The Bella Santini Chronicle Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview, and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOKS

Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change

Written by Angela Legh

Illustrated by Whitnee Nixon

Ages 8-12 | 204 Pages

Publisher: Waterside Productions | ISBN-13: 9781954968080

Publisher’s Synopsis: An ordinary teen girl stumbles into a fairy ceremony; is arrested and brought to the fairy kingdom, the Land of Everlasting Change, a land caught in the struggle between good and evil, where Queen Tatiana fights to keep the balance of power from tipping. Queen Tatiana spreads the message of the truth of fairyland, that fairies are emissaries of love. This gripping tale in a magical land crosses time and dimensions, bringing readers on a journey of self-discovery.

This book series seeks to plant seeds of wellness into every child’s hearts and minds who reads or has the books read to them. The seeds planted are unconditional love, inner peace, and emotional self-mastery.

Available for purchase on Amazon or Bookshop. 



Bella Santini in the Troll War

Written by Angela Legh

Illustrated by Whitnee Nixon

Ages 8-12 | 204 Pages

Publisher: Waterside Productions | ISBN-13: 9781956503203

Publisher’s Synopsis: In The Land of Everlasting Change, Bella Santini is an ordinary girl who was spirited away to the land of the Fae. She completed her admission trials and was initiated into Yelimoon fairy school. Her nemesis Novaq continues his campaign to get her thrown out of the school. Under the cover of darkness, Novaq and friends conspire to kidnap Bella and deliver her to Ginekei, who will banish Bella from the kingdom.

Her friends Shibohna, Matteus, and Torvieto, race to her rescue. Together, they use their collective wisdom to foil the kidnappers. However, the rescue party is unable to return to Yelimoon School. A trek through the night brings them to Thessaeria, where Bella learns the truth about who she is.

Meanwhile, the Trolls, under the direction of Ginekei, lead an attack on Fae cities. The balance between light and dark is at risk in the Fae realm. Who is Bella, and what will become of her?

Bella Santini in the Troll War is book two of the Bella Santini Chronicles series. This book series seeks to plant seeds of wellness into the hearts and minds of every child who reads or has the books read to them. The seeds planted are unconditional love, inner peace, and emotional self-mastery.

Available for purchase on Amazon or Bookshop. 



ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Angela Legh grew up in San Francisco, CA. She learned from her father that men were people to fear, and that anger is bad. She learned from her mother how to love unconditionally. For the first 54 years of her life, Angela was bullied, first by her father, then by the man she married. In both stages of her life, a fire caused the family to break up. The first fire, when she was five, resulted in the children being sent away for months while her parents sought housing. The second fire, a disastrous California wildfire, caused Angela to question her choices in life; leave her marriage, and seek to find herself. Angela is now an author and self-development mentor.

Her children’s book series, The Bella Santini Chronicles, has received high praise and is known for helping children learn how to manage their emotions.

For more information, visit https://angelalegh.com.


AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write the Bella Santini series?

Angela Legh - For years I knew I had a book in me, itching to get out. But I wasn’t sure what I would write about. Different ideas for non-fiction books kept surfacing, but none of them seemed to be the right topic. Out of the blue, I decided to write a short story for my friend’s daughter one day. I started writing and never stopped. I wrote a story that turned into a chapter, which magically turned into two books. And the best part is, the story continues—I am now writing book five of the Bella Santini Chronicles! It is fun to see the characters grow with the story.

It wasn’t until I was halfway done writing the first book, I realized my life lessons were sprinkled throughout the story. I recognized that if I had been taught as a kid the wisdom contained in my books, I could have made a completely different life for myself. From that point on, I knew my books were designed to plant seeds of wisdom in young girls and boys to make choices that empower their lives.

Life Is What It's Called - Why do you think the topics addressed in your books are essential for kids?

Angela Legh - Through the experiences in my life, I understood the energy that lies underneath substance abuse, self-harming, and suicide, which are painful feelings the person is trying to avoid or numb. I learned that rejection, repression, or entanglement with emotions, is the underlying cause of much suffering in our society. I discovered how to face my most painful feelings; to be a witness to them with no reaction. This ability to witness my emotions without reaction brings emotional freedom.

The problem today is no one teaches children how to be present with their feelings. Many parents will say, “Don’t cry,” without realizing they are, in essence, telling their children to repress their emotions. It isn’t the parent’s fault; they repeat what they learned from their parents. Today’s parents were not taught how to manage their feelings, and their parents weren’t either.

The generational repression of feelings has brought a heavy load of substance abuse and other harmful behavior. When we give kids emotional management tools, they can find emotional balance with no need to numb through alcohol or drugs.

Life Is What It's Called - What would children like most about this series?

Angela Legh - Children seem to like the fast-paced adventure of the series and the relatability of the characters. What kid hasn’t felt like a stranger in a strange land at some point? What kid hasn’t experienced or witnessed bullying in school? The lessons learned about finding your emotional center, understanding the energy involved when someone hurts someone, and embracing the power of love will serve children throughout their lives.

Following Bella on her adventures, children are encouraged to discover their inner strengths. If Bella was just an ordinary kid, and she could stand up for herself, stand up for what is right, can’t the readers?

Life Is What It's Called - What would a parent or caregiver like most about the series?

Angela Legh - The parent or caregiver will also find the story to be engaging—many of my fans are adults who can’t wait to get the next book. They may be surprised to find that emotional management tools help them find more balance in their lives. As they delve into the story, they may be more open to talking about their emotions with their children. The parent or caregiver may discover a deeper connection that fosters conscious communication between adults and children. The book club questions were designed for parents to be able to talk about the problematic situations Bella and her friends face, which may open pathways for conscious communication about similar topics affecting their families.

Life Is What It's Called - How do you see your books used in homes or classrooms?

Angela Legh - I ask busy parents, “What if teaching your child emotional intelligence is as easy as reading a bedtime story?” The fact is, parents are pulled in so many directions. They want what is best for their kids, but if they don’t know the topic of emotional management, they cannot impart wisdom on that topic to their kids. The beauty of my series is both parent and child learn new ways to find emotional balance. Through the story, a parent can then speak with their child on the topic without the child feeling they are being lectured to.

Life Is What It's Called - What are some additional activities or books that will go along well with this series?

Angela Legh - I am in the design process of creating daily affirmation cards and a wisdom card game. Those may be available on my website by the end of this year. For those interested in expanding on their emotional intelligence, I am creating a year-long course and mastermind group designed to take parents and their children into a richer knowing of the concepts written about in the Bella Santini books.

Life Is What It's Called - Why do your books differ from what's on the market?

