Category Archives: Children’s Books Recommendations

Dec4

December Featured Author: Interview with Mona Liza Santos

Posted on by
Standard
Mona Liza Santos is the author of the picture book, The Dream Jar: When Dream Turns to Magic.

The holiday season is here, and many of your thoughts are likely drifting toward what to get for your little ones. Picture books are a wonderful way to promote reading and create meaningful connection time with your child or grandchild, especially during this cozy time of year. Consider adding a heartwarming story to your holiday traditions and share the magic of reading together this season.

I’ve got another great recommendation for your holiday gift list! The author, Mona Liza Santos, is an accomplished children’s author with nearly forty titles to choose from each filled with messages of kindness, courage, and self-worth. She is also our Featured Monthly Author for December 2025. Her newest release, The Dream Jar: When Dream Turns to Magic, is a beautiful story that connects imagination with the special wonder of the holidays. With its uplifting message about dreams, courage, and believing in yourself, this story promises hours of magic and meaning for readers of all ages.

I was honored to interview Mona Liza Santos for my blog and talk with her about how reading shaped her as a child, how writing influences her life today, and what she envisions for her future books.

  1. What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

Mona Liza Santos: I’ve always loved reading rhyming books and stories that were super colorful. I still remember sitting with my grandma — she had this way of bringing every page to life and making the stories feel like little adventures. Those moments were pure magic. And in elementary school, I was obsessed with the Scholastic order forms they’d pass out in class. I’d circle books for hours and get so excited when my order finally came in. It felt like opening a treasure box every time.

2. Who was your favorite author and how did they influence you?

Mona Liza Santos: As a kid, I was a huge fan of The Babysitters Club and Beverly Cleary’s books. I loved how real and relatable the characters felt. As I got older, I fell in love with authors like Danielle Steel, Dr. Seuss, and Shel Silverstein. Each one taught me something different — how to write from the heart, how to play with rhythm, and how to find beauty in both the happy and hard moments of life. They made me believe that stories can heal, connect, and inspire — and that’s what I try to do with my own writing.

3. Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

Mona Liza Santos: I don’t really have a set routine. Writing for me happens whenever inspiration shows up — in the car, while I’m working out, in the shower, or right before bed. It’s random, but it’s real. I’ll grab my phone or a notebook and jot down whatever thoughts come rushing in before they fade. Some of my best ideas have come when I wasn’t even trying to write.

4. What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

Mona Liza Santos: Even though children’s books will always be my favorite to write, I also see myself writing women’s empowerment stories one day — about healing, self-worth, and finding your voice again. But no matter what I write, I’ll always come back to children’s books. They make me happiest. Helping kids see their own worth and know they matter — that’s the kind of impact I want to keep making for as long as I can.

5. Do you write other books besides children’s books?

Right now, I only write children’s books, but I can definitely see myself expanding in the future. I’d love to write novels centered on women’s empowerment and maybe even some heartfelt fictional stories that come to mind. I’m keeping my ideas open because I believe stories have a way of finding you when the time is right.

6. Do you love to travel? If so, where have you explored?

Mona Liza Santos: Travel is one of my greatest inspirations. I’ve been fortunate to visit more than seventy countries, and each one has taught me something new about people, culture, and compassion. Some of my favorite places have been Greenland, Egypt, Switzerland, Albania, Saudi Arabia, Ukraine, and even Russia — places that many might see as too far or too different, but each one showed me the same thing: the world is not as dangerous as it seems. People everywhere are just living their lives, loving their families, and trying their best. Our differences — in culture, language, and traditions — are what make the world a more beautiful and connected place.

7. What advice would you give aspiring writers?

Mona Liza Santos: Write what feels true to you. Don’t chase trends or compare your journey to anyone else’s. Start small, be patient with your growth, and write from your heart — that’s where the magic happens. There will be days you’ll doubt yourself, but if you keep your “why” close, it’ll guide you through every moment of uncertainty.

