#Netgalley Audio Review: The Fish of Small Wishes by Elana K. Arnold

This is a charming story.
The Fish of Small Wishes
by Elana K. Arnold
Narrated by Erin Ruth Walker

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B0CQHLR68J
Publisher ‏ : ‎ Roaring Brook Press
Publication date ‏ : ‎ January 30, 2024
Print length ‏ : ‎ 41 pages
Reading Age:4-8 years
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0.

Description
Fall in love with a modern fairy tale inspired by a Jewish family memory in this magical picture book by award-winning picture book creators Elana K. Arnold and Magdalena Mora.
Once, there was a girl named Kiki, who found a fish on the asphalt.
The fish was very hot and very dry.
But when Kiki put it in the bathtub, it started swimming, and growing, and . . . speaking?
"I want to grant you a wish for saving me," it said.
A wish-granting fish!
Alas, this fish was only a fish of small wishes, and Kiki’s wish was too big.
Unless . . . there was a way for both their dreams to come true.
Follow Kiki and the wish-granting fish in this contemporary fairy-tale perfect for fans of A Big Mooncake for Little Star and Carmela Full of Wishes.

Review:
Kiki was too shy to play with the other children. One afternoon she found a giant fish on the hot sidewalk. She knew this wasn’t good and brought the fish to her bathtub. The fish started to swim and spoke to her through bubbly, watery words! The fish offered to grant a wish, but he said he could only grant small wishes.

Even though the fish grew, Kiki’s wishes were still too big. Can Kiki find a wish that the fish of small wishes could grant? Kiki decided to get help to dig a pond for the fish. Kiki’s efforts had a surprising result.

This is a very sweet story. It provides a message showing taking our focus off ourselves to help others might just help us too. I would be glad to share the audio or print with my grandchildren.

Audio Notes: Erin Ruth Walker does a beautiful job on the narration. Her performance matches the sweet story and I totally enjoyed the audio.

Source: 12/11/2023 received at NetGalley. This qualifies for 2024NetGalley, 2024Alphabet, and 2024AudioBook goals.

#NetGalley Audio Book Review: See You Someday Soon by Pat Zietlow Miller

This is a book with a very sweet message.
See You Someday Soon
by Pat Zietlow Miller, Suzy Lee (Illustrations)
Narrated by Katharine Chin

Listening Length: 6 minutes
Audible.com Release Date June 14, 2022
Publisher: Macmillan Audio
Genre: Children, Family
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

Description:
Someday soon, I'll see you.
Even though you are there.
And I am here.
So very far apart.
In this heartfelt picture book, a child imagines ways to connect with a grandmother who lives far way. Whether by rocket ship or jet pack, train or in a plane, any journey is worth it to see someone you love.
With an inviting, accessible text by Pat Zietlow Miller and inventive art from the critically-acclaimed illustrator Suzy Lee, this picture book reminds us that, no matter the physical distance between us, the people we care about are never far from our hearts. The book features clever and innovative die-cuts throughout, adding a creative, thoughtful and discussion-worthy novelty aspect to this layered and deeply emotional story.

Review:
This is a lovely book that helps explain the longing to be together when we are far apart. A grandmother and child express how they would like to visit each other and how they might travel to make it happen. Some readers might connect this to missing a loved one in heaven, although I think that is a stretch.

There are sample images on the Amazon post which show how charming the hardback book is. Listening to the exchange is nice but I think that the print book might be better for this book. I enjoyed the easy prose and know that my grandchildren would enjoy this book. I recommend this book to share with children.

Audio Notes: Katharine Chin does a nice job with the reading. The narration conveys the longing of the separated people. I enjoyed the very quick listening experience.

Source: NetGalley 2022. This qualifies for 2022Audiobook and 2022Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley ebook Review: The Unsinkable Gus Davis by Laurie Trumble Davis

This is a very cute book with a good message.

The Unsinkable Gus Davis
by Laurie Trumble Davis
Paulette Bogan (Illustrations)

ASIN ‏ : ‎ B09VYB76KR
Publisher ‏ : ‎ The Collective Book Studio (June 21, 2022)
Publication date ‏ : ‎ June 21, 2022
Language ‏ : ‎ English
File size ‏ : ‎ 24433 KB
Genre: Children: Pre School to 3rd, Ages 4-8
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0.

Gus Davis is a French bulldog who thinks he can do anything—even swim. Bean is Gus’s human best friend who thinks bulldogs aren’t designed for the water.
Who is right?
It turns out, they both are!
All it takes is a persistent bulldog and a creative human friend to prove that, with a little practice and adaptation, anything is possible. The Unsinkable Gus Davis is a playful story about figuring things out, staying safe around water, and laughing along the way!

Review:
This is a very quick read. It is wonderful for dog lovers and works to teach children about swimming difficulties and swimming safety.

French bulldogs have very short legs so they are unable to swim safely. But Gus is sure he can do it. How can his human, Bean, help him?

I love the illustrations that go with the very easy reading. Gus is adorable. I would be glad to buy this for my grandchildren and know they would love to read it to me!

Source: NetGalley 2022. This qualifies for 2022NetGalley goal.

