Tag: illustrated children’s books

Good Morning, Sunshine! The Joey Moss Story by Lorna Schultz Nicholson 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.

Author Lorna Schultz Nicholson takes young readers on a journey to discover the heart of Canadian icon Joey Moss, a young man with Down’s Syndrome who showed the world that anyone can contribute and bring joy to this world in her book “Good Morning, Sunshine! The Joey Moss Story”.

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The Synopsis

Joey Moss first became known to many Canadians because of his work with the NHL Edmonton Oilers hockey team. Joey loved connecting with people. Whether he was singing “Oh Canada” on a jumbotron screen at a hockey game, welcoming a new friend with a playful wrestling match, or dancing on a runway for a charity fashion show, Joey loved making people feel good. But his impact and influence started long before he joined the Oilers. Joey was born with Down syndrome at a time when many children like him were institutionalized. Instead, Joey lived at home, surrounded by his supportive family who was determined that he should receive the same opportunities as others. From this loving environment grew a caring, energetic man who went on to show the world that people like him could do many things and contribute greatly to society. The inspiring true story of Joey Moss, a champion for all to have an opportunity to live a full, purposeful life, comes alive in this heartwarming picture book for young readers.

The Review

This was such a heartwarming and inspiring children’s picture book and memoir. The author did an incredible job of relaying the life story of Canadian icon Joey Moss while also relaying this information to the reader in a way that felt understandable and engaging. The warmth of the imagery used in the book and the hopeful tone that the author struck with the events of the subject’s life made this such an interesting story to get lost in.

For someone who was born in the United States and isn’t as familiar with the cultural scene of Edmonton, the information and atmosphere the author crafted made me feel immersed in this era of history and brought this story to life perfectly. The inspirational message of Joey’s life overall was so emotional and joyous, as his outlook on life and the way he overcame the obstacles life threw at him to make others happy and content was so heartfelt in the author’s delivery.

The Verdict

Magnificent, entertaining, and thoughtful, author Lorna Schultz Nicholson’s “Good Morning, Sunshine! The Joey Moss Story” is a must-read children’s picture book meets memoir that both children and adults will love. The heart and passion for which the author brings this iconic person’s story to life and the hopeful undertones of the story’s message and theme made this a book that readers will turn to over and over again. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Lorna Schultz Nicholson has written numerous books for children, including the Puckster series. She knew Joey Moss and he was an inspiration to her. Lorna lives in Alberta, Canada.

https://lornaschultznicholson.com/

https://twitter.com/lornasn

Hoppin’ Hankaroo: Zoo Adventure by Janet Earnest-Jenkins 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 named Kathy goes to the zoo and makes friends with an unusual bird in author Janet Earnest-Jenkins’s “Hoppin’ Hankaroo: Zoo Adventure”.

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The Synopsis

Join Kathy and Hankaroo on their trip to the zoo where they meet some silly animals and make a new friend who is the funniest bird they’ve ever seen! Appropriate for ages 0-6 years, Hoppin’ Hankaroo is a rhyming book, which makes it easier for little ones to remember the words. The illustrations are done in crayons as if a child colored them. A great learning tool and fun story, your child will want to read this humorous picture book again and again! 

The Review

This was such a fun and engaging read for children. The author did an amazing job of crafting an easily accessible and entertaining narrative that kids will be able to jump into immediately. The chemistry between Kathy and Hankaroo as they journey through the zoo was relatable as many kids bond so closely with their pets. 

The imagery will be so impactful to younger readers, as the use of crayon drawings will make the child feel almost like they are reading a story that they themselves could have made. The exploration of the animal kingdom with the highly creative imagery and atmosphere the author has created will leave the younger readers eager to read the next adventure in the author’s children’s book series.

The Verdict

Captivating, entertaining, and fun, author Janet Earnest-Jenkins’s “Hoppin’ Hankaroo: Zoo Adventure” is a must-read children’s book read. The fast-paced narrative and the wild and exciting creative nature of the imagery will have readers engaged in the story and eager to read more adventures featuring Kathy and Hankaroo. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Janet is a grandmother of five and loves creating stories and writing fun poetry for early readers. Her stories keep the young imagination entertained and tickle the funny bone. Janet spent 36 years as the executive secretary to the chairman and CEO of an engineering company. Janet currently lives in Bonneau, SC.

Angry Octopus: A Relaxation Story by Lori Lite 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.

Author Lori Lite takes young readers on a journey to learn the technique of muscle relaxation through the journey of the Angry Octopus in the book “Angry Octopus: A Relaxation Story”.

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The Synopsis

Children love to unwind and relax with this fun exercise known as “progressive muscular relaxation.” Children relate to the angry octopus in this story as the sea child shows him how to take a deep breath, calm down, and manage his anger. These effective stress and anger management techniques for children focus awareness on various muscle groups to create a complete resting of the mind and body. Muscular relaxation can lower stress and anxiety levels. It can be used to decrease pain and anger. This engaging story quiets the mind and relaxes the body so your child can let go of anger and fall asleep peacefully. 

The Review

This was a truly memorable and thoughtful read. The author did an amazing job of crafting a narrative that felt informative and yet enthralling for children and parents alike. The warm watercolor style illustrations did an awesome job of capturing the life under the sea vibes that the narrative was trying to bring to life, and the rich atmosphere brilliantly brought the sea life surrounding the Octopus to life.

The author’s ability to balance the rich character growth of the Octopus and the Sea Child with the educational techniques in using muscle relaxation as a means of controlling one’s anger and stress was truly inspiring. The simplicity of the narrative allowed the techniques and emotions the author was conveying to come through smoothly and made for a memorable reading experience between both child and parent alike.

The Verdict

Heartfelt, inspiring, and engaging, author Lori Lite’s “Angry Octopus: A Relaxation Story” is a must-read children’s book. The depth of emotions these characters confronted and the thoughtful approach to simple yet powerful techniques to push through those rushes of emotions made for an educated yet entertaining read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ms. Lite’s titles are considered a resource for parents, psychologists, therapists, child life specialists, teachers, and yoga instructors. Her Indigo Dreams® audio book/CD series has been awarded the CNE Award of Excellence. Ms. Lite has been interviewed and written articles for several media outlets, including: Family Circle, NY Times, MSNBC, ABC Radio; CBS News; USA Today; Web MD; Stress Free Living; Mind, Body, and Soul; and Job Club with Tory Johnson. She has also been featured in several publications which include Prevention Magazine, Parent Guide New York, Family Circle, Kiwi Magazine, and Aspiring Woman. Lori is a certified children’s meditation facilitator and Sears’ Manage My Life parenting expert. She gained national attention when she appeared on Shark Tank, an ABC/Mark Burnett production.

Lori and her husband have aligned with IngramSpark to help other authors achieve the same success they have. More information can be found under experts on the IngramSpark website or at http://stressfreebookmarketing.com 

Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm: A Self-Help Kid’s Coloring Book For Overcoming Anxiety, Anger, Worry and Stress by Lori Lite 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 Lori Lite takes readers on a journey through mental health and child development through an 80-page coloring book to challenge children to overcome their rising emotions in the book “Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm: A Self-Help Kid’s Coloring Book For Overcoming Anxiety, Anger, Worry and Stress”.

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The Synopsis

Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm is a light-hearted, self-help coloring book designed to guide 4-11 year olds and their parents, teachers, or counselors through simple everyday techniques that can be used to control anger, reduce stress, and increase happiness. This interactive coloring book is filled with simple strategies to self-sooth, manage anger, and improve emotional intelligence. Children are empowered to manage their BIG feelings while coloring 38 illustrations. Each mindful page motivates children to express themselves peacefully without having a tantrum, meltdown, or outburst.

Dozens of coloring pages designed for children. Underwater scenes, Garden designs, Angry Octopus and Friends, and a Mandala. Each coloring page is designed to help relax, motivate, and introduce an anger or stress management technique in a playful manner. The variety of pages increases emotional intelligence while offering something for every skill level. Each coloring page is on a separate sheet with light-hearted text on the opposite page. User-friendly for children, parents, classrooms, homeschoolers, and private practice. Perfect addition to the Stress Free Kids Curriculum and Lesson Plans. Do you feel angry, worried, stressed, or confused?

