Review of Bobby's Story (Mr. Grizley's Class) by Bryan Patrick Avery, illustrated by Arief Putra

 

When Bobby learns more about homelessness, he wants to tell his classmates and help make a difference. But everyone is busy and distracted by their own activities. Can he find a way to tell this important story?

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

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**My thoughts**

This is a very short chapter book about a boy named Bobby who writes his own comic series about the Purple Potato. One day he literally runs into a high school girl named Ashley who is sharing flyers to raise awareness about homelessness. Bobby wants to help spread the world to his classmates, but has to find a clever way to get their attention.

What I like about this book is it is a call to action for kids to get involved in causes that are important to them. They learn how to make a flyer to support their cause. They are also encouraged to think of other ways to spread their message.

I was left wanting a bit more, though. A couple of facts about homelessness are included in the story. The kids get excited to help do something. I think it would have been a great time to introduce at least one actionable thing they could do to put on the flyer. And I think even showing us what Ashley's flyer looked like may have helped fuel that want. But this does provide a great foundation for more discussions with kids about important topics.

I did love the illustrations. They are very vibrant and show off the diverse classmates and captures their personalities. 

I received a reuqested review copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

This series is available on Amazon Kids+.

Click on a cover below to find out more about the Mr. Grizley's Class series by Bryan Patrick Avery.

Review of Isaiah Dunn Saves the Day by Kelly J. Baptist

 

Starting middle school is no joke! Isaiah Dunn has more to say in the sequel to the award-winning novel Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero. Friendship, community, and a love of words blend in this coming-of-age tale.

Things are looking up for super kid Isaiah Dunn. He and his little sister, Charlie, are getting used to staying with Miz Rita, and Mama's feeling better. Isaiah's poetry business with Angel is taking off, and his best friend, Sneaky, always has a new hustle. Plus, Isaiah has his dad's journals for a story or if he needs advice....

Like maybe now, because starting middle school is hard. Especially when his mentee Kobe won't stop making trouble. Isaiah knows something is up, but to get to the bottom of Kobe's secret, he'll have to rely on every hero he knows--including himself!

Discover the heartfelt and humorous sequel to the award-winning novel Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero.

Goodreads * Amazon * BN

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

This is the second full-length middle-grade novel featuring my new favorite kid hero, Isaiah Dunn. I loved it as much as the first one. I already can't wait for the next one!

He's now starting middle school and his home life is more stable. His best friend, Sneaky, wants him to come play football. But Isaiah's first love is still the written word. Plus his business with Angel is expanding. And he still has his hours at Rock's barbershop. And then he's getting roped into Rockets Reach Back, a mentorship program that pairs him with a struggling elementary student. He is going to end up learning as much from Kobe as Kobe does from him.

I love this story because not only does Isaiah grow a lot within himself, but he learns how to help others. And while he is doing mentoring of his own, he is being mentored to through his job and others in his life. It's a great learning lesson for both kids and adults about how we can all do so much good, even with one seemingly simple act.

Isaiah Dunn is an important voice in children's literature and can appeal to so many readers. I hope we keep hearing his story for quite some time!

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Click on a title to read my review of the  Isaiah Dunn series by Kelly J. Baptist:

Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero

Isaiah Dunn Saves the Day

Review of Sounds All Around: A Guide to Onomatopoeias Around the World by Dr. James Chapman

Did you know that in German, a pig doesn’t say oink, it says gruntz, and when you sneeze in Japanese it’s hakushon, not achoo? With vibrant comics and fun facts, Sounds All Around will teach you interesting and funny onomatopoeias from all over the world!

Review of A Bowl Full of Peace: A True Story by Caren Stelson, illustrated by Akira Kusaka

In this deeply moving nonfiction picture book, award-winning author Caren Stelson brings Sachiko Yasui's story of surviving the atomic bombing of Nagasaki and her message of peace to a young audience.

Sachiko's family home was about half a mile from where the atomic bomb fell on August 9, 1945. Her family experienced devastating loss. When they returned to the rubble where their home once stood, her father miraculously found their serving bowl fully intact. This delicate, green, leaf-shaped bowl—which once held their daily meals—now holds memories of the past and serves as a vessel of hope, peace, and new traditions for Sachiko and the surviving members of her family.