Angela Legh - There are many picture books for very young children that talk about emotions, but few in the pre-teen age group. Some books deliver a strong message; others may bring awareness to difficult topics. I am unaware of any other book series that brings a strong message (that you, the reader, are made of magic, and your magic is love) that brings awareness to difficult topics, and provides tools for emotional management, all wrapped in an engaging story.

Life Is What It's Called - What should readers know about you as an author?

Angela Legh - My life was filled with adversity; through the difficulties I experienced, I learned practical tools for emotional management. But more importantly, I carry an immense love for all children and their parents. Through my love for them, I offer the same tools that helped me through the difficult phases of my life, so they may find ease and wellness on their journeys through life.

Life Is What It's Called - What are some of your next writing projects?

Angela Legh - I am still concentrating on writing the Bella Santini book series. Book three of the series will be released in the summer of 2022. Book four will follow, perhaps around Christmas. My current writing projects include book five of the series, which is about halfway done, and will likely debut mid-2023. I am writing articles on conscious parenting for Gravid magazine, based in Europe. I also am experiencing an urge to write picture books for younger children; we shall see if that ever comes to fruition.


GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a Bella Santini Chronicles book prize pack!

One (1) winner receives:

• A copy of Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change
• A copy of Bella Santini in the Troll Wars
• A Bella Santini Chronicles Back Pack

Three (3) winners receive:

• A copy of Bella Santini in the Land of Everlasting Change
• A copy of Bella Santini in the Troll Wars

The Bella Santini Chronicles: Book Giveaway 

This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Angela Legh.

Meow is Not a Cat Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview, and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

Meow Is Not a Cat

Written by Kelly Tills

Illustrated by Max Saladrigas

Ages 4+ | 44 Pages

Publisher: FDI Publishing LLC | ISBN-13: 9781736700488

Publisher’s Synopsis: Meow is definitely not a cat. Cats lick their butts. Follow along as this wild child’s unique way of following instructions ends up going a little bananas.

Meow Is Not Cat is a completely goofy story, guaranteed to make kids laugh. With a cynical cat, wild monkeys, butt jokes, and a banana cannon, even pre-readers will love shouting out their favorite parts as you read aloud. Nestled among the laughs is a lesson about how embracing a person’s different way of interpreting the world can lead to surprisingly good results —and bananas, lots of bananas.

Available for purchase here. 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kelly Tills is the creator of her own uniquely shaped family. Kindness, neurodiversity, and potty humor are her jam. She writes silly stories for kids and believes even the smallest hat-tip, in the simplest of books, can teach our kids how to approach the world. Kelly’s children’s stories are perfect to read aloud to your little humans or to have your older kids read to you (hey, let them flex those new reading skills!). Either way, you’ll enjoy the giggles.

For more information, check out the author's - 

• Website 
• Instagram
• Twitter
• Facebook

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - Why do you think it's essential to have books with neuro-diverse characters?

Kelly Tills - Everyone should see themselves in stories, even better if as the protagonist. Many books about neuro-diverse kids end with an adult coming to the rescue to correct them. A child who is gleefully identifying with the hero in a story, only to see that hero get “fixed” in the end, is left with the sinking feeling that they need fixing, too.

There can never be enough books that, instead, make kids feel good.

Life Is What It's Called - In what ways do you relate to the main character?

Kelly Tills - I’ll flip that around: how is the main character related to me? I’m raising a neuro-diverse family. In doing so, I’m learning to communicate differently. Our mix-ups can be funny, frustrating, and sometimes, alas, I take a while to see I’ve misunderstood. In this story, I aim to capture both sides of that experience: Meow as the neuro-diverse child, and myself as the teacher.

Life Is What It's Called - Why do you think the message of this book is important for readers?

Kelly Tills - For as important as neuro-diversity is, the real moral of this story is found in Meow’s teacher. Readers are dropped into a world where the adult changes, not the child. The teacher is able to realize her mistake (Oh, colloquialisms aren’t so clear after all), accept it (Meow’s been listening to me literally all along), and quickly move along without ego (Oopsie, let’s dance!). We need to normalize this behavior for adults.

Life Is What It's Called - What are some of the other "goofy" books you have written?

Kelly Tills - My Awesome Animals series never fails to make me chuckle. I call them half fact and half fun. These are short, brightly colored picture books where kids learn some new fun facts about animals, while also getting to shout out answers to questions like “Can a snake slither in space? No!”

There are some nuggets in there for the grown-ups, too. Like the entire Geckos Don’t Blink book has a hippy theme - a reference sure to go over the kid’s heads.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you think readers will like most about this book?

Kelly Tills - It’s fun! Not every important message needs to be preached from the mountaintops. Does Meow think differently? Yes. Does that lead to totally berserk stuff happening? Also yes.

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this story?

Kelly Tills - Believe it or not, this story actually happened to me–minus the banana cannon. I was visiting the Sacred Monkey Forest in Bali with a friend who is famously unpredictable. Shenanigans ensued, and we ended up being chased by monkeys, throwing bananas to distract them as we ran out of the park. When my first child was born, she loved hearing the story at bedtime. It grew and grew into something truly absurd.

By the time I sat down to write it years later, my family had expanded and become what I like to call, neuro-unique. Slowly, the book’s current form and message took shape.

Life Is What It's Called - How has your background helped you in developing this story?

Kelly Tills - Well, I was chased by monkeys. 

Life Is What It's Called - How do you see this book being used in homes, schools, and classrooms?

Kelly Tills - I suspect there will be parents and caregivers who are totally confused. How on earth can so much happen in a single book? Why are the monkeys roaming free? What does “dancing like a flat-footed duck on a hotplate” even mean? And where on earth did that banana cannon come from?

These are all excellent questions. My hope is that they’ll ask the kids. Guaranteed, there will be no two answers alike, and that’s exactly how it should be.

Life Is What It's Called - What writing projects are you working on now?

Kelly Tills - I’ve become fascinated by older texts for kids. When I was a new mother, it thrilled me to share classic stories from my own childhood with my daughter, but that excitement quickly dampened as I opened those books up: racism, misogyny, body-shaming, you name it. These stories were riddled with heart-breakingly toxic ideas.

But the stories are great. Right now I’m noodling over ways to bring new life to them. The Secret Garden is at the top of the list.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Meow Is Not a Cat!

Five (5) winners receive:

• A copy of Meow Is Not a Cat

Meow Is Not a Cat: Book Giveaway 

This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Kelly Tills. This post also contains a few affiliate links.

Sir Andrew and the Authoress Book Review and Author Interview

 ABOUT THE BOOK

Lady Josephine, the duke's eldest daughter, has a secret. When her brother's horrid best friend discovers what she's been hiding up in the castle tower, she has no choice but to take him into her confidence.

