Tag: illustrated

Oh, Tal! Not Today. By Tal Anderson (Illustrated by Michael Richey White) Review

On 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 Tal Anderson shares the joys of celebrating our differences in the children’s book “Oh, Tal! Not Today.”

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The Synopsis

Oh, Tal! Not Today is the delightful first book in the “OH, TAL!” series, created by autistic actor Tal Anderson and Hollywood artist Michael Richey White. In this beautifully illustrated picture book, we meet Tal and her loyal cat, Winnie. Though Tal doesn’t speak much and has a unique way of doing things, vibrant imagination, creativity, and independence shine through.

As Tal’s parents learn that things aren’t always what they seem, true intentions come to light. Perfect for young readers, parents, and educators, this heartwarming story celebrates being different and doing things your own way!

The Review

What a thoughtful and kind read. The author did an excellent job of creating a story that felt both relatable and engaging for both children and parents alike, especially for the community the book represents so eloquently. The beautiful artwork also speaks to both the whimsy of the narrative and the childlike wonder with which Tal approaches life in every scene of the book. 

The theme of communication and understanding for parents and visibility for children, such as Tal, is extensively showcased in this fast-paced children’s book. How the autistic community is showcased in a heartfelt, understanding way while also delving into how parents can learn to understand how their child’s way of thinking may differ from others, and in doing so, give their child the free space to be themselves, makes this such a special and even emotional book for readers to hold onto.

The Verdict

Memorable, engaging, and thoughtful in its delivery, author Tal Anderson and artist Michael Richey White’s “Oh, Tal! Not Today” is a must-read children’s book. The ease with which readers will be able to connect with Tal the writer and Tal as a character, and the heartfelt message that underscores the importance of understanding and communication with children from all walks of life, made this one book parents won’t want to put down for their children. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

TAL ANDERSON is a professional actor, filmmaker, and writer. She is an advocate for change, using her voice and unique platform as an autistic actor to support inclusion and authentic representation in front of and behind the camera in Hollywood. She is best known for her work in the Netflix series “Atypical” as Sid, but can also be seen and heard in many other productions including, guest-starring in Season 5 of “Magnum P.I.” on NBC, and as the English voice of Tina in the Disney Plus series, “Team Chocolate.” Tal has always been a storyteller, and as a child could be seen constantly using her FLIP video camera, or one of several hand-held voice-recorders to record every day life, or her daily performances of stories/scripts she had made up or written. It is this love of imagination that led her to acting and filmmaking as an adult. “Oh, Tal! – Not Today,” is Tal’s first book. She lives in Los Angeles with her cat Winifred, where they can both live their best lives and be their true selves.

https://www.thetalanderson.com/

MICHAEL RICHEY WHITE is an illustrator and graphic artist working in television and film. He has created artwork for many different shows including the art for the character, Sam, on the Netflix series, “Atypical,” and has been self-taught, drawing and painting most of his life. He wrote and illustrated the book “Little Hipsters” and continues to illustrate all of the guests for the podcast, “And the Writer Is.” He tries to make the time to draw something daily, even if it’s just a little doodle on scrap paper. He is autistic and uses his powers mostly for good. A quote by Walt Stanchfield has stuck with him over the years: “We all have 10,000 bad drawings in us. The sooner we get them out the better,” but from Michael’s own experience, he’s rephrased it to, “It takes 100,000 drawings before you make your first good one.” Michael lives in Los Angeles with his wife and youngest daughter.

https://michaelricheywhite.com/

Elijah Goes to Philadelphia by Mark Darden (Illustrations by Anh Bui) Review

On 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 boy on the eve of a trip to Philadelphia takes a journey into the city’s past in author Mark Darden’s “Elijah Goes to Philadelphia.”

