Children's Books

Liberty-Loving Lafayette

Dorothea Jensen (Past Times Press Publication date ‏ : ‎ February 25, 2023)

| Reviewed by John Grossman

Dorothea Jensen’s Liberty-Loving Lafayette is a delightful and accessible introduction to the Marquis de Lafayette, the young French nobleman whose courage and idealism played a crucial role in securing American independence. In rhyming verse, Jensen swiftly summarizes Lafayette’s journey: from his youthful enthusiasm for the American cause, to his pivotal friendship with George Washington, his bravery in battle, his role in securing French support, and his decisive contribution at Yorktown. With lively illustrations and supplemental resources,...

The Poetry Coaster

Lucas Raney (Two Turkey Publishing, LLC)

| Reviewed by Rachel Groover

I still can’t believe that The Poetry Coaster is written by a ten-year-old, a short yet spectacular lesson in poetry. In a tone that is jovial and light and that doesn’t miss in humor, this young author delivers a lyrical work that instructs and entertains. I have written for many years, and there are poetic forms I never knew existed. Lucas Raney breaks them down with concise definitions and takes readers on a lyrical ride that describes the rollercoaster experience. From loop-de-loops to snack disasters, from the nervousness of standing in li...

A Song for Vivolet

Hong Z. McCormick ()

| Reviewed by Jayne Anne Rooney

A Song for Vivolet by Hong Z. McCormick is an inspiring tale about Vivolet, a mute vole who discovers her unique voice through music and courage. The story follows her journey from silent invisibility to becoming a courageous, expressive presence in her forest community. Despite her inability to speak, Vivolet creates beautiful melodies made from whistled breaths and sounds of the wind and gradually gains recognition, teaching readers that authentic voice and strength come from within, not from rules or what others expect of us. Her expression...

Hannah's Call To Care

Claudia Clark (Claudia Clark)

| Reviewed by Cristina Prescott

In Hannah’s Call to Care by Claudia Clark, twelve-year-old Hannah Stewart narrates her journey from curious animal lover to committed wildlife warrior in the Blue Mountains of New South Wales. When her father rescues an orphaned kangaroo joey named Summer, Hannah learns firsthand that good intentions can sometimes harm wild animals without proper knowledge. Guided by seasoned carers Michelle and Greg, she volunteers at their sanctuary, mastering pouch checks, rescue missions, and the messy realities of wildlife rehabilitation. Along the way, Ha...

The Story of Atom

Robert Reisler (Kettle Books)

| Reviewed by Elena Enger

Thoughtfully written and exciting, The Story of Atom is a children’s book that follows the adventures of Adam, a curious Carbon Atom, from the dawn of the universe to the present day. Spanning 14 billion years of cosmic history, this beautifully crafted full-color picture book immerses young readers in the wonders of science—Astronomy, Physics, Chemistry, and Biology—through Adam’s eyes. Filled with hidden Easter Eggs and a special secret to discover, the story sparks curiosity and imagination, encouraging children of all backgrounds to explore...

Flying Circus Above and B...

Leona Cobham (Cobham Wings)

| Reviewed by Krishna Blackwood

Flying Circus: Above and Beyond is the third installment in the Airplane Adventures series by Leona Cobham. It is a captivating and hugely imaginative aviation adventure with an irresistible appeal to young readers. The story follows a diverse group of aircraft characters as they face challenges, seek resolution, and explore the themes of purpose, perseverance, and the importance of teamwork. The story opens with Nighthawk, a stealth fighter jet, on a tense encounter with a rogue Hercules C-One Thirty, known as Albert, who feels discarded and s...

The Search & Find World o...

Laura Seeley (Best Friends Art Gallery)

| Reviewed by Krishna Blackwood

The Search & Find World of Shadow Boxes by Laura Seeley is an engaging exploration of the alphabet, designed to captivate children and young learners. Through its imaginative presentation, clever use of stylistic devices, and interactive elements, the book offers a delightful educational experience that makes learning the alphabet both fun and memorable. The book introduces Shadow, a character whose captivating voice draws readers in from the very start and guides them through an interactive search-and-find approach, encouraging childr...

Mary the Missionary: A Ke...

Yvonne M Morgan (Mt Zion Ridge Press LLC)

| Reviewed by Cristina Prescott

Mary the Missionary: A Kenyan Adventure by Yvonne M. Morgan is an inspiring story about a young girl named Mary who embarks on a life-changing mission trip to Kenya with her family. The story follows Mary as she learns about different cultures, faces new challenges, and develops a deeper understanding of God's love for all children worldwide. Throughout her journey, Mary interacts with local children, explores Kenyan villages, and participates in a Vacation Bible School, discovering that despite differences in lifestyle and environment, people...

Flying Circus Through Thi...

Leona Cobham (Cobham Wings)

| Reviewed by Lee Robbins

Flying Circus Through Thick and Thin by Leona Cobham, the second installment of the in the Airplane Adventures series, a notable book that takes readers on a journey with a group of anthropomorphic airplanes—Vul the Vulcan, Spif the Spitfire, Woody the Tiger Moth, and Tom the F-14 Tomcat—as they tackle extreme weather conditions and an emergency in a remote village. Amid inexplicable illnesses plaguing the villagers, the planes face dangerous adversaries involved in suspicious mining operations. The narrative unfolds as they integrate teamwork,...

The Angry Toolbox Adventu...

MIKE J B (grosvenor house publishing)

| Reviewed by Lee Robbins

In The Angry Toolbox Adventures, author Mike J.B. crafts a whimsical and engaging narrative that explores themes of friendship, teamwork, and perseverance through the adventures of a young boy and his animated toolbox. Set within the cozy confines of Leroy's home, the story begins on a frosty winter morning, with Leroy's enthusiasm for his toolbox foreshadowing the adventure ahead. As the festive decorations are taken down, the household dynamics are beautifully illustrated, providing a backdrop for Leroy's close relationship with his family, i...

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