Audible Book Review: On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness by Andrew Peterson

This is a creative and good story to share with children.
On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness
By: Andrew Peterson
Narrated by: Andrew Peterson

The Wingfeather Saga, Book 1
Length: 8 hrs and 19 mins
Release date: 01-05-21
Publisher: Listening Library
Genre: Adventure, Children, Fantasy
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.25; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Once, in a cottage above the cliffs on the Dark Sea of Darkness, there lived three children and their trusty dog, Nugget.
Janner Igiby, his brother, Tink, and their disabled sister, Leeli, are gifted children as all children are, loved well by a noble mother and ex-pirate grandfather. But they will need all their gifts and all that they love to survive the evil pursuit of the venomous Fangs of Dang, who have crossed the dark sea to rule the land with malice. The Igibys hold the secret to the lost legend and jewels of good King Wingfeather of the Shining Isle of Anniera.
Full of characters rich in heart, smarts, and courage, On the Edge of the Dark Sea of Darkness is a tale children of all ages will cherish and families can listen to together.
This audiobook includes a PDF of maps, illustrations, and more.
PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying PDF will be available in your Audible Library along with the audio.
©2020 Andrew Peterson (P)2020 Listening Library

Review:
Janner, Tink and Leeli are three children who try to live a normal life but instead have to live under the shadow of evil authorities, the Fangs of Dang, and the threat of being taken off at night in the black carriage. The Igiby children who live with their dignified and loving mother and their ex-pirate grandfather, are not aware of their full history.

Leeli has a damaged leg and walks with a crutch. She is almost always accompanied by their sweet little dog, Nugget. Janner, as the oldest, is always taxed with watching over his younger brother and sister. But the children are curious and although they get to share some exciting and dangerous adventures, they end up in desperate trouble. As they try to get away from the Fangs, they find help from a strange character and betrayal from another.

The story is filled with creative characters and adventures any child might enjoy. There are secrets that aren’t revealed till near the ending and it gives a whole new picture of the Igiby family and their allies. There are footnotes and items set out in a pdf that comes with the audio.

Our grandchildren are reading this series so I decided to listen and be able to share. I enjoyed the characters, the creativity and the adventures in the plot. We have the other books in the series and I will be listening to book two in the near future. I recommend this as a family listen to enjoy.

Audio Notes: I didn’t realize until I finished the story that the narrator is the author! Andrew Peterson  does a wonderful job with the voices, and of course brings the appropriate energy and emotion to the story. The audio enhanced my enjoyment of the story.

Source: 2/14/2021 January Audible Credit. This qualifies for 2022TBR, 2022Audiobook, and 2022 Alphabet goals.

#FraterfestRat #NetGalley Book Review: The Secret Halloween Costume by Sophie Vaillancourt

This is a nice Halloween story promoting fun rather than scary costumes.
The Secret Halloween Costume
by Sophie Vaillancourt

Publisher ‏ : ‎ CrackBoom! Books; New edition (September 21, 2021)
Hardcover ‏ : ‎ 24 pages
ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 2898022454
Reading age ‏ : ‎ 3 - 6 years
Grade level ‏ : ‎ Kindergarten - 2
Genre: Children, Halloween, Holiday
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0.

A Halloween story for little ones!
Charlotte is a young witch. For Halloween, her family insists she must wear her darkest clothes and scariest makeup. After all, a witch must be spooky! But Charlotte doesn't want to follow tradition - she wants to wear something that reflects who she is. She asks her grandmother to sew her a secret costume... But what will it be?
An adorable Halloween story about an enthusiastic little witch who follows her heart and inspires others to do the same!

Review:
Charlotte has been told that it is tradition for a young witch to wear a scary witch costume at Halloween. Charlotte just doesn’t want to be scary. She asks her friends but when they search the costumes in the attic, they find scary costumes. Fortunately, Charlotte has a Granny who is a bit of free thinker and helps her create a costume she is happy with.

I found the illustrations delightful. The story is okay and nice for the halloween holiday. However, I think it could be made clearer that Charlotte wasn’t going behind her mother’s back to be disrespectful. A parent might have to explain the choices between tradition and new ideas and consider better ways to handle the situation than possibly setting one family member against another. I recommend this to families where parents help their children understand tradition, while allowing them creativity.

Source: NetGalley 2021. #FraterfestRat #4. This qualifies for 2021NetGalley goal.

Audible Book Review: Quest for the Diamond Sword by Winter Morgan

This is a quick story that definitely brings to mind an old time computer game.

Quest for the Diamond Sword
A Minecraft Gamer's Adventure
By: Winter Morgan
Narrated by: Luke Daniels

Series: An Unofficial Gamer's Adventure, Book 1
Length: 2 hrs and 23 mins
Publisher: Audible Studios
Genre: Adventure, Children, Computer Game
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0 Overall; Content 3.75; Narration 4.25.

Publisher's Summary
Steve lives on a wheat farm. He has everything he needs to live in the Minecraft world: a bed, a house, and food. Steve likes to spend his mornings in the NCP village and trade his wheat for emeralds, armor, books, swords, and food. One morning, he finds that Zombies have attacked the villagers. The Zombies have also turned the village blacksmith into a Zombie, leaving Steve without a place to get swords. To protect himself and the few villagers that remain, Steve goes on a quest to mine for 40 diamonds, which are the most powerful mineral in the Overworld. He wants to craft these diamonds into a diamond sword to shield him and the villagers from the Zombies.
Far from his home, with night about to set in, Steve fears for his life. Nighttime is when users are most vulnerable in Minecraft. As he looks for shelter in a temple, he meets a trio of treasure hunters, Max, Lucy, and Henry, who are trying to unearth the treasure under the temple. Steve tells them of his master plan to mine for the most powerful mineral in the Overworld - the diamond. The treasure hunters are eager to join him. Facing treacherous mining conditions, a thunderstorm, and attacks from hostile mobs, these four friends question if it's better to be a single player than a multiplayer, as they try to watch out for each other and chase Steve's dream at the same time. Will Steve find the diamonds? Will his friends help or hinder the search? Should he trust his new treasure hunter friends? And will Steve get back in time to save the villagers?
©2014 Hollan Publishing, Inc. (P)2014 Audible Inc.

Review:
Steve is a wheat farmer living comfortably in a Minecraft world. He is a calm, compassionate neighbor who helps the nearby villagers by crafting objects, such as an iron golem, to help protect them from the outside monsters, particularly the Zombies. One morning he hears screams and learns that his protective construct has fallen and Zombies have taken over the village. They have even turned his good friend, the blacksmith with whom he trades for iron and jewels, into a Zombie.

Steve sets off to the Nether world on a quest to find diamonds to craft a diamond sword to fight off the Zombies and restore his friend. While seeking shelter in a temple, Steve meets three people, Max, Lucy, and Henry. Steve is concerned they might be Griefers (thieves), but they convince him they are treasure hunters. The four decide to team together to help face the dangers and search for the diamonds. Will they be successful in the quest, and can Steve save his village?

I had to chuckle shortly into this audio when I realized it is truly an audio version of the Minecraft computer games. The cubist characters use their cubist resources to mine jewels and “craft” tools and portals while on a quest to save others. The action and story are pretty simplistic. I do like the simplistic moral lessons that are shared through the interactions with other characters. I don’t plan to rush on to listen to books 2-6 in the series, all similarly short and narrated by Luke Daniels which is a plus. This is apparently set out to be chapter books for young readers and I think the audio could be a good listen for families on short trips or for Minecraft fans.

Audio Notes: Luke Daniels is a good narrator whose narration on this helped me push through to the end. Luke’s characters voices and energy definitely added to the story for me.

Source: 2020 Free Audible Plus Catalog. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet Audio goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: I'm On It (Elephant & Piggie Like Reading!) by Andrea Tsurumi

This is a fun children's book.
I'm On It! (Elephant & Piggie Like Reading!)
by Andrea Tsurumi; Illustrater Mo Willems

Releases May 11.
Publisher : Hyperion Books for Children (May 11, 2021)
Hardcover : 64 pages
ISBN-10 : 1368066968
Reading age : 5 - 8 years
Grade level : Kindergarten - 3
Genre: Animals, Children, Friendship
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Goat likes to lead. Goat also likes Frog to follow.
When Goat jumps on it, Frog does, too. Soon Goat and Frog are on it, along it, above it, inside it, beside it, around it, and under it―phew! How can their friendship get through it?

Review:
Goat is a bit rambunctious and likes to challenge his friend Frog to follow what Goat does. Goat uses all sorts of prepositions with props. Frog tries to keep up while balancing on his lily pad. Initially the game is fun, but soon it becomes overwhelming for Frog. Can their friendship survive all this “one-upsmanship”?

This is a fun book with bright, cute illustrations. The book shares propositions for young people to learn and enjoy in a fun way. It also provides the opportunity to discuss friendship and peer pressure. This is apparently part of a series called Elephant & Piggie Like Reading! where Elephant and Piggie introduce the book and conclude it. I recommend this as a fun book to share with kindergarten and elementary children.

Source: NetGalley 2021. This qualifies for 2021NetGalley and 2021Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Too Crowded by Lena Podesta

This is very cute.
Too Crowded
by Lena Podesta

• Publisher : Sourcebooks Jabberwocky (April 6, 2021)
• ASIN : B08NWFWJ4G
• Hardcover : 40 pages
• Reading age : 4 - 8 years
• Grade level : 1 - 3
Genre: Children, Fish, Sharing
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.

A hilarious, heartwarming picture book with subtle lessons about the importance of sharing, home, and friendship.
Gil the Goldfish lives in a fishbowl with 138 pebbles―he counts them every day―and a castle. It feels TOO CROWDED! When Gil leaves his bowl in search of open spaces, he finds a world full of many interesting...and loud ... and possibly dangerous creatures.
It turns out that life outside the bowl might not be right for a fish. Thank goodness for Turtle, a citizen of the not-so-great outdoors who comes to Gil's rescue! Will Gil make peace with his home sweet home, and maybe even find room for a friend in the process?

Review:
Gil the Goldfish decides one day that his fishbowl, with the same pebbles to count each day, is too crowded for him. He sets out to find a better place to live. But each place he finds has a different problem. Eventually he comes upon a turtle who points out that Gil needs to get back to his bowl. Once rescued Gil experiences a change of heart and finds room for a friend.

This is a very cute and easy read. I enjoyed the adventures and experiences that were shared for Gil even though it may have been unrealistic to see a fish travel outside his bowl. The story shares a good message - that the grass isn’t always greener - and also notes that life can be better sharing with a friend. The images are clean, colorful and precise without being busy or overwhelming. I would be glad to share this with my grandchildren.

Source: NetGalley 2020. This qualifies for 2021TBR and 2021NetGalley goals.

Audible Book Review: The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis

I enjoyed listening to this Christian Classic.

The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe
The Chronicles of Narnia
By: C.S. Lewis
Narrated by: Michael York

Length: 4 hrs and 21 mins
Release date: 12-26-04
Publisher: HarperAudio
Genre: Children, Christian, Classic
My Rating: 4.75 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.75; Narration 4.5.

Publisher's Summary
Don't miss one of America's top 100 most-loved novels, selected by PBS's The Great American Read.
Four adventurous siblings - Peter, Susan, Edmund, and Lucy Pevensie - step through a wardrobe door an into the land of Narnia, a land frozen in eternal winter and enslaved by the power of the White Witch. But when almost all hope is lost, the return of the Great Lion, Aslan, signals a great change...and a great sacrifice.
The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe is the second book in C. S. Lewis' classic fantasy series, which has been drawing readers and listeners of all ages into a magical land with unforgettable characters for over 60 years. This is a stand-alone listen, but if you would like to explore more of the Narnian realm, follow up with The Horse and His Boy, the third book in The Chronicles of Narnia.
Don't miss any of the books in C.S. Lewis' classic Chronicles of Narnia series.
©1950, 1978 C.S. Lewis Pte. Ltd (P)2000 HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.

Review:
This Christian tale tells the story of four children, two son and two daughters of Adam. They have been sent away from wartime London to a home of an old professor. There they stumble upon a wardrobe that leads them into a strange land frozen in eternal winter. Lucy is the first to find this strange world where she made a friend of a half fawn.

The other children don’t believe her and especially Edmund makes fun of her. Then he goes out and learns that the world is real. Edmund runs into the White Witch and she shares an enchanted treat to befriend him.

It takes some time but in a few weeks all the children go through the wardrobe. They learn the land is called Narnia and that the land and inhabitants are under the spell of the wicked White Witch. The other siblings make friends with a beaver family but Edmund sneaks away to find the White Witch.

The Beaver family explains that there is a prophesy that four children of Adam will save the land of Narnia. The White Witch plans to stop them by freezing them like she has other enemies, by allowing her wolf guards to kill them or by any other means necessary to keep her control.

The children have no idea how they can save the land but then the Great Lion, Aslan returns and brings hope. His breath and touch release the good animals who have been frozen. Each child has a role to play but Aslan will have to make a great sacrifice to save the children and Narnia.

I read this when I was younger and have watched the movie. It is a classic tale of good versus even and interestingly, this listen gave me a new insight to the Christian allegory. I was fully engaged and enchanted. If you have never read this, I encourage you to. If you read it as a child, take the effort to re-read and enjoy the message!

Audio Notes: The narration by Michael York is delightful. The quality of the audio is a bit lacking as it sounds older and has some volume inconsistencies. Still, I enjoyed the ability to listen to this precious work.

Source: 11/3/18 Audible Daily Deal $1.95. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021Audiobook, and 2021Alphabet (Audio) goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Quokkas, the Snails, and the Land of Happiness by Eric Geiger and Evie Geiger

This has a wonderful message of unconditional love!
The Quokkas, the Snails, and the Land of Happiness
Eric Geiger, Evie Geiger

Publisher : B&H Kids (March 16, 2021)
Hardcover : 64 pages
ISBN-10 : 1087713110
Reading age : 6 - 10 years
Grade level : 1 - 5
Genre: Children, Christian Values, Emotions
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

Two quokkas, two snails, one strawberry patch . . .
Suzy and Sam Snail live in the Land of Sadness, constantly working hard to feel loved. But their gloomy lives just might change when they meet two friendly quokkas who tell them all about the Creator and what life is like in the Land of Happiness. Will the Snails remain sad and empty? Or will they eagerly journey to a new land where grace, joy, and contentment grow instead?
Join these four quirky friends in the strawberry patch, and let this parable-style story offer your family a powerful conversation starter and a celebration of God’s gift of grace.

Review:
Kenton and Kailey are two happy Quokka children who live in the Land of Happiness. Their life isn’t always perfect, but they are grateful for all they have. They have a life perspective that gives them joy.

Across a meadow, in the Land of Sadness, lives the Snail family. Suzy and Sam struggle each day to earn approval from their parents and at school.

One day the four children meet in the strawberry patch between the lands. Kenton and Kailey share about the Creator and the ‘secret’ to their happy life. They invite Suzy and Sam to tell their parents and move to the Land of Happiness.

What is the secret to the Quokkas’ happiness? Will the Snails chose to change their view of life? This is a very sweet story that shares a message of God’s unconditional grace and love. I had never heard of Quokkas so that interested me by itself. The four children are cute and the message really warms my heart. The illustrations are adorable and the story is suitable, and I recommend it, for young readers.

Source: NetGalley 2020. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021NetGalley and 2021 Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: LOVE by Corrinne Averiss

This has a very good message that is sweetly delivered.

LOVE
by Corrinne Averiss

ASIN : B08NCN6LJD
Publisher : words & pictures; Illustrated edition (January 19, 2021)
File size : 10598 KB
Print Length : 32 pages
Children Age : 4-6 Years
Genre: Children, Educational, Emotions
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0.

Funny, emotional, and uplifting picture book about separation and love, to help children understand their emotions.
Everyone loves everyone in Tess’s house, but when Tess has to leave for school for the very first time, she is worried that her family’s love might not stretch that far. Mom explains that love is like a string, it connects people together even when they are far away. At school Tess notices that all the children have strings! Some are new, some are old, some stretch a long way, and some even stretch right up into the sky. But what happens when a string breaks?
Love is the third in a trio of feel-good picture books from author Corrinne Averiss (Joy (2018), Hope (2019)) - a pure delight from start to finish. A wonderful story that subtly tackles difficult topics of death, grief, separation, and overcoming anxiety.

Review:
Tess is blessed to have a warm and lovely family consisting of mother, father, daughter and son. The time comes for Tess to go to school and she is concerned about leaving her family. Her mother explains that love is a string, connecting people even when they are far away. Tess’s teacher encourages her and reinforces the message. Tess sees other children with strings and one has a string that connects even an absent parent. But how will Tess react at the end of the day when the other children leave and her parents haven’t yet arrived?

This is a lovely picture book and an easy read for young children. The message is beautiful and perfect to share with children who will be experiencing time away from their parents whether for school or perhaps for deployment or medical reasons. The illustrations are clear and charming. I highly recommend this, and I would like to see Ms. Averiss’ previous books too.

Source: 2020 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021NetGalley and 2021Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Pugly Duckling by Carla Siravo

This is very cute but has a major flaw.

The Pugly Duckling
by Carla Siravo
P. Santiago (Illustrator)

Publisher : Indigo River Pub (December 8, 2020)
Paperback : 36 pages
ISBN-13 : 978-1950906802
Reading age : 5 - 6 years
Genre: Animals, Children
My Rating: 3.25 of 5.0

Jean and Joe Duck were oh-so-surprised, When their duckling hatched, not quite the right size, With a curly-swirly tail and hairy-scary paws, And furry fat rolls and sharp beast claws. They loved their son, though he was ugly, Not quite a duckling, and a little bit pugly.

Review:
Jean and Joe Duck really want a child. They are thrilled when they finally have an egg to care for, even if it is a "ugly-wugly". And they are thrilled too when the egg hatches and produces their own pugly child. The problems come when the adorable pug tries to pretend to the other ducks that he is one of them. They are ready to accept him if he would stop pretending to be something he is not.

The story is a bit of a twist on the classic Ugly Duckling story. It is very cute and has wonderful rhyming that kids would surely like. I think the illustrations are adorable, like the cover. The story has a good message about being yourself and allowing others to accept you for the real you.

It was hard to give this only a 3.25 rating but I didn't feel right rounding up to 4.0. I wasn't thrilled with the repeated 'ugly" descriptions for the pug as that might give children the idea it is okay to call others "ugly" instead of finding kinder word choices. But the big flaw for me was that dogs don’t come from eggs. An adult understands this but it would have to be explained to children and, for me, that lessens the effectiveness of the story and message. Dressing up in a cute duck costume and trying to fit in with the ducks can be explained. But I think each parent/teacher who might share this book would have to think how they would address the egg issue.

Source: 2020 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2021TBR, 2021NetGalley and 2021Alphabet goals.

Book Review: Message in a Bauble (Big Honey Dog Mysteries #3) by H.Y. Hanna

This was a fun little Christmas mystery with dogs as the stars!

Message in a Bauble (Big Honey Dog Mysteries #3)
by H.Y. Hanna

Published December 10th 2013
by H.Y. Hanna (first published November 26th 2013)
ASIN B00GYD4EMC
This story does not seem to be available on its own but it is part of the collection:
Big Honey Dog Mysteries HOLIDAY COLLECTION
(Halloween, Christmas & Easter stories for kids): A dog detective holiday mystery adventure for children ages 9 to 12 years.
Publisher : Wisheart Press (October 20, 2014)
Genre: Children, Christmas, Dogs, Mystery
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.

Christmas intrigue. Daring rescue. Serious slobber.
When Honey the Great Dane finds a hidden note inside a strange Christmas bauble, the festive season takes a sinister turn. Was the note from a trapped child? Join Honey and her canine friends as they set off on a Search & Rescue--from snowy playgrounds to eerie libraries--while they race to solve the mystery of the message in the bauble.
Kids and dog lovers will love this action-packed Christmas mystery filled with suspense and humour - not to mention candy canes, gingerbread cookies and lots of mince pies!
This short novella is part of the Big Honey Dog Mysteries - don't forget to check out the full novels in the series: Curse of the Scarab(#1) and A Secret in Time(#2)
* EACH BOOK CAN BE READ AS A STANDALONE MYSTERY

Review:
Honey is a Great Dane who seems to like to solve puzzles. She has a lovely group of friends, including a Golden Retriever, a Beagle, a Siberian Husky, and a Jack Russell Terrier. Honey finds a piece of torn paper inside a broken Christmas ball. The dogs decipher the note and decide that it is a message for help from a trapped child. Honey is unable to get the attention of her human companion, so she and her friends decide to follow the clues themselves.

The story is sweet and engaging. The dogs have their own cute quirks (Honey has slobber) and humorous phrases like: “Oh, ticks”, “festering fleas” and “for barking out loud”. The mystery is fun and helps a child and a dog as the investigation progresses. The author also uses the mystery to share information about another animal and to share knowledge of food risks to dogs. This is a quick, fun read and I recommend this (and probably the other books in the series) to those who enjoy dog stories.

Ms. Hanna also writes the Oxford Tearoom Mystery series with cat characters. I have a box set on my Audible TBR and I look forward to listening to it.

Source: Free Kindle November 2014. This qualifies for 2020TBR goal.

Book Review: Thomas & the Christmas Orange: Storybook Advent Calendar Singles by Lewis Brech

This is a nice book that speaks of sharing small blessings.
Thomas & the Christmas Orange: Storybook Advent Calendar Singles
by Lewis Brech

ASIN : B004AE3MOS
Publisher : LEEP Publishing (October 30, 2010)
File size : 1533 KB
Genre: Children, Christmas, Classic
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0.

