Lester Lion Calls 911 by Donna M. Cramer Review

On May 29, 2024May 28, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young lion must learn when the right time to call 911 is in author Donna M. Cramer’s “Lester Lion Calls 911”.

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The Synopsis

“Lester Lion Calls 911” is a delightful children’s book that follows the adventures of Lester, a young lion who is thrilled about Fire Prevention Week and eager to meet real firefighters. But when he learns that anyone can dial 911 during an assembly, he mistakenly believes it’s okay to do so while playing. Using his mom’s phone, Lester dials the number, sparking an educational journey for Lester.

Through colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, this book teaches young readers about the importance of discerning when to call 911 in a real emergency. Along the way, they’ll also learn the essential safety technique of stop, drop, and roll, ensuring they’re equipped with valuable knowledge to stay safe.

Join Lester Lion as he navigates through valuable lessons about responsibility, emergency preparedness, and fire safety in this heartwarming tale that’s perfect for story-time or classroom discussions.

The Review

This was a quick yet powerful children’s book. The author does an incredible job of crafting a narrative filled with fun yet relatable characters, each providing an important role that helps drive the themes of this book home. The vibrancy of the illustrations and the thoughtful dialogue between the characters help greatly emphasize the importance of this book’s message.

The lessons taught in this book helped elevate the overall story. The need to instill the importance of emergencies and what 911 is for children in the United States was significantly explored here, showcasing the harm that can come from not utilizing this service appropriately and how children should take this 911 service seriously in case real dangers or emergencies pop up.

The Verdict

Thoughtfully crafted, engaging, and memorable, author Donna M. Cramer’s “Lester Lion Calls 911” is a must-read children’s book. The fast pace and depth of the themes allow for a great bonding experience between parent and child and will keep parents coming back to this book repeatedly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Donna M. Cramer is a retired special education teacher who lives in Massachusetts. She worked with young special needs students for over 20 years. While working at school, Donna sustained a life-altering brain injury. Cramer discovered a love for writing after her injury, particularly early in her recovery when she had difficulty expressing herself through speech. She lives with her husband and two Maine Coon cats, all of whom facilitated her recovery with lots of love. Cramer wants everyone to know that there is always hope. Even though it may seem like a distant, faraway glimmer, there is always hope.

https://www.authordonnamcramer.com

Ghost Hotel: Canadian Chills Book Two by Arthur Slade Review

On May 2, 2024May 2, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Two children are led by a ghost back to a mysterious hotel, and encounter a strange series of events in author Arthur Slade’s “Ghost Hotel”, the second book in the Canadian Chills series.

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The Synopsis

Can two modern-day kids solve mystery of the ghost that haunts the old hotel–or will they be trapped in the past forever?

Walter Biggar Bronson (a.k.a. Wart) and his friend Cindy meet a ghost one night after school. The small, mournful boy leads them across the Broadway Bridge to the gracious Bessborough Hotel. After a strange incident in the elevator, they find themselves still in the hotel–but back in 1936.

Some spooky things are going on. The room numbers are all mixed up. The library on the mezzanine is filled with hundreds of copies of the same book. And out on the street, the cars are all the same–vintage Studebakers.

Back in the present, Wart and Cindy follow their motto–“Gather, identify, solve”–as they attempt to crack the case, with help from Wart’s distinctly odd parents and the loan of his mother’s time-travel-proof cell phone.

If they fail, they may be trapped in the ghostly past forever . . .

The Review

First and foremost, this was a truly entertaining and compelling children’s book. The author does a remarkable world-building in this book, building upon the core characters from the series and adding to their adventures in a natural yet fun way. The imagery and atmosphere in the book allow the reader to get lost in the rich mythos of the world the author has created and easily enjoy the fun and spooky moments in this novel.

Yet, for me, the true heart of this story came in both the setting and the subject matter of the narrative. First, the setting of Saskatoon in Canada was fantastic, as it speaks to the culture and way of life that anyone not from Canada may not realize occurs and allows readers to experience life for those who do live there. Second, the paranormal investigator backstory for the two protagonists was phenomenal. As a paranormal investigator, I saw two young characters embracing the paranormal so heartedly and embracing that sense of weirdness, adventure, and curiosity, which was fantastic to see translated on the page.