As the daughter of a duke, Lady Josephine has a long list of responsibilities, and an even longer list of things she must never do to dishonor the family name. Josephine knows exactly which side becoming an author falls upon, but she's determined to try her hand at it anyway. For months she has worked on her novel in secret, writing chapter after chapter of intrigue and romance. Unfortunately for Josephine, her sworn enemy stumbles upon her secret.

Sir Andrew Wycomb's close relationship to the Duke of Montfort's family and heir gives him more than one advantage in life. His loyalty to the family is absolute, even if he finds at least one of its members an annoyance. He and Lady Josephine have never seen eye-to-eye. But when he discovers that she's written a novel upon a subject she knows nothing about, he cannot help but sympathize with her dream. This creates an unlikely ceasefire between them.

But things at the castle are always changing, and when a determined suitor arrives to court Josephine, Andrew has to decide which secrets he's going to keep. Especially when he discovers the one he's kept even from himself - that perhaps he doesn't find Josephine an annoyance at all. In fact, she is quite charming. The more time they spend together, the more he hopes she will realize they aren't enemies, and they could be so much more...

As the third stand-alone novel in this sereis by author Sally Britton, this story continues the Clairvoir Castle romances. This is a light-hearted, sweet romance series set during the Regency era in England.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this series?

Sally Britton - Originally, I was planning a castle series set in Wales. My family had plans to live in Wales for two months, at the beginning of 2020. Of course, COVID changed the world and everyone's travel plans. I was incredibly depressed, and I knew the pandemic made others feel the same. So I decided to write a different castle series, something lighter than what I usually write, with happier themes. Thus Claivoir Castle came to be. :-) The series is meant to have gentler books, easy to read, offering a gentle escape from the real world.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope readers will like most about Sir Andrew and the Authoress?

Sally Britton - I hope they like the bantering relationship between the two of them. They tease each other constantly. :-)

Life Is What It's Called- - What character do you relate to most so far in this series and why?

Sally Britton - In the whole series? I think Alice. She's from the first book. She's an intelligent character, used to being overlooked and actually happier that way. I prefer to be a background person, too, in real life social situations.

Life Is What It's Called - What did you enjoy most about writing Sir Andrew and the Authoress?

Sally Britton - I really enjoyed writing about two people who are so oblivious to their feelings for each other. There are several moments when people around them sense what's going on, but Andrew and Josie are too busy arguing to notice.

Life Is What It's Called - What writing projects are you working on now?

Sally Britton - I'm working on a Christmas novella for release in 2023 AND my next Western romance, A Lady's Heart of Gold. They're both very different, which makes it a challenge to jump between the two.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want readers to learn from Sir Andrew and the Authoress?

Sally Britton - This book is less about learning and more about feeling. I hope readers come away from reading this book feeling amused, refreshed, and able to handle the more difficult parts of their day because the book offered them a mini-vacation from reality.

Life Is What It's Called - How does this series stand apart from other Regency romance book series?

Sally Britton - For me, this series is really all about the gentle feelings of romance and love. If my other series, with deeper themes and longer books, are feasts of emotion, this is really more of a tea-time or lunch-with-a-friend feeling I'm trying to create with this series. It's a series meant to reassure and offer relief rather than challenge beliefs or emotions.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want readers to know about you as an author?

Sally Britton - That I'm just like my readers. Sometimes I want deep dives into characters and emotions, other times I just need a break from all the things life expects of me. I really have a "We are all in this together" mentality when I write, whether it's about things as serious as PTSD, depression, mourning - or things as light as children putting frogs in people's beds. When readers open one of my books, I want them to feel like they're paying a friend a visit.

Life Is What It's Called - How is this series different from your other books? How is it similar?

Sally Britton - This series is lighter in tone and theme. But I bring all the feels, I hope, that I deliver with my other books. I still want readers to turn the final page and feel that their needs have been met, that they escaped what they needed to escape and found what they needed to find. Books are such a personal thing to me, and every reader will get something different from my books because they bring different experiences to the reading.

REVIEW

At first Sir Andrew and the Authoress was a little hard to get into, but then as I continued reading the story, I found it to be a relaxing and enjoyable read. The main characters start off having a bickering relationship that evolved into friendship and then romance. It takes the characters a while to figure out their feelings and their relationship, so it's a slow-paced romance that to me makes it seem more realistic. I felt like both characters had a similar determination to push against obstacles. Josephine felt determination to write even though her art was rejected by a publisher, and Sir Andrew was determined to keep Josephine's secrets despite pressure from her family and to protect her despite insistence she doesn't need help. The interaction between the characters and the different scenes are funny and light-hearted. Sally Britton also introduces new characters that piqued my interest, and I am curious to learn more about them in upcoming books. The story is a sweet, clean story that Regency romance readers will find enjoyable. This book could be read as a stand-alone or as a series.  To learn more about Sir Andrew and the Authoress, click here.

Please note that I received a free ebook to review, however, this is my honest opinion.

Oi Gets Lost Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview, and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

Oi Gets Lost

Written by Lorna Likiza

Illustrated by Yevheniia Melnyk

Ages 6+ | 124 Pages

Publisher: Bright Lights Books | ISBN-13: 9781739985318

Publisher’s Synopsis: Set in Kenya, Oi is a naughty kitten who lives with his Mummy and siblings in an outdoor shed. Despite Mummy’s warnings, Oi has a tendency of wandering off and exploring. But one day, after nearly being attacked by a dog, Oi ends up in an unfamiliar neighborhood. And this time, he’s not sure he’ll be able to find his way back home…

Oi’s adventure is sure to delight children and cat-lovers alike.

‘A brave and vivid adventure’ —Ijeoma Isichei

‘A sheer delight for all kids, a gem of a story’ —Okenna Nzelu

Available for purchase on Amazon or Bright Lights Books. 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Lorna Likiza is a Kenyan writer, tutor of French, and Founder of the Heroe Book Fair. Oi Gets Lost is her first published book. She considers Literature as one of her passions and lives in Mombasa.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - Why did you choose Kenya as the setting for Oi Gets Lost?

Lorna Likiza - I am a Kenyan and I believe in writing what I know. I also wanted Kenyan readers to relate to the setting in my book hence the choice.

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this particular story?

Lorna Likiza - Oi Gets Lost was actually a draft for the 2018 Golden Baobab Prize which is based in Ghana and targeted African Writers and Illustrators for Children. I was pleasantly surprised when it ended up being longlisted. So initially, when I wrote the draft, I was trying out for a literary prize but then, I had for a while felt like I needed to write a story about a cat because we had one at home when I was younger. And cats as you know them, can be quite cheeky at times.

Life Is What It's Called -  How has your background helped you in writing this book?

