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Monsters Don’t Say Meep: Even the tiniest roar can make the biggest difference
This children’s book tells the story of Meep, a little monster who just can’t roar like the others at Monster Scare Prep School. Everyone around him belts out their big scary sounds, but poor Meep can only squeak his tiny “meep.” He tries everything, roaring in caves, wearing a pumpkin helmet, even stuffing his mouth full of gooey pumpkin guts, but nothing works. When the Monsters’ Ball goes wild with chaos and scared kittens, it’s Meep’s soft, sweet “meep” that saves the day. Turns out, his quiet voice is the one that really matters.
I loved this children’s story from the very first page. The writing feels playful and full of rhythm, like it’s meant to be read out loud with silly voices and giggles. The way author Bridgetta Tomarchio paints Meep’s struggle is both funny and heart-tugging. It captures how it feels to not fit in, especially when everyone else seems bigger, louder, or braver. The humor, pumpkin guts, fart sounds, and monster mishaps keep it light and fun, while the message sneaks up softly. It’s not about being the scariest; it’s about being yourself. And that “meep”? It’s adorable.
You can tell this story comes from a place of love, especially knowing it was inspired by the author’s son. The idea that our real voices matter, even when they sound different, is such a beautiful thing to teach kids. The vibrant and charming illustrations burst with playful energy, perfectly suited for a children’s picture book. It features a delightful cast of colorful monsters. The warm, bright color palette, combined with the monsters’ expressive faces, creates an inviting and positive atmosphere.
I’d totally recommend Monsters Don’t Say Meep for kids ages three to seven, or anyone who’s ever felt too small to be heard. It’s the kind of book that makes you smile and maybe tear up a little at the end. If you’ve got a shy kid, a loud kid, or any kid in between, this story belongs on your shelf. It’s got the kind of magic that makes bedtime stories worth staying up for.
Pages: 42 | ASIN : B0FQK4N98J
Spencer the Babbit: The Backyard
Spencer the Babbit by Dr. Kraver is a delightful children’s story about a young rabbit named Spencer, who initially finds the idea of playing outside boring but eventually discovers the wonders and adventures that await him in the backyard. Encouraged by his mother, Spencer sets out to explore the yard and quickly realizes that fun is all around him if he just looks for it. From chasing butterflies and playing with bees to discovering ants on a mission and swinging high on the swing set, Spencer learns that the backyard is full of excitement and joy.
I absolutely adored how the book takes us through Spencer’s journey from reluctance to excitement. The writing is simple yet evocative, effortlessly capturing the curiosity and energy of a child discovering the world around them. The repetition of Spencer thinking really hard before venturing outside cleverly mirrors the way children often resist new experiences, only to embrace them wholeheartedly once they dive in.
The rhyming couplets make the story a joy to read aloud, and the rhythm keeps young listeners engaged. The playful language, especially in the scenes where Spencer interacts with the bees and ants, brings the backyard to life. I found myself smiling at the charming way the story introduces children to the concept of imaginative play, showing that adventure doesn’t always have to be far away, it can be right in your own backyard.
One of my favorite parts was when Spencer finally runs outside, filled with joy and ready for adventure. The writing here is particularly vivid, capturing the excitement of a child lost in play. I also appreciated how the story seamlessly transitions from high-energy fun to the calm of the evening, with Spencer winding down and preparing for bed. This balance makes the book not just a fun read but also a great bedtime story.
The artwork is visually appealing and enhances the whimsical and playful tone of the narrative. However, there is a noticeable shift in style, transitioning from CGI artwork to more traditional cartoon drawings. While both styles are of high quality and engaging on their own, the inconsistency can be a bit jarring, disrupting the overall flow of the visual experience. Despite this, the artwork effectively captures the essence of Spencer’s adventures and adds charm to the storytelling.
Spencer the Babbit is a wonderful picture book for young children who may need a little nudge to discover the joys of outdoor play. It’s perfect for parents to read aloud, thanks to its lively rhymes and engaging story. If you’re looking for a book that encourages imagination and a love for nature while also providing a soothing bedtime routine, Spencer the Babbit is a fantastic choice.
Pages: 40
Bobby and His Hobby
Bobby and His Hobby by Shlomo Goldman offers a thoughtful exploration of the consequences of teasing among young children, centered around the character Bobby, an elephant who uses unkind nicknames for his classmates. The story thoughtfully illustrates that Bobby’s behavior stems from his own insecurities, particularly his fear of the dark. This children’s book is particularly suited for young readers embarking on their school journey, as it navigates the complex themes of bullying and empathy in an accessible manner.
Goldman’s narrative is complemented by vibrant illustrations that effectively convey the emotions of each character, reminiscent of animated cartoons in their expressiveness. This visual storytelling enhances the book’s appeal, making it not just a reading experience but also a visual journey. A key strength of the book is its portrayal of the transformation of Bobby’s character. As he learns the impact of his actions and changes his behavior, the story unfolds to show the positive outcomes of friendship and understanding. The narrative thoughtfully depicts how Bobby’s peers respond with compassion to his situation, providing a valuable lesson in empathy and kindness.
