Tag: illustrated children’s books

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”.

Advertisements

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

Advertisements

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

A Stony Gaze by Steffanie Costigan 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 hoping to stop the monster in the woods discovers he may have misjudged a poor soul in author and illustrator Steffanie Costigan’s “A Stony Gaze”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Medusa is not the only one with a stony gaze. Things are not always what they seem and gossiping words do not define an individual. Deacon learns that perhaps he judged someone a little too quickly.

“Within the mob the monsters we became. Pride blinded us and we became the very thing we thought we were fighting against. Ideas quickly escalate within a mob and reality becomes blurred hurting innocent individuals.”

The Greek mythology of Medusa with a fun learning twist to it. A Stony Gaze helps kids to learn in a safe environment about group polarization, mob mentality, gossip, bullying and the harm it can do to others. This story encourages kids to communicate and think as an individual before making harmful judgments, in a safe environment. A read that promotes anti-bullying and shares strategies to help kids understand there are two sides to each story.

The Review

What a unique, creative, and thoughtful read! The children’s approach to the Ancient Greek myth of Medusa was engaging right from the start. They developed Medusa as a myth of the woods, a quintessential boogeyman hiding under the bed, to give the story’s protagonist the driving force for this book’s more prominent themes. The warm colors in the illustrations helped capture Medusa’s contrasting views between the myth and legend of her monstrous ways and the truth about the person she is underneath.

The themes of bullying, its impact, the way rumors spread like wildfire, and not judging a book by its cover are all prevalent within this book. The legend of Medusa has always been a cautionary tale, and yet the author beautifully flips the script on that story as humanity becomes the true monsters of their story, destroying without having the whole truth and criticizing anyone different from themselves, teaching the protagonist a heartfelt lesson.

Clearance

The Verdict

Engaging, thoughtfully crafted, and remarkable author Steffanie Costigan’s “A Stony Gaze” is a must-read children’s book. The twist in the Medusa narrative and the heartfelt lessons bestowed upon the reader create a reading experience that will resonate with children and parents alike. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Author Steffanie Costigan began her passion for writing at the young age of three years old. Despite her ongoing challenge with Dyslexia, she began to develop her skill in writing.

Steffanie would visit her next-door neighbors often, who was an elderly couple from Germany; they shared with Miss Costigan their war stories, which sparked her interest in the history of World War II. At the age of twelve, Steffanie began writing Land of The Dragon and refused to write anything else until she was satisfied with the finished book.

Steffanie Costigan got the opportunity to volunteer for her church and serve as a missionary in Adelaide, Australia. There she befriended many and met the Love of her life Jarom Costigan whom she married and started a family with.

Steffanie is continuing to develop and sharpen her writing skills as she is in the process of schooling through the Lethbridge College.

Steffanie Costigan remains passionate about her writings of Land of The Dragon and is critiquing five more books to follow Land of The Dragon’s ongoing volumes.

Land of the Dragon

Interview with Author Mike Darcy

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn InterviewsLeave a comment

Tell us a little bit about yourself. How did you get into writing?

I think we are all storytellers at heart. I imagine neolithic families gathered around the fire sharing stories. We are social creatures; it is what we do. I’m no different, I have always loved to tell stories, I have always enjoyed the bond that is created between the teller and listeners. Writing down these stories was a natural extension of storytelling for me. And, it allows me to share with more people and I love that.

Advertisements

What inspired you to write your book?

I first told the story of Little Joe to my flower girl almost 20 years ago. Then I told more Little Joe stories to my child. I told the stories to others and eventually wrote them down. I understand that is more the how than the why, so, I’ll go back to sharing stories with others as my ultimate inspiration. 

What theme or message do you hope readers will take away from your book?

I hope Little Joe can remind us to see each other and no matter the circumstances, that we accept others for who they are and treat them with kindness and love. Little Joe is about friendship and accepting differences. 

What drew you into this particular genre?

I have dabbled in many genres, but as a story teller my target audience is often children. This story in particular has always been for children, so that is why this particular genre.

If you could sit down with any character in your book, what would you ask them and why?

This is the best question ever. I think of the three characters in this book I would like to sit down with Roxy, I’ve had several encounters with bears in real life and the idea of sitting down with one over a cup of tea makes me smile. There are a lot of questions I have for her, but I think the one I most want to ask her is, “Do you have any family stories about your great-great-grandfather’s time in the circus?”


I love that there are these wonderful backstories that develop with the characters, and it is only mentioned in passing in the book. I would love to learn more about her family.

Advertisements

What social media site has been the most helpful in developing your readership?

I have only just begun this journey. So, I don’t know that I can responsibly declare any one platform better than others. I am most comfortable and familiar with Facebook. My guess is that is where most of my efforts will be placed. 

What advice would you give to aspiring or just starting authors out there?

I am also an aspiring author who is just starting out. My advice is do. I don’t believe anyone aspires to become an author because they are chasing money. We want to connect with others through the power of storytelling. If that is what you want, then do it. Write to share.

What does the future hold in store for you? Any new books/projects on the horizon?

Little Joe has a few more adventures to have. Next up Little Joe and the Big City, and Little Joe and the Big Snow. And I’ve been playing with ghost/horror stories and some retellings of classic fairy tales. So, keep your eyes open. Oh, and thanks to one of the previous questions I am now writing about Roxy’s ancestor in the circus.

Advertisements

About the Author

Mike Darcy is a devoted husband, doting father, and animal lover who has nurtured a lifelong passion for wildlife. His deep connection with nature inspired him to pen his debut children’s book, which promotes adventure, curiosity, creativity, and forging unexpected friendships through small acts of compassion.