Lorna Likiza - Growing up in Eldoret town, I read a lot and I wrote a lot. I have been writing fiction from the time I was 7 years old and now when I look back at it as an adult, I realize that I have written fiction for children much longer than anything else I have ever wrote. So without knowing it, I was constantly programming my mind towards writing for a younger readership and years later in 2017, when I first wrote the draft for Oi Gets Lost, it wasn’t very difficult to do it.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want children to learn from reading your book?

Lorna Likiza - That reading for leisure is a fun thing to pick up as a hobby.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you think kids will like most about this story?

Lorna Likiza - Oi’s oopsy nature, I guess. He’s very curious and brave, but then he has a tendency of carelessness sometimes. I hope they like that as much as I do.

Life Is What It's Called - How do you think Oi Gets Lost could be used in a classroom setting?

Lorna Likiza - Basically the vocabulary and grammar aspect of it when teaching English. Excerpts of Oi Gets Lost can also be used when examining written comprehension understanding. The book can further be used for reading aloud sessions in class to test pronunciation.

Life Is What It's Called - Do you own a cat like the one in the story?

Lorna Likiza - I do not own any pets but perhaps in future I may own one. A cat or a gentle dog.

Life Is What It's Called - How does Oi Gets Lost stands out from other books on the market?

Lorna Likiza - Its quality and attention to detail is definitely a marker. And I also feel it’s a much needed addition to the ever increasing number of Children’s Books with African characters in them. The humans Oi interacts with are all African.

Life Is What It's Called - Will this book be translated into other languages?

Lorna Likiza - Yes, this is definitely in the plans. German should be the first translation then French can follow and hopefully, Swahili too which is my first language. It’s crucial that Kenyan kids not only get an opportunity to read in English but Swahili as well.

Life Is What It's Called - What are your next writing projects?

Lorna Likiza - I just finished writing the next book in The Oi Series because this will be a series of 3 books with Oi Gets Lost being the first. I regularly contribute to Culture Africa which is a Society and Culture Magazine that focuses on Africa and I do write Adult Fiction and Nonfiction. With the latter two, it’s mostly spontaneous but I do have hopes to publish books for adults as well in the near future. I love and appreciate the fact that I am able to do so thanks to this writing gift that God gave me.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a copy of Oi Gets Lost!

Ten (10) winners receive:

• A copy of Oi Gets Lost

Oi Gets Lost: Book Giveaway

This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review and Bright Lights Books.

Love, Strictly Speaking Review

ABOUT THE BOOK

Wes Hawthorne has always been a man of few words. For him, everything is easier when he’s quiet. Content to speak only through his writing, he’s overjoyed when he gets picked for an internship to write the biography of one of the country’s wealthiest venture capitalists, and it’s exactly what he needs to start his future life and make his dad proud.

What he didn’t count on was another author working on the project with him. Sammy Faraday is everything Wes isn’t—spontaneous, exuberant, endlessly cheerful—and she seems to love nothing more than pushing him over the edge. Sometimes literally.

But the longer Wes works with Sammy, the more he starts to open up and find courage he’s never known. When feelings grow on both sides, the two of them make a pact to keep things professional (aka firmly in the friend zone). But with every passing day, Wes loses more of his heart and finds himself no longer chasing the safe and certain future he always thought he wanted, but something less so with the potential to be infinitely better.

All he has to do is convince Sammy that an uncharted future is better faced together. But to do that, he’ll have to find his ever-elusive voice or risk losing her at the end of the semester. No pressure.

Love, Strictly Speaking can be read as a standalone but is better enjoyed as part of the series.

REVIEW

Love Strictly Speaking is book 4 in the Terms of Inheritance series. These books can be read alone, out of order or as a series. Love Strictly Speaking reads as a light, fun, romance with engaging and dynamic characters that bring unique experiences and outlooks to the overall plot. The author does an excellent job at introducing the characters within the book and setting up the scenes to be enjoyable and memorable. The story pace moves along quickly, and I liked that through the characters you discover a lesson on finding your voice and realizing what you bring to the world. Often, I feel like contemporary romance is just about the romance. In this book, you can also gain insight what the characters' experiences mean to you. This is a clean romance. To learn more about this book, click here.

Please note I was given a free e-book to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post also contains affiliate links that help support this blog. This post is also in coordination with the author.

Eudora Space Kid Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

Eudora Space Kid: The Lobster Tale

Written by David Horn

Illustrated by Deven Hoover

Ages 6-10 | 88 Pages

Publisher: David Horn | ISBN-13: 9781736677421

Publisher’s Synopsis: Freedom for lobsters! The second in the Eudora Space Kid series: a hilariously funny, early reader sci-fi chapter book perfect for elementary-aged kids. Can Eudora and her best friend, Arnold, rescue her favorite lobsters from becoming the next meal at the spaceship’s New Year’s buffet?

Eudora is a normal third-grader who just happens to live on a 36 deck AstroLiner. In SPACE! As a math and science whiz who’s been adopted by what you might call . . . aliens, she has normal ambitions—like being the chief engineer on an AstroLiner. But when her favorite lobsters on board appear on the menu at Chef Franklin’s dinner buffet, Eudora and her best friend, Arnold, hatch a plan to break them out. Will they save their crustacean friends? Or will they end up locked in the ship’s brig? Again . . .

Brilliant for engaging emergent and early chapter book readers.

Available for purchase here. 


ABOUT THE AUTHOR

David Horn lives in New Jersey with his wife, two daughters, and a funny dog named Trixie. He is a huge science fiction fan and loves reading science fiction books from both the old and new greats. His daughters inherited his love of science fiction and love watching sci-fi shows like Star Trek, Babylon 5, Stargate, and Star Wars. The Eudora Space Kid early reader chapter book series started as funny stories he told his daughters at dinner to get milk to come out of their noses. He hopes your children love Eudora’s silly antics in space too and milk comes out of their noses too!

For more information, visit https://www.eudoraspacekid.com/.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write Eudora Space Kid 2: The Lobster Tale as the sequel?

David Horn - Before COVID, my family had a tradition of going to a New Year’s Eve Lobster Buffet every year. It was a lot of fun and very festive. But I have always been scared of lobsters. They look dangerous! And then one night my wife and daughters were eating lobster for dinner at home, and my daughters asked me to tell a “Eudora story” about lobster. And so The Lobster Tale is what came out – from the New Year’s Eve buffet menu all the way to the ending scene.

Life Is What It's Called - What will kids like most about this series?

David Horn - I hope they like the laughs, Eudora’s silly tricks, and seeing how math and science can be used for fun!

Life Is What It's Called - How can this series be used in a classroom setting?

David Horn - I hope the humor in the book gets children reading who normally wouldn’t be so inclined. My goal in writing these books was to give kids a new chapter book option for this reading level. At this age, kids are just getting exposed to real on-your-own reading, and I thought Eudora would be a great option – it’s funny, positive and also has a “school is cool” attitude.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope kids will learn from this series?