8. How has your son and being a parent inspired you to write?

Mona Liza Santos: My son is the reason I began this journey. Watching him grow reminded me of how powerful stories are in shaping how children see themselves and the world around them. Every book I’ve written has a little piece of him in it — his wonder, humor, and courage. As a parent, I want to encourage other parents to nurture that same self-acceptance and confidence in their own children — to help them embrace who they are, speak kindly to themselves, and understand their worth. Being a mom made me realize that stories can heal, connect, and bring light where it’s needed most.

9. What do you want to accomplish through your writing?

Mona Liza Santos: I want every child who reads my books to walk away feeling proud of who they are. I want them to know that being different is not something to hide but something to celebrate. My hope is that through my stories, children learn kindness, empathy, and confidence — and that they carry those lessons with them long after they close the book. More than anything, I want kids to feel empowered for who they are, no matter where they come from or how they look.

10. What is writing to you in one sentence?

Mona Liza Santos: Writing, to me, is pouring out your heart and thoughts into words that touch children and parents — knowing you’ve made a difference in how they see themselves and the world around them.

Book Blurb:

Every night, Ellie’s dreams take her somewhere new—where dragons soar, fairies dance, and jellyfish light up the sea. But when morning comes, her dreams start to fade—until her grandmother gives her something truly special: a glass jar to keep them safe. As Ellie begins to fill the jar with her wildest dreams, she learns that what makes her imagination unique is exactly what makes her shine.

The Dream Jar: When Dream Turns to Magic is a gentle, luminous story about imagination, courage, and remembering who you are. Reading is a reminder for every child (and every grown-up, too) that the magic we’re searching for is already inside us—just waiting to be seen. This tale is perfect for promoting reading and imagination, and is highly recommended for fans of The Wonderful Things You Will Be and What Do You Do with an Idea? It will leave hearts glowing long after the last page is turned.

The Dream Jar: When Dream Turns to Magic is available on Amazon.com as an ebook or paperback and is part of the Kindle Unlimited collection.

Purchase Copy

For more information on Mona Liza Santos and her books, please visit her website at: https://www.monalizasantos.com/.

Instagram: @momosvoyage.

**Mona Liza Santos is the featured author for December!

Link Here to see our other featured authors.

Sep8

September Featured Author: Interview with Jennifer Ferrell

Posted on by
Standard

I hope you enjoyed the 2025 Back to School Blog tour last week. I have one more surprise for you. Consider it a post blog tour treat. I’d like to introduce you to the author, Jennifer Ferrell. She has a darling book about two sweet characters, Fran and her pig, Benny. I am partial to kid adventure stories since I’ve written a children’s fantasy adventure series. So, I couldn’t wait to let you know about this new find. The Story of Benny and Fran is a charming story of a fun kid adventure that will pull any child into an imaginative reading experience. The info on her book is below the interview.

Jennifer Ferrell is also our featured author for September. So, get ready to read all about her. I have an exclusive interview in which I was able to find out about her inspirations, writing routines, and plans for future projects. Enjoy!

Jennifer Ferrell is the author of the picture book, The Story of Benny and Fran.
  1. What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

Jennifer Ferrell: My favorite memory from reading as a child is hearing my dad’s excitement while reading. We could go on so many imaginary adventures together. I will always have that precious memory.

2) Who was your favorite author as a child?

Jennifer Ferrell: I love Dr Seuss. The simplicity of his books with amazing rhymes and characters has always amazed me.

3) Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

Jennifer Ferrell: My writing routine has been to write when I can, but mainly in the evening. I will shut myself in my room and start typing away.

4) What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

Jennifer Ferrell: In future projects, I’d love to continue creating stories that inspire children with themes of friendship, courage, and discovery. My next idea is about a character named Sammy. She is an adventurous pigeon. Because of her curiosity, she seems to find herself in different situations that she, with the help of her friends, will have to get out of. I want to teach children life skills in a fun and relatable way.

5) What themes would you like to include in future books?

Jennifer Ferrell: The themes I would like to include in future books are experimenting and curiosity. My new book series, Sammy the Pigeon, is full of curiosity.


6) Who were the inspirations for the characters Benny and Fran?