The Verdict

Wonderfully written, haunting, yet thoroughly engaging, author Arthur Slade’s “Ghost Hotel” is an excellent addition to the Canadian Chills series and a must-read children’s paranormal mystery book. The twists and turns in the narrative, the emotional story developments of certain characters, and the adventurous tone that occurs will keep readers coming back for more and more of this epic series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to preorder your copy today or grab your copy on June 11th, 2024!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Arthur Slade was raised on a ranch in the Cypress Hills of Saskatchewan. He is the author of twenty five novels for young readers including The Hunchback Assignments, which won the TD Canadian Children’s Literature Award and Dust, winner of the Governor General’s Award for Children’s Literature. His lifetime of work has also received the prestigious Kloppenburg Award for Literary Excellence. All of these awards mean that when he drinks tea he has to raise his pinky. It’s very fancy. He lives in Saskatoon, Canada.

P.S. He does all of his writing on a treadmill desk. And he listens to heavy metal. At the same time.

https://www.arthurslade.com

Oatis and Muriel: A Grocery Story by Daphne Herlihy Review

On April 23, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A grocery store comes alive at night in author Daphne Herlihy’s “Oatis and Muriel: A Grocery Story”.

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The Synopsis

“What happens at night in the grocery store when the lights are out and the customers have gone home?” This is the question that the author asked her children that inspired this heartwarming and charming story. Together, they imagined a whimsical world in which the foods come to life and engage in play. The oats wear fancy coats, the fruits don formal suits and music is played by the string cheese quartet. But nobody could have predicted what happened one night. When Oatis stumbles, it is up to mopey Muriel to see if she can be brave and creative enough to save the day. Together, the friends learn that sometimes helping a friend in trouble is the best way to find out that you can shine brightly too.

The Review

This was a fun and playful story for children to get lost in. The vibrant illustrations and use of grocery store foods as the cast of characters were both imaginative and engaging, allowing children to interact with different food groups and have fun with the scenes of dancing and laughter that the foods displayed.

This book plays well with the themes of friendship and overcoming the odds through teamwork. Oatis’s work to cheer up Muriel and how Muriel snaps out of her funk when Oatis is in danger are great lessons for children to appreciate life’s small things and not take our friendships and relationships for granted.

The Verdict

Memorable, fun, and entertaining author Daphne Herlihy’s “Oatis and Muriel: A Grocery Story” is a must-read children’s book. The fast pace of the narrative and the balance of humor and heart will keep young readers engaged and prove to be the perfect bedtime story for parents. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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When Bad Things Happen by Donna Carr Roberts Review

On April 23, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author Donna Carr Roberts shares the painful realities of loss and how to face it when it happens in the children’s book “When Bad Things Happen”.

The Synopsis

Join Mr. Fuzzy Ears and his family on a journey that transcends the boundaries of life and death. In this beautifully illustrated tale filled with laughter and tears, we all learn the timeless wisdom that even in the face of loss, love endures, memories persist, and the angels above us promise an everlasting connection.

When Bad Things Happen is a poignant exploration of the circle of life, inviting readers of all ages to find solace and joy in the bittersweet embrace of saying goodbye.

These delicate threads of life intertwine to create a timeless tapestry of hope and remembrance. The warmth and grace of the illustrations in this book depict love that says every goodbye is but a prelude to a new beginning.

The Review

This is definitely a much more emotional yet much more engaging entry into the author’s children’s book series. The warmth of the watercolor images is a great juxtaposition of the cold reality of loss and the pain that can result from it. Yet the author does a remarkable job of showing the solace and warmth that can come from keeping the memory of those we lost in our hearts and cherishing the good times over the bad.