David Horn - I really hope the humor gets kids interested in reading. And I hope I can show kids the big impact they can have on the world with math and science, just like Eudora! They should dream big just like Eudora!

Life Is What It's Called - How many books will be a part of this series?

David Horn - As many as I can write! But I have five books written and planned so far. Along the way we’ll meet some new, really silly characters and get to know our current characters even more.

Life Is What It's Called - What writing projects are you working on next?

David Horn - I’m actually getting the art started for Book 3. That will be exciting! We’ll get to see some new parts of the ship in that one and also meet some new shipmates. 

Life Is What It's Called - What makes this series stand apart from the other series on the market?

David Horn - Well, I think having a strong and confident girl main character who is into math and science is really cool. And I like that all the characters are optimistic and positive people, but also very silly.

Life Is What It's Called - What should the reader know about you as an author?

David Horn - I love children’s chapter books. When I started writing these books, my two daughters were at the age for chapter books. And they still liked being read to also. So, I’ve read hundreds of chapter books to my daughters - many multiple times! I actually love the genre and I love writing them. When I set out to put pen to paper on Eudora, I wanted to write a book I wouldn’t mind reading to my daughters a hundred times in a row.

Life Is What It's Called - What authors influence your writing?

David Horn - Beverly Cleary, Ann M. Martin and Dan Gutman for chapter books, and Isaac Asimov and Jack McDevitt for science fiction (I love the clarity in their writing). I think Jack McDevitt’s Alex Benedict series (it’s sort of like Indiana Jones set in space, and my favorite series of all time) influenced me greatly when I put pen to paper on Eudora.

Life Is What It's Called - Why do you think it's important for kids to be exposed to science fiction?

David Horn - I think science fiction can really expand a kid’s mind to new possibilities and new ways of thinking. Eudora herself likes to think about how she can change her world using math and science – she is exploring in a way. Kids should dream big just like Eudora!

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win a signed copy of Eudora Space Kid: The Lobster Tale and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card!

One (1) grand prize winner receives

• A signed copy of Eudora Space Kid: The Lobster Tale and a $50 Barnes & Noble gift card.

Two (2) winners receive:

• A signed copy of Eudora Space Kid: The Lobster Tale

Eudora Space Kid 2 Book Giveaway

Please note that this post is in partnership with The Children's Book Review and David Horn.

Before the Fortress Falls Blog Tour, Author Interview and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

When rumors reach Vienna that an attack by the Ottoman army is imminent, Wilhelm von Schor, one of the emperor’s courtiers, prepares to evacuate his family—including his sister, Katja. But Katja’s reluctance to leave the city and the people she loves so well grows the farther the family carriage gets from her childhood home. When she learns that another brother, Xavier, is returning to Vienna with his musketeers, she decides to remain behind and face the shadow of war.

Katja soon reunites with Xavier and also with Toby, a dear friend from childhood. As Katja and Toby renew their friendship, an element of attraction builds on the comradery of their youth, and they quickly realize they have found something worth fighting for: love. But all too soon, the Ottomans encircle the city, blanketing its inhabitants in fear. Katja, Toby, and Xavier must each fulfill their new roles if they are to survive. In the overcrowded hospitals, below ground in the countermines, and on the ramparts defending the city walls, the three must fight for love, family, faith, and the survival of their city and everyone inside.

AUTHOR BIO

A. L. Sowards is the author of multiple historical fiction novels, with settings spanning the globe from the fourteenth to twentieth centuries. Her stories have earned a Whitney Award, several Whitney Finalists positions, and a Readers’ Favorite Gold Medal. She enjoys hiking and swimming, usually manages to keep up with the laundry, and loves it when someone else cooks dinner. She currently lives in the beautiful state of Alaska with her husband, three children, and an ever-growing library.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - What was your inspiration for this book?

A.L. Sowards - This book all started with the history. I had heard of the two Turkish sieges of Vienna before, but I really wanted to take the 1683 events and turn them into a novel after learning some of the details of the siege and battle. My husband and I watched a series of lectures together called The Decisive Battles of World History. The 1683 Siege of Vienna was one of those decisive battles, and part of it reminded me of the battle of Helm’s Deep in The Lord of the Rings. I thought it would make a fascinating backdrop for a historical fiction novel.

Life Is What It's Called - What were some interesting facts that you learned about this time period?

A.L. Sowards - This was a new time period for me, so I learned a ton of new things! I think what I found most fascinating was the type of warfare, especially the mining and countermining and how those played such important roles in the war.

Another interesting thing: coffee was introduced to Vienna at this time. The Ottomans left bags of it in their camp when they retreated, and it was brought into the city. One of the Capuchin monks added milk and honey to improve the flavor. The name and preparation have evolved over the last few centuries, but according to legend, that’s the origin of the cappuccino. I’m not a coffee-drinker myself, but I love learning little tidbits like that.

The croissant is also said to have originated during one of the Turkish sieges of Vienna (it’s uncertain whether it was the one in 1529 or the one in 1683). The shape of the roll, like the crescent moon on the Ottoman flag, reminded the inhabitants of the city the reason they were forced to live on rations.

Life Is What It's Called -  How is this book similar to your other historical fiction books?

A.L. Sowards - Readers will find a similar blend of history, adventure, and romance. I try to have complex, interesting characters in all my books, and I hope I achieve it. I also want my books to show faith as a meaningful part of life, and I hope readers put the book down knowing something new about history.

Life Is What It's Called - How does this book differ from your other historical fiction books?

A.L. Sowards - All of my books have historical settings, and all of them include at least reference to historical events, but this one is driven by history more than any of my previous books. I created a calendar with events that happened during the siege, and that’s what really drove the plot and even the character creation. I wanted characters who could be part of as many events as possible, so that often determined their social status and occupation.

This book is also a new time period, so I had to start from scratch to research the politics, fashion, warfare techniques, and worldviews of people who would have lived at the time. 6. What writing projects are you working on next?

I have a novel with a World War One/Russian Civil War setting scheduled to come out next year, called A Waltz with Traitors. It’s about the Czechoslovak Legion, so it’s another book driven heavily by the history. Right now I’m working on a spin-off novel with a character (Karl Lang) from Heirs of Falcon Point.

Life Is What It's Called - What has been your favorite time period to write about so far?

A.L. Sowards - That’s a hard question. There’s something really nice about being able to build on past research, like I’m able to do with the Second World War time period. But it’s also really fun to study something new. More modern settings are better documented, but sometimes those medieval times that are shrouded in legend offer more flexibility with history and plotting because so much is unknown. I guess there are pros and cons to any time period, so I love them all. 8. What do you want readers to know about you?