Book Links

Amazon * BN * Goodreads

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**My thoughts**

This may be a picture book, but it is definitely not a book for younger readers. This is more for your middle elementary and older children who are ready to hear the sobering tales from WWII. It is the tale of the bombing of Nagasaki and the horrific effects from that atomic bomb. Sachiko was only six years old when the bomb was dropped. It is miraculous that she survived, as most of those around her did not, whether being instantly killed or succumbing to residual disease some years later. It's a message about the horrors of nuclear weapons and the lesson that they should never be used again. But it also is a story that inspires hope, as it tells of the family heirloom that survived, the rituals that the family had before the bombing and the new ones of remembrance that they created after the bombing. And it speaks to having gratitude and humility. 

This is a true story. At the end of the story is the story behind the story, along with pictures of the real Sachiko and the real bowl. The author gives insight as to why she felt compelled to tell this story and also provides resources for further reading. It would be useful for telling part of the history of that time and serves as a discussion launching point.

Also of note are the beautiful illustrations that are soft, yet still demonstrate some of the harsh reality of the history of the war. I felt they were quite powerful.

I have long been fascinated by WWII and the many stories surrounding it. This is one that will stay with me.

Thank you to the publisher for providing me with a requested review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Super Silly Jokes for Kids by Vicki Whiting illustrated by Jeff Schinkel

Do you know how many tickles it takes to tickle an octopus? Tentacles! From the creative minds at Kid Scoop®, an award-winning and nationally syndicated activity page for children, comes this hysterical book chock full of jokes, riddles, and puns! Kids will love flipping through these pages and learning over 100 jokes they’ve never heard before and can’t wait to tell. Providing hours of endless laughter, this joke book is perfect for young animal and joke lovers alike!

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**My thoughts**

Kids love to tell riddles and jokes and this book is going to supply them with a giant fresh new batch to torture, I mean entertain, everyone with. This collection feels fresh and new to me, though you will find some classics in it as well. They're collected by general theme on the pages, so you can find the kind of joke you're looking for. The illustrations are bright and whimsical and the text is easy to read. I also like how they mixed things up a bit, like with a couple of pages, you have to match the riddle to its punchline. I got a total kick out of this book as an adult and think kids are going to love it, too.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley.. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero by Kelly J. Baptist

 

A coming-of-age tale about a boy who discovers a love of poetry after finding his late father's journal. Adapted from a story that first appeared in Flying Lessons & Other Stories and perfect for fans of The Parker Inheritance by Varian Johnson.

Isaiah is now the big man of the house. But it's a lot harder than his dad made it look. His little sister, Charlie, asks too many questions, and Mama's gone totally silent.

Good thing Isaiah can count on his best friend, Sneaky, who always has a scheme for getting around the rules. Plus, his classmate Angel has a few good ideas of her own--once she stops hassling Isaiah.

And when things get really tough, there's Daddy's journal, filled with stories about the amazing Isaiah Dunn, a superhero who gets his powers from beans and rice. Isaiah wishes his dad's tales were real. He could use those powers right about now!

Kelly J. Baptist's debut novel explores the indomitable spirit of a ten-year-old boy and the superhero strength it takes to grow up.

Book Links

Amazon * BN * IndieBound * Goodreads

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Isaiah Dunn is 10, almost 11. He has a magical way with words, inherited from his father. But he has lost his words since his father unexpectedly passed away at Thanksgiving. (This is something I strongly relate to, even as an adult.)

As he is struggling with all of this, his mother is struggling to cope, losing her job, drinking a lot, and rendering them essentially homeless. (And this is a wake-up call to how easily it could happen to anyone.)

Then he's trying to deal with kids at school, in the neighborhoods, while also wanting to take care of his family. It's a lot for anyone to deal with, let alone someone his young age.

Through trial and error, unexpected support, and his father's short stories about Isaiah Dunn, Superhero, Isaiah manages to find strength and ingenuity that he didn't know he had and rises above to forge a new and better path. He's so inspirational, even to this fully grown adult. How many of us have been facing difficult trials in our own lives? And think about how many other children are going through one or more of these situations, or something similar, in their own lives? It really gives you something to think about in addition to pulling at your emotions.

Isaiah is a great kid and this is a great book. I look forward to his continued adventures.

