Tag: sam lawrence

Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect by Ben Jackson & Sam Lawrence 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 must balance her schoolwork, a new business venture, and her softball team in authors Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence’s “Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect.”

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Olivia had been scared starting over in a new town, with new friends and a new softball team, but her worst fears hadn’t materialized, and, in the end, she was settling in as the Blue Jay’s lead pitcher and had quickly formed a small group of core friends she was growing to love.

With the first softball game of the season done and dusted, the Blue Jays were off to a great start, but could they carry their winning momentum into their upcoming games? Only time will tell.

The girls were working hard on and off the field, with a new business venture quickly taking shape and their friendship group getting a little bigger with a new addition to the trio. However, Olivia knew that she couldn’t afford to slip up. She’d need to put 100% into everything, including softball, her schoolwork, and her new business, if she didn’t want it all to come crashing down.

Will Olivia’s new business collide head-on with softball and schoolwork, or will she be able to pull it off? Read Softball Strikeout Pitch Perfect now to find out!

Stay tuned for more books in the Softball Strikeout Series!

AudiobooksNow

The Review

What a fun and heartfelt read. The authors did a fantastic job capturing the story and the characters that made the first book so relatable while providing new challenges that reflect the problems many people face in their youth, especially when juggling real life with athletics. The realistic descriptions and imagery in the author’s writing style were memorable and vividly ingrained the reader in these characters’ lives.

Much like book one, the second book in the series perfectly balanced rich and dynamic character development with personal themes that many readers can relate to. The themes of friendship, teamwork, and finding balance were well represented, and the characters were memorable and relatable. The entrepreneurial spirit that the protagonist and her friends showed in their new pet-friendly business and the struggles with acceptance and even early relationships with others in school will be something so many readers will respond to favorably. 

Try The World – Father’s Day 20% Off Promo

The Verdict

Heartfelt, evenly paced, and entertaining, authors Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence’s “Softball Strikeout: Pitch Perfect” is a must-read children’s and middle grade coming-of-age story. The ability for young readers and parents alike to see themselves in the shoes of these characters and the struggles they faced in their youth will resonate with so many and keep readers eager for more in this series. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Authors

Ben is the owner and writer for Author Services Australia, while also working at Indie Publishing Group Inc.

Ben Jackson was born in Tasmania, Australia, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for over four years. Ben owns and manages a self-publishing company, Author Services Australia, which helps Australian authors self-publish their books. 

Ben is married to Sam Lawrence, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada. Ben is also a freelance writer that specializes in writing website content for businesses and a wide variety of different articles. They have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart, Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books.

Owner and head formatter at Indie Publishing Group Inc.

Sam Lawrence was born and raised in Ontario, Canada, and has traveled extensively in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. She founded and operated a self-publishing company, Indie Publishing Group Inc., specializing in helping indie authors self-publish their books. She grew up playing hockey and still plays in a recreational league. Sam is the proud mother of two boys and one girl and enjoys volunteering with the London Lacrosse Association.

Home

Hockey Wars 15: Graduation by Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson 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.

The kids from Dakota must tackle the emotional end of their middle school years and face an uncertain future in authors Sam Lawrence and Ben Jackson’s “Hockey Wars 15: Graduation”.

The Synopsis

It’s the final days of middle school for the Dakota kids from the Hurricanes and the Lightning.

As the end of their middle school years together draws ever closer, there are mixed emotions as the kids face an uncertain future together in high school.

The final weeks of middle school are a whirlwind of emotions, events, and preparing for the big day, but one thing is for sure, these kids are tackling it together as only best friends and teammates could.

Is this the end for the kids from Dakota, or is this just the beginning of an exciting new adventure?

You’ll need to read Hockey Wars 15 to find out!

The Review

This was such a heartfelt and engaging story. For adult readers, the sense of nostalgia and memory that the story brings to life is incredible, and young readers will be able to identify with the fears, anxiety, joy, and hope that these young school years can bring. The authenticity of the emotional journey that these characters go on is an instant draw for readers. 

The themes of friendship, growth, and human connection are firmly woven into this story. The closeness of Millie and Cameron, in particular, will resonate with young readers. Close friends can often turn into confusing yet fearful and thrilling times, and the need to preserve friendships can be a powerful and consuming feeling. 

The Verdict

Memorable, nostalgic, and engaging authors Sam Lawrence and Ben Jackson’s “Hockey Wars 15: Graduation” is a must-read middle-grade book. The creativity and heart that the authors poured into this book and the open-ended bring this series to an emotional close and leave room for the possible return of these beloved characters in the future. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Authors

Sam Lawrence was born in Ontario, Canada, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Sam is married to Ben Jackson, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.

Together, Sam and Ben have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.

Sam owns a company called Indie Publishing Group Inc which helps Canadian authors self-publish their books. Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia, which specializes in assisting Australian indie authors. 

Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time. 

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BenandSamAuthors/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/authorsbenandsam/

Website – http://www.benandsamauthors.com/

Ben Jackson was born in Tasmania, Australia, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Ben is married to Sam Lawrence, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.

Together, Ben and Sam have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.

Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia to help Australian authors self-publish their books. Sam manages a company called Indie Publishing Group, which specializes in assisting Canadian indie authors. 

Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time. 

Trevor Takes Flight by Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson 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. 

Take a Food Journey Around the World!

A lone goose strives to learn to fly and avoid the cold winter months in Canada in authors Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson’s “Trevor Takes Flight”. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

Trever wasn’t like every other goose. Sure, he looked like them. He even sounded like them. However, there was one teeny tiny little difference between Trevor and all the other birds. Trevor couldn’t fly. Not even a little bit. That wouldn’t be a huge deal, except for one thing. Winter. It was awfully cold in Canada during the winter, and Trevor didn’t enjoy the snow and ice. Not one little bit. When it came time to migrate south for the winter, Trevor couldn’t go. He was stuck in Canada all by himself. Alone. Until it started to get warmer, and all his friends returned from their journey. However, this year would be different.

Trevor was determined to learn to fly; one way or another, he would make it happen!

Watermelon

The Review

This was a fantastic and well-illustrated children’s book. The beautiful animation style of the art itself brought the warmth and emotional core of the story and Trevor as a character to life perfectly. The fast-paced story and the engaging narrative will bring children and parents together perfectly.

The authors did a phenomenal job of bringing a heartfelt story to life, playing on the themes of loneliness and facing adversity considerably through Trevor as both a character and his story. The way Trevor fights to overcome his fear of flight and the unexpected obstacles that land in his path to make him stumble on his path showcases the strength and courage he had to face those adversities and strive to be better, making this an inspiring children’s tale.

The Verdict

Authors Ben Jackson & Sam Lawrence’s “Trevor Takes Flight” is a must-read children’s book that is gripping, engaging, and thoughtfully written. The captivating artwork and the memorable story will engage young readers’ minds and bring families together as they see the young goose in this story overcoming his fears. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Authors

Ben Jackson was born in Tasmania, Australia, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Ben is married to Sam Lawrence, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.

Together, Ben and Sam have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.

Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia to help Australian authors self-publish their books. Sam manages a company called Indie Publishing Group, which specializes in assisting Canadian indie authors. 

Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time. 

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BenandSamAuthors/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/authorsbenandsam/

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15144197.Ben_Jackson 

Website – http://www.benandsamauthors.com/

Sam Lawrence was born in Ontario, Canada, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Sam is married to Ben Jackson, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.

Together, Sam and Ben have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.

Sam owns a company called Indie Publishing Group Inc which helps Canadian authors self-publish their books. Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia, which specializes in assisting Australian indie authors. 

Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time. 

Ghosts Can’t Play Hockey by Sam Lawrence & Ben Jackson 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. 

Advertisements

A young ghost risks it all to fulfill his dream and play hockey in authors Sam Lawrence and Ben Jackson’s “Ghosts Can’t Play Hockey”.

Take a Food Journey Around the World!

The Synopsis

Bruce loved hockey, but there was one small problem. Bruce wasn’t like other kids.

Bruce was a ghost, and Bruce’s dad didn’t think little ghosts should be playing hockey, not when there was scaring and spooking to do!

However, Bruce was determined to see his dream of playing hockey with the other kids come true, and one Halloween, he devised a clever plan.

Would Bruce be able to turn his dream of playing hockey into a reality, or would his hopes come crashing down around him?

Matcha Green Tea by Purlisse

The Review

Yet another compelling and enthralling children’s book read from this dynamic author duo. The authors do an incredible job of giving each character their own moment to shine, and the cool illustrations help highlight both the coldness of the ice rink and the cool nature of ghosts and the supernatural as a whole.

To me, the heart of this narrative rested on the overall theme of being true to oneself and to finding our passions in life. The story is great for both parents and kids alike, as it shows children how to stay true to themselves while allowing parents who may not already subscribe to the idea that giving their children room to grow and find their passions in life is the best way to see them thrive.

The Verdict

Memorable, heartfelt, and entertaining, authors Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence’s “Ghosts Can’t Play Hockey” is a must-read children’s book and a truly creative tale. The focus on not only Bruce and his dream of hockey, but his relationship with his father as well made this such a well-told story that readers won’t be able to stay away from for long. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!

Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Authors

Ben Jackson was born in Tasmania, Australia, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Ben is married to Sam Lawrence, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.

Together, Ben and Sam have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.

Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia to help Australian authors self-publish their books. Sam manages a company called Indie Publishing Group, which specializes in assisting Canadian indie authors. 

Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time. 

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BenandSamAuthors/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/authorsbenandsam/

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15144197.Ben_Jackson 

Website – http://www.benandsamauthors.com/

Sam Lawrence was born in Ontario, Canada, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Sam is married to Ben Jackson, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.

Together, Sam and Ben have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.

Sam owns a company called Indie Publishing Group Inc which helps Canadian authors self-publish their books. Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia, which specializes in assisting Australian indie authors. 

Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time. 

Softball Strikeout: The New Girl by Ben Jackson & Sam Lawrence 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 girl changing schools must work to prove herself and fight to get a spot on the school softball team in authors Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence’s “Softball Strikeout: The New Girl”. 

Advertisements

The Synopsis

For Olivia, a new town, school, and softball team were possibly the last things on her mind, but after being told they’d be moving, it was now becoming a reality. Not only would she need to make new friends, but she’d also have to prove herself on her new softball team all over again.

Olivia lived and breathed softball. Growing up, the only sport she’d ever been interested in was softball, and with her dad teaching her, she’d become a pretty good pitcher.

However, finding herself now living in Greenville meant that she’d have to try out for the Blue Jays and earn her spot as a pitcher if she wanted any chance of playing softball this year. Making new friends at a new school was hard enough, but fighting your way onto one of the best softball teams in the division could be even harder.

Will Olivia make the team, and will she be able to make new friends? Or would it all go horribly wrong? Read Softball Strikeout The New Girl now to find out!

Stay tuned for more books in the Softball Strikeout Series!

ABN Banner

The Review

This was an engaging and memorable novel for young readers. The fast pace of the narrative and the rich dynamics the author establishes between the protagonist and the other characters, both her parents and the young women on this softball team, all come together quite beautifully. The detail the authors put into the sport itself and the rich imagery in the author’s writing style really brought this narrative to life so wonderfully. 

The heart of this story rested in the incredible character development and the heartfelt themes the authors established in this book. The themes of friendship, community, hard work, and determination all could be felt in this story, and the way the authors were able to get into the mindset of this young protagonist and capture the nerves and the anxiety that goes into making new friends and fighting for a spot on a team really captured the connectivity that a book like this needs for young readers. 

The Verdict

Memorable, thoughtful, and entertaining, authors Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence’s “Softball Strikeout: The New Girl” is a fantastic book for children and young readers everywhere. The close look at team sports and the balance of competitiveness and community within team sports mirrored protagonist Olivia’s struggles and personal motivations quite well, making this one book kids will not be able to put down. If you haven’t yet, be sure to grab your copy today!


Rating: 10/10

Advertisements

About the Authors

Ben Jackson was born in Tasmania, Australia, and is a successful indie author that has been writing for almost a decade. Ben is married to Sam Lawrence, and together they specialize in self-publishing children’s books. They have been married for several years and have traveled together between Australia and Canada.

Together, Ben and Sam have published a series of children’s books called My Little Fart and Hockey Wars, as well as If I Was A Caterpillar and several other non-fiction books. In addition, they have numerous publications in progress, so stay tuned for information on those by following this page and connecting with them on Facebook, Goodreads, or Instagram.

Ben manages a company called Author Services Australia to help Australian authors self-publish their books. Sam manages a company called Indie Publishing Group, which specializes in assisting Canadian indie authors.

Remember, if you enjoyed one of their books, please leave a review! As indie authors, it really helps out, and it’s 100% free and will only take a few minutes of your time.

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/BenandSamAuthors/

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/authorsbenandsam/

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15144197.Ben_Jackson

Website – http://www.benandsamauthors.com/

Sam Lawrence was born and raised in Ontario, Canada and has traveled extensively in Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. She has successfully founded and operates a self-publishing company, Indie Publishing Group Inc., that specializes in helping indie authors self-publish their books. She grew up playing hockey and still plays in a recreational league. Sam is the proud mother of two boys and enjoys volunteering with the London Lacrosse Association.

If I Was A Caterpillar by Ben Jackson, Sam Lawrence and Danko Herrera Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviewsLeave a comment

From the creators of the hit children’s book franchise Timmy and the Little Fart comes a brand new children’s book that tells the story of chasing dreams and believing in yourself. That story is If I Was A Caterpillar by Ben Jackson, Sam Lawrence and Danko Herrera, and here is the synopsis:

Read along with the caterpillar as it travels around the world trying exciting new activities and having fun! Reading with children is one of the biggest forms of early education, helping to develop young minds.
As a young child, it’s important to believe that anything is possible. If I Was A Caterpillar is a beautifully illustrated children’s book that follows a caterpillar on its journey as it discovers new activities.

Too often these days, children are being put onto tracks that are unachievable or told that a dream is just a dream and to forget about it. One of the most enjoyable things about being a young child is believing that you can fly to the moon as an astronaut or dive under the water searching for hidden treasure.

