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The Jediran Quest
Pre-teen Braven of Delta Colony looks forward to the class field trip on the planet of Jedira. Alongside his mother, chief botanist of the colony, Braven plans to explore and catalog the flora of the mysterious Towers, one of the few places on Jedira where plant life truly flourishes. But when an unexpected problem prevents Braven’s mother from accompanying him, the field trip begins to go sideways. Arriving at the Towers, Braven and his classmates are soon thrown into an epic quest, as the serenity of Jedira is shattered by an unimaginable threat. Together, Braven and his fellow companions must work together to overcome the odds if they have any hope of survival.
The Jedira Quest by Cal Davis is an exceptional tale of teamwork in the face of danger. Thrown into deadly survival situations with no guidance and few supplies, Braven and his cohorts must use every ounce of wisdom they possess in order to overcome the challenges they face. A story of travel and ingenuity, friendship and endurance, this incredible science fiction narrative contains echoes of prehistory as the preteens’ journey on Jedira continues.
This highly engaging story has perfect pacing, with the preteens facing regular challenges without the narrative becoming cluttered. The characters are each unique and lend their own abilities to the team. Stalwart Braven, wise Jauris, shy Whisper, brave Khara, steady Zhan, and roguish twins Dirk and Kirk all have a part to play as the quest develops. There are moments of laughter and serious intensity as the story weaves together, leading this remarkable quest to a satisfying conclusion.
This captivating story is a well-crafted tale that shines brightly like the two moons of Jedira. With its action-packed narrative, exceptional depth, and plot that resonates with themes of friendship and survival, The Jedira Quest is a must-read for science fiction fans. It is suitable for middle-grade readers and above who enjoy a thrilling and exciting adventure. Author Davis provides readers with excellent storytelling, perfect pacing, and compelling characters.
Pages: 168 | ASIN : B0B3V7PDZ6
Firefly
Firefly: Let There Be Light by Sean Coons presents a middle-grade adventure with a meaningful lesson within. When a mischievous firefly named Flash learns how to illuminate and fly for the first time, he makes reckless decisions and invites trouble into his town. As a result of his latest stunt, he unintentionally unleashes a tyrannical dragonfly attack in Temple Hollow. At the same time, he and his friends find themselves stranded in a dangerous desert in Texas. Amidst the mysterious desert, he inspires a motley crew of misfits to help him get home, but is he prepared for all the challenges that lie ahead?
Sean Coons has written an enticing tale with amusement suitable for children of all ages. He has interwoven real life with his fictional world of insects by setting this story in existing US towns. Various insects make up the exciting cast in Coons’ book, and he has used dialects of different languages to make this book even more enjoyable.
The author engages his fictitious cast in scenarios that illustrate real-life lessons, such as the battle between good and evil, democracy and tyranny, the importance of friendship, and, most importantly, the cost and consequences of actions. Flash’s wild and daredevil-like spirit will enthrall young readers, and when they watch him own up to his reckless decisions and do everything in his power to correct them, they will likely want to do the same. In addition, several riveting plot twists will pique children’s interests and keep them engaged throughout the story and into the exciting finale.
Firefly, written by Sean Coons for his son, is a middle-grade chapter book that kids worldwide can relate to and enjoy. Filled with fatherly advice and love, this coming-of-age story is an incredible adventure with humor and words of wisdom that will delight the whole family.
Pages: 317 | ASIN : B0BSBVJK2Z
Santa Fe Tom
Tom is a desert box turtle who is shy and quiet. But the thing is, Tom has an amazing singing voice that he has never shared with his friends. He dreams of being able to sing and share his talent with others, but he is just too afraid. One day while practicing a surprise birthday song for their friend, all the animals hear his amazing voice and tell him how talented he is. With the help of his friends, Tom tries out for the opera and learns about self-confidence and working through his fears. Can he make his dreams of singing for all the animals come true?
Santa Fe Tom, written by Rachel Bate and illustrated by Rebecca McGuire Jacob, is a heartwarming story written in verse about overcoming fears and learning to have self-confidence. This is also a story about friendship, supporting friends, and encouraging one another to be their best possible selves.