Angry Octopus has great techniques to use.

He expresses his feelings throughout the day,

and tries to relax in healthy ways.

Your feelings are yours and they are real.

Express with coloring how you feel.

So, open this book to any page.

Coloring is fun for any age.

Angry Octopus is a kid-friendly character that children around the world relate to. He made his television debut on ABC’s Shark Tank. I wrote my first relaxation story to help my own son fall asleep when he was just 5 years old. Now, a man, he is helping me write for others. It is a great gift that my son has shared his voice throughout this coloring book. The quotes within were contributed by Austin Lite.

Angry Octopus books, stories, parent guide, curriculum, CDs, music, and lesson plans by Lori Lite are also available. 

The Review

This was such a heartwarming and beautiful read for children and parents alike. The artwork and narrative of the book did an incredible job of pairing whimsical and interactivity with the more thoughtful and active educational tools that this book provides to both children and their parents as they come to terms with their growing emotional states. The writing style seemed to do a great job of reaching younger readers while also giving the adults who work with their kids on these issues to see and understand the lessons in a clear-cut manner. 

What struck me as brilliant on the author’s part was the way in which the overall narrative of the Octopus and his activities mirrored the lessons the author was intending for the reader, as well as the overall flow of the pages as the author weaves in different emotional states to tackle head on and overcome. The reader’s ability to color the fun and lighthearted pictures give the children more control over the narrative and the self-help nature of the book, making this such a unique read.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, memorable, and engaging, author Lori Lite’s “Angry Octopus Color Me Happy, Color Me Calm” is a must-read children’s book and self-help guide for parents to help their child deal with complex emotional states. The interactive nature of the book will compel readers and keep children invested in the lessons that the author has woven into the book. If you have not yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Ms. Lite’s titles are considered a resource for parents, psychologists, therapists, child life specialists, teachers, and yoga instructors. Her Indigo Dreams® audio book/CD series has been awarded the CNE Award of Excellence. Ms. Lite has been interviewed and written articles for several media outlets, including: Family Circle, NY Times, MSNBC, ABC Radio; CBS News; USA Today; Web MD; Stress Free Living; Mind, Body, and Soul; and Job Club with Tory Johnson. She has also been featured in several publications which include Prevention Magazine, Parent Guide New York, Family Circle, Kiwi Magazine, and Aspiring Woman. Lori is a certified children’s meditation facilitator and Sears’ Manage My Life parenting expert. She gained national attention when she appeared on Shark Tank, an ABC/Mark Burnett production.

Lori and her husband have aligned with IngramSpark to help other authors achieve the same success they have. More information can be found under experts on the IngramSpark website or at http://stressfreebookmarketing.com 

https://twitter.com/StressFreeKids

Spaceball: A Fantastic Soccer Journey Through Space and Time by Matthew Bennett Young 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 Matthew Bennett Young takes readers on a cosmic journey to explore our universe and brings the passion for soccer and locations throughout the UK that many young readers will enjoy in his children’s book, “Spaceball: A Fantastic Soccer Journey Through Space and Time”. 

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The Synopsis

Do you Love Soccer? Do you also dream of scoring the Greatest Goal in The History of Everything? Find out how it’s done in this thrilling soccer space adventure.

The soccer ball in this story leaves Earth with a mighty strike of the boot and rockets past every planet. Each planet has a landmark of a famous soccer city in the UK. See if you can work out which city and soccer club it is!

The collage illustrations in this picture book are fun and vibrant and really make the story come alive. It genuinely seems as if you are travelling along with the soccer ball through space. Children will learn about the planets in our solar system in a fun and exhilarating way, travelling faster than the speed of soccer!

Let your imagination travel to new soccer frontiers on this magical fantasy adventure. Follow the journey of the world’s most adventurous soccer ball as it travels through our solar system and finally lands….where?

Buy the book today and get the world’s most fantastic soccer surprise!