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The Synopsis

While resting in his bed, Elijah is not looking forward to visiting Philadelphia with his father as he has heard bad things about the city. His father reassures him that they will have a great time visiting the city and tells Elijah to get some sleep. When Elijah wakes up, he finds himself somewhere he’d never seen before with his dad. After nervously calculating their surroundings, Elijah and his dad meet Vinnie who tells them that they were just in time to witness an historic event. With the help of Vinnie, Elijah and his dad visit various landmarks in Philadelphia during different time periods, such as Independence Hall in 1776, Reading Terminal Market in 1893, and much more. Elijah’s trip to Philadelphia is an exciting and unforgettable adventure, almost as if it were a dream.

The Review

This was such a fun and engaging children’s book. The author did an excellent job of bringing a sense of magic and wonder to the story, while also highlighting the history and culture behind the foundation and growth of Philadelphia as a city and as a landmark in the foundation of the United States of America. The fast-paced and easy-going nature of the story allowed the reader to feel transported by this dreamy, historical trip down the city’s past.

What stood out for young readers is both the relatability of the main characters and the importance of understanding and connecting with the city as a whole. The dynamic between father and son in this story was great to see come to life, and how Philadelphia, both the good and the bad, were showcased reminded me of my life in Southern California, and the times Los Angeles would be called bad or remarked with a sense of dread. Yes, each city has its bad parts, but every town or city does. There are also things of great beauty, community, and historical significance that deserve to be celebrated, and this story brought that to life for Philadelphia so perfectly.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, fun, and adventurous, author Mark Darden’s “Elijah Goes to Philadelphia” is a must-read children’s book. The nostalgic, almost 90s-esque art style of the illustrations and the magical yet relatable story and character dynamics will keep both children and parents alike invested in this incredible story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Mark Darden is the founder, author-publisher, and Chief Content Creator for Buckeye Muscle Media, LLC. Since 2019, Buckeye Muscle Media has independently published two books with a third book set to be released in November 2024. Mark is a member of the Independent Book Publishers Association (IBPA) and the Society of Children’s Book Writers and Illustrators (SCBWI). He when is not writing books, Mark enjoys going to sports events cheering for his favorite teams, traveling across the country and world, and participating in various fitness competitions.

https://buckeyemuscle.com/

Twins Mac & Madi Play Field Hockey by Linda Herron Review

On 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 shares the heartfelt lesson found in teamwork and positive thinking in the book “Twins Mac & Madi Play Field Hockey.”

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The Synopsis

Inspire your child to try their best and never give up with this inspiring tale about fostering good sportsmanship!

Twins Mac & Madi are the youngest players on their team, and they’re always ready to give their best! But sometimes, the game doesn’t go their way. With the help of their wise coach, the twins learn that success isn’t just about the score… it’s about playing your best and always supporting your team through thick and thin!

Celebrate the joys of sports and embark on a memorable adventure with twins Mac & Madi as they discover essential lessons about teamwork, playing fair, and good sportsmanship! With an inspiring message about always trying your best, even when victory seems impossible, young readers ages 3-8 will adore discovering this colorful tale and developing a positive attitude toward sports.

Book details:

  • Features a Beautiful Rhyming Story With Unforgettable Characters & a Real-World Setting That Helps Children Absorb Positive Messages
  • Promotes Valuable Lessons About Being Good Sports, Playing Fair, Overcoming Setbacks With Grace, & Always Supporting Your Teammates With Lots of Cheering & Enthusiasm!
  • Helps Kids Manage Feelings of Frustration & Keep Their Spirits High, Even When The Game Isn’t Going Their Way
  • Makes a Brilliant Bedtime Story Or Teaching Tool For Parents & Educators Who Want To Instil Good Sportsmanship & Attitudes In Children
  • And Much More…

If you have a child who loves to play sports, or if you want to equip the next generation with a desire to practice good sportsmanship, Twins Mac & Madi Play Field Hockey is a wonderful resource for parents, teachers, and counselors who want to help kids foster resilience and overcome defeats or setbacks without ever giving up.

Are you ready to empower your child with sportsmanship lessons that will stick with them for a lifetime? Then scroll up and grab your copy today!