In addition to this wonderful story, there are reference facts about the desert box turtle that teachers and families can talk to children about. The artwork is magnificent and inspirational for children. Rebecca really captured Tom’s emotions in the illustrations, and children will be able to relate to his feelings.
Santa Fe Tom is a captivating picture book that children will enjoy reading and looking through. The important message about believing in yourself and supporting your friends shines through each page and makes for wonderful discussion openers with younger kids. Readers will want to keep this children’s book on their shelves to share for generations.
Pages: 38 | ISBN: 1645432696
Desert Bliss
Calico, a kitten, has been abandoned with his siblings in the desert. Calico knows there is a better life out there. Afraid of the unknown, he embarks on a journey through the desert with the help of a white coyote. Is the coyote really there to help Calico or does he have other motives?
Desert Bliss is a beautifully illustrated story that teaches young readers to listen to their inner voice. Calico doesn’t let his fear of the unknown stop him from finding his happiness. This is the perfect lesson for young readers to show them that it is okay to explore the unknown and to not let fear stop them from trying something new.
The exquisite images are colorful and look like pieces that can be in an art collection. They are captivating and there is much to look at. Each illustration matches the soothing tone of the book. I felt comforted by the authors calming writing style and images as I was reading. I loved this story and I really wanted to know what happened to Calico’s siblings and if they found happiness. Bliss, the white coyote is a beautiful and mysterious character, and I enjoyed reading about him as I felt he offered and alluring quality to the book.
Desert Bliss by Rachel Bate is a reassuring picture book that is a perfect nighttime story for children. This wonderful children’s book is filled with lessons that will inspire kids to trust their instincts, try something new, and know that there are good people out there who will help them.
Pages: 38 | ISBN: 1631779583
Clumsy Nelson
Clumsy Nelson by Serena Lane Ferrari follows an adorable yet clumsy little seal. Nelson has a terrible week, full of accidents and needing help at every turn, whether it be swimming in the ocean or moseying along the beach. His fellow aquatic friends shame him for all his mishaps, but are these mishaps his fault? Or are they created by something Nelson has no control over?
In this charmingly illustrated children’s book, we are given bits of information about the main character, Nelson, that at first seems to be causing himself grief, but soon we realize he is the story’s victim. This story is exceptionally well written and was obviously thought out to its fullest extent. It succeeded in telling children about the importance of keeping our oceans and beaches pollution-free and the entire earth. It sheds light in a way that young minds, on a fundamental level, can discuss these issues clearly and start conversations about what can be done to help keep the world clean. I feel that kids can grasp serious scenarios such as this when displayed in such a manner as this author has done.
I loved this story right off the bat. Nelson is such a cute and loveable character. You can’t help but be attached and sympathize with him when his friends are not so nice. This picture book would be a great addition to anyone’s library or classroom. Highlighting critical environmental issues and promoting self-esteem, this children’s book will entertain and educate readers for years to come.
Pages: 37 | ASIN : B08HX52P45
Princess Hope & Snowflake The Quest
Princess Hope lives on beautiful Rainbow Island alongside her beloved father, White Eagle, and the members of her tribe. When threatened by a band of bloodthirsty pirates, Princess Hope uses her abilities to ask her animal friends for aid in protecting her home. However, after clashing with the pirates, Hope’s world is suddenly turned even further upside down as she stands on the brink of losing her beloved father forever. Embarking on an epic quest alongside Snowflake, the white grizzly cub with blue eyes, Spirit the eagle, Lobo the wolf, and Thor the cougar, Princess Hope must learn the true meaning of selflessness and sacrifice as she fights for her father’s life.
Princess Hope and Snowflake: The Quest by Clark W. Colepaugh is a unique adventure that takes place in the Pacific. Hope and the people of Rainbow Island have many elements of Native American culture, with neighboring islands infused with the myths and legends of the Pacific Islands. Young Hope is a stalwart girl who is willing to risk everything to protect those she loves, and she and her animal companions learn many valuable lessons about heroism along the way. The story is fast-paced and kept my interest throughout its pages, which feature gorgeous full-color photographs. Hope’s journey spoke to my heart as the quest full of twists and turns swiftly progressed to a satisfying conclusion.
