Mossycoat is the second book in The Band of Unlikely Heroes series. I enjoyed the first book and the second one lived up to my expectations. In this bMossycoat is the second book in The Band of Unlikely Heroes series. I enjoyed the first book and the second one lived up to my expectations. In this book, Troll Princess Horra Fyd is determined to protect her kingdom from the Erlking. I found Horra's character development in this second book to be remarkable, both physically and emotionally.
The introduction of Rowan, the seed that transformed from Woodsly, added an intriguing element to the story. The world-building expanded, shedding light on the Erlking's formidable power. I'm eagerly looking forward to the third book to discover if Horra and her companions can finally defeat the Erlking....more
This was the perfect book for me to review right now. Currently, at school, I'm teaching my 2nd graders about Habitats. I found that even though the bThis was the perfect book for me to review right now. Currently, at school, I'm teaching my 2nd graders about Habitats. I found that even though the book's target age was 2-7, my students enjoyed the story. Children go on a fun journey with Harry the Hamster as he looks for his ideal home while meeting various animals living in their habitats. Throughout his journey, Harry discovers his uniqueness in choosing a home with none of them being his ideal home. The children were delighted when Harry eventually found his pefect dwelling. Additionally, the illustrations are bright and appealing making the story come to life.
"Where is My House" provides an enjoyable and educational experience, teaching children about animal homes and the importance of finding the right one. It is an excellent choice for read-aloud sessions in school or bedtime stories with parents....more
I have been enchanted by the Best Friends Dog Tales series starting with the first book, Stella, and the second book, Gus. Millie, a spirited Border TI have been enchanted by the Best Friends Dog Tales series starting with the first book, Stella, and the second book, Gus. Millie, a spirited Border Terrier left by her family to fend for herself on the streets, has also captured my heart. Millie becomes a caregiver to Little Pup, but their bond is shattered when she is snatched by a man in a van and sent to the pound. Fortunately, dog trainer Lee recognizes Millie's potential and takes her in. Under Lee's guidance and alongside another dog, Belle, Millie learns about obedience, trust, and overcoming her difficult past. When Millie crosses paths with Tori, a young girl struggling with her own challenges, a special bond forms. Tori is allowed to train Millie, leading to a transformative journey for both. This aspect of the story showcases how they help each other heal and regain trust.
The Best Friends Dog Tales not only entertain but also impart valuable lessons to children about responsibility, kindness to all beings, and the importance of friendship. As an educator, I have enjoyed sharing these stories with my students and am eager to introduce them to Millie's tale. Through Millie's narrative, children will be engrossed in her journey of finding her human companion....more
Sleeping Spells and Dragon Scales offers a unique blend of fairy tales and reality.
The story follows two friends, Liam and Alaina, who both face healSleeping Spells and Dragon Scales offers a unique blend of fairy tales and reality.
The story follows two friends, Liam and Alaina, who both face health challenges, Liam's unknown at first. Using a school project on Fairy Tales, they explore possible solutions to Liam's issues. Alaina thinks that the idea of fairy tales and magic might hold real-life remedies for Liam's condition. Buried in books and stories, they have hope that maybe this could be the key to his recovery. Reflecting on her firsthand and courageous experience with Type 1 Diabetes, Alaina believes she can support Liam during this tough period. Many moments of heartache are spread throughout the book on their quest and their friendship goes through tremendous ups and downs.
Through its heartwarming narrative, this middle-grade novel teaches a valuable lesson on finding strength while dealing with adversity. Wendy S. Swore once again delivers a charming and thoughtful read for young audiences....more
I read The Glowberry Bears: The Legend of Little Glow to my 2nd graders. They were interested in the book and its characters from the beginning. The sI read The Glowberry Bears: The Legend of Little Glow to my 2nd graders. They were interested in the book and its characters from the beginning. The story has cute characters and an exciting plot line. We didn't finish the book in one day. The next day my class kept asking me when we were going to finish The Glowberry Bears book.
After we read the story we talked about what they thought the story was about. I was pleased that they picked up on some of the main themes such as believing in yourself, working together as a team so you can get more done, and never giving up even when times are tough.
The Glowberry Bears: The Legend of Little Glow is a great read-aloud book for K-2 classes. It would also make a good story to read at home and discuss with your children about the themes found in the book. ...more
This was a darling book! As a second-grade teacher I read many children's books each year. The illustrations are perfect for young elementary-age childrThis was a darling book! As a second-grade teacher I read many children's books each year. The illustrations are perfect for young elementary-age children. Even better, are the messages for children about learning how to handle stressful situations. The girls in the story will be putting on a "show" singing and dancing. They all have the jitters and are not so confident about being able to perform. The girls devise ways to relax by doing slow exercises, warming up their voices, and telling each other jokes. In the end, they do a wonderful job performing. Here is where the audiobook is even more wonderful. It leads children through several relaxation exercises. I'd just love to do the exercises often with my students or others could with their children at home. ADELAIDE ON BROADWAY is a great book for young kids as a cute story and as a tool for teaching children how to help themselves through hard or stress-filled happenings. I highly recommend it!...more
The gorgeous cover of this novel immediately caught my eye, which will draw readers into the enchanting world of Grimmworld. Twins Willow and Jake GriThe gorgeous cover of this novel immediately caught my eye, which will draw readers into the enchanting world of Grimmworld. Twins Willow and Jake Grimm, both 11 years old, are forced to relocate to a new state due to their parents' new job opportunities. As soon as they enter New Marburg, strange things begin to happen.