Jennifer Ferrell: The inspiration for Benny and Fran came from my really good friend Frances and her pig, Benny. I do plan to write another book about my pig named Penny. I got her from Frances, so I am going to intertwine the two books.

7) What kind of pets did you have growing up?

Jennifer Ferrell: I had a cat named Sassy. She definitely was a little sassy pants.


8) Why do you enjoy photography as a hobby?

 Jennifer Ferrell: I love to take photos of nature. So, I guess it is calming to me too.


9) What kind of adventures did you do as a kid?

Jennifer Ferrell: The adventures, as did as a kid, were to explore the woods with my best friend, Amanda; and go to the mountains with my parents.

10) What is writing to you in one sentence?

Jennifer Ferrell: Writing to me is a creative outlet that I can use to bring new characters alive.

Book Blurb:

The Story of Benny and Fran (A Picture Book)

Benny and Fran are inseparable. Their days are a whirlwind of excitement filled with all sorts of surprises. The silliest things can spark an adventure. Benny is a curious pig that loves to sniff out fun. Fran is a spirited girl with a big heart and a bigger sense of adventure. When things get tough; Fran comes up with a plan to save Benny. They learn about friendship and how to lend a helping hand while on their kid adventures. Come join them on their journey through the countryside finding butterflies, bubbles and exploring the great open skies.

This story is a playful romp of antics and fun with charming illustrations. It will have you and your little one giggling and smiling along with the characters. Age range is 4 to 8 year olds. It’s the kind of book that families will find themselves reading over and over.

The Story of Benny and Fran is available on Amazon.com as a Kindle Unlimited title ebook and as a printed paperback book.

Purchase Here

For more information on Jennifer Ferrell and her books, please visit her website at:

https://jenniferdawnferrell.com/.

Also, find her on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/share/1NMifYkWZn/.

Sep5

Back to School Blog Tour 2025 Day 5 – Jeff Boldt

Posted on by
Standard

Welcome to Day 5 of the 2025 Back to School Blog Tour. On our final day, I’d like to introduce you to a fabulous, children’s poet, Jeff Boldt.  With a background of teaching English in Shanghai for twenty years, he employs his humor and English literature knowledge into his poetry. He grew up in Texas immersing himself in books as a kid. He has been published in the Humor Times, the e-edition of the Orlando Sentinel, and in Doug Weller’s book, Six Word Wonders. I had the opportunity to review his children’s poetry book, It’s Raining Bats and Frogs and ask Jeff all about his inspirations, writing routines, and about his future projects.

Jeff Boldt is the author of the children’s poetry book It’s Raining Bats and Frogs.

What made you want to become an author?

Jeff Boldt: When I was young, I was immersed in books – they were such a big part of my life. Whenever I didn’t want to be in my own world, I would just go to Narnia or Oz or Wonderland instead. But books were more than a form of escape, they also challenged me intellectually and creatively. They had such a profound influence on my sense of self and my place in the world. Because of this, I wanted to be able to share that same experience with others. 

  • Who were your inspirations on your writing journey?

Jeff Boldt: Shel Silverstein, more than anyone, has had an impact on my writing. And not just on my style but on the way I think about writing as well. His work was always so funny and so brilliantly realized. I couldn’t believe that there were entire books filled with ridiculously hilarious and nonsensical things – like “Carrots” and “Everything on It” and “Snowball”. So much of school (and learning) to me was serious and boring and safe – and I thought that was what awaited me in the “real world”. Writers like Silverstein and Dahl and Carroll showed me a completely different way.

  • Do you have a writing routine? If so, please explain.

Jeff Boldt: I have never been good at schedules and structure, but I do make time for writing. I join writing clubs, take online classes (Oxford and UC San Diego), and generally push myself to do things that will challenge me and get me writing more. In other words, I don’t have a writing routine, per se, but I do make it a priority. Along those lines, I am applying to MFA programs right now because I want to pursue writing full-time.

  • For your featured book, how did you get the ideas to write it?