I received a requested review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Click on a title to read my review of the  Isaiah Dunn series by Kelly J. Baptist:

Isaiah Dunn Is My Hero

Isaiah Dunn Saves the Day

Review of Inside a Bald Eagle's Nest: A Photographic Journey through the American Bald Eagle Nesting Season by Teena Ruark Gorrow and Craig A. Koppie

Take a photographic journey of American Bald Eagles during nesting season. Through 160 breathtaking images captured in eagles' natural habitats, this factual account offers a rare glimpse into the behaviors and activities of America's national symbol as it prepares a nest, mates, lays eggs, and raises its young. Travel with adult eagles as they gather nest materials, forage for prey, and ward off intruders into their territory. Inside the nest, observe how eaglets grow from hatchlings into fledglings, and experience first flight. Included are tips for observing eagles and a glossary of terms. This is a perfect book for eagle enthusiasts and eagle nest cam viewers, nature and wildlife lovers, bird watchers, conservationists, scientists, teachers, children, and photographers. The one-of-a-kind photographs and comprehensive descriptions make this a must-have treasure to be enjoyed by all ages. It is sure to become the go-to reference on bald eagles.

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(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

The bald eagle is one of the most majestic creatures found here in the United States. It's no wonder that we have it as one of our national symbols. They are rare, and so exciting when you get to see one! This book provides an insider's look at their life, in a way that we are most likely never going to be able to witness in person.

Breathtaking pictures capture all aspects of the bald eagle's life, from feeding to nesting to flight. Other pictures demonstrate how well they can blend in to the world around them. One of my favorites is a close-up of the profile of an adult male bald eagle and a frontal view in the glossary. I'm also intrigued by a series showing how the parent feeds the eaglets fish. And the little babies are absolutely adorable!

You can tell that Tessa has spent considerable time researching and observing the bald eagles during their nesting season. She is able to interpret the actions and interactions that she skillfully captures in her photography. Their lives are actually much more intricate and involved than we realize. For example, the way in which the male and female communicate with each other is almost reminiscent of how humans interact with each other when in love. It's also fun to read about how young eagles learn about the world around them, much in the same fashion as human babies. 

Younger children will be in awe of the pictures and may sit through explanations of what is going on, even though this is a long book. Older children will soak up the information. It's a great resource for a school project, or simply as a coffee table book.

Thank you to Netgalley for a requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Spell Sweeper by Lee Edward Fodi

 

It's a new entry into the middle grade wizard category! Take a peek inside of Spell Sweeper by Lee Edward Fodi and read my take on it. Be sure to follow the tour for more. Best of luck entering the giveaway!

There's nothing magical about wizard school
. . . at least, not for Cara Moone.

Most wizard kids spend their days practicing spells and wielding wands, but Cara? She’s on the fast track to becoming a MOP (a.k.a. Magical Occurrence Purger). You see, when a real wizard casts a spell, it leaves behind a residue called spell dust—which, if not disposed of properly, can cause absolute chaos in the nonmagical world. It’s a MOP’s job to clean up the mess.

And no one makes more of a mess than Harlee Wu. Believed to be the Chosen One, destined to save the magical world, Harlee makes magic look easy. Which makes her Cara’s sworn nemesis. Or she would be, if she even knew Cara existed.

Then one of Harlee’s spells leaves something downright dangerous behind it: a rift in the fabric of magic itself. And when more rifts start to appear around the school, all in places Harlee has recently used magic, Cara is pretty sure the so-called “Chosen One” isn’t going to save the world. She’s going to destroy it.

It will take more than magic to clean up a mess this big. Fortunately, messes are kind of Cara’s thing.

Read an excerpt:

* * *

How magic works

(and why we have to clean it up)

* * *

In books and movies, wizards stroll around, flicking their wands, turning people into toads or zapping recalcitrant dragons into submission. In reality, it’s not that simple.

Magic is messy.

It’s like when you squeeze toothpaste onto your toothbrush—there’s always a bit that ends up on your brush handle, the counter, or dripping down your chin. Magic works the same way.