As a pet parent myself, who in recent months lost one of my fur babies, it is incredibly relatable and memorable to see how the characters react to the loss. The author does a remarkable job of not only diving into the complex reactions and feelings that loss can bring but also creating conversations between children and their parents to better understand when these sudden tragedies occur.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, heartfelt, and engaging author Donna Carr Roberts’s “When Bad Things Happen” is a must-read children’s book. The book offers notes of sadness yet hopeful tones of love and enriching lessons that parents can help teach their children through it. Be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Donna Carr Roberts is the author and illustrator of The Adventures of Mr. Fuzzy Ears book series. She has been the Artist in Residence at Bradley University in Peoria, Illinois and a professional portrait artist.Donna has had a lifetime of business careers but none as much fun as working on Mr. Fuzzy Ears. The funny antics of her dogs, Scamp, Izzy, Sofie and Teddy inspired her to write this book. The funny, loving, caring fables help children discover that all of us have the power to make life better for these helpless animals who offer us unconditional love. As a child, her favorite books were My Book House with remarkable stories and illustrations that have influenced her work today. Donna is a member of SCBWI, Portrait Society of America, Oil Painters of America, and a Member with Distinction with American Women Artists.

The Adventures of Mr. Fuzzy Ears – Donna Carr Roberts

The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup by Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis Review

On April 21, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A young rescue pup and her friends go on an adventure to the beach in authors Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis’s “The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup”.

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The Synopsis

“The Adventures of Dori, A Rescue Pup” is a delightful children’s book that promises to take young readers on a fun and adventurous journey. Join Dori and her friends as they explore the beach, showcasing the beauty of working together, the magic of friendship, and the joy of seeing the world through a rescue pup’s eyes. From playing in the sand to uncovering unexpected treasures along the shoreline, every page captures the essence of wonder and the bonds formed between friends. This enchanting book not only offers a heartwarming story of friendship and hope but also allows young readers to become a part of Dori’s legacy. That’s because we donate a portion of our profits back to the rescue that helped Dori find her forever home; Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue. With each purchase, you contribute to a meaningful cause by supporting Southern Comfort Maltese Rescue (SCMR), the organization that played a pivotal role in transforming Dori’s life from uncertainty to a world filled with love.

The Review

What a heartwarming and refreshing children’s book. As a pet parent who recently adopted a shorkie (Yorkshire terrier and Shih Tzu mix), I find it great to see a book that delves into the adoption of rescue pups. The love and sense of found family that rescue adoptions like this bring to mind is a great lesson that children can absorb.

The warmth of the illustrations and the atmosphere of adventure the authors can bring to life in this story were remarkable to behold. The camaraderie between Dori and her friends and the sense of community and environmental care the tale takes on make readers connect with the characters.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining authors Kathleen Conway and Juanita Ellis’s “The Adventures of Dori: A Rescue Pup” is a must-read children’s book. I always examine children’s books through the lens of whether or not they will bring parents and children together in a bond, and this story hits that mark, allowing families to bond and see the value of friendship, family, and the heart that is given to rescue dogs everywhere. If you haven’t already, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Authors

Kathleen Conway is the co-author of The Adventures of Dori, A Rescue Pup! Kathleen is a former military veteran (Air Force) and works fulltime in the health care industry as an Occupational Therapist. This is Kathleen’s passion behind the book was to share Dori with the world, while bringing awareness to rescue animals. Kathleen is already dreaming up more fun escapades featuring rescue animals.

Juanita Ellis is a first-time author and co-wrote the Adventures of Dori, A Rescue Pup to spread awareness about rescue dogs, and to share a little bit of Dori’s spirit with others around the world! Juanita volunteers her time with the same animal rescue group that rescued Dori. Juanita enjoys spending time with family, both human and furry, and enjoys trips to the beaches of NC and the mountains of TN. Juanita works full-time in the consumer service industry as an HR Executive.

Twins Mac & Madi’s Big Sister by Linda Herron Review

On April 21, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Author Linda Herron takes readers on a fun journey to self acceptance and what family truly means in her children’s book, “Twins Mac & Madi’s Big Sister”, the seventh book in the author’s children’s series.

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The Synopsis

Inspire children to realize their self-worth and celebrate being themselves with this adorable rhyming story!

Twins Mac and Madi are local superstars! But their big sister Molly doesn’t have a twin of her own, and she often feels lonely and left out. Sometimes, it’s like she doesn’t even exist. But Mac and Madi love their big sister, and they’re determined to show her that even though there’s only one of her, she’s special just the way she is!