Jeff Boldt: Many of the ideas for my poems come from everyday life (work, spending time with my daughters, going out to eat, etc.). For example, the poem “If” came to mind after walking up some stairs to get to my office. The line goes like this: “If I took a set of stairs / and they led to nowhere / how far would I go / before I would know?” Reading it now, though, it’s hard not to see Pablo Neruda’s influence. Back in university, I used to carry The Book of Questions around with me wherever I went. It’s such a great little book. If you’re interested in philosophy and the absurd, I highly recommend it.

  • What writing projects are you working on right now?

Jeff Boldt: I’ve been tinkering mostly with picture book manuscripts lately (but also writing poems whenever I can). As for the picture books, I have a vowel series and I’ve completed manuscripts for e, o, and u. The u story actually appears as a poem in my latest book. It’s called “The Cnrious Case of the Lowercase u” and it’s a humorous rhyme about two letters, y and a, who can’t seem to find their missing friend.

Book Review

It’s Raining Bats and Frogs by Jeff Boldt is a marvelous children’s poetry book that reminds me of the humorous poetry of Jack Pelutsky. This collection of poems sparks the imagination as it described dressed up dinosaurs, dancing with potatoes in the moonlight, and ridiculous rhymes to recite. It’s a riot of humorous word salad as you read each poem making it a great read-aloud. It had me laughing, remembering when humor was much more simple as a kid.

The illustrations are beautiful. Black and white pencil drawings bring the imagery of the poetry to life. Sometimes the cartoon renditions would make me burst out with giggles. The pictures definitely touched my inner child.

I loved Jeff Bodlt’s silly and mischievous mind that thought up these poems. They remind me of the children’s poems by Jack Prelutsky that wrote “Homework, Oh Homework”. I used to read-aloud his book during Poetry Month. I appreciate the use of humor to help kids connect with poetry. These poems do the job nicely. There is a lot of read-loud chanting and word play that will spark the creative side of any child.

I used to do a poetry collage project as a book report each year during poetry month. I would have loved to place this in my class library for my students to read and use for that project. In fact, I’ll place a link below where you can find it now on Teachers Pay Teachers.com.

I haven’t laughed so hard in a long time. These poems are a joy to share and to read out-loud. They will have whole families and classrooms laughing together. Perfect for read-aloud at home or any classroom.

It’s Raining Bats and Frogs is available on Amazon.com and is a Kindle Unlimited title.

For more information on Jeff Boldt, visit his website at: https://jeffboldt.com/.

Thanks for following along with the Back to School Blog tour for 2025. This will conclude the blog tour event for this year. Please show some love to the featured authors and check out their websites, look over their books, and consider your purchasing power when choosing an Indie author. They are so often overlooked for libraries and schools, but really can give new perspective, POVs and protagonists that speak to so many children.

As promised, here is the link to the poetry book report project available on Teachers Pay Teachers. I developed it over the years, making it a poetry collage and memorization project, mostly during Poetry month in March. But it can be done all year long. I wrote and developed it myself.

Poetry Collage Book Report

Thanks for stopping by all week. The Back to School Blog Tour will return next year. For more information on sign-ups, check out the Back to School Blog Tour page.

This is Mrs. turner, signing-off. Until next year, keep reading and writing!

-Mrs. Turner

Sep3

Back to School Blog Tour 2025 Day 3 – Book Review of “Brave Enough: Atlan and the Farm Animals”

Posted on by
Standard

“Brave Enough: Atlan and the Farm Animals” by Bowe Balhoff is a charming picture book of facing fears and unknown experiences on a farm. The main character, Atlan, is a quiet 4-year-old boy based on the author’s real son. He is experiencing his first trip away from his parents by spending time on his grandparents’ farm. The kindness and love that surround the little boy start the story. The grandparents start with comforting things to calm his fears of his new surroundings. Home-made ice cream is the ticket. But of course, new experiences, such as feeding chickens and a pig, could be overwhelming for any 4-year-old. They kindly guide him through these activities.

The unique aspect of this story is that Atlan changes into an animal several times when scared, expressing how he feels in relation to meeting the other animals. First, he turns into a snail while feeding the chickens. Then, he turns into a mouse when meeting the pig, and so on. The animals he turns into embody his feelings. These are such relatable symbols for children dealing with new experiences and the real fear that goes along. When he has acknowledged his feelings for the situation, he changes back into a boy. It’s such a nice way to show this emotional change for the character. His grandmother’s voice is the catalyst for the emotional growth as she guides him into navigating his fear of the farm animals.