The first thing you learn in wizard school is that there is a Field of Magical Matter. When wizards want to perform a spell (or, if you want to get all official about it, a Magical Occurrence), they have to access the Field. Basically, they have to squeeze a giant magical toothpaste tube. And, like I said, it’s messy, always leaving something behind. We usually refer to it as spell dust, but it’s essentially leftover enchanted residue. How much depends on the Magical Occurrence. A wizard utters a simple spell? You just circle your broom around her feet and go for lunch. Someone magically relocates, let’s say for the sake of argument, a giant statue of the school’s founder? You better strap on your full spell sweeper kit because it’s going to be a loooong day.

But you do need to strap on the kit, because spell dust is definitely not the sort of thing you want to leave sitting around for very long. It causes ALL sorts of problems.

Buy Links

Harper Collins * Amazon

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**My thoughts**

I noticed a lot of echoes of Harry Potter right from the beginning. But Lee Edward Fodi adds in his own twists. I mean, have you ever heard of MOPs? I guess you would say it's essentially what Filch does, but these are kids who are still forced to clean up the magical messes of the actual wizards, even when they are good and happy spells. And the common perception of "The Chosen One" is kind of blown out of the water in this one.

Cara is also snarkier than you would have found in HP, which I appreciated as an adult. She does learn a lot and grows a lot as a person, so there are plenty of learning moments within. You get a balance between the heavy and the humor. It's another fun addition to the magical wizard genre.

I received a requested review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Lee Edward Födi is an author, illustrator, and specialized arts educator—or, as he likes to think of himself, a daydreaming expert. He is the author of several books for children, including The Secret of Zoone and the Kendra Kandlestar series. He is a co-founder of the Creative Writing for Children Society (CWC), a not-for-profit program that helps kids write their own books. He has the joy of leading workshops for kids in Canada, the US, Korea, China, Thailand, and other places here and there. Lee lives in Vancouver, where he shares a creative life with his wife Marcie and son Hiro.


Website: www.leefodi.com

Twitter: https://twitter.com/leefodi

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/authorleeedwardfodi/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leefodi/

Lee Edward Födi will be awarding a Spell Sweeper prize pack: Hand-made miniature broom, hand-made magical creature egg, spell bottle, and bookmarks to a randomly drawn winner via rafflecopter during the tour.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review of Beijing: A Symmetrical City

Book Links

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**My thoughts**
What I loved about this book: The illustrations are intricately detailed to really give you a feel for how the city looks even today. There is so much wonderful information in the text, including translations of the names of places. As you're reading it, you're given directions that make you feel like you are right there walking around with the author. I want to go visit the city in person, and likely use this book as a guide while doing so, like my own personal tour guide as I am walking around. Fun facts also give more insight into the history of the city. We also learn about traditional ceremonies and everyday life.

In the back, the city is presented again, this time going from the south to the north, with different drawings to give a different perspective and diagrams showing the different talking points. A full glossary is helpful for vocabulary.

What I didn't like about the book: To me, the print is awfully small, at least in my review copy. It reminded me more of a footnote-sized print. I understand that there is a lot of information to be shared with each picture, but it made it very difficult to read and follow along.

Other than the really small print, I did find this book to be overall quite informative and interesting.

Thank you to the publisher and to NetGalley for fulfilling my request for a review copy.

Review of SUPER Science Experiments: Build It by Elizabeth Snoke Harris

With more than 80 fun experiments, SUPER Science Experiments: Build It is the ultimate lab book for kids who want to build cool stuff!

This fact- and fun-filled book includes tons of simple, kid-tested science experiments, many of which can be done with items from around the house, and require little-to-no supervision! That’s right—no adult help needed. That means no grownups doing all the fun stuff while you watch. You can do lots of messy, cool, mind-blowing experiments all by yourself! All the supplies you need are probably already in your home. No fancy gadgets or doohickeys needed!

Whether you want to build your own catapult, lava lamp, rocket, or even a light bulb, this book has something for everyone. Each experiment features safety precautions, materials needed, step-by-step instructions with illustrations, fun facts, and further explorations.

With SUPER Science Experiments: Build It, kid scientists like you can:

• Make a chair with newspapers
• Erupt a ketchup volcano
• Send a rocket into the air with the stomp of your foot
• See which direction you’re facing with a homemade compass
• Race little cars made from toilet paper tubes
• Build an electromagnetic motor
• And complete many other SUPER science experiments!