The Review

What a fun and engaging children’s book. The author brought an incredible story to life on the page, with artwork from Marie Delon giving cool color schemes and eye-catching artwork to draw young readers in. The story’s fast pace will keep children invested and give parents the time to connect with their children throughout the narrative.

The strong themes of teamwork, sportsmanship, and positive thinking motivated and taught younger readers in this book. The ability to hold one’s head up high and face the troubles facing one, be it in a game like field hockey or life, is such a powerful tool and technique to learn, and the author perfectly brought this to life in this story.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and engaging, author Linda Herron’s Twins Mac & Madi Play Field Hockey is a must-read children’s book. Readers will connect with these characters, and the story’s relatability will create an intense reading experience for parents and children alike. 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

Will’s Adventure to the Candy Mountain by Dr. Gerry Haller (Illustrated by YM Cho) Review

On 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 boy wakes to discover the story his grandmother has told him about Candy Mountain is real in the children’s book “Will’s Adventure to the Candy Mountain” by author Dr. Gerry Haller and illustrated by YM Cho.

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The Synopsis

Will’s Grandmother has told Will about the Candy Mountain since he was a small child. One night Will is awakened by the Conductor of a train. He is told to hurry to catch the train. “What train?” “The train to the Candy Mountain, of course.” On the train, he meets a boy named Quinn and they decide to go on the adventure together. He can hardly believe he is going to the Candy Mountain. Together there are many decisions they have to make, each more mysterious than the other. What will they find?

The Review

This was such a fun and engaging children’s book. The author thoughtfully and memorably conveyed the sense of magic and wonder children dream about. The book’s fast pace didn’t ever feel rushed, but instead allowed the reader to discover each new land and experience that the main characters found simultaneously.

Often in books, especially children’s books, readers seek to understand or engage with the more profound lesson or meaning behind the story, and there were so many in this book for younger readers to engage with. From the power of friendship and the rewarding nature of sharing to the more profound lesson of dreaming big and never being afraid of new adventures, this book had an outstanding balance of lessons to learn from.

The Verdict

A beautiful blend of The Polar Express meets Charlie and the Chocolate Factory, author Dr. Gerry Haller’s “Will’s Adventure to the Candy Mountain” is a must-read children’s book. With warm and vibrant artwork from YM Cho and a whimsical sense of adventure, this book will significantly bring parents and children together. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Author Dr. Gerry Haller is an accomplished educator having received many awards in the teaching, curriculum, and administrative fields. Some of these awards include being recognized for The Golden Apple, The Carnegie Foundation for her teaching in the Inner City of Chicago, and receiving the Phi Delta Kappa Award for being outstanding Principal of the Year. Dr. Haller received Primary, Gifted and Art Degrees form Bradley University, Master’s in Administration from Augustana, and Doctor of Education from Nova Southeastern University. She is a gifted public speaker and has presented at conferences from London to the U.S. Throughout her career, she has taught principals, teachers, and children. Dr. Haller is also a proud mother and grandmother.

About the Illustrator

YM Cho is an award-winning artist and designer. She earned a BFA degree from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, where she studied visual communications and fashion illustration. YM has been named the winner of several art and design competitions, including the 2017 Leavenworth Oktoberfest Logo Design, 2017 Navy Air Force Half Marathon shirt design, 2019 Seward Silver Salmon Derby Logo Design, and the 93rd Running Mount Marathon Logo Design.

https://drgerryhallerbooks.com/

https://ymchoartdesign.com/

Daadi Maa’s Diary of Secrets (Picture Books For Big Kids and Adults Book 1) by Monita Kumari Review

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

In author Monita Kumari’s ” Daadi Maa’s Diary of Secrets, ” a young boy tired of his grandmother’s behavior soon discovers a hidden past that explains who she is.