New experiences such as feeding chickens and a pig could be overwhelming for any 4-year-old. I loved the way that this story acknowledges those fears, and brings comfort to the character and the reader alike. Techniques to help with anxiety are shared within the story, such as slow breathing, trying to look at a new point of view, and trying to focus on the fun aspects. Granny’s protective arm, showing the support of family, is another life line for the character and reader.

Overall, this is a great story showing a young boy facing the unknown with support from his family. I would recommend this book to any parent or teacher that is trying to model how a child can face unknown challenges, navigate their complex feelings, and look to their family for support. This would be great for any class or home library. Grandparents would find this a fabulous gift to give their grandchildren, especially if they own a farm.

“Brave Enough: Atlan and the Farm Animals” is available at Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com.

For more information on books by Bowe Balhoff, visit her website at: https://www.bowebalhoff.com/.

Sep2

Back to School Blog Tour 2025 Day 2 – Kenneth Haines

Posted on by
Standard

Welcome to Day 2 of the Back to School Blog Tour. Today, I’d like to introduce you to Kenneth Haines, a children’s fantasy author. Mr. Haines has written immersive children’s fantasy tales. Being known for his titles, Sea of Shadows and Whispering of the Sand, he builds worlds where eerie meets the heartfelt. I had a chance to ask him about his inspirations, writing journey, and plans for future books.

Kenneth Haines is the author of children’s fantasy novels.


1)    What made you want to become an author?

Kenneth Haines: I became a single father to three boys and two girls. Plus, I must have inherited it from my great, great Aunt Helen Keller.

2)    Who were your inspirations on your writing journey?

Kenneth Haines: My writing journey was inspired by my children growing up and things we did together. Plus, their struggles growing up and things I seen and done growing up. While my younger ones were in elementary school, I started writing short stories for them. So, I would read before bedtime to them and when they had sleepovers. After they all grew up, I continued reading to some of their friends. I still remember my stories. My youngest son mentioned that I should look into publishing ones I wrote and just had hidden away in a filing cabinet.

3)    Do you have a writing routine? If so, please explain.

Kenneth Haines: I take care of a parent with dementia. Since I have to be close by during Mom’s nap time, I found time to bring my stories to life especially when the weather doesn’t permit me to go outside.

4)    For your featured book, how did you get the ideas to write it?

Kenneth Haines: My books start with meeting people and finding out their inner strengths and have a unique name. Then at night while sleeping, it comes to me so vividly. I’m able to put it down on paper the next day. I also design my own covers for all my books.

5)    What writing projects are you working on right now?

Kenneth Haines: Jasey’s Secret: The World Beyond the Glass is my newest book. I am working on the second book right now. Jasey’s Secret is a heartwarming tale of wonder, courage, and the unbreakable spark of childhood imagination. It’s for anyone who has ever refused to let go of magic.

Jasey’s Secret: The World Beyond the Glass is a children’s fantasy that takes the reader beyond their imagination into a fantastic, eerie world. Jasey’s discovery of her inner magic builds into a courageous story as she refuses to let go of her gift. This heartwarming tale will inspire any child to pursue their own journey of discovery and look to themselves for the magic inside.

Jasey’s Secret: The World Beyond the Glass and other Kenneth Haines books are available on Amazon.com, Barnes and Noble.com, and the Google Book Store.

For more information for books by Kenneth Haines, please visit his website at: HERE!

Thanks for checking in for our featured author today. Check back tomorrow for a new featured book review.

-Tiffany Turner

Head Writer/Editor

Indie Children’s Authors Connection Blog

Jul28

Book Review: “An Instrument for Florenda” by Tomeko Brown

Posted on by
Standard
“An Instrument for Florenda” by Tomeko Brown is available on Amazon.com and BarnesandNoble.com.