At once engaging, encouraging, and inspiring, the SUPER Science Experiments series provides budding scientists with go-to, hands-on guides for learning the fundamentals of science and exploring the fascinating world around them. Also in this series, check out: Cool Creations, At Home, and Outdoor Fun.

There’s no better boredom-buster than a science experiment. You will learn something and astound and amaze your friends and family. So, what are you waiting for? Get experimenting!

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * IndieBound

(affiliate link)

**My thoughts**

This is another great collection of experiments that older kids can do pretty independently from adults. And younger kids can do them with some adult supervision. I've done some of these with the older fours and fives in my class. We had fun with bouncing balls, different kinds of rockets (like the balloon ones), and a volcano. So many more are waiting to be tried, though!

A lot of these items can be found around the house, but you may need to go shopping for some. It's another book that is going to provide weeks of entertainment while learning and a great part of this series.

Thank you to the publisher for providing me a review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Gidget the Surfing Dog by Elizabeth Rusch

Meet Gidget, a small but mighty pug who overcame a life-threatening illness to become a world-champion surfing dog. Her story is told with beautiful, eye-catching photography that features adorable canines on and in the water.

This is the inspiring true story of Gidget, a world-champion surfing pug, who grew from a hyperactive handful of a pup to a poised and impressive surfer whose efforts are devoted to charity.

As she and her owner Alecia find their way through challenges including a life-threatening illness, Gidget's story becomes not only about a dog learning to surf and compete in dog surfing competitions but also about making the most of the life you are given and giving back to your community.

Gidget the Surfing Dog is filled with fun and informative science sidebars that help kids understand how waves are formed, how to identify different types of waves, and other aspects of the science of surfing. The book also covers the problem of trash in the ocean--an issue that Gidget and Alecia work together to address.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * IndieBound

(affiliate link)

**My thoughts**

I admit I almost squeed when I saw the picture of this adorable pug in a suit on a surfboard. I absolutely adore pugs and would love to have one, only my allergies would not allow me to have one full-time. 

But this pug is not your ordinary pug. In fact, she seems to want to defy all of the rules. She is super active and she actually loves water. And eventually, she becomes a surfing dog, even having success after a massive setback. You get to see her story play out in real photographs. They are so CUTE!

You also get to learn a lot about surfing. I do not do well in deep water, so I have never learned much about the sport. Now I know a lot more! And you get to learn about the problems of beach pollution. So you get some good education thrown in with all of the cute.

It would be an interesting read for a kid who is into surfing. And it's a must-have for one who loves pugs.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Lucy the Bee and the Healing Honey by Alessandra Macaluso

Lucy the honeybee lives a buzzy and bee-a-utiful life with her bee buddies from the red hive--painting her home with propolis, collecting pollen, and playing with her best friend, Molly. That is, until members of the red hive fall sick and not even their delicious red honey will heal them. As the bees struggle with how to help their hive, Lucy has an idea: could the other, forbidden hives in the forest hold the cure her friends so desperately need? Although she knows it's forbidden, Lucy devises a plan to travel across the forest in search of help, hope, and healing honey.

Join Lucy on a high-flying adventure in this sweet and educational chapter book. Complete with colorful illustrations by Thais Damiao, Lucy the Bee and the Healing Honey is certain to get everyone buzzing.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * IndieBound

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Lucy is a sweet bee who is determined to help those around her, even though they have prejudices against the other bees around them. As she goes on her quest, she gets help from these other bees and finds out that they really aren't so bad after all. Even though their honey isn't the same color, it is still good. It's a good lesson for kids to learn. Plus there are some educational pieces in the back about bees, so a bit of science is in there as well.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Jasmine Green Rescues: A Piglet Called Truffle by Helen Peters

Meet Jasmine Green — an aspiring veterinarian who adores animals! Can her kindness and know-how save a piglet in trouble in this delightful series debut?

