book Review: The Boy Who Cried Ninja by Alex Latimer

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Book received at no charge to facilitate my review.

Tim can't get anybody to believe him. When he explains that the Ninja ate the last piece of cake or that the astronaut took his dad's hammer, he is sent outside to rake leaves and to think about his lies. But when he decides to tell real lies and own up to all of the trouble created the giant squid, tea drinking pirate and time-traveling monkey, his parents assign him more chores to think about the bad things he has done.

Poor Time just can't win.

Instead he conjures up a fabulous idea. He writes a letter inviting the band of miscreants to a party at his house. When they actually show up, his parents have no choice but to apologize to Tim. The modern, stylized characters are sure to illicit giggles from the young reader. A humorous twist on a classic theme. Clever and fun for the ninja lover.

Publishing Information:

Peachtree Publishers (Feb. 1, 2014)

32 pages

Ages: 4-8

ISBN: 978-1561457748

This book can be purchased from the following retailers:

Blog Tour: The King of Little Things by Bill Lepp Illustrated by David T. Wenzel (BOOK REVIEW)

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       A long time ago in a world on the other side of a far mountain lived the much beloved King of the Little Things. His rule over all things small brought him much happiness and contentment.

            But alas! Not all kings appreciate what they have. They always want more. Greedy King Normous wants the most and intends to be king of all the world. He gathers a vast army and conquers every kingdom, until he thinks he rules the entire world. When he learns that he has missed the King of Little Things, he sends his army to destroy the kingdom. After all, “Everyone knows that little things exist only to serve big things.” However, King Normous discovers his flawed thinking when little things band together to fight for their king.

            Young readers will love Lepp's lively tale that naturally works in the moral of never overlooking the little things in life. Wenzehumor filled watercolor illustrations complete the endearing story. Lots of fun words and slant rhymes make The King of Little Things a great read aloud while the curious mind keeps busy in searching the pages for little things. Both parents and children will fall in love with the gentle King of Little Things over and over again.

              Rating: Highly Recommended *****

**I received a review copy of this book from the publisher at no charge to facilitate my review.

Publishing Information:

Publisher: Peachtree Publishers (Sept. 2013)

ISBN: 978-1-56145-708-3

Ages 4-8

This book can be purchased at the following retailers: