Exploring the nuances of brotherly affection, risky adventure, hard lessons, and the pain of disappointment, this allegorical story is well-penned and strong in its messaging for young readers. There are long passages of lovely descriptions, and exciting bursts of action, coupled with the constant charm of Pawz, Boomboom, and Strike – characters it is decidedly hard not to love.[…]
Dr. David Florence pens a whimsical and colorful tale for children in Beezie the Baby Bumble Bee, a tender and message-rich tale.
Being a little bee who gets tired on long flights makes it hard to get a full belly of pollen every day. Young Beezie takes an eye-opening adventure, aided by a number of other helpful creatures – and a human honey man – in an effort to get ahead and find some pollen. The wisdom of owls and the generosity of eagles help save the day for this adorable little character.
The subtly beautiful (and occasionally silly) […]
A timely and fearless tale of courage in the face of insurmountable odds, Shadowshine: An Animal Adventure by Johnny Armstrong is a brilliant piece of creative fiction.
When Zak the “poet possum” realizes that his home and those he cares for are being threatened, he embarks on an epic journey into the unknown to rally support and find a way to protect the forest. Somehow, he must unite the Forest Folk to push back the dangerous humans and their allies, but there are secret suspicions and old enemies who stand in his way.
An incredibly intelligent and philosophical protagonist, Zak […]
Author Roberta M. Griffis and illustrator Jerelyn Abicca-Smestad combine their talents for the whimsical and lesson-packed children’s story Miss K.A.R.E.N.’S. Mystical Magical Emerald Green Garden Shed.
Caroline is a young girl who just moved into a new house after her mother’s life unexpectedly turned upside down. Trying to find some sense of normalcy or peace, Caroline befriends their quirky neighbor, Miss Karen, whose garden seems to hold endless wonders, particularly emanating from her sparkling green shed. Mixing subtle magic with moral lessons and compassionate guidance, this book is an uplifting story of friendship, showing children how to overcome sadness and […]
A lovely house on a hill learns what it takes to become a home in The House and the Doormat by author Sherry Martin, illustrated by Lynda Farrington Wilson. This simple story accompanied by stunning visuals is a charming children’s book with lessons on acceptance, appreciation, communication, self-respect and recognizing the work of others.
Ramona is a proud and beautiful house, sparkling from roof to root cellar, and isn’t afraid to brag about her appearance to anyone who will listen. Dusty, on the other hand, is the lowly doormat, often overlooked as people wipe their feet on his face before […]
Author Shirley McLain unpacks the complicated issue of bullying and the psychological impacts it can have in Thomas Gomel Learns About Bullying.
Written for a younger audience, ages 10 and up, this book tells the story of a young boy who has been suffering the torments of an older bully for years, and it goes on to explore how these seemingly simple schoolyard actions can have far-reaching effects, impacting mental health in the young, as well as long-term behavioral patterns in adults.
Thomas Gomel is like many other students, trying to fly under the radar during his awkward years, […]
From the creative depths of author Steve Michael Reedy comes Tales from Bombast’s Bookshelf, an insightful collection of fantastical children’s stories. These six tales are overflowing with moral lessons and immersive symbolism, not only providing wonderful narratives, but also a foundation of common sense, wisdom, and compassion.
Fairy tales have long been a part of children’s literature, and these refreshing stories are a wonderful new addition to that tradition. With amusing fictional characters, magical woodland realms, and memorable turning points, Reedy imbues every page with a sense of innocent wonder, but also a fair amount of realistic struggle. Like […]
A young mushroom heroine is the protagonist of Lamellia: The Wizard in the Forest, a whimsical and meaningful children’s book by Gloria D. Gonsalves. Family revelations, magical/musical defenses, and a heartwarming resolution round out this parable, which is accessible for a wide age range.
Tiara is the strong-willed protagonist of this beautifully illustrated children’s book. The princess of Lamellia, Tiara embarks on a quest to find a missing friend and discover the secret of her own past. Tiara was born a human, but was taken in by King Polipoli and Queen Nobilia after being orphaned in the forest […]