Jasmine Green loves animals. Her mother is a veterinarian. Her father is a farmer. And her brother and sister are . . . well, they’re mostly annoying. But being in the Green family means seeing and taking care of animals all the time. While helping her mom on a house call, Jasmine visits a new litter of piglets and discovers a forgotten runt hidden underneath its brothers and sisters. Poor little piglet. It is so tiny that it can’t even drink! Its owner refuses to rescue it. So it is up to Jasmine to save the pig . . . secretly. What will happen if anyone finds out? Author Helen Peters and illustrator Ellie Snowdon introduce the irresistible pair of clever, caring Jasmine and lovable Truffle, while capturing the beauty and bustle of a family farm. A kind of James Herriot for a new generation, this first book in the Jasmine Green series is for anyone who loves helping animals.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * IndieBound

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Hello, Charlotte's Web flashbacks! (At least in the beginning.) I was struck by the first illustration of the piglets at the farm that Jasmine visits with her veterinarian mother, noticing immediately that it reminded me of the pictures from my beloved childhood copy of Charlotte's Web. And then, of course, Jasmine discovers this little runt of a pig. To save it from being killed, she decides to keep it and raise it on her own. 

But this story is different and really sweet and subtly educational. I never knew all that would be involved in rescuing a runt pig, but now I do. And I learned it just by the way the story was told, not as a scientific lesson, which I really liked. It was a fun way to learn something new about pigs. You also get little tidbits about other animals.

And Jasmine's relationship with her new pig is so sweet, plus how she works at training Truffle and acclimating her to the farm life. Jasmine is also an enterprising young woman and will go far in achieving her dreams, I think!

I really enjoyed this chapter book, and I know that I would have devoured it and the others in the series when I was girl. I probably also would have been begging to go to the farm and/or get another pet. I hope to read more in this series.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of What's the Point of Math? by DK

You may not realize it, but math controls just about everything in our world.

From cracking codes to winning game shows, from predicting comets to solving crimes, this unique book reveals where our most important math ideas came from (you'll be surprised!). It might change your mind about math forever!

What's the Point of Math? explains really simply how essential math ideas work and identifies the extraordinary things you can do with them. It's full of crazy facts, magic tricks, and mathematical brainteasers, along with beautiful illustrations that bring math to life. It will amuse and entertain even the most reluctant of math students.

From measuring a pyramid to becoming a trillionaire, this book is perfect for those who need some inspiration when it comes to numbers - in the classroom and in the real world. You'll find out why an hour has 60 rather than 100 minutes, what it takes to catch a cheat, and how math keeps our secrets safe.

Hands-on "Try it out" examples show readers how to solve everyday math challenges, while colorful and uncluttered illustrations throughout make mathematical explanations easy to grasp in seconds.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * IndieBound

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Kids often want to know why they have to learn math, because they think they won't have to use it when they are older, or that they can just use a calculator as an easy shortcut. This book takes a look at the history of the various aspects of math, from counting to probability to shapes and more. And then it tries to apply it to how we use it today in a way that kids should be able to understand. For example, one part discussing proportion and percentages shows how you can apply that knowledge to getting a bargain at the store. Quite practical, right? And the patterning section gets into code breaking, which is going to also appeal to some kids. There are even some fun activities to try out to explore the different concepts.

I love history and I love math, so this book is a perfect combination for someone like me. It has an overwhelming amount of information in it. It is not going to appeal to all kids, though. They will likely have to already have somewhat of an interest in history and/or math to actually pick this up and start paging through it. But they can learn a lot if they do. 

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Nature All Around: Plants by Pamela Hickman

Balancing child-friendly facts with colorful illustrations, this perfect introduction to plants is sure to inspire the budding naturalist in every child.

From crowded cities to open prairies, deserts to wetlands, plants grow everywhere! This comprehensive introduction will open children's eyes to the plants that surround them every day and how important they are to life on our planet. It covers the basics of plants, such as their parts, life cycles and growing zones. Then it takes readers on a season-by-season tour of what a plant-watcher can expect to discover throughout the year. There are sections on strange plants and those that are endangered, and how readers can help. And for hands-on experience, there's an interactive Q&A for learning how to identify plants, and an activity for growing your own plants.