From Storybook Advent Calendar
A charming story about giving and the simple things in life was inspired by a folktale about that orange that seems to appear in Christmas stockings each year. Thomas and his parents leave England in 1824. Tragedy strikes and despair and destitution follow, but warmth and love are returned from a simple orange. This is an instant classic and beloved by all who read it!

Review:
Thomas and his parents have lived a sparse life with the landlord raising rents causing hardship. One morning father returns with the surprise of an orange and tickets to take them to the new world. The orange signifies their chance at freedom and the family is excited, anticipating a new life. Sadly, sickness changes things.

Thomas ends up in a work orphanage where one of the few moments of joy is when the children receive an orange as a treat on Christmas morning. One Christmas Thomas is punished and refused his orange gift. When things look completely desolate, a surprise gives warmth and hope to Thomas.

This is a quick, sad read with an inspirational message. The few images are simple and fitting. I enjoyed the story but not the advertisements that take numerous pages at the end. A simple listing of other books would have been fine.

Source: August 2011 Free Kindle download. This qualifies for 2020TBR goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: Yang Warriors by Kao Kalia Yang

Oh boy - this is touching!

Yang Warriors
by Kao Kalia Yang

Illustrations by Billy Thao

Hardcover : 40 pages
Publisher : Univ Of Minnesota Press (April 13, 2021)
ISBN-13 : 978-1517907983
Reading level : 5 - 10 years
Grade level : Kindergarten - 5
Genre: Children, Immigration, Refugee
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Award-winning author Kao Kalia Yang delivers an inspiring tale of resourceful children confronting adversaries in a refugee camp.
After lunch the Yang warriors prepare for battle. They practice drills, balance rocks on their heads, wield magical swords from fallen branches. Led by ten-year-old Master Me (whose name means “little”), the ten cousins are ready to defend the family at all costs. After a week without fresh vegetables , the warriors embark on a dangerous mission to look for food, leaving the camp’s boundaries, knowing their punishment would be severe if they were caught by the guards.
In this inspiring picture book, fierce and determined children confront the hardships of Ban Vinai refugee camp, where the author lived as a child. Yang’s older sister, seven-year-old Dawb, was one of the story’s warriors, and her brave adventure unfolds here with all the suspense and excitement that held her five-year-old sister spellbound many years later. Accompanied by the evocative and rich cultural imagery of debut illustrator Billy Thao, the warriors’ secret mission shows what feats of compassion and courage children can perform, bringing more than foraged greens back to the younger children and to their elders. In this unforgiving place, with little to call their own, these children are the heroes, offering gifts of hope and belonging in a truly unforgettable way.

Review:
The Yang warriors are a group of young children in a refugee camp in Thailand. (Ban Vinai camp housed many highland people, known as Hmong, who fled communist rule in Laos from 1975 until 1992.) The conditions in the camp are hard and the families struggle to have enough food to sustain life. The guards are harsh and will punish those who challenge the boundaries of the camp.

The children gather in a quiet, unobtrusive group to meditate and train in practice drills, balancing rocks and wielding branch swords. The children seek to be prepared to act if and when needed to help their families and especially their younger siblings. Having heard of vegetables just beyond the camp, they plan a mission to sneak out and gather those precious greens for their families.

The story is told simply from the view of the author’s memories as a five-year-old seeing the bravery and compassion of her seven-year-old sister and their cousins. The story is poignant, gripping, and heart-wrenching. I found my breath hitching as I read of these sorrowful children. I found the closing message of resourcefulness and hope encouraging (but not enough). I think the message will have to be explained to children. The author's and illustrator's notes add to the work.

The illustrations are by a Hmong American who researched and achieved a style that fits beautifully and enhances the text. The gentle images use vibrant colors and a mystical touch. The story is appropriate to share with children, explaining the struggles of refugee families and what we might be able to do to help others. I plan to purchase the print book to share with my grandchildren.

Source: 2020 NetGalley. This qualifies for 2020NetGalley and 2020Alphabet goals.

#NetGalley Book Review: Calvin the Christmas Tree by Stephen G. Bowling

This is cute for Christmas with a positive message.
Calvin the Christmas Tree
by Stephen G. Bowling

File size : 18304 KB
Publisher : Valley of Mexico, Inc (December 8, 2019)
Print length : 38 pages
ASIN : B082J7NT8R
Genre: Children, Christmas
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0.

He’s been preparing for the season since he was a sapling. But will he be tall enough to start spreading joy?
The thought of missing Christmas has little Calvin quaking in his roots. The smallest tree on his famous farm, his branches get all ruffled when a grumpy old coot says he isn’t strong enough for ornaments. But he’s thrilled when he’s finally pulled from the ground and put on sale just in time for Christmas Eve!
As excited families whisk away all the other evergreens, Calvin’s smile fades when he finds himself all alone. And he worries the grizzled meanie might’ve been right when the store closes, and he’s covered in snow… until he sees headlights peeking through the storm.
Will Calvin be left out in the cold, or is one special family about to make him their shining star?
Calvin the Christmas Tree is a beautifully heartwarming children’s picture book. If you or your child like wonderful illustrations, classic scenes from simpler times, and charming emotional journeys, then you’ll love Stephen G. Bowling’s inviting tale.