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The Synopsis

Seven year old Vivek thinks his Daadi Maa (Indian Grandmother) is a mean old lady until he finds her diary. Although the first few entries are hilarious to him, Vivek soon realizes it was not meant to be funny. As he reads on, he recognizes that Daadi Maa is trapped in a vicious cycle. Her obsessive pinching is a coping mechanism. Although Daadi Maa has persevered outwardly, she still suffers silently. The diary brings the issue to the forefront and light is finally shed on the death of Daadi Maa’s brother Bhola, which is the crux of the problem. It also brings attention to the guilt she feels about the death of her son – Vivek’s father. Although Vivek’s mother has forgiven her, the fact remains that the last conversation Daadi Maa had with Vivek’s father was an argument about her pinching habit – which is why she cannot forgive herself. This obsessive-compulsive behavior which Daadi Maa suffered from most of her adult life touches the issue of neurodiversity. It is only after Vivek finds the diary that Daadi Maa faces her guilt. Here, she finally realizes that she doesn’t have to do it alone. She has a smart, educated family that will support her and love her as she is. No one will think less of her. All she needs to do is open up and ask for help even if not in those exact words. Daadi Maa’s Diary Of Secrets is a beautiful tearjerker picture book for young adults with twenty-two vivid and detailed illustrations (six of which are center spreads) that make the book come alive! The story explores the delicate issue of death in the family in a gentle way that young adults can relate to.

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The Review

This is a genuinely heartfelt and compelling read. The author’s ability to bridge the gap between adult and young readers through this story and the emotional connection the reader makes with Daadi Maa and her journey will stay with readers long after the book ends. The powerful imagery and thoughtful themes the author delves into create a harrowing yet poignant conversation for readers to deal with.

That conversation surrounds the topic of loss and its overwhelming nature. The book showcases the hardships and struggles that loss can have on a person and how it can dictate how they behave later in life. The book also shows the classic theme of not judging a book by its cover. The story shows the protagonist how their grandmother is not the way she is due to her just being mean but because of the experiences that life has given her.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, meaningful, and heartfelt author Monita Kumari’s “Daadi Maa’s Diary of Secrets” is a must-read illustrated young adult book. The themes of death, loss, and how to cope play a powerful role, and readers will instantly connect with and become invested in the narrative overall. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Born and raised in Fiji Islands, Monita is a trained medical professional, an artist and an amateur sitar player. She is a descendent of laborers brought to Fiji through the Indenture System from India, so her life has been a colorful mixture of both Fijian and Indian culture. When she has time to spare, she likes to watch her backyard birds. Monita lives in California with her family.

For more information, visit her website MonitaKumari.com

Cora’s Christmas Challenge: A Magical Story of Friendship, Festive Fun, and the Spirit of Giving by Sally Kashner Review

On 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 girl learns a valuable life lesson during the holidays in author Sally Kashner’s “Cora’s Christmas Challenge: A Magical Story of Friendship, Festive Fun, and the Spirit of Giving”.

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The Synopsis

CREATE TREASURED CHRISTMAS MEMORIES WITH YOUR FAMILY

Cora’s Christmas Challenge is the perfect children’s Christmas book for kids ages 4-8, combining the magic of the season with valuable life lessons. Join Cora on her festive adventure as she discovers the true meaning of kindness, friendship, and teamwork.

This heartwarming tale promises to inspire, educate, and entertain. Embrace the spirit of giving with Cora and spread the message: “Cora Can, and So Can You!”

Perfectly nestled under the tree, this book is a holiday treat that will foster bonds that last a lifetime. It’s the gift of a story—one that you and your child will want to revisit year after year, making it a beloved part of your family’s holiday tradition.

More than just a captivating story, this book includes engaging supplementary materials like an activity and coloring book, a teaching guide, an audiobook, and an e-book. These additions ensure a richer reading experience and extend the learning, making Cora’s Christmas Challenge perfect for both home and classroom use.

This season, give a gift that brings warmth to the heart and joy to the home. Let Cora’s Christmas Challenge be the beginning of memories you’ll treasure forever.