As summer is starting to wind down, I wanted to let you all know about a wonderful story with heart. “An Instrument for Florenda” by Tomeko Brown takes you into a small town in Louisanna through the eyes of Florenda. Her dream is to play the clarinet. Filled with challenges and life lessons, this chapter book will inspire and validate any reader to follow their dreams.

Florenda is an eleven-year old living in a small Louisiana town. When her school announces a new band class starting during the summer break, she is excited to take advantage of the opportunity. But when she visits the local music store with her mother, she finds out the instrument she longs to play is out of her budget. Will she find a way to acquire an instrument before the new class starts? Can she make her family proud when confronted with how difficult learning to play an instrument can be?

I really did enjoy this chapter book as a choir kid. I knew a lot of band kids in school too, and it really does give you an insight into what it’s like to begin that journey. It also really shows the struggles of Florenda’s family in making the dream come true, and how she doesn’t want to disappoint them when she finds learning an instrument to be harder than she realizes. It’s a great journey in finding the strength inside to fulfill your dreams, and how family support really does make dreams come true.

This is a great book with an African-American protagonist that reaches into your soul and takes you on a band kid’s journey. I can see this as a great gift for a child starting band class, teacher’s needing to add to their class library, or as a reading circle novel study book. Tomeko Brown does a wonderful job pulling you into the world of her characters and showing the struggles of a Louisanna family making musical dreams come true. A few black and white pencil illustrations add drama to the story. The support and love comes through strongly in the actions and dialogue of the book. I would recommend it as a great addition to any home or school library.

“An Instrument for Florenda” is available on Amazon.com and Barnes and Noble.com.

And just an FYI to add, the 2025 Back to School Blog tour will be starting Labor Day weekend. It will include author interviews and book reviews for the latest Indie children’s books. If you’re an author and would like to apply, please fill out the form here.

Jun9

Interview with Shanna Ward

Posted on by
Standard
Shanna Ward is the author of the picture book “Little John T. Ward and the Quilted Code: Let Ward Do It“.

Summer is upon us, and it’s time to think about keeping your child’s mind engaged in learning by reading. This is a crucial time to continue to stress reading so as to not lose the gains that happened during the last school year. This is easy to do with selected educational bedtime stories or on your child’s at home D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) time.

I have a great summer reading and Juneteenth recommendation along with an interview with the author. “Little John T. Ward and the Quilted Code: Let Ward Do It” is a way to bring historical references to teaching about unity, friendship and the courage to speak out and make a difference. Using her connection to her ancestor, Shanna Ward has brought to life the story of a boy that helped fight oppression. She brings the insightfulness of a boy helping others with beautiful illustrations expressing the struggle and story. I had a chance to ask her some questions about what inspired her as a child, what her writing routine is like, and what she has planned along her writing path.

1) What is your favorite memory from reading as a child?

Shanna Ward: One of my favorite memories from reading as a child was sitting with my Grandparent’s parents before bedtime as they read my favorite story to me. It was such a comforting and bonding experience, and I always looked forward to spending summers with them. The characters and adventures from the story would come to life in my imagination, and it was a magical time that instilled in me a lifelong love for reading.

2) Who was your favorite author and how did they influence you?

Shanna Ward: I have always been drawn to Judy Blume’s relatable and honest depictions of the joys and struggles of growing up. Her characters faced real-life challenges and emotions, making her books deeply resonant for me as a young reader. Blume fearlessly tackled topics like friendship, family, and the complexities of adolescence with authenticity and empathy. Her writing normalized the experiences and feelings I was navigating, making me feel seen and understood. Judy Blume’s ability to address sensitive subjects with compassion and understanding has had a lasting influence on my own approach to empathy and storytelling.

3) Do you have a writing routine? Share what works for you.

 Shanna Ward: I make it a habit to write every day, usually late at night when my mind is more creative. I start by outlining my main points and organizing my thoughts. Then, I dedicate uninterrupted time to writing and setting specific goals for the day. I find that this routine helps me maintain focus and productivity. Additionally, taking short breaks between writing sessions helps me stay energized and maintain a clear perspective on my work.

4) What subjects would you like to write about in future projects?