If I Was A Caterpillar shows young children that you can do anything you want. Your dreams can come true! If you enjoy reading books with beautiful illustrations and love having your child read along with you, then make sure you check out If I Was A Caterpillar!

This wonderfully written and illustrated children’s book helps reinforce the age old idea for children that they can be anything they want to be. No dream is too big, and if you work hard you can achieve said dreams. The artwork was bright and warm to see, and watching the story unfold will surely help children take the message of the story to heart.

Overall this is another strong children’s book from these incredible writers. Full of heart, warmth and a message all children deserve to learn, this is a story parents will adore reading to their children for years to come. If you haven’t yet be sure to pick up your copy of If I Was A Caterpillar today!

Rating: 10/10

The Day My Fart Followed Me To Soccer by Ben Jackson, Sam Lawrence and Danko Herrera Review

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn reviews1 Comment

The adventures of Timmy and his little fart continue in the hit children’s book series Timmy and the Little Fart. In the newest book, The Day My Fart Followed Me To Soccer by Ben Jackson, Sam Lawrence and Danko Herrera, children are given an important look at the way we’re supposed to treat one another and how friendships are made, all the while using a living fart to bring humor into the story. Here is the synopsis:

Timmy and his best friend the Fart are back again!
If your child loves soccer and playing sport, then you’re going to love reading along with Timmy and his best friend the Little Fart!

The Day My Fart Followed Me To Soccer is a beautifully illustrated journey of Timmy and his imaginary best friend the Little Fart as they attend Timmy’s soccer match, and meet his new friend Sophie. Chaos and laughter ensue as the Little Fart tries to help Timmy and Sophie the only way he knows how!

If you enjoy reading funny books with beautiful illustrations and love having your child read along with you, then make sure you grab The Day My Fart Followed Me To Soccer!

Discover and giggle along with Timmy, Sophie and the Little Fart on their exciting day at the soccer field!

It’s another cute and humorous adventure for Timmy and his little fart. Exploring the message of friendship and supporting one another rather than tearing them down, this important children’s story blends hilarity with a wonderful message. The artwork is wonderfully bright and does a great job of conveying the emotions of the characters to fill in between the lines of the main story.

Overall this is a wonderful addition to the growing children’s book series. A fantastic look into the bonds of friendship and teamwork, this story continues to show a new franchise in the works in the children’s book genre. If you haven’t yet be sure to pick up your copies of The Day My Fart Followed Me To Soccer today! It’s the perfect read for parents and children alike!

Rating: 10/10

On By authoranthonyavinablogIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

The Day My Fart Followed Me Home and The Day My Fart Followed Me To Hockey by Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence Reviews:

I was recently contacted by an author I worked with before about a pair of illustrated children’s stories and I agreed to read and review them
both. As they are short reads I will be combining the reviews in one post. These stories were fun, beautifully illustrated, and each imparted
a message that will resonate with young children, and will have them laughing as well. First, the synopsis for The Day My Fart Followed Me Home:

If you and your child love to read together, then you are going to love this!

The Day My Fart Followed Me Home is a beautifully illustrated journey of Timmy and how he meets his new friend!

If you enjoy reading funny books with gorgeous pictures and love your child to read along with you, then make sure you grab The Day My Fart
Followed Me Home.
Discover and giggle along with Timmy on his unexpected journey with his new best friend! Scroll up and get ready to giggle along with your
children!

The illustrations are amazing, and the simple tale of this young boy and his fart is a fun read that parents can enjoy with their children. Filled
with humor, heart and passion, this book is a great first foray into a beautifully created world that can last for several books to come.

Now, the synopsis for the second book, The Day My Fart Followed Me To Hockey:

Timmy and his best friend the Fart are back again!
If you and your child love to read together, then you are going to love reading along with Timmy and his Fart as they play hockey together!

The Day My Fart Followed Me To Hockey is a beautifully illustrated journey of Timmy and his best friend the Little Fart as they attend Timmy’s
first hockey tryouts. Chaos and laughter ensue as the Fart attempts to help out his best friend the only way he knows how.

If you enjoy reading funny books with beautiful illustrations and love having your child read along with you, then make sure you grab The Day
My Fart Followed Me To Hockey.

Discover and giggle along with Timmy and his best friend on their exciting day at the hockey arena!

The illustrations became even more gorgeous the second time around. The humor increases with this longer story, and kids and parents alike will
enjoy the message of this story, which explores the stress that children go through and the pressure to fit in.

This is a fantastic series of children’s books that are well drawn and showcase a talent to capture children’s imaginations and hearts. Everyone
should get their kids a copy of The Day My Fart Followed Me Home and The Day My Fart Followed Me To Hockey by Ben Jackson and Sam Lawrence today!

Rating: 10/10