Suitable for fans of all ages 

The Review

This was such a fun and unique approach to the children’s book genre. The author was able to find a creative way of blending children’s interest in three very different subjects, (soccer, space, and iconic UK locations), and make a cohesive story that felt vibrant and inviting to young readers. The imagery that the author used, a creative collage-inspired approach, allowed the reader to feel more connected to the narrative as if this was something they themselves could have participated in. 

Yet it was the attention to detail the author used that made this such a unique and educational story. From the intimate look at our own solar system and how each planet functioned, to the deep-rooted and specific cultural meanings behind some of the UK locations and events mentioned by the author, this book gave readers much to learn and consider, as well as a good dose of humor and wit that will keep them invested until the book’s end.

The Verdict

Creative, heartfelt, and entertaining, author Matthew Bennett Young’s “Spaceball: A Fantastic Soccer Journey Through Space and Time” is a must-read children’s book. The humorous dialogue between the father and his son in this story, as well as the rich educational value in multiple fields of children’s education the author taps into, made this such an enjoyable read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Matthew has been writing stories since his childhood in England. His children’s stories can be recognized by a “naïve” style, written as much from a child’s view of the world as possible, but in a way that is also intended to appeal to adults. He tries to write to disrupt associations and challenge assumptions that are commonly made around us. Matthew was appointed a Writer in Schools by the Ministry of Culture and Communications in Quebec and through this program delivers literary workshops to children in the Montreal area. He has taught at school, college and university level in Sweden and Canada and has been invited to give readings and teach workshops at schools, museums and literary festivals in New York, Berlin, London and Gothenburg. Matthew currently teaches in Montreal.

He enjoys growing food, cooking, doing yoga and walking on the chalky downs of North Dorset when he can.

https://www.onewildword.org/

Charlie and the Tire Swing by Diann Floyd Boehm 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.

A young boy learns from his grandfather the strength and science that it takes to grow a tree, and in the process one’s family, in author Diann Floyd Boehm’s “Charlie and the Tire Swing”.

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The Synopsis

Charlie and the Tire Swing is a beautiful intergenerational story told from the perspective of Charlie and his Grandpa Jack. Over a cup of hot chocolate, Charlie’s grandfather tells the story of how he planted an acorn with his own grandfather, Charlie’s Great-Great Grandpa George, and how he tenderly cared for it and watched it grow, from one season to the next. He shares how, over the years, as the acorn grew into a might oak tree, how each generation enjoyed the shade of the tree, climbing it, reading under it, and gathering together as a family around it. It’s a story of growing strong family ties, of sharing stories from generation to generation, and of appreciating nature and the simple things in life, like swinging on a tire swing. The learning opportunities range from the science of growing things, to interpersonal relations, the health benefits of outdoor activity, and innovation, problem solving, and creative play.

The Review

This was such a beautiful and well-written story. The multi-generational aspect of the narrative gave readers the opportunity to connect with their family on a whole other level, from parents and their children to grandparents and their grandchildren alike. The warmth of the illustrations and the ambiguity of the characters themselves allowed the reader to put themselves into the shoes of these characters, exploring the strength of family roots on a whole other level. 

The powerful themes of this narrative were so well displayed in this children’s book. The idea of family roots and the importance of being patient were the most widely felt in this book, and the powerful lessons were well supported by the colorful illustrations and connection that readers felt with the cast of characters.

The Verdict

Thoughtful, heartwarming, and entertaining, author Diann Floyd Boehm’s “Charlie and the Tire Swing” is a must-read children’s book. The heartfelt delivery of these themes and the emotional connection the author created between readers and the characters as they explored the past, present, and future of this family allowed for a rich and impactful story. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy on October 8th, 2022!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Diann Floyd Boehm is an award-winning, international author, community volunteer, humanitarian, and former classroom teacher. She is passionate about storytelling and has nine published books for children and one young adult historical fiction. In addition, Diann is a co-host for four shows on USA Global TV, including The Corner Book Store. Diann is married, a mother of three, and has one grandchild. Diann loves to inspire readers of all ages to Embrace Imagination! You can learn more about the author and her books at ocpublishing.ca/diann-floyd-boehm.html or diannfloydboehm.com.