Featuring a delightful rhyming story and gorgeous illustrations that bring these pages to life, this heartwarming children’s book inspires kids ages 8-10 to cherish their differences and develop their sense of self-worth. Inside, children will follow Molly and her twin sisters as she discovers that even though she sometimes feels envious of them, there are plenty of things that make her unique!

Book details:

Beautifully Crafted as a Heartwarming Story For Boys & Girls
Encourages Kids To Celebrate Their Differences & Embrace The Things That Make Them Unique
Makes a Perfect Read For Twins or Siblings Who Struggle With Self-Confidence & Self-Esteem
Reminds Kids That Even If You Feel Jealous of Others, People Are Envious of You
Great as a Fun & Colorful Gift Idea for Twins and Siblings You Know!
And So Much More…

As a must-read for parents or educators who want to help children realize their inner worth and stop comparing themselves to others, Twins Mac & Madi’s Big Sister is an entertaining and educational book that helps both twins and non-twins alike learn to appreciate their unique selves.

Are you ready to help your child celebrate the things that make them special? Then scroll up and grab your copy now!

Shop Finejewelers.com's Gift Finder Today & Be Ready for Every Holiday and Birthday Celebration!

The Review

Yet another delightful and heartfelt children’s story from author Linda Herron. The author does an incredible job of not only telling a compelling story for young readers but balancing that with a proper life lesson that speaks to another member of a family unit other than the twins, making this feel even more accessible and engaging to bring both parents and children together.

Not only was it amazing to see this theme of self-acceptance and family come to life on the page, but the idea of taking this series known for putting the Twins at center stage and instead giving their older sister a voice made this feel truly emotional and uplifting. The artwork and warmth of the scenery also added to the theme’s impact on the reader.

The Verdict

Remarkable, educational, and memorable, author Linda Herron’s “Twins Mac & Madi’s Big Sister” is a must-read children’s story. The fast pace of the narrative and the engaging character dynamics will draw readers in and keep families engaged with one another, even after the book ends. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Linda Herron is a children’s author, proud Rhode Islander, and identical twin who loves crafting heartwarming tales about siblings’ magical bonds. With first-hand experience of the joys and struggles of being an identical twin, Linda was inspired to write a series of fun children’s stories to help kids embrace their differences and cherish their special relationship with their sister or brother.

As a seasoned financial expert by day, when Linda isn’t dreaming up new children’s stories to delight and entertain her readers, she’s writing business articles and blogs. Her financial expertise has been featured in major media outlets, including American Express, LendingTree, and Daily Business News. Currently, Linda enjoys the sunny weather in California but often returns to Rhode Island to spend time with her beloved family.

Please visit her at www.lherron.com

www.instagram.com/lherronauthor/

www.facebook.com/twinsmacandmadi

Banana and the Beat by Jordan Mann Review

On April 10, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

A fruit-based music group shares mind and body wellness through fun beats in author Jordan Mann’s “Banana and the Beat”.

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The Synopsis

Deejay B-Fruit and his music group, the Fresh Fruit Crew, are vibing on their Brooklyn brownstone stoop. Dropping mind-body nutrition rhymes and creating fire music loops. As the crowd gathers round, there’s an unexpected showdown. Find out if this whole food group passes the test to be the best – to help every kid’s mind, body and soul.

The Review

This was such a fun and exciting read. The author found the right balance between children’s book storytelling, hip-hop lyrical writing style, and dynamic character development with which children would be happy to connect. The illustrations and pops of color on the page are also an immediate attention grabber for readers.

The author’s ability to bring fun and hip-hop to young readers when discussing health and wellness, both of the body and mind, was fascinating. How each character got their unique personality and perspectives on this topic allowed children to engage with and harness the author’s message.

The Verdict

Author Jordan Mann’s “Banana and the Beat” is an imaginative, fun, and entertaining children’s book. The interactive story and insightful theme of body and wellness that these characters embody are sure to leave a lasting impact on kids reading this book. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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about my company: HERE

website: HERE

YouTube channel: HERE

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link to buy hardcover book: AMAZON

link to buy digital copy: HERE

Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park by Marc Polett Review

On February 6, 2024 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

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A day in the park for a young girl turns into an adventure that captures the magic of lifelong friendships in author Marc Polett’s “Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park”.