Review:
Calvin is the smallest of trees on his famous Christmas tree farm. He has been waiting to grow big enough, and even though he is still small, he puffs himself up hoping to be cut and taking to town. Calvin insists that he can be a Christmas tree for the right family.

This is a sweet story that gives encouragement to even the small and especially to those who believe they can do the job and be something special. It has a nice positive message that makes a good story for children at Christmas. The story is easy to read and the images are easy and charming. I quite enjoyed the book and would be pleased to share it with my grandchildren.

Source: NetGalley 2020. This qualifies for 2020NetGalley goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Boy Who Moved Christmas by Eric Walters, Nicole Wellwood

This brought tears to my eyes - so sweet.
The Boy Who Moved Christmas
by Eric Walters, Nicole Wellwood, illustrator Carloe Liu

Grade level : 1 - 2 Item Weight : 5.6 ounces
Paperback : 32 pages
Reading level : 3 - 7 years
ISBN-13 : 978-1771089111
Publisher : Nimbus Publishing Limited (October 1, 2020)
Genre: Children, Death, Illness
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0.

Based on a true story, this is a touching reminder of the power of Christmas and community spirit, no matter what the time of year.
It's October, but in seven-year-old Evan's town, every house is decorated for Christmas and a giant holiday parade is about to begin. The bump in Evan's head means he might not make it to December, so all his friends, family, neighbours, and thousands of strangers have moved Christmas just for him.
Evan is delighted to see the trees, the lights, and even snow, but he's a little worried that the parade might not be complete. How will Santa know he needs to visit so early? Will it even feel like Christmas without Santa there?
Based on the true story of Evan Leversage and featuring an afterword by his mother, Nicole Wellwood, The Boy who Moved Christmas is a loving tribute from the duo behind Always With You, and a touching reminder of the power of the Christmas spirit―no matter what time of year.

Review:
As the blurb explains, this is based on a true story of a ten-year old, Evan, who is dying of a brain tumor. The simple story and illustrations share how the entire community, police, firemen, shop owners and neighbors, join the family in moving Christmas to October to celebrate with Evan. They even arrange to provide a ride with Santa.

The story isn’t brilliant, and the illustrations aren’t polished, but the package is beautiful in its caring and sentiment. It would certainly be lovely if all communities could share such a giving and caring attitude all year long. The story creates a nice opportunity to share with children, healthy or ill, the caring spirit that is focused around Christmas. I would recommend this as a nice addition for families.

Source: NetGalley 2020. This qualifies for 2020NetGaley goal.

#NetGalley Audiobook Review: A Long Road on a Short Day by Gary D. Schmidt and Elizabeth Stickney

I loved this charming little story.

A Long Road on a Short Day
by Gary D. Schmidt, Elizabeth Stickney
Eugene Yelchin (Illustrator)
Narrated by: Matt Godfrey

Publisher Recorded Books, Inc. November 12, 2020
Genre: Children, Family, Farm Animals
My Rating: 5.0 of 5.0 Overall; Story 5.0; Narration 5.0.

A tender story of a father-son adventure with themes of community and kindness, in short chapters with vivid full-color illustrations, by bestseller and Newbery Honor winner Gary D. Schmidt and acclaimed artist Eugene Yelchin.
In a story of perseverance and determination told with warmth and sparkling with humor, a short winter day finds Samuel and Papa walking a long road on Samuel's first trading trip. Meeting strangers, practicing good manners, and proud to be in Papa's company, Samuel watches and learns as Papa trades up from almost nothing to the milk cow Mama is yearning for. Simple text combines with vivid illustrations for a satisfying tale that will resonate with readers who enjoy an adventure with dad.

Review:
Mama wants a brown eyed cow to have milk for the baby and for Papa’s tea. It is a winter day so Papa tells Samuel to ‘dress warm’ as he is going with Papa on the long journey to town to trade for the cow. Samuel uses his best manners while meeting strangers and helping Papa make decisions on the trades. There are items Papa likes, and some Samuel would like to keep, but they have to keep on trading to get the cow for Mama. And they must do it on “a long road on a short day”.

This is a very charming story even to listen to without the illustrations. There are good descriptions and interesting neighbors with trades to be made. This would be a lovely book to share with young children. I recommend this for children and parents to enjoy.

Audio Notes: Matt Godfrey does a really nice job with the narration. His voice is soothing as he shares the simple, direct text. I enjoyed the audio and I bet having the audio with the illustrated book would be wonderful.

Source: 2020 NetGalley Audio. This qualifies for 2020NetGalley and 2020Audiobook goals.

Audible Book Review: Interview with the Robot by Lee Bacon

I enjoyed this quick, fun story.
Interview with the Robot
By: Lee Bacon
Narrated by: Kevin T. Collins, Ellen Archer, Josh Hurley, Eileen Stevens, Erin Mallon, Jonathan Davis, Stephen Bel Davies

Length: 3 hrs and 42 mins
Release date: 01-02-20
Publisher: Audible Originals
Categories: Children's Audiobooks, Science Fiction & Fantasy
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0 Overall; Story 4.5; Narration 4.5.