Judy Gaudet studied technical and medical illustration hoping to combine her career in microbiology with her lifelong love of art. Judy lives in southern Maine where she finds inspiration for her work in the landscapes, wildlife and historic sites that surround her home.

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The Baby with Three Families, Two Countries, And One Promise: An International Adoption Story by Julie Gianelloni Connor 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. 

Author Julie Gianelloni Connor takes parents and children alike through an emotional journey to understand the process of adopting a child from another country in the children’s book “The Baby with Three Families, Two Countries, and One Promise: An International Adoption Story”. 

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The Synopsis

The Baby with Three Families, Two Countries, and One Promise is a children’s book designed to be read by parents to a child adopted from a foreign country. The story is first recounted from the perspective of the parents in the USA, who are very sad not to be able to have a child. The perspective then switches to that of the biological mother, who realizes that she does not have the wherewithal to raise a child. She makes the difficult decision to give up her baby. Next readers learn about a foreign adoption agency, to which the biological mother surrenders her child. The adoption agency identifies foster parents to take care of the baby temporarily. The foster parents give the baby a temporary name. The parents in the USA begin researching international adoption possibilities and connect with the foreign adoption agency. The parents begin the adoption process and have to go to a school to learn how to be adoptive parents. When the foreign adoption agency matches the USA parents with the baby, the USA parents fly to the foreign country, where they meet the baby and the foster parents at the adoption agency. They find out that the temporary name given to the baby by his foster parents is one of the names they have selected for the baby. Their last requirement in the foreign country is to secure a visa for the baby from the U.S. Embassy. With the baby’s visa in hand, the parents and baby return to the United States, where they are joyously greeted by their dog, their friends, and the baby’s new grandparents. When the parents tuck their baby in at night, they tell him his story–that he has three families, two countries, and a promise for the future to visit the country of his birth when he is older.

The Review

This was such a heartwarming, emotional, and educational read. The author did a wonderful job of showcasing the adoption process from all aspects and perspectives of those involved. The warmth of the imagery was well balanced by the emotional core of the main character’s journeys together as they seek to complete their family and find a home for this child.

The themes and experiences the author captured were the heart of this children’s book. The strength and unity that comes from parenthood, the true definition of family, and the impact that childhood can have on a child were perfectly captured in this short yet powerful story. The way the author showcased the adoptive parents and their journey, as well as the decision that the birth parents had to make and the almost ambiguous setting and character traits allowed the reader to insert themselves and their own journey into this narrative seamlessly, making this a beautiful narrative. 

The Verdict

Emotional, engaging, and thought-provoking, author Julie Gianelloni Connor’s “The Baby with Three Families, Two Countries, and One Promise” is a must-read children’s book and story on adoption. The story allows adopted children and parents of adoptive children alike to feel seen, as well as those who make the painful decision to give up their children to give them a chance at a better life. The book brings children and parents together beautifully, and the rich imagery and heartfelt story choices allow for a brilliant narrative. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Julie Gianelloni Connor started out thinking she would be a writer, detoured into the U.S. Foreign Service, and after retirement returned to a writing career. She is the owner and editor of Bayou City Press in Houston, TX, which focuses on writing about travel, Houston, history, and international affairs.

Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Julie finished prep school at The Dana Hall School in Wellesley, Massachusetts, before heading to Houston for Rice University. Her undergraduate B.A. in English and history was followed by an M.A. in creative writing from the University of Houston. She also studied journalism at Louisiana State University, during which time she interned at the “Baton Rouge Morning Advocate.”

Among her jobs in her 20s, Julie taught English as a Foreign Language in Lisbon (Portugal), Barcelona (Spain), and Wimberly (England); was a Teaching Fellow at the University of Houston; and worked in the private sector for a law firm and an audio company.