I currently live in Alaska with my husband, three kids, and an ever-growing library. We have the occasional moose or bear who shows up in the neighborhood, lots of snow, and stunning views. Sometimes a drive to the grocery store can take my breath away because Alaska is just magical. I enjoy hiking and swimming. I love it when someone else cooks dinner.

History is another of my loves, and after researching and studying so many wars in Europe, the war in Ukraine has really pulled at my heartstrings. I want to help, so I am going to donate all my earnings for Before the Fortress Falls through the end of April to relevant charities.

Life Is What It's Called - What do you hope readers will gain from this story?

A.L. Sowards - Hard things happen. I wrote this book during the early phases of the Covid-19 Pandemic. Now it’s being released and Europe is at war. But hope can still be found during tough times, and family, friendship, and faith in God can all be a source of strength.

Life Is What It's Called - What will readers like most about this book?

A.L. Sowards - Most of the reviews I’ve read thus far are excited about the characters, about learning something new in history, and about the emotions they’ve felt while going through the events with Katja, Toby, Xavier, Wilhelm, and the other characters. I try to make my novels immersive, so readers can look forward to a trip into the 17th century that will include moments that are harrowing and moments that are exhilarating. So far, those who have read it are glad they have taken the journey.

REVIEW

Before the Fortress Falls takes place during a siege when the Ottoman empire attacks Vienna. This book is a little hard to read in that I saw parallels between what happened in that time period and what's happening with Ukraine. It also gives you glimpses into what people face during attack - hunger/food scarcity, buildings of historical significance being destroyed, families separated, death, fear of disease, fear of the enemy and just trying to figure out what it's happening. Before the Fortress Falls also delves into some of the tactics used during the siege such as mining underground and countermining. The characters in the book is interesting and you get swept away with their emotions and drama. I liked that the backdrop shares a bit of history that might not be well-known. I learned about historical figures I wasn't familiar with and other bits of history that I didn't realize. The romance is sweet and clean in the book. The author is also donating 100% of her shares in the book profit to benefit charities in Ukraine during the month of April to learn more click here. Overall, I would suggest checking out this book and adding it to your read pile. This book was well-researched and well-written. To learn more, click here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please note that I received a free ebook of this book to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post is in cooperation with the author and publisher. This post also contains affiliate links that help support this blog. Any proceeds received from affiliate links from this blog post will be donated to charities to support Ukraine.

Organizing Bows and Headbands

When I reorganize things, I feel like I have to go with what will work best for us and how we use things. In the media, books, social media, there are a lot of different ways to organize things around the home from purging to minimalistic style to rows of boxes and bins for a massive amount of stuff. I have found that some methods just don't work well with how we use things and I have to figure out what works best for us. 

 As I helping my daughter clean her room, I noticed the organization system for her bows weren't working for us. The bows were just in a bin inside her dresser and would get mixed up with her necklaces and tights. Having them in a bin also made it hard to find the colors that we needed.  I found a macrame bow holder on Amazon. I liked that it was cute looking, and I could use it to organize her bows and headbands. I organized the bows on the holder by color. Organizing by color made it easy to find the bows right away to match with her outfits. I can also easily see what colors she has the most of and doesn't need more of. This product has been durable and it's easy to put the bows away and find them again. This method has worked well for us, but it's important to figure out what works well with you and to figure out the best method to organize your stuff. How do you organize your hair accessories?

To learn more about the macrame bow holder, click here.

Please note that this post contains affiliate links.

My Old Friend, Then Virtual Book Tour, Author Interview, and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK

My Old Friend, Then

Written by Katherine Davis-Gibbon

Illustrated by Allie Daigle

Ages 4 and up | 40 Pages

Publisher: Riverlet Press LLC | ISBN-13: 9781737957607

Publisher’s Synopsis: A child ponders … who is her best, most loyal friend? Is it her constant companion, Then, who regales her with extravagant stories of their shared past and imagined future? Or is it precious, patient Now, with whom she sensitively explores each new moment that unfolds?

My Old Friend, Then explores mindfulness the same way that kids approach life: with curiosity, humor, and unspoiled sincerity. Pairing accessible and relatable language with vivid, quirky illustrations, this book invites readers to share in a young girl’s journey as she grapples with the trappings—and delights in the boundless potential—of her own brilliant mind.

Available for purchase on Amazon or Bookshop.     

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Katherine Davis-Gibbon is a yoga teacher, a longtime practitioner of Vipassana meditation, and most importantly a mother of two. She is also the founder of Riverlet Press, a children’s book company for conscious parents raising mindful kids.

For more information, visit www.riverletpress.com.

ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR

Allie Daigle is an illustrator who strives to create immersive and expressive images that stimulate the imagination. Whether for a children’s book, a product label, or her original pieces, Daigle’s works implore the viewer to linger and explore the details within. Allie primarily works with traditional watercolor & ink as well as digital mediums. For more information, visit www.alliedaigle.com.

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

Life Is What It's Called - Why do you think this message from My Old Friend, Then is important for young kids?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon - For young kids, the line between what’s real and what’s imaginary is blurry. Children can be petrified of things they will never come into contact with, like vampires or dinosaurs. Likewise, they can be traumatized by relatively innocuous events from the past, that occurred before they were old enough to understand. A nosebleed. A thunderstorm. The sudden, roaring whoosh of an auto-flush toilet. Even something that happens every single day, like being left at school or daycare when parents go to work, is deeply upsetting to some children. In most cases (we hope), the school itself is not terrifying. What’s scary is the thought: my caretaker is leaving me. I don’t want to be alone!

The only sure way to distance kids from the many, compelling thoughts of “Then” (the one who remembers, the one who imagines) is to strengthen their bond with “Now:” the one who is here, experiencing this moment, through this body. What is your little one actually doing, while anticipating an upcoming performance, or remembering a difficult conversation? Perhaps eating breakfast or riding in the car. Perhaps they’re cuddling in your arms or snuggled up in bed with their favorite stuffy. It comes as a huge relief when kids are able to zoom out and see that their thoughts are just one small part of their experience, instead of the other way around.

Gaining this perspective, of course, is more easily said than done. Mindfulness is not something one masters by reading a single book. It’s a lifelong practice, which is exactly why you want to plant the seeds early on. If your child has a big “Aha!” moment and instantly grasps the entire concept, then they are very special, indeed! But for most people (kids and adults), mindfulness is a slow-burning concept that grows with us as we mature.

Life Is What It's Called - How do you see My Old Friend, Then being used at home or in a classroom setting?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon - My Old Friend, Then is a conversation starter.