 Shanna Ward: I would like to explore writing about topics such as African American History, Insurance, and travel experiences. These subjects align with my interests and allow for creativity and exploration in my writing. Additionally, I am open to branching out into new areas that can expand my knowledge and offer fresh perspectives to my audience. I’m currently writing a psychological thriller and tap into narcissistic characteristics.

5) What is writing to you in one sentence?

Shanna Ward: To me, writing is a creative expression that allows me to articulate thoughts, share stories, and connect with others on a deeper level.

Book Blurb:

Join Little John T. Ward on a journey of kindness and courage as he, alongside his ponies Libby and Dom, discovers the power of unity and friendship. As he aids escaped slaves in finding their way to freedom, John T. and his community learn that even a small boy can make a big difference. With vibrant illustrations and heartwarming moments, this tale is perfect for young readers aged 6-9, teaching them the importance of helping others and working together. This book is an essential element to teaching about the injustices of slavery to the younger generation.

“Little John T. Ward and the Quilted Code: Let Ward Do It” is available on Amazon.com and is a Kindle Unlimited title.

Purchase Here

For more information on Shanna Ward and her book, visit her website at: https://www.bequest1820project.com/.

Meet Shanna Ward in person at the Columbus Book Festival in the Indie Authors Alley.

Oct10

Book Recommendation: Charming ABC Picture Book Series

Posted on by
Standard

Sometimes I come across a helpful selection of books that I can see would add to any classroom’s curriculum. Then there are times I find a series of books that would be helpful for specific needs in the classroom. I like to point these out to help out teachers and parents that home-school. It can be hard going through all the different websites and library catalogs trying to find what you need. Let me help you from time to time. When I come across books I know that are going to help, I always present them to you as a book recommendation.

For this book recommendation, I’ve found a set of ABC picture books with a unique connection to the curriculum that will help you tie your teaching with alphabet letter recognition, science and health science, physical education, and imagination.

They are a set of ABC books written by Catherine Anderson-Barnes. She has written two books that introduce the alphabet by means of animals and by fruits and vegetables. Each book can be used for a daily letter introduction, or even, at certain times during the week, in a lesson or as a read-aloud introduction to the letter.

Catherine Anderson-Barnes says about her books:

“The books are filled with a great variety of learning opportunities: Learning colors, letters (upper and lower case), parts of our body, how foods play a role in our overall health, the importance of being physically active, fruit and vegetable recognition, animal recognition, and how animals are similar and different from us.”

“Moving Through the Alphabet an Animal’s Way A to Z” introduces an animal from around the world with each letter. The colorful and fantastic illustrations dazzle the eye as facts about the animal are listed on the page to read-aloud. At the end of the facts, a fun physical activity can be done that mimics the animal’s natural movement. It’s wonderful to help associate the letter with the movement and build connection with literature.

“Be Your Best…Eating Fruits and Vegetables A to Z” introduces each letter with a tasty fruit or vegetable. Diagrams point out which areas of the body the food supports with a rhyming connection to the letter. Colorful illustrations showing kids in positive activities support the need for a healthy, eating lifestyle.

I love the fact that these books can be combined to help build letter recognition, theme for a food and animal of the week, and even help review later in the year. These can be a staple for any preschool or kindergarten classroom, and a great way to review the alphabet at the beginning of first grade. I highly recommend these books for the classroom and home library. They are a fun and interactive way to learn letters for any child.

Link to ABC Book Series on Amazon.com

Both books are available on Amazon.com as hardback, paperback or Kindle editions.

The books are also read by the author on YouTube as well. Here are the links below! These are great for modeling text and reading aloud skills.

Link for “Moving Through the Alphabet an Animal’s Way”.

Link for “Be Your Best…Eating Fruits and Vegetables”.

Aug31

Day 4 of the 2023 Back to School Blog Tour-Book Review: Devin Drake and The Family Secret

Posted on by
Standard

Welcome back to day 4 of the 2023 Back to School Blog Tour. I have a fabulous book review today of a paranormal/spooky genre book. Check out the book review below. Please come back tomorrow for the last installment of this year’s blog tour.