In 1981 Julie began her diplomatic career with the U.S. Information Agency, principally working overseas at embassies on press, cultural, and exchange issues. In 1999 USIA was absorbed into the U.S. Department of State, and Julie continued her diplomatic career there until her retirement. During a 33-year career, Julie rose to the senior Foreign Service while serving overseas nine different times in seven different countries: Israel (twice), Paraguay, Guatemala, Indonesia, Colombia (twice), Malaysia, and Chile. She worked in fields as diverse as anti-narcotics, nuclear nonproliferation, and women’s issues.

Julie received an M.S. in National Security Strategy from the National War College in Washington, DC., in 1995, and served as the Diplomat-in-Residence at the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas in Austin from 2012-2014.

She was the recipient of numerous awards from USIA and the Department of State, including four Superior Honor Awards and USIA’s Equal Employment Opportunity Award. She was a co-founder and the first president of Executive Women at State (EW@S), an organization begun to promote the advancement of career women at the Department of State.

Julie writes travel columns for the Bayou City Press website and has published two books so far: “Savoring the Camino de Santiago: It’s the Pilgrimage, Not the Hike” and “The Baby with Three Families, Two Countries, and One Promise: An International Adoption Story.” Both of her books have won multiple awards.

Julie has one son and two cats. She is active in the Houston writing and publishing community.

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A Big Blue Boat by Susea Spray (Illustrated by Lesley Cybulka) 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 explores the sea in author Susea Spray’s brand new children’s picture book, “A Big Blue Boat”, illustrated by Lesley Cybulka.

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The Synopsis

The seas are calm and the winds gently blowing, when a Big Blue Boat and her Captain head out for a day’s sail. As the winds strengthen, and the sea starts to rollick and frolic, will our Big Blue Boat and her Captain make it safely back to shore?

Parents looking for picture books about boats or picture books about sailing will fall in love with A Big Blue Boat. It’s one of the best sailing stories of 2021. Especially, if you’re looking for picture books about sailing for girls. Written for early readers and pre-schoolers, it’ll have them learning to sail in no time.

Children will love joining in with the rhythm and rhyme in this cumulative story about a boat, a girl and the rollicking frolicking sea.

A boat.

A big blue boat.

A big blue boat with billowing sails.

A big blue boat with billowing sails and …

In the tradition of There Once Was A Lady Who Swallowed a Fly and One Day in the Eucalyptus, Eucalyptus Tree, The Big Blue Boat takes readers on an ever-growing rhyming song in this beautiful yarn about boats for early readers.

The Big Blue Boat also features a female captain, making it a great option for those looking for books about sailing for girls as well as picture books about boats. All families interested in sailing and boats will love Susea Spray’s fun-filled adventure. After all, who better to write boat stories for girls, than an author living on a boat?

Beloved by educators, The Big Blue Boat reinforces key early learning skills. “From a teacher’s perspective, and thinking about literacy skills, the repetition is really great, as it helps children access reading of some key words along with the adult reader.” Dr Kathryn Macfarlane (teacher and children’s author)

Buy The Big Blue Boat to set sail on a magical journey today!

The Review

This was a fun and spectacular read. The author did such an incredible job of crafting a narrative for children that was both entertaining and educational. The contrast of the warmth of the boat and captain in the imagery to the coolness of the ocean and environment itself in the illustrations really did a great job of drawing the reader into the narrative further.

Yet it was the author’s writing style that really captured my attention. The simple yet powerful story of adventure that came to life on the pages as a young girl became the captain of her own boat, sailing on the high seas and exploring the oceans was inspiring to read. The use of repetition, rhythm and even glossary terms for the educational purposes of learning about boating and the ocean as a whole was perfectly layered into the overall narrative. 

The Verdict

Fun, light-hearted, and engaging, author Susea Spray’s “A Big Blue Boat” is a must-read children’s story and picture book. The memorable educational moments from this read and the attention-grabbing and beautiful artwork work well together to create an entertaining and heartfelt read. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

As a child, Susea was always engrossed in a book. It really wasn’t surprising when she chose lower primary for her career.

A retired classroom teacher who majored in English and Children’s Literature, Susea spent 23 years making literacy learning fun for her young students. Her favourite time of day was sitting down with a story or two and immersing her young students in the world of books. Susea later trained and worked as a Reading Recovery teacher.