Begin by reading the book together, noting that Then is “the one who remembers” or “the one who imagines,” while Now is “the one who’s here right now,” experiencing the present moment through the body and each of the five senses.

The next step is modeling mindfulness through self-talk. As a caregiver at home, you might admit to your child, “I have to go to the dentist tomorrow. Ugh, I hate going to the dentist. It’s tempting to worry about it, but I don’t want that to spoil the special time I’m sharing with you right now. Did you know that you’re one of my favorite people in the world? Do you know how much I love your hugs? I could use a hug right now, to remind me that I am not at the dentist’s office yet. At this moment, I’m here with you.”

In a classroom setting, the conversation includes more people, and the modeling takes a different tone. Adopt a key phrase or two that you can weave into the classroom culture, like, “That was then, and this is now.” Questions can also be very effective, such as “What would be helpful right now?” Pull these tools out of your toolbox to settle conflicts or support children who struggle to regulate their emotions.

As a fully integrated part of the curriculum, mindfulness can be a wonderful tool for enhancing concentration and easing the abruptness of transitions. At the end of recess, as you regroup in the classroom, ask children to form a circle and walk in a clockwise direction. Cue kids into the present moment by drawing their attention to each of their five senses. Notice the feeling of feet touching and leaving the floor. Listen to the sounds of pant legs swishing against one another. See the back of whoever’s in front of you, noting the color and texture of their hair. Allow the pace to slow down gradually and collectively, without judging what that looks or sounds like. When the pace eventually settles, have everyone stop, close their eyes for fifteen to twenty seconds, and listen. Then invite children to share what they heard.

I’ve heard from teachers, therapists, and parents who are using the book successfully with kids between the ages of seven and nine. They initiate a first reading and follow the child’s lead. Many children will ponder it for a week and then request to read it again, which deepens the conversation over time. Younger children will need more explanation and lots of modeling in daily life. Remember: mindfulness is not something that we master quickly or all at once; it’s a process that we weave into our lives. In keeping with that, My Old Friend, Then is not a book to be read once and instantly grasped. If it was, it would do mindfulness a disservice.

Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this story?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon  - There was one particular morning early in the pandemic when everyone in my household felt trapped, aggrieved, and overwhelmed. The negativity was contagious, and I found myself gravitating towards darker thoughts. I was swinging back and forth between these two extremes: either forecasting various doomsday scenarios where my kids NEVER GO BACK TO SCHOOL, or ruminating on some old conflict, simply because I was in a bad mood. Fortunately, my mindfulness practice kicked in, and I thought to myself, “Well, well, well. If it isn’t you: my old friend, Then--always yanking me around from the past to the future and back again.” I had to laugh at myself, but there was also compassion and self-acceptance, which I sorely needed in that moment. It hit me that this might be a good way to frame mindfulness for children, who explore things through the lens of friendship and imaginative play.

Life Is What It's Called - What will kids like most about this story?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon  - Children love to take ownership of things: to create something and show the adults in their lives, “Hey, look what I did!” I deeply respect this and as such I did not want to write a heavy-handed, overly directive, or preachy book that tells kids what to think. I wanted my protagonist to observe for herself how incredibly creative her mind can be: sometimes to her benefit and other times to her detriment. Along the way, she discovers that she can choose how to direct and proportion her attention, thus inclining her mind towards happiness, ease, and peaceful self-acceptance. I hope and believe that kids will feel empowered by the notion that they can partner and play with their thoughts, instead of beig bossed around by them.

Life Is What It's Called - How does My Old Friend, Then compare to other books on the market?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon - It’s very process-oriented. It avoids casting particular thoughts, behaviors, or ways of breathing as correct or incorrect. Instead, it invites nonjudgmental observation, encouraging kids to befriend and value every single voice that bubbles up inside their minds, because each one has its own special message that deserves to be heard.

Life Is What It's Called - What is your background in writing?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon - I have always been passionate about writing. I wrote a few articles and book reviews in my early twenties, which were published in Los Angeles periodicals. Ultimately, I decided to throw myself into my other passion, which was dance. I spent almost twenty years dancing, choreographing, and teaching dance, pilates, and yoga, before becoming a mom. I always knew that I would circle back to writing, but I thought it best to dance in my younger years, when my body was at its peak, and save writing for a later phase of life, when I would be older, wiser, and have more to contribute.

Life Is What It's Called - What writing projects are you working on next?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon - I am developing two new picture books right now, which I hope will be published by the end of this year. One is a cycle of life story pertaining to grief and loss, which sadly have touched so many lives, including young children’s, over the course of these past two years. The other one, which Allie Daigle and I are working on together, is a whimsical take on what it feels like to get stuck—and how to unstick yourself when that happens!

Life Is What It's Called - What do you want your readers to know about you as an author?

Katherine Davis-Gibbon - Each of my books has a unique flavor and topic, but they all pertain to the inner life of the child. Each one endeavors, in its own unique way, to foster emotional intelligence, emotional literacy, and growth mindset.

GIVEAWAY

Enter for a chance to win an autographed copy of My Old Friend, Then, along with a box of You're Wonderful Thoughtfulls!

One (1) winner receives:

• An autographed hardcover copy of My Old Friend, Then
• A box of You're Wonderful Thoughtfulls pop-open cards by Compendium Inc.

Three (3) winners receive:

• An autographed hardcover copy of My Old Friend, Then

My Old Friend Then: Book Giveaway 

This post is in cooperation with The Children’s Book Review and Riverlet Press.

12 Days of Easter Blog Tour, Author Interview, and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOK 

Celebrate the Easter holiday with a new, faith-focused twist on the classic Christmas carol, The 12 Days of Christmas.

The 12 Days of Easter features cheerful illustrations and highlights a different Easter symbol on every page. Additional backmatter teaches children and families about the meaning behind traditional Easter symbols with an emphasis on Christ and the resurrection.

A perfect holiday gift and read-aloud to enjoy every Easter season!

AUTHOR BIO 

Sierra Wison is the author of several books for children including 10 Little Disciples, I Can Be Like Jesus, and The Atonement of Jesus Christ is for Me. Easter is one of her very favorite holidays because she loves celebrating the resurrection of the Savior. She is excited to share more about this special holiday with readers. Sierra lives in Alberta, Canada with her husband, kids, two cats, two fish, and a bearded dragon. You can learn more about Sierra at www.sierrawilsonauthor.com. 

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

 Life Is What It's Called - What inspired you to write this story?

Sierra Wilson - My children's love of "12 Days of Christmas"-inspired picture books. We've found and enjoyed so many based on different holidays and occasions, but we've never found one based on Easter. So, I wrote one! With this story, my goal was to bring together the cute and fun aspects of Easter with the meaning behind them and a focus on Christ.

Life Is What It's Called - What would kids like most about this book?