With the perfect balance of child-friendly facts and colorful illustrations, this book encourages children to actively engage with the natural world. Bestselling and award-winning author Pamela Hickman covers all the essential science about plants --- including photosynthesis and pollination --- in clear and easy-to-digest text. And Carolyn Gavin's colorful illustrations bring it all to life, with accurate and inviting representations of the information. This book has strong curriculum applications for life science and earth science lessons in grades two through five, particularly for the characteristics of living things. Rounding out its usefulness are a full-spread growing zone map, an index and a glossary.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * IndieBound

(affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

This book is great for those who are really interested in plants. It goes into great detail about the parts of plants, the plant life cycle, and so many different types of flowers. Parts of it even remind me of a field guide. In fact, it's a lot like one that I had when I was a kid that I had inherited from my grandmother. Even the beautiful illustrations make me nostalgic for that. They're quite realistic, I think watercolors? I would have definitely had this book with me throughout the seasons as I explored my yard as a kid, or even to take to the park.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my request for a review copy via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Outer Space Fun! Activity Book by Freddie Levin

Blast off for adventure! Kids will have fun with these out-of-this-world activities that range from word searches and mazes to connect the dots and other puzzles! They can find a pathway through the stars, solve cosmic crosswords, spot the differences between space robots, and more. Solutions appear at the end, and the playful drawings are great for coloring, too.

Book Links

Goodreads * Amazon * BN * IndieBound

(Affiliate link included)

**My thoughts**

Remember Fun Pads when you were growing up? (You can actually still find them sometimes at places like Dollar Tree.) This is basically just like one of those, only an outer space theme. Practice patterning, color by numbers, word games, mazes, and more. It's great for early to middle elementary kids and will keep them busy for a while. Answer keys are in the back in case they get stuck. It's simple fun that passes the time.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of I Can Draw! Silly Sea Life

Learn how to draw simple versions of an octopus, a flamingo, a turtle, a jellyfish, and other sea creatures — and with this easy-to-follow guide, it only takes six or fewer steps! Every step appears on a grid that faces a page with an empty grid for you to fill in. Afterward, you can color your finished illustrations.

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**My thoughts**

This is another collection of fun grid drawing with cartoon-like animals. They vary in degrees of difficulty, all broken down into six steps. The new lines are shown in blue in each step, to distinguish from the previous ones in black. I feel like some of them could have been broken down even more because they were a bit more intricate. And I do wish there were more blank practice grids in the back. But they are still fun to attempt as a starting point for drawing.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of The Kids' Guide to Getting Your Words on Paper

Does your hand ache when you write?

Packed with fun and simple ideas to help kids feel good about writing, this handwriting book with a difference helps children embed the strength and skills they need to get the most out of their written work, at home and school!

From different kinds of cushions, hand warm-ups, and cool eye scan exercises, and pencil grips to yoga balls in cardboard boxes, personalized activity binders, playdough, lego, and Velcro on pencils, this book is filled with fun stuff to help kids focus, get stronger, and be in control of their writing. The strategies in the book are accompanied by cartoon-style illustrations, and the author includes useful tips for parents and teachers as well as handy visual charts, a quiz to identify areas of most difficulty, and checklists for children to track their own progress.

Armed with the strategies and exercises in this book, kids will be well on their way to writing with greater ease, and the positive self-esteem that goes along with that. Suitable for children with writing difficulties aged approximately 7 to 12.

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**My thoughts**

I think this book has potential to be a great resource for kids who have difficulty with writing for a variety of reasons. But please note this is not a book that you can just throw at kids and expect them to figure it all out on their own. Teacher and parents should review it first and then go through it with the child. Also, follow any directions and support from your occupational therapist. There are a lot of words for a child to sort through on his own. But then that child should be empowered to make his own decisions about which tips and tricks work best for him.

I love the exercises presented in this book and remember using several of them when I was teaching, as well as a lot of the suggested tools. I like that it does empower the child to express how each activity makes her feel and which ones work best for her.

A couple of things bothered me a little bit. There are pre-printed writing lines where the child is supposed to copy a particular phrase or practice. Those lines are obviously hand-drawn, so they are wobbly and not the same size. I would rather those lines be standard and straight. But all of the charts and bookmarks, etc,. are all clearly printed and look neat and tidy, which makes them easy to read. That's another reason that I do not understand why the handwriting lines are all hand-drawn. And then the pencil emojis at the end of certain sections are a fun idea, but I find it very difficult to distinguish between the three facial expressions on the pencils. The mouths are so small that you can barely make them out and the eyes do not change too much.