A new passion was found as she entered that special world, working with struggling readers on an individual basis. Watching those children blossom as readers – and in confidence – made her heart soar.

Susea had always written in one form or another. A decade ago, she and her husband commenced on an around the world sailing odyssey. Their travels were recorded on their sailing blog.

Over the decades, Susea had always desired to enter the world of writing for the young. As she recorded the sailing journey, notes and ideas for children’s picture books were taking form. At long last she had found her passion and a voice – the stories were bursting at the seams!

Susea was now able to share her love of language, sailing and sea with young and old through the eyes of a Big Blue Boat and her Captain. Realistic sailing stories for the young, particularly girls, were born.

A Big Blue Boat, her first book, was launched in March 2022. A 2022 Literary Titan Award winner and 2021 Page Turner Awards finalist, it is a cumulative story about a boat, a girl and the rollicking frolicking sea.

Two sequels are now with her friend, and Artist, Lesley Cybulka for illustrating and several new stories are underway.

In her spare time, Susea also loves to research, cook, photograph, quilt, embroider, walk, and work on her sailing blog.

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Teacher’s Resource Pack Available For Purchase: A Big Blue Boat Teacher Resource Pack

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Toby, Toby, Worry Free by Lucinda Grapenthin 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.

A young octopus must traverse the fears and worries of how his peers view him as his mother encourages him to learn to ride his bike in author Lucinda Grapenthin’s “Toby, Toby, Worry Free”.

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The Synopsis

When Toby is faced with learning to ride his bike so he can play with his friends, he begins to worry and worry and worry. 

“What if I fall?” “What if other kids laugh at me?” “What if I can’t ride my bike?!” 

Mommy pauses, attuning to his behavior. She accepts his emotions and calmly engages with him, encouraging his discovery of positive steps to solve this dilemma. 

Toby learns a better way to manage his feelings by using his can-do thoughts. Now, he can have fun! 

The Review

The balance of whimsical and wonder-like illustrations with the heartfelt and emotional storytelling and an underlying tone of confronting fears and stress in childhood made this book shine so brightly. The fast pace and steady rhythm of the narrative itself made for an easy read, perfect for children and the time they share with their parents when reading.

The character growth and theme of this narrative both fueled the heart of this children’s book. The heartfelt bond between Toby and his mother was emotional and did a great job of kindling the emotional depth of the reader with their child (or vice versa). The theme of confronting one’s fears, letting go of negative thoughts, and accepting that the fears exist while still pushing forward and acknowledging the ability to overcome those fears are all fantastic messages to impart to children as they grow up.

The Verdict

Captivating, heartfelt, and engaging, author Lucinda Grapenthin’s “Toby, Toby, Worry-Free” is a must-read children’s book. The wonderful imagery and thoughtful approach to the story’s theme made this a book any parent would be happy to read with their kid. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

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About the Author

Lucinda Taylor Grapenthin, PhD, is a Licensed Psychologist in private practice and Assistant Professor at Brenau University, also serving as Clinic Director for the Brenau Center for Counseling and Psychological Services and Director of the Brenau University Play Therapy Training Institute. Dr. Grapenthin has over 20 years’ experience working with children and families as the founder of the Family and Child Development Center. She also presents at academic conferences and professional institutions on topics related to mental health disorders, such as trauma and attachment, as well as play therapy and parenting. 

Dr. Cindy lives in Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, Richard, and golden retriever, Currier. Their adult children, Alex, Kristi, and Trevor, float in and out of their home, adding delightful chaos.

http://familypsychologynorthatlanta.com/

About the Illustrator

Kevin Gosselin is influenced by sci-fi and fantasy art, comic books, anime, the masters and too many contemporary artists to fully list. Amongst the most influential are Richard McDonald, Frazetta, Darrel K. Sweet, Thomas Eakins, Norman Rockwell, and J.W. Waterhouse.

Kevin lives in Lake Stevens, Washington with his wife Jennifer and their two daughters Alex and Emma, as well as dogs Ollie and Maple.