The Synopsis

Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park is a delightful tale that captures the joy and excitement of childhood friendships. Lily is a young girl who goes to the park and meets a rabbit named Benny, a squirrel named Nutty, and a dog named Rusty. Together they set off on an adventure playing games, enjoying nature, and building an incredible bond, reminding us of how fulfilling it is to make new friends and explore the great outdoors.

The story’s poetic narrative and colorful illustrations will have children wanting to read the book again and again. Ideal for 4- 8-year-olds, parents or educators will enjoy reading the book aloud while the children see the words come to life through the vivid illustrations.

Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park will fill your child’s heart with joy, spark their imagination and encourage them to spend time with loved ones reading books.

The Review

It is a beautifully illustrated and captivating children’s book. The author did an incredible job of layering the story with a sense of wonder and heart that really spoke to the reader and brought both parent and child together to revel in childhood’s magic. The warmth and heart that come from the incredible illustrations in this book capture the sense of adventure and excitement that childhood friendships can often bring.

Yet the friendship theme will stick with young readers as they dive into this book. The friendships we hold onto in life can vary, from the close bond of a childhood pet or a curious creature of the world to the bonds we form over the years with other children that grow into lifelong friendships; each relationship we develop as kids helps us grow and keep the magic alive in our hearts as time goes on.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging author Marc Polett’s “Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park” is a must-read children’s book that is not to be missed. The interactive nature of the story as parents regal children with this story’s theme and the imaginative curiosity that young readers will feel to go out there and find their special friendships is a powerful motivator to keep diving into the book repeatedly. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Marc Polett loves writing and storytelling and was inspired to write this book by his wife’s love of animals and her unique ability to understand them. Marc was born and raised in scenic Gladwyne, PA, and spent his childhood exploring the parks and trails that are spread throughout the historic town, finding peace in nature.

Marc received a bachelor’s degree in Sociology from the University of Arizona, where he also studied poetry and creative writing, and earned an MBA from Temple University’s Fox School of Business. Marc began his career in web development and now works in finance. He has experience in graphic design and mobile game development but has found writing to be his favorite form of creative expression.

Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park is the first story in a four-book series, so stay tuned for the next adventure of Lily and her animal friends.

Twins Mac & Madi Go Camping (Twins Mac and Madi Series) by Linda Herron Review

On December 24, 2023 By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

I received a free cop of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.

Twins Mac and Madi go on a camping adventure in author Linda Herron’s “Twins Mac and Madi Go Camping”.

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The Synopsis

Embrace the joys of nature and embark on a delightful camping adventure with this fun and adorable children’s book!

Grab your tents and get ready for an amazing camping trip with twins Mac and Madi! Whether your idea of fun is canoeing in a crystal-clear lake, hiking with friends through the forest, or singing songs around the campfire while enjoying delicious s’mores, kids and adults alike will adore this cute rhyming story as they discover all the joys of the Great Outdoors.

Beautifully told with colorful illustrations that leap from every page, this children’s picture book teaches us the importance of spending time with loved ones and making memories that will last a lifetime. Twins Mac and Madi Go Camping serves as a brilliant gift idea for your kids and grandkids or as a great way to spark fun discussions about camping in nature.

The Review

This was a fun and engaging read. The author does a fantastic job of capturing both the relationship between siblings and a family overall with the adventure and fun of outdoor activities. The sense of wonder, joy, and respect that is shown for both the adventure the twins go on and the outdoors themselves were terrific to see come to life on the page.

The warmth and heart of the illustrations and the rhyming writing style really captured the entertainment factor of the children’s book, while the themes of family, adventure, and respect for nature itself will help bring both parents and children alike together as they read this story. The story appeals to parents and teachers alike, allowing children to feel transported into the great outdoors and see how we can engage with nature.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, entertaining, and memorable author Linda Herron’s “Twins Mac and Madi Go Camping” is a must-read children’s book. The creativity, beautiful illustrations, and memorable characters made this book excel and keep the nature story alive. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Please visit her at www.lherron.com

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