When away from the writing desk and his day job as a business manager, he can often be found experimenting with new recipes, wandering the wilderness on a long hike, and even mountain climbing. Mike currently resides in New Hampshire with his wife, child, and their dog and cat.

He hopes you enjoy his story as much as he enjoyed crafting it, and that you join Little Joe on his next adventures in Little Joe and the Big City and Little Joe and the Big Snow!

https://a.co/f6uKBem

Little Joe and the Big Rain by Mike J. Darcy (Illustrated by Tincho Schmidt) Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

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

A young pup named Little Joe goes on an adventure that explores the idea of friendship and the power found in communication in author Mike J. Darcys “Little Joe and the Big rain, illustrated by Tincho Schmidt).

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Dive into the enchanting world of Little Joe and the Big Rain, where a little puppy named Little Joe embarks on an unexpected adventure that will take him far beyond the familiar fields he calls home. Along the way, he meets Hopper, a frog with a leap as big as his heart, and Roxy, a bear who’s more about warm hugs. This trio of unlikely friends sets off on a journey filled with laughter, challenges, and a few surprises, teaching them—and the reader—about the power of communication, the importance of understanding, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship.

Perfect for young readers, Little Joe and the Big Rain is more than just a story; it’s a journey into understanding differences, embracing diversity, and finding common ground. With its gentle lessons interwoven with delightful adventures, this book promises to be a treasure on any child’s bookshelf, encouraging them to look beyond the surface and find the friend in everyone.

The Review

This was a heartwarming and engaging children’s book. The warmth of the illustrations instantly draws the reader in. The imagery instantly will resonate with young readers who love shows like Bluey, as the fun, cartoonish nature of the illustrations brings both fun and excitement to bring the reader into the narrative.

I greatly appreciated this children’s book’s wealth of character development. The heart of this story, seeing these characters from different walks of life come together in one common goal, was inspiring and will help younger readers value our differences rather than scoff at them. The themes of friendship, communication, and the power of helping others will resonate with parents who want to help instill these lessons into their children’s lives.

The Verdict

Memorable, vividly beautiful, and engaging author Mike J. Darcy and illustrator Tincho Schmidt’s “Little Joe and the Big Rain” is a must-read children’s book. The detail and adventurous atmosphere the author instills in the reader early on, and the sense of awe and wonder that readers take away from the journey will allow parents to read through this book over and over again with their child, becoming a hit classic that will stay with them for years to come. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

Mike Darcy is a devoted husband, doting father, and animal lover who has nurtured a lifelong passion for wildlife. His deep connection with nature inspired him to pen his debut children’s book, which promotes adventure, curiosity, creativity, and forging unexpected friendships through small acts of compassion.

When away from the writing desk and his day job as a business manager, he can often be found experimenting with new recipes, wandering the wilderness on a long hike, and even mountain climbing. Mike currently resides in New Hampshire with his wife, child, and their dog and cat.

He hopes you enjoy his story as much as he enjoyed crafting it, and that you join Little Joe on his next adventures in Little Joe and the Big City and Little Joe and the Big Snow!

Following Sasquatch by Molly Leach 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 day of adventure with Sasquatch helps teach readers the beauty and importance of conservation in author Molly Leach’s “Following Sasquatch”.

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Following Sasquatch takes readers on an enchanting exploration with an elusive gentle giant. Crafted by Molly Leach, this story delves into a day of discovery in the wilderness, highlighting Sasquatch’s commitment to leaving no trace behind.

With adventures from climbing trees to encountering diverse wildlife, Sasquatch’s journey is one of mindfulness and respect for nature. Emphasizing conservation, kindness, and the beauty of the natural world, the book educates and entertains, fostering a deep appreciation for the outdoors. It encourages readers to explore with care, love the earth, and cherish its wonders.

This book invites readers to a journey of discovery, stewardship, and wonder, proving that sometimes, the simplest of adventures can preserve our planet’s stories for generations to come.

ABN Banner

The Review

What a heartwarming and memorable book. The author did a remarkable job of capturing the whimsy and wonder of Sasquatch in our culture while also delivering an educated and experienced book for young readers everywhere. The warmth and natural wonder of the illustrations allowed the spark of nature to take hold of the reader’s mind, keeping readers invested in the overall story being told.

The heart of this story rested in the significant theme of conservatorship that permeated the narrative. The simple story of a Sasquatch and its relationship to nature may be straightforward. Yet, this book provides a depth of attention to detail on the impact we as a civilization make on the environment and natural surroundings.

Shop Happy Socks Now!

The Verdict

Memorable, thoughtful, and entertaining author Moly Leach’s “Following Sasquatch” is a must-read children’s book. The almost minimalist approach to the illustrations perfectly blends the themes of nature, environmentalism, and mankind’s relationship to the environment. The whimsy and wonder of Sasquatch as a main character keep the reader invested in the overall narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Author

??????????

Molly is an artist from somewhere along the road. Whether doing trail work far in the forest or writing songs up in a tree , hopping the train to see an old friend or playing music at a bar in the city, adventure is never far away. Hands rarely clean of dirt, usually barefoot, and often dancing, you will find Molly singing in the wild.

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

Advertisements

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.

Toy & Treat of the Month

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.

ABN Banner

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

Advertisements

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

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

Advertisements

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.

Take a Food Journey Around the World!

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. 

728x90

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

Advertisements

When Bad Things Happen by Donna Carr Roberts 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 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.

728x90

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. 

Take a Food Journey Around the World!

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

Advertisements

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 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”.

Advertisements

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.

Take a Food Journey Around the World!

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.

Product Launch September 2022

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

Advertisements

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.