The Review

This was a refreshing, fun, and heartfelt read. Children and parents alike will be drawn to this narrative, which captures the magic and wonder of the holidays and a snowy day in general and the rewarding feeling that kindness and friendship can have on a person, an important message for children to learn at an early age.

The illustrations from Remesh Ram were breathtaking. Equal parts artwork and children’s animation, they just jumped off the page with striking color. The book’s interactive nature, with the “find the squirrel” element, really allowed children to delve into the story, and the themes of friendship and kindness through adventure and Christmas tradition made this one book parents will want to return to with their kids time and time again.

The Verdict

Interactive, heartfelt, and fun author Sally Kashner’s “Cora’s Christmas Challenge” is a must-read children’s book and holiday adventure. The joy and emotion the protagonist exudes will prove inspirational and beautiful to children. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating; 10/10

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About the Author

Sally Kashner’s approach to children’s literature is deeply rooted in her teaching days when she made literature come alive for her students. Today, she aims to ignite a similar enthusiasm for reading in young readers through stories that blend whimsy with learning opportunities. Each of her books invites children to explore new worlds, promoting discovery and growth.

Beyond crafting stories, Sally is committed to helping English Language Learners find their voice and assisting teenagers in preparing for college. Her dedication extends to improving literacy and supporting social-emotional learning (SEL).

Through her narratives, Sally encourages a love of reading, aiming to enhance literacy skills while fostering emotional and social development. She believes in the power of stories to empower and teach, ensuring that her books are more than just entertainment—they’re a vehicle for real-world learning and personal growth.

For young adventurers eager to explore the depths of their imagination and learn along the way, Sally Kashner’s books are a gateway to the wonders of childhood and beyond.

https://www.coracancollection.com

Lumpy’s Gift by Christopher Packard (Illustrated by Jill Packard) Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

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

A piece of clay known as Lumpy goes on a journey to face life’s challenges and become who he was meant to be in author Christopher Packard’s “Lumpy’s Gift”, illustrated by Jill Packard.

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The Synopsis

Children have always struggled with the obligations of school, chores, practices, and other family responsibilities. Lumpy’s Gift is a delightful fable about how all those little trials help make it possible to find your true potential. In this story, Lumpy, a lump of clay, is taken from his home by a well-meaning potter who does “terrible” things to Lumpy. But by the end, Lumpy has become something extraordinary, something he never knew he wanted to be. The book includes a parent and teacher’s discussion guide to the story and an introduction to the basics of pottery.

The Review

This was a truly imaginative and creative take on the children’s book narrative. The author and illustrator both worked together to create a stunning narrative of a lump of clay that finds itself undergoing a personal transformation and becoming uprooted from the comfort of the life they knew. The warmth of the illustration colors and the atmosphere that they created made the story feel captivating.

The heart of the narrative rests in the unique character development of Lumpy and the insightful lessons that the book brought to life. Lessons such as challenging ourselves to do things outside of our comfort zone to better our own lives, and how offering our best selves to others can be the most true and powerful form of a gift a person can give, all made this story shine greatly. 

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining, author Christopher Packard’s “Lumpy’s Gift” is a wonderful children’s book and greatly illustrated by Jill Packard. The care and heart that went into the creation of this book and the powerful themes that drove this narrative home will bring parents and children alike home this holiday season. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Christopher Packard is a folklorist, storyteller, monster hunter, and a full-time high school science teacher at Bangor High School. He is also a trail runner, swordfighter, and outdoor adventurer. When not teaching, writing, or wandering in the wilds he can often be found on his small homestead in Hampden, Maine gardening, raising chickens, and spending time with his wife and two sons. Prior to taking up teaching and writing he worked as an ecological restoration technician, field biologist, naturalist, and outdoor educator. He has earned some pieces of paper that say things about degrees in biology and education. But most of his learning has come from his passion for discovery and his drive to bring people together. Find out more by visiting his website at: www.christopherpackard.com

Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story by Sarah Kuhn Review

On 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 small-town teenage Lois Lane must navigate the big city and face setback after setback as she pursues her dreams of journalistic glory in author Sarah Kuhn’s “Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story”.