About This Audible Original
Ages 10+
Fugitive. Criminal. Robot.
A sci-fi adventure for young listeners, Interview with the Robot introduces a unique heroine who seeks the truth about herself.
Eve looks like an ordinary 12-year-old girl, but there’s nothing ordinary about her. She has no last name. No parents or guardian. She’s on the run from a dangerous and secretive organization that will stop at nothing to track her down.
And most astonishing of all: she’s a robot, a product of Eden Laboratories. When Eve discovers the truth, she realizes everything she thought she knew about herself is a lie. Eve manages to escape, fleeing the lab, the only home she’s ever known.
After being arrested for shoplifting, Eve is interviewed by Petra Amis from Child Welfare Services. Her incredible story unfolds during the interrogation, with flashbacks to her life inside Eden Laboratories, which has a dark secret. Listeners follow Eve from her first consciousness to her evolution as a nearly-human companion to Emory, the son of the founder of Eden Laboratories.
Exploring a range of topics that drive our society and our lives—topics such as artificial intelligence and human nature—Interview with the Robot is a story told by a startlingly original protagonist, a story that explores the vast potential of technology and the deep complexities of humanity.
Interview with the Robot comes to life with a multicast performance including Eileen Stevens as Eve, Ellen Archer as Petra Amis, Jonathan Davis as David Sharp, Kevin T. Collins as Emory Sharp, Josh Hurley as a Boswell employee, Erin Mallon as a device/robot and female barista, and Steven Bel Davies as a store clerk, hotel employee, and office clerk.
©2019 Lee Bacon (P)2019 Audible Originals, LLC

Review:
Eve looks like a regular 12-year-old girl, but she is far from it. She is a unique humanoid robot who was caught shoplifting. Eve is in a police interrogation room being interviewed by Petra, an advocate from Child Welfare Services. How and why Eve ended up in the police station is revealed as the interview proceeds. At first her story seems outrageous, but soon visible facts begin to prove what she is saying.

When strangers begin to show up at the station expressing concern for their ‘cousin’, Petra realizes that she has a dilemma on her hands. Does Petra treat Eve as the property of a wealthy corporation with secrets to protect or should Petra try to help Eve in her efforts to escape? 

In the true nature of science fiction, this short story is full of irony and human dilemma. The author does a wonderful job of developing Eve from AI cube to near human girl. Her friendship with awkward, rather geeky Emory is rather endearing especially as it leads to one of the twists in the story. This is a quick, engaging story and can be enjoyed by adults as well as young people. 

Audio Notes: The narration is a god team effort by Kevin T. Collins, Ellen Archer, Josh Hurley, Eileen Stevens, Erin Mallon, Jonathan Davis and Stephen Bel Davies. I have no idea who played which characters but they all did a good job delivering an entertaining and seamless presentation. I am glad that I was able to listen to this quick story.

1/24/2020 Second January Free Audible Original. This qualifies for 2020Audiobook goal.

#NetGalley Book Review: The Queen Bee and Me by Gillian McDunn

This is a good MG story that addresses peer pressure and bees!

The Queen Bee and Me
Gillian McDunn

File Size: 5935 KB
Print Length: 288 pages
Publisher: Bloomsbury Children's Books; 1 edition (March 3, 2020)
Language: English
ASIN: B07WC3TKR4
Genre: Bees, Children, Peer Pressure
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0.

From the highly acclaimed author of Caterpillar Summer comes a heartfelt story about the sweetness and stings of middle-school friendship.
Meg has always found comfort in her best friend Beatrix's shadow. Self-assured Beatrix is the one who makes decisions, and the girls have been a pair since kindergarten. But middle school has brought some changes in Beatrix, especially when Meg tries to step outside her role as sidekick.
A special science elective is Meg's first step away, but when she's paired with quirky new girl Hazel, Beatrix steps in to stake her claim on Meg. Meg is taken aback at how mean Beatrix can be--and how difficult it is to stand up to her friend. But as Meg gets to know Hazel while working on their backyard beehive project, she starts to wonder: Is being Beatrix's friend worth turning down the possibility of finding her own voice?
This pitch-perfect exploration of middle-school friendship dynamics brims with heart and hope, and will resonate with readers of all ages.

Review:
Meg has a nervous nature. She and Beatrice have been friends for years. As they enter middle school, Meg is excited to be accepted into a special science class. She just doesn’t know how to tell Bea who will want Meg to join her in dance class as usual. Meg has felt Bea’s ‘freeze’ attitude before and doesn’t want to experience that again.

A new girl has moved into the neighborhood. Hazel is quirky and, to Meg’s horror, Hazel keeps beehives. Hazel and her mother attend a local party hosted by Bea’s mother. When Hazel unexpectedly becomes the center of attention, Bea quickly becomes jealous and starts to make fun of Hazel. When it slips that Meg is taking science Bea is angry that Meg didn’t tell her. Things get worse when Hazel becomes Meg’s science lab partner.

Meg’s mother encourages Meg to become friends with Hazel. But Meg is afraid of the bees that Hazel is so excited about. Meg is in a quandary caught between her childhood friend and the possibility of a making a new friend. Meg wants to stand up to Bea and her entourage who are making fun of Hazel and being mean to Meg too.

This is a story of middle-grade peer pressure and growth. I could feel Meg’s anguish and I didn’t care for Bea and her friends. I felt sorry for Bea too as she is willing to lose a good friend over her own self-importance. Hazel has her own emotional issues that children can relate to. I also loved the science of the bees and how the girls used that creatively in their science project and even in response to an effort to ban the beehives from town. I think this is an appropriate book for middle graders to read to understand the impact their behaviors can have on children who are new or different.

Source: Title from the publisher and NetGalley 2020. This qualifies for 2020 NetGalley goal.