Bobby and His Hobby is a meaningful addition to children’s literature, offering young readers insights into dealing with difficult behaviors and understanding the fears that often underlie them.
Pages: 20 | ASIN : B0CLDD2YRV
A Mindful Exercise with a Calm Outcome
Clover Finds Her Calm follows a high-energy puppy struggling to settle down when it is time for bed who discovers a way to relax and sleep. What was the inspiration for your story?
Sleep had been elusive in my home for my son and myself for many years. I researched quite a few remedies and found that box breathing was right for us, being an activity that was a free-to-do mindful exercise and a natural way to settle in for a restful sleep. Adding to that idea, I only had to look down beside me for my character – Clover. My Jack Russell puppy was my muse for this story. It seemed fitting that a high-energy puppy could use some ‘calm’ at bedtime.
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
The main idea is the benefit of box breathing as a mindful exercise with a calm outcome. Also, brings awareness to finding a simple solution to a problem that can be found within yourself, regardless of age.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Rodrigo Merched?
Rodrigo Merched is an amazing illustrator who identified, quickly, what I was looking for and worked magic to bring the ideas to life on the pages of this book. With creative freedom and forward communication, Rodrigo managed to create dreamy illustrations with characterization and detail fitting for the story.
The idea was to use watercolour and maintain a dreamy look throughout the book. The result was gentle to the eye and soothing.
What is the next book that you are working on, and when will it be available?
The next book will include Clover and a young friend facing a challenge on their journey, a challenge that many children face when traveling, for which they discover a solution with their creative minds. The outcome is quirky, unique, and fun. Together they share the gift that the mind can deliver magic! Availability will be mid-2024. Rodrigo Merched will be the illustrator for this project.
Author Links: GoodReads | Website | Instagram
A bedtime story for young restless, energetic toddlers.
Clover is a bouncy, wriggly puppy who finds her inner calm as she learns to ‘box breathe’ when she spots 4 bright stars in the night sky to follow with her eyes.
“With stars as her guides, Clover’s journey is near. To a land of sweet slumber, without any fear. In this magical realm, she drifts off to sleep, with calmness inside, her dreams she will keep.”
Clover Finds Her Calm
Clover Finds Her Calm delves into the bedtime routine of Clover, a spirited puppy grappling with restlessness. Author Paula Jackson skillfully transports readers into Clover’s vivid, dreamlike world, where she navigates her journey to relaxation and sleep. This children’s narrative stands out for its enchanting illustrations, where soft colors and a beautifully rendered night sky captivate the eye and play a crucial role in mirroring Clover’s quest for calmness.
The artwork is particularly noteworthy for its dreamy quality, making it an ideal choice for young readers who might find comfort in its soothing visuals, especially if they share Clover’s initial apprehension of the dark or struggle with restlessness. An admirable aspect of Clover’s character is her self-awareness and proactive approach to managing her sleep difficulties without succumbing to frustration. She instead finds solace in focusing on her breathing and the tranquil night sky. Jackson’s rhyming scheme adds a lyrical dimension to the story, enhancing its appeal. This element not only aids in engaging young readers but also contributes to the overall soothing rhythm of the narrative, in line with the theme of finding calmness. This story emerges as a thoughtful, visually stimulating book that gently guides young readers through the process of self-soothing and finding peace at bedtime.
Clover Finds Her Calm is a treasure trove of gentle wisdom, artistry, and narrative charm. It stands out as an essential addition to any child’s bookshelf, especially for those in need of a peaceful transition to sleep. This book is not only a story but an experience, one that beautifully encapsulates the journey from restlessness to restful peace.
Pages: 34 | ASIN : B0CL3BBRHQ
The Power of Friendship
The Emu Family follows a family of emu who decide to spend the day at the beach and encounter unexpected situations and adventures. What was the inspiration for your story?
I live in Australia and I love animals. I write stories that are easy to connect to and that children will love. As a therapist who knows the importance of nurturing kids with positive outlooks, I write stories that inspire children to live their best lives and live confidently. I want them to know what is truly important in life; friendship, fun, and connection.
Life can be negative sometimes, unlike when I was young. Kids were allowed to be kids and explore in the trees, get dirty, and use their imagination, nowadays kids have a completely different way of living. I want to help children see the world in a fun light. To know there is positivity, and they can always find a good positive outcome from most situations, especially with the right support around them.
As a therapist, I have seen many adults in my therapy room not knowing or understanding the basic values of connection. This could have been taught in childhood so those kids grow into healthy adults. My wish is that my books do this for children.
What made you decide to write this children’s book series around emu? What is about them that makes them perfect for children’s stories?