This fast-paced middle-grade story follows their journey as they discover new friends, terrifying monsters, and various magical beings. Their school undergoes an astonishing shift into a castle, all while they fend off creatures pursuing them.
The twins are descendants of the original Brothers Grimm. Willow and Jake are transported to Grimmworld, where fairy tales come to life. The siblings clash with sinister figures and need to work as a team to keep them safe, protect their friends, and possibly save the world. Through physical and mental challenges, they develop confidence, and bravery to help them overcome past struggles in their lives.
Filled with action, strange things, and suspense, the story keeps readers on edge, and excited to uncover what unfolds next. Ending with a cliffhanger, the story leaves you craving the sequel immediately. Middle-grade audiences will enjoy the fantastic blend of Science Fiction, Fantasy, and Fairy Tales wonderfully crafted by Author Michaelbrent Collings in "The Witch in the Woods."...more
Bean Finds a Pet is about a brownie who wants to be a wizard. He knows every good wizard has a pet. Bean goes about trying to catch an animal. There aBean Finds a Pet is about a brownie who wants to be a wizard. He knows every good wizard has a pet. Bean goes about trying to catch an animal. There are many funny moments as Bean finds himself in funny situations with a cat, a mouse, a small dragon, and a toad. I especially loved that the toads in this story breathed fire.
This book is wonderful for the age group I teach 7 and 8-year-olds in second grade. It's a perfect book for emerging readers. I know that this book will pull kids in and keep them interested in reading this book and others. The other fun thing are the color pages at the end of the book showing Bean interacting with the animals.
This book will make a great gift for kids and a super book for any classroom.
"A treasure greater than any you can imagine." This was the message that started it all.
It was great to be back in the fun and crazy world of Graysen "A treasure greater than any you can imagine." This was the message that started it all.
It was great to be back in the fun and crazy world of Graysen Foxx. This young Indiana Jones-like detective is once again on a mysterious treasure hunt. Graysen makes going to school at Ordinary Elementary a true adventure He's on the hunt for a creepy old picture to win a Halloween contest. Graysen is looking for clues about a secret society of super-smart kids called "The Illuminerdy".Yes, the name of this group made me giggle. In his search, he finds a spelling bee medal, and from here the chaos begins.
There is always so much humor in this series. J. Scott Savage keeps the laughs coming the whole book. Here's an example, "This isn't Star Wars and we aren't inside a trash compactor."
Another funny chapter tickled my teacher's funny bone and this part really made me LOL! Raven says, "You don't want to know how many abandoned rooms there are in this place. I think I found the mummified remains of a substitute teacher next to a jammed copy machine waiting for her word search sheets to finish printing."
One aspect that I loved about this second book is how teamwork helped to solve the mystery. I like how Savage puts ways for kids (and adults) to learn new things and readers don't even realize it. They enjoy the ride so much they forget they are gaining new information they'd normally learn in school. Readers will also see that every person has unique and valuable talents. Graysen and his friends learn to appreciate each other as each person had a gift to help in the treasure hunt. One was good at Math and another was really good at building things.
This book and series are so much fun. It would be a great class read-aloud and also a great book to read with your children or grandchildren. Savage has such a gift for writing for this age group. As an older person, I'm so pleased to be able to read about Graysen Foxx's adventures and be taken away in childhood fun for a few hours.
NEW REVIEW: Kendra and Her Hippo Stompers Save the Day by Author Clever Jenny. {An anti-bullying book!}
This book was the perfect one to share the firsNEW REVIEW: Kendra and Her Hippo Stompers Save the Day by Author Clever Jenny. {An anti-bullying book!}
This book was the perfect one to share the first week of school with my 2nd graders. Sadly, bullying is something that must be addressed quickly at the beginning of the year as rules and expectations are being established in a classroom.
I'm so glad that I had a copy of Kendra and Her Hippo Stompers Save the Day by Author Clever Jenny. It had so many things that my students could relate to. It touches on the feelings of not only the child being bullied but the child who may be doing the bullying. I feel it's important that children see the viewpoint of other children from both angles of this situation. We had a long discussion after we read the story and my kids were able to understand and relate to what happened in the story.
Another fun thing I found on Clever Jenny's website was the fun worksheets that you can use with your own kids or a teacher in the classroom. They enjoyed doing the color page, word search, and the maze. When they took the worksheets home, I know that more discussion was held about this book that I read to them. I had several parents emailing me and asking about the book that their kids kept talking about.
Overall, Kendra and Her Hippo Stompers Save the Day needs to be a part of every early elementary classroom's discussion on bullying. It has beautiful illustrations that kids love but more importantly, its message was easily understood and remembered.