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The Synopsis

Can Lois Lane open herself up to friendship, romance, and being vulnerable in order to get the future that’s right for her?  She might have to change her entire life plan to find out.

Ambitious small town girl Lois Lane tackles a summer in the big city with gusto, but a cavalcade of setbacks—including an annoying frenemy roommate, a beyond tedious internship at a suddenly corporatized website, and a boss who demotes her to coffee-fetching minion—threatens to derail her extremely detailed life plan. And, you know, her entire future.

When Lois uncovers a potentially explosive scandal, she must team up with the last person she’d expect to publish her own website for young women. And as Lois discovers who she really is and what she actually wants, she becomes embroiled in her own scandal that could destroy everything she’s worked so hard to create.

From beloved author, Sarah Kuhn (Shadow of the Batgirl, Heroine Complex), and with expressive and lively art by Arielle Jovellanos, comes a charming YA story about the strength it takes to embrace the messiness of life.

BookBaby's Complete Self-Publishing Package includes eBooks, Printed Books and more - everything you need for your book launch!

The Review

As a lifelong fan of Lois Lane, I loved this new take on the iconic character from DC Comics. The way the author was able to incorporate elements of DC lore and characters into the narrative without making this a typical superhero-driven story was great to see, as it allowed Lois and the cast of characters to shine in their own light. The book had a great balance of both character and narrative development, giving readers equal time to enjoy this modern take on this small corner of the DC Universe while also giving time for these characters to shine.

To me, the heart of this story rested in the retconned character development and the important themes the narrative brought to life. Lois Lane became the perfect character to voice these themes, having been a longtime icon of journalistic integrity and a voice for the truth in DC Comics. The emphasis on issues such as racism, sexism, and the complications of modern friendships in different cultures made this story flow smoothly, while the new take on Lois as an Asian-American young woman just starting out on her path to becoming a journalist allowed both her character to grow and the importance of her Asian culture to shine through in this brilliant story. Combined with the warm and creative artwork of Arielle Jovellanos made this a captivating graphic novel.

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The Verdict

Memorable, iconic, and entertaining, author Sarah Kuhn and illustrator Arielle Jovelianos’s “Girl Taking Over: A Lois Lane Story” is a must-read graphic novel of 2023 and one of my contenders for the top graphic novel of the year. The heartfelt commentary on the battle between overall acceptance in our society versus the “anti-woke” proponents and the overall message to give people the voice to speak their truth made this a captivating and thoughtful DC Comics graphic novel. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Sarah Kuhn is the author of Heroine Complex—the first in a series starring Asian American superheroines—for DAW Books. She also wrote The Ruby Equation for the comics anthology Fresh Romance and the romantic comedy novella One Con Glory, which earned praise from io9 and USA Today and is in development as a feature film. Her articles and essays on such topics as geek girl culture, comic book continuity, and Sailor Moon cosplay have appeared in Uncanny Magazine, Apex Magazine, AngryAsianMan.com, IGN.com, Back Stage, The Hollywood Reporter, StarTrek.com, Creative Screenwriting, and the Hugo-nominated anthology Chicks Dig Comics. In 2011, she was selected as a finalist for the CAPE (Coalition of Asian Pacifics in Entertainment) New Writers Award.

http://www.heroinecomplex.com/

Arielle Jovellanos is a Filipina-American illustrator, writer & comic artist who specializes in narrative illustrations with an eye for character interaction and cute clothing. Her most recent projects include Black Star, an original sci-fi graphic novel written by Eric Anthony Glover for Abrams Megascope, and Evil Thing: A Villains Graphic Novel (Disney-Hyperion) adapted from Serena Valentino’s bestselling Cruella De Vil novel. Her work has also been featured in the Eisner & Harvey nominated anthology Fresh Romance and in magazines, comics, books, and branded social media campaigns. She is currently adjunct faculty in the illustration department at the Fashion Institute of Technology.

https://www.arielle-jovellanos.com/

Are You a Bird Like Me? By Noel Foy and Nicholas Roberto (Illustrated by Colleen Sgroi) Review

On 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 bird discovers a whole world outside of her nest after she falls out of it and must work together with other new friends to find her parents and finally take flight in authors Noel Foy and Nicholas Roberto’s “Are you a Bird like Me?”, illustrated by Colleen Sgroi. 