It starts off with emus but they quickly introduce their friends. Snap the crocodile, Kiki the koala, Kanga Blue, and Rooby Red the kangaroos, and Kira the kookaburra. These animals are not typical animals, they are fun, colourful, wear clothes and hats, and sing and dance. These animals love to express themselves in a fun way. Together they make up a group of (unlikely) friends who support each other through so many of life’s ups and downs. Kids love animals and love to learn, so I thought I would write a fun series while planting some seeds of positivity into their lives too.
What were some themes that were important for you to explore in this book?
Together with their friends, The Emu Family teaches children wonderful concepts like the power of friendship, the importance of community, meditation, self-love, growing food, healthy living, dental hygiene, and so much more. It is important that each book gives a child a good takeaway message so that they can use it in life to make their experience a more positive one.
When will book 2 be available? Can you give us an idea of what adventures readers will go on with the Emu family?
Book 2 will be available in November 2023. This book is about Kira the kookaburra; the story is about her hat collection, but the underlying story is a journey to her finding self-love. Her friends join her and encourage her on her journey. I have written several of the books in the series, and they are all stories to inspire kids to live a healthier, happier life. I have started on the artwork for the second series with more animal characters from London! It’s very exciting!
Author Links: GoodReads | Twitter | Facebook | Website | Amazon
The Emu Family & Friends series teaches children wonderful things like:
The Importance Of Community
The Power Of Friendship
The Importance Of Family
Growing Food
Healthy Eating
Exercise, etc.
This series of books is designed to bring fun and positivity to the reader and also teach them healthy ways of living in this world.
It is also designed to encourage communication between the parent and the child. And maybe even some fun projects to work on together.
This is the first book in a series of adventures.
The Emu Family
In The Emu Family, we follow the adventures of three cheerful emus—Eddie the dad, Emily the mum, and their son, Eric. Each emu has their favorite activity, and when they decide to spend a day at the beach, it promises to be perfect. However, unexpected events threaten to spoil their outing. Can a newfound friend come to their rescue, or is their family day doomed? Together, the Emu family embarks on a journey of friendship, family bonds, and discovering new ways to have fun.
Sharon White’s tale is an endearing Australian adventure featuring the unique fauna of the region, with a focus on the wonderful emus. The illustrations, a delightful blend of digital and traditional art, infuse the story with childhood magic. Ideal for young readers, the story employs straightforward vocabulary while introducing a few new words. The pacing is spot-on, offering plenty of adventure without overwhelming young minds. Kira the Kookaburra’s many hats add a whimsical touch, and it’s evident that love and care were poured into every page of this joyful emu family journey. Above all, this story highlights the significance of friendship and facing challenges together. Readers of all ages can appreciate this sunny narrative of a family beach day that concludes on a heartwarming note.
The Emu Family by Sharon White is a heartfelt story with charming illustrations and a positive message for children. Whether read aloud or independently, this delightful tale of an endearing emu family is sure to captivate readers of all ages with its unreserved whimsy and delight.
Pages: 80 | ASIN : B0DB8LFTDT
The Not So Funny Bunny (Happy Tails)
Sascha is turning six, and all he wants for his birthday is a bunny. He believes a bunny will make not only a great pet but a wonderful friend. Sascha is a little boy who doesn’t have many friends and thinks this is his chance to turn things around. Sascha’s mother is as cautious as Sascha is insistent. For every positive he gives his mother, she gives him a reason that a rabbit will be a challenge for them both. When Sascha wakes up from an after-dinner nap one evening, he is greeted by Yakov, his new bunny friend, and their strange adventure begins.
The Not So Funny Bunny, written by Michele L. Sayre and illustrated by Christina Cartwright, is the story of a little boy who learns a difficult but valuable lesson about owning a pet. Sascha is introduced to the rigors of owning a rabbit following an evening nap. When he awakens, he is taken on an unforgettable journey by Yakov, a quirky and mischievous character. Yakov will remind young readers of The White Rabbit from Alice in Wonderland. His hyperactive ways keep both Sascha and readers on their toes as they watch him advance from one naughty incident to the next.
Sayre’s book is meant to both entertain and teach young readers. Sascha’s frustration is palpable–he can’t seem to stop this amazing rabbit who walks, talks, and destroys everything in his path. His mother’s advice on pet ownership begins to ring true, and Sascha soon sees what most every parent wishes their children to understand–pets are an immense responsibility. Parents really do know best when it comes to talking about pet ownership.
The Not So Funny Bunny, written by Michele L. Sayre and illustrated by Christina Cartwright, will appeal to parents who are facing the pet talk with their little ones. This book is an excellent tool for teaching responsibility and emphasizing careful decision-making. Cartwright’s illustrations are crisp and vibrant and seem to take on a life of their own. I found this author/illustrator team to be one that will be difficult to beat!
Pages: 76 | ASIN : B0C9LC7FR7