Book Review: Devin Drake and The Family Secret

By R. M. Clark

School has started, but that means Halloween is just around the corner. This is a great time to introduce your child or students to the spooky genre before October hits. I’ve found a marvelous spooky mystery novel that is sure to be a great addition to your classroom or home library.

Devin Drake and the Family Secret is a not so average spooky mystery. It likes to tantalize the senses with Greek food clues and paranormal intrigue. Devin is your average sixth grader that loves magic card tricks and is excited about his new drone for his birthday. But when it ends up in a cemetery, he has to retrieve it which leads him to discover he has the ability to see and hear ghosts. He soon finds this ability runs in the family, and starts to try to get the hang of his new skills. Then, his classmate, Eva, asks for help. Her grandfather seems to be contacting her beyond the grave and she needs help understanding why. Can Devin solve the reason for this mysterious communication? Or are the clues distractions to the real problem at hand?

I enjoyed the real sense of voice in this story. Mr. Clark really puts you into the head of a twelve-year old boy dealing with real problems along with paranormal twists. This is a great read for kids that love a good mystery along with a ghost story. I used to love this kind of book when I was a kid, and that wasn’t just around Halloween time either. This would be a great middle grade book to introduce your preteen to the spooky/paranormal genre and get them interested in reading paranormal fiction all year long.

Devin Drake and The Family Secret is available at: Amazon.com and barnesandnoble.com.

For more information on Devin Drake and his other books, please visit his website at:

www.rmclarkauthor.com.

Aug30

Day 3 of the 2023 Back to School Blog Tour- Book Review for Mr. Tickety-Toc Clock: The Travel to Washington

Posted on by
Standard

Welcome back, everyone! Today I have a book review for a very unique book series. This author started writing and publishing his books when he was eleven years old, and is still writing his children’s book series today.

Davon Miller had severe asthma as a child, and found himself in and out of the hospital a lot. He started writing and illustrating his books at an early age, and now donates some of his proceeds from his books to the hospital that treated him as a child. He is also a very active volunteer, hosts a radio segment on writing, has won several awards, and started a campaign called #IMAGINE2020CHILDRENSTORIES in support of African-American Authors.

BOOK REVIEW: Mr. Tickety-Toc: The Travel to Washington

By Davon Miller

Does your child or classroom like a good mystery? Do they wish they were an illustrator? I’ve found a book that is a great introduction to what the imagination and the pen combined can do. Mr. Tickety-Toc is part of a series of books exploring and teaching while engaging the imagination. Written by Davon Miller, children are taken into a world of fun, inventive characters while they learn about historical places, lessons of life, and are gifted with a bit of humor.

Mr. Tickety-Toc: The Travel To Washington starts out with opening a gift. Mr. Tickety-Toc receives a box full of animal travel companions that immediately start out on an adventure to travel the country and try to solve the mystery of the box. Off they go to New York, Texas, Washington state, California, South Dakota and finally arriving in Washington D.C. They encounter famous monuments such as the Statue of Liberty, Mount Rushmore, the Washington Monument, and the Lincoln Memorial while trying to solve the surprise box mystery. Will Mr. Tickety-Toc be able to find all the homes of the animals? Or will he be hopelessly lost?

This charming story is illustrated with colorful, crayon medium pictures giving that kid-like feel to the whole story. It may even inspire children to maybe try their own attempts at illustrations. Through working together, the mystery is solved, stressing the great life lesson of teamwork. I recommend this picture book as an introduction to U.S. historical monuments and as a working together read-aloud for the home or the classroom.

Mr. Tickety-Toc: The Travel to Washington can be purchased on Amazon.com.

For more information on Davon Miller and his books, please visit his Amazon Author Page.

Link to Davon Miller’s Facebook Page Here.

For an interview with Davon Miller on “Beautiful People: Tampa Bay”, link here.

Thank you for supporting all these great authors by following my blog, reading posts, and commenting. It really means a lot to get the word out about these fabulous books and the authors that wrote them. Please feel free to comment and let me know what you like or what could be improved.

We’ve just got a few more days left. So, check back tomorrow. Until then, enjoy the start of the 2023 school year!