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The Synopsis

Meet Sky, a newly hatched bird who believes her nest is the “whole entire world” — until she falls out of it!

Unable to fly, Sky sets out to find her parents. Along the way, she makes unexpected friendships and discovers a fascinating world beyond her nest. Will Sky and her new friends band together and combine their unique skills so she can return home and ultimately take flight?

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Adventure with Sky as she learns valuable lessons about courage, perseverance and the amazing things that can happen by working together. The teamwork shown by Sky and her friends inspires readers to believe in themselves and embrace the idea that differences aren’t dividers but ways to contribute to a common goal.

A book you’ll return to over and over.

Bookbaby.com helps independent authors bring their creative vision to the marketplace. Sell eBooks online in the biggest retail stores.

The Review

When I was a child, one of my fondest memories with my mother was when we watched the Land Before Time together. This animated film showcases a group of young dinosaurs separated from their parents who must journey together to find them and build a special bond between them. It showcased the power of coming together as a group no matter what our differences may be. The author did a fantastic job capturing that same theme and emotion in this book. The heartwarming story of this young bird and the adventure they go on to discover a way of getting home hit all of the heartstrings and made for a brilliant reading experience.

The story was made so special because of the unique balance between the author’s positive and inspiring writing with warmth and thoughtfulness in the illustrations. The theme of group dynamics, cooperation, and embracing our differences in a collective environment made this both an educational and engaging story for children and parents alike, while the illustrations brought out the childlike wonder and entertainment that children will be drawn to in this narrative.

The Verdict

Emotionally driven, insightful, and joyful in its approach, authors Noel Foy and Nicholas Roberto’s “Are You A Bird Like Me?” is a must-read children’s book and beautifully illustrated by Colleen Sgroi. The heartfelt delivery of this story and the inspiring themes the author explores will give future generations a story that celebrates the uniqueness and joy of making friends with people outside of your own unique circle. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Authors

A recipient of the gold Mom’s Choice Award® and silver Feathered Quill Award, Noel is an anxiety coach and educational consultant. She specializes in workshops and one-on-one coaching for kids and adults on anxiety/stress, executive function and growth mindset. One of Noel’s greatest satisfactions is to teach individuals how to rewire their brains, so they can stress less, work smarter and enjoy more out of life. It gives her tremendous joy to help others develop new skills and experience success in situations/areas they didn’t think possible.

Noel finds storytelling an approachable and playful way to tackle complex topics. Her characters demonstrate problem-solving, courage, teamwork, kindness, perseverance, diversity and the will to face fears.

When Noel isn’t writing, reading or working with clients, you will find her paddle boarding, kayaking or biking. She likes corny jokes and enjoys baking and cooking for family and friends.

www.ammpe.com

A first-time published author, Nicholas began writing children’s books shortly after the birth of his daughter. His stories allow young readers to explore important, complex and challenging topics in a fun, kid-friendly way. He also enjoys writing music, eating ice cream, and coming home to his family after a long day of fly fishing.

Colleen dreamed of being an artist since she was a young girl. Her work is available world-wide on puzzles, calendars, prints and greeting cards, and her art has been included in films by major motion picture companies. Her illustrations in children’s books have earned her a Moonbeam Best Illustrator Award and delight children everywhere. She teaches watercolor classes, inspiring others to find their own creativity. She loves to read, paint, walk in nature, and enjoys time with family and friends.

https://www.colleensgroi.com/