The copy that I reviewed was a digital copy. I hope that the pages that have the bookmarks and things on them that are supposed to be cut out end up being pages that are blank on the other side. Otherwise, you're losing some important information! Or I hope that the book ends up in a format that allows for very easy photocopying.

So overall, I do see a lot of benefit to this book and a few tweaks would make it a little more appealing. Teachers and parents can learn a lot from it and its suggestions for activities, which could easily be implemented throughout the environment for all kids. And then the kids can figure out which techniques best help them in their own situations. They even help kids who are not showing those stronger signs of needing extra help when writing. I had many of these as a part of my general classroom offerings for all children and then encourage certain children toward certain techniques. Otherwise, they were able to figure out what best suited each of them.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of My First Gratitude Journal: Fun and Fast Ways for Kids to Give Daily Thanks

Grateful kids are happy kids!

Practicing gratitude increases happiness, improves self-esteem, and lowers levels of stress—and this easy-to-use journal is sure to help kids tap into that extraordinary power for the first time. Through writing and drawing, children will learn to give daily thanks for the good in their lives. Every ten days they’ll respond to more in-depth prompts that ask them to think about gratitude on a broader scale. Best of all, they’ll develop a healthy habit for the rest of their lives.

My First Gratitude Journal features:

• EASY TO USE PAGES: Simple daily prompts make the journal easy to use and thought-provoking at the same time.
• WRITING AND DRAWING: Each daily page is split into halves—the top half for writing and the bottom half for drawing. Kids can be as creative as they want to make the journal their own.
• THE BENEFITS OF GRATITUDE: Slowing down to appreciate the good in their lives teaches kids how to be both mindful and grateful.
• A CHARMING KEEPSAKE: Parents and children will enjoy reading this journal years down the road to see what they were grateful for in their childhood.

Book Links

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**My thoughts**

Journaling is a hot topic these days, particularly among adults. I remember doing a lot of journaling when I was a kid, so I am happy to see some journals coming out that are geared toward the younger generation. And I am particularly fond of the idea of teaching kids to find something to be grateful for every single day. This journal is simple, requiring the child to basically write one sentence about something for which they are grateful every day and why. And then for those who love to draw, there is a drawing space included on each page. If the child is more verbal, (s)he can continue to write in that space. They are also encouraged to decorate their journal in any way that they feel expresses their daily gratitude. And then there are pages that are more specific, including friends, families, and more in their daily lives. I like that you get some extra prompts, because even for adults, some days it can be hard to think of something. It's a great starting point for the new, young journaling kid.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Review of Ways to Make Sunshine by Renee Watson

From Newbery Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson comes the first book in a young middle grade series about Ryan Hart, a girl who is pure spirit, kindness, and sunshine.

Ryan Hart has a lot on her mind--school, self-image, and especially family. Her dad finally has a new job, but money is tight. That means some changes, like selling their second car and moving into a new (old) house. But Ryan is a girl who knows how to make sunshine out of setbacks. As her brother says when he raps about her, she's got the talent that matters most: it's a talent that can't be seen, she's nice, not mean!

Ryan is all about trying to see the best in people, to be a good daughter, a good sister, a good friend. But even if her life isn't everything she would wish for, when her big brother is infuriating, her parents don't quite understand, and the unexpected happens, she always finds a way forward, with grace and wit. And plenty of sunshine.

Acclaimed author Renée Watson writes her own version of Ramona Quimby, one starring a Black girl and her family, in this start to a charming new series.

Book Links

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**My thoughts**

Right off the bat, I like the main character. She's a girl named Ryan, which means leader, meaning that she is powerful and can do whatever she sets her mind to. And she does have a strong nature about her that drives her, no matter what's going on in her life. She's going through a tough time right now, because her family has to move a new home and now nothing is the same. And this house is so much smaller, which just really messes up all of their routines. 

She's also going through the usual fourth grader struggles, trying to make the right choices and really live up to her name. Friendships are different. Her older brother is a typical pain, though you know he actually adores her and vice versa. And then there is a fun mystery that she thinks she has discovered in her new bedroom. And still things are going to change. I hope there is a follow-up to this book, because I want to see how Ryan continues to grow and takes on new challenges in her life. I also think she is a great role model for young girls who will both relate and learn a lot from her.

Thank you to the publisher for fulfilling my review request via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.