There were a few places in the story where the action slowed for explanatory purposes but remained interesting nonetheless. In addition, numerous type errors were distracting; however, the plot is so intriguing that it overcomes these minor difficulties with ease as Hope continues her quest.
One unique addition to this extraordinary novel is the inclusion of songs and poetry. These additions allow readers to feel a deeper connection with the characters and story. Music can touch people’s souls in a way that prose does not always do; thus, the inclusion of these allows readers to become fully emersed in the journey of characters.
Princess Hope and Snowflake: The Quest is a one-of-a-kind narrative about family, courage, and sacrifice. Its originality and highly compelling story make this novel stand out in children’s fiction. Recommended for ages 12 and up due to violence and blood, this unique tale is an out-of-the-box adventure that pulls the reader into a rich world of mythology and the value of friendship. An unforgettable journey to save a father’s life, the story of Princess Hope and Snowflake is a tale of courage and wisdom in the face of danger.
Pages: 109 | ASIN : B0BGMMWHFS
DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story
One seemingly ordinary morning, a mom made pancakes for her children when two jumped out of the frying pan and ran out the door! These two pancakes are named Pablo and Priscilla; they are the DanSing Pancakes. So off they ran into the woods to find a place to live and figure out what they were here to do. Through a dream, the two discovered their purpose here in the world. They have been sent to teach children the dangers of drinking and drugs. Now teaching kids to be healthy is hard. So they had to find a way to do so that would get their attention. A new song and dance was the answer, and together Pablo and Priscilla created an engaging tune to teach children to stay away from drugs and alcohol.
DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story is a well-written and entertaining children’s book. This fantastic story has been developed by a team of creators, Joe Coleman, Rick Vitacco, Philip B. Auerbach, Aubrey Morgan Foster, Tracy Foster Pyke, Tracy Saunders, and Shayna Small. This is more than just a picture book. There is an audiobook that accompanies this story and a QR code that takes readers to the song on YouTube. As well as there is a pledge sheet for children to sign and additional activities to help foster healthy habits in children. This team of creators has gone above and beyond to create an accessible learning experience for children.
The whimsical artwork will draw in young readers and keep them engaged, whether they are reading the story or listening to it being read in person or the audio version of the story. The rhythmic storytelling makes listening and reading it out loud fun, ensuring that the message is not lost and will want to be heard over and over.
DanSing Pancakes’ Healthy Choices Musical Story is everything an educational and thought-provoking children’s book should be. It has fun characters, music, an entertaining and original storyline, and an important message about making smart choices. This phenomenal story would be an excellent addition to classrooms, after-school centers, libraries, and homes.
Pages: 44 | ASIN : B0B14J7L23
Adventures with Pop Pop at Grant’s Farm
In this touching story written by Warren Martin, we follow Dean and Levi, who learn about the importance of spending quality time with family. All families have their traditions. It could be yearly summer vacations, specific foods during the holidays, or a family trip. In, Adventures with Pop Pop at Grant’s Farm this is where Dean and Levi year after year spend time with their loved ones on a family trip. We watch through sweet illustrations done by Kat Powell as each member grows and connects with one another with every passing year.
Children will love following Dean and Levi as they visit Grant’s Farm. They will see all the different animals on the farm. It is also great to see how they return for other holidays and how things change and stay the same, highlighting how one place can bring many different memories and emotions. It is touching to see how not only did the farm change over time but so did the family.
This story hits a very emotional spot by the end. It showcases the time we all have together and highlights the fact that we should all fully enjoy the experiences we have with one another and be so grateful for the time allotted to us. Our love and memories of the past make up a good part of who we are as people. The message of family is delivered clearly enough for any reader to grasp and enjoy.
Adventures with Pop Pop at Grant’s Farm is a touching children’s book about the importance of cherishing family. This book made me reflect on my memories with loved ones who are still with us and those who are not. Although it made me tear up by the end, they were happy tears. I would recommend this to any reader; just maybe grab a tissue or two.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0BFM85GX7
LITERARY TITAN 