****I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, NetGalley, book tours, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.****
As a second-grade teacher, I'm always looking for new picture books to share with my class. Only A Trenza Away is such a wonderful book that can be shAs a second-grade teacher, I'm always looking for new picture books to share with my class. Only A Trenza Away is such a wonderful book that can be shared with children in school, and especially at home. It is a book that brings generations together. This story shows the sweet relationship between a daughter and her father who braids her hair every night before bed. While braiding her hair he tells her stories that take Xiomara on adventures to places she's never been.
Another thing wonderful about this book is what Xia's father tells her as he braids her hair into sections. He reminds her of the people who love her deeply, the many people who will need her love, and also to remember to love yourself exactly as you are now and who you hope to be. What super messages to share with children. Love is a universal language that all will be able to understand. This heart-warming book needs to be shared with families in all cultures....more
There were so many things I loved about Mia and Nattie. I read this to my class of 2nd graders. They really enjoyed it and were really loving that NatThere were so many things I loved about Mia and Nattie. I read this to my class of 2nd graders. They really enjoyed it and were really loving that Nattie was real. We've talked about pets and they all said how neat it was that Nattie was Mia's pet in this story. It showed really well how to take care of pets and animals. It also had a great message of accepting others who may be different than the norm. Nattie was different from other sheep but Mia showed her Grandma how she still deserved to be loved and taken care of and had something to contribute to the farm.
This cute book was a great read-aloud at school and would also be enjoyed at home. The illustrations were also darling and appealing to children. Mia and Nattie will be a nice gift for your kids and grandkids. ...more
Woodencloak is the first book I've read by author Dawn Ford. I genuinely love middle-grade fantasy books and I was happy to give this book a try. The Woodencloak is the first book I've read by author Dawn Ford. I genuinely love middle-grade fantasy books and I was happy to give this book a try. The main character is a thirteen-year-old Troll Princess named Horra. Little did I know how much I'd grow to love this character. She goes from a whiny teenager to a strong, and fearless hero. Though she'd been trained to be Queen someday, she hadn't taken her life's mission seriously until her kingdom was taken over by Fairies and her father was kidnapped.
This book has plenty of action and adventure and Horra is often in peril. She does have her huge pet bird by her side and a secret mission given to her by her teacher in that she needs to save her kingdom. Horra has to learn how to trust others, even magical beings, though magic had betrayed her late mother. She accepts a magical gift from a dead druid spirit: a charmed woodencloak to disguise her. Boy does this gift come to her rescue over and over again.
Amongst all of the monsters, evil wizards, and giants, there were also quiet moments when Horra learned important life lessons. There is one point in particular that stuck with me when Kryk takes advantage of a teaching moment with Horra...
-Kryk’s limbs shrugged like shoulders. “Why do any of us do what we do? For good or ill we all must choose how we react to what happens to us in life. Do we seek revenge or forgiveness? It’s all up to who you are deep inside because we all have the power of good or evil in our hearts.” He pointed to her, poking the spot above her heart with a twig Horra studied the wizened wooden face. “And who am I?” “That, Princess, is up to you to decide.”
The last quarter of the book was so exciting it was impossible to put down. I'm happy that there will be another book coming soon in this series. I look forward to going back to this world that Author Dawn Ford has created. This fun book is one that kids, teens, and adults will all really like. ...more
Usborne Illustrated Stories of Dragons was the most recent Read-Aloud for my 2nd-grade class. Our mascot at our school is a dragon so they were so excUsborne Illustrated Stories of Dragons was the most recent Read-Aloud for my 2nd-grade class. Our mascot at our school is a dragon so they were so excited to read this book all about dragons. The most fun part was the stories were ones that no one me or my students had heard before. In this collection, there are seven stories about dragons from all around the world. We've talked about Folk Tales in class and they were able to point out several things that made these "Folk Tales". The other wonderful thing the kids loved was the fantastic illustrations that are throughout the book. They are impressive and beautiful. This book makes a great Read-Aloud because you can read one story every day and keep the children's interest. I know they enjoyed them and I liked reading them. If your children or grandchildren love dragons, then you truly need to buy a copy of Usborne Illustrated Stories of Dragons for your young readers.
Fablehaven has been one of my favorite series to read and also to share with my children and my students. The Official Fablehaven Cookbook by Brandon Fablehaven has been one of my favorite series to read and also to share with my children and my students. The Official Fablehaven Cookbook by Brandon Mull & Cherie Mull(his sister-in-law) is a fun addition to the Fablehaven family. This book starts with a new short story based on the Fablehaven reserve starring the magical Brownies that live on the Fablehaven preserve. It was cute and one that Fablehaven fans will love. I also loved all of the creative recipes related to characters from the series and events from the books. It was great that there are craft recipes too.
The nice thing is that the recipes are kid-friendly and easy to make, with adult supervision of course. The pictures are beautiful in the book and it's a pleasure to just read through the book. The Official Fablehaven Cookbook is one that Fans must buy for their Fablehaven book collection.
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