Sierra Wilson - This book is a lot of fun and kids will enjoy sing-reading it, searching for the Easter gifts on each page, practicing counting, and feeling the love of their Savior.

Life Is What It's Called - What makes this book stand apart from the other books on the market?

Sierra Wilson - To my knowledge, this is the only Easter-focused picture book using the 12 Days of Christmas structure. Along with that fun aspect, this book is special because it brings together the parts of Easter many kids love such as bunnies and eggs with the deeper meanings behind these symbols and an emphasis on Christ. It's the perfect blend of the playful and the spiritual.

Life Is What It's Called - What will readers learn from this book?

Sierra Wilson - Readers will learn the meaning behind twelve popular Easter symbols and traditions both throughout the story and with extra informational material at the back of the book.

Life Is What It's Called - What are you working on next?

Sierra Wilson - I'm always working on so many things! At this exact moment, I'm polishing up a funny dinosaur picture book and drafting/revising parts of a folklore-inspired middle grade novel.

Life Is What It's Called - What makes this book similar to your other books? 

Sierra Wilson - At their heart, many of my books are truly all about the love of Christ for each of us. That message is at the core of this story too. 

 Life Is What It's Called - What makes this book different from your other books? 

Sierra Wilson - This is my first book that can easily be sung aloud, which is quite fun. Try it! This is also my first book as an independent publisher. It was so, so much work taking on the roles of author, illustrator, and publisher, but it was something I had wanted to try for quite a while, and it really was a rewarding experience. 

Life Is What It's Called - What should readers know about you? 

Sierra Wilson - I love my Savior and I'm so thankful for His sacrifice and resurrection. That's what Easter is really all about. It's a joyful celebration of the greatest of all victories. I hope readers will feel that sense of joy and love as they read and have fun with The 12 Days of Easter! 

REVIEW

12 Days of Easter is a fun children's book that's similar to the 12 days of Christmas, however, each of the items in the "12 Days of Easter" represents parts of Christ's Easter story. In the back of the book, the author wrote what each item represents and symbolizes. The illustrations in the book are cute and fun. The colors are done in vibrant spring-like colors. 12 Days of Easter is easy to read book that kids will enjoy reading each Easter. The story is well-thought out and could reach kids at different levels...just reading the story to young toddlers and then as your children are older and more mature you can expand upon the symbols throughout the story and how it relates to the Easter story. This is a meaningful Easter book that will make a great addition to your children's library. 

Available for purchase here.

  a Rafflecopter giveaway

Please note that I received a free copy to review, however, this is my honest opinion. This post also contains affiliate links that help support and maintain this blog. This post is in cooperation with the author. 

Take Flight with Author Brooke Hartman Virtual Book Tour, Review and Giveaway

ABOUT THE BOOKS

Pega Sisters Go to Camp

Written by Brooke Hartman

Illustrated by MacKenzie Haley

Ages 4-8 | 32 Pages

Publisher: Page Street Kids | ISBN-13: 9781645674719

Publisher’s Synopsis: Lilly has waited for this day all year: It’s Pegasus Camp! And it’s finally here!

But this year, Lilly’s little sister, Filly, is tagging along. And wherever Lilly goes, Filly’s right underhoof, turning rainbow leaping, mane braiding, and cake baking into crashing, tangling, splattering messes! When Lilly’s temper finally snaps, Filly canters sadly away. Lilly wanted her Pega Sister to go―so why can she no longer have any fun without her?

Anyone with siblings will knowingly smile and roll their eyes, and all readers will laugh along with this rollicking, punny summer camp romp, which also serves as a sparkling reminder that sisters make the most marvelous magic together.

Available for purchase on Amazon or Bookshop. 

The Littlest Airplane

Written by Brooke Hartman

Illustrated by John Joesph

Ages 4-7 | 32 Pages

Publisher: Alaska Northwest Books | ISBN-13: 9781513128641

Publisher’s Synopsis: A rhyming picture book about how sometimes it’s not the biggest, strongest, or the fastest, but the littlest who can get the job done! “Alaska Northwest Books wings into spring with… The Littlest Airplane by Brooke Hartman, illus. by John Joseph, in which a storm necessitates calling a mighty little bush plane to rescue people stuck on a mountain in the snow.” —Publishers Weekly, Spring 2022 Children’s Sneak Previews At a landing strip in the far north, a little bush plane watches quietly as bigger, stronger, faster planes take off for adventure. But when a storm hits and hikers are stranded on the mountain, who will come to the rescue? Told in rhyming verse with bright illustrations, The Littlest Airplane soars high with heart and excitement. 

Available on Amazon or Bookshop.   

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Brooke Hartman is an Alaskan mom and national award-winning author of silly, sweet, and sometimes strange stories for children and Young Adults. Follow along on her Alaskan writing adventures at www.BrookeAHartman.com, or on social media at @BrookesBooksAK.

REVIEW OF THE LITTLEST AIRPLANE

I loved The Littlest Airplane. It's a cute story about a little airplane that's unsure of himself but is the only one who can save the day. This is a story that kids can relate to as they try to figure out what they can accomplish even being the littlest or the smallest in their family. This book encourages a positive self-esteem and developing your strengths. The message was great and shows that everyone can contribute. The story was easy and fun to read. I felt like the pacing was perfect for little kids and that they would also enjoy the illustrations. The illustrations were attractive, eye-catching, and vibrant. I felt like this story was perfect for young children and it's something that I could see them wanting to read over and over again. When I read it, I could easily see this becoming a popular book and well-loved book. I also loved that it rhymed. My youngest loves rhyming books and I think it prepares children to learn about rhyming preparatory for kindergarten. It's a perfect addition to your home library.

GIVEAWAY 

Enter for a chance to win a Pega Sisters Goes to Camp or The Littlest Airplane prize pack!

One (1) winner receives:

• The Pega Sisters Prize Pack! Includes a signed copy of Pega Sisters Go to Camp by Brooke Hartman and MacKenzie Haley, your own pegasus plushy, Pega Sisters activities, stickers, and accessories to “glam up” just like Lilly and Filly!

One (1) winner receives:

• The Littlest Airplane Prize Pack! Includes a signed copy of The Littlest Airplane by Brooke Hartman and John Joseph, a “build your own wings” craft activity, Littlest Airplane word search and maze, Littlest Airplane stickers, a set of markers, and your own fox plush to take with you on all your flights!

One (1) winner receives:

• A copy of Pega Sisters Go to Camp and The Littlest Airplane

Brooke Hartman: Book Giveaway

This post is in partnership with The Children’s Book Review, Brooke Hartman, and a grant from the Alaska Writers Guild. Please note that I received a free ebook to review, however, this is my honest opinion in the review.