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The Last Thing Mama Wanted
Teresa L. Wallace’s The Last Thing Mama Wanted is a captivating and emotionally resonant tale that masterfully captures the essence of childhood longing. Hannah, the young protagonist, is portrayed with a depth that is both remarkable and relatable. Her journey, filled with dreams of acquiring a pet cat, is a poignant exploration of hope and patience. Throughout the narrative, Hannah’s vibrant imagination and unwavering optimism shine through, making her an endearing and memorable character.
The book’s illustrations are a standout feature, adding a rich visual layer to the story. They are not just complementary but integral to the narrative, enhancing the reader’s engagement and empathy with Hannah’s experiences. The vivid and lively artwork invites readers into Hannah’s imaginative world, making each page a joy to explore. One of the book’s most striking qualities is its ability to weave a simple tale of longing into a broader narrative about the rewards of patience and the unpredictability of life. The ending, where Hannah’s dreams are unexpectedly fulfilled, is both satisfying and heartwarming. It brings a sense of closure to Hannah’s journey while also leaving the reader with a lingering sense of delight.
The Last Thing Mama Wanted is an exquisitely crafted story that resonates with a wide audience. It’s a testament to Wallace’s skill as a storyteller and an illustrator’s ability to bring a story to life. This book is not only a delightful read for young children but also offers a charming and thoughtful experience for any reader who remembers the joys and trials of childhood dreams.
Pages: 32 | ASIN : B09516YLH3
The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn, The Dreaded Pirate Captain
The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn: The Dreaded Pirate Captain is a captivating children’s book that effortlessly merges the world of make-believe with real-life adventures. It starts with three children, initially engaged in a playful pirate fantasy in their treehouse. The story takes an unexpected turn when they find themselves aboard an actual pirate ship on the vast ocean. Here, they stumble upon a treasure chest, seemingly unclaimed, sparking their curiosity. However, the discovery of a note reveals the treasure’s true owner, Owen Edward Fastbottom, setting the children on a mission to return what isn’t rightfully theirs. This quest is not without its challenges, as they encounter rival pirates along the way.
This book stands out for its vivid, full-panel illustrations that bring the narrative to life. More than just a thrilling adventure, it serves as a conduit for imparting valuable lessons to young readers. The story underscores the joy of imaginative play and the importance of honesty and integrity. A particularly notable moment is the children’s encounter with Mr. Fastbottom, where they demonstrate kindness and refrain from mocking his name. This subtle yet significant detail emphasizes respect and empathy, crucial virtues in a child’s development. Young readers will find themselves enthralled by The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn. The book successfully blends entertainment with meaningful life lessons, fostering its audience’s imagination and moral development. The narrative encourages children to embrace creativity, showing them the boundless opportunities that imagination can unlock.
The Secret of One-Eyed Cogburn is a splendid example of children’s literature that leaves a lasting impact. Its enchanting blend of adventure and moral instruction resonates deeply, making it a valuable addition to any young reader’s collection. This book not only entertains but also imparts wisdom, making it a memorable read that nurtures the minds of its young audience.
Pages: 27 | ASIN : B0CNSF9NLJ
I Love How
Dr. Isaiah Varisano’s I Love How skillfully integrates the psychological concept of Growth Mindset Praise, developed by Dr. Carol Dweck, into a practical guide for nurturing children. The book emphasizes the benefits of positive reinforcement and encouragement, advocating for a focus on character traits such as curiosity, kindness, compassion, and perseverance. Rather than measuring success by tangible outcomes, Varisano encourages celebrating the process and effort, fostering a sense of fulfillment in children regardless of the results.
I Love How employs photographs instead of traditional illustrations, showcasing a diverse array of children engaging in various activities. This approach not only adds realism but also allows young readers to see themselves and their peers reflected in the narrative, enhancing the connection between the reader and the content.
Beyond being a mere storybook, I Love How extends its value to parents with a section dedicated to practical tips on implementing the Growth Mindset Praise concept in everyday parenting. These tips range from simple language changes to more comprehensive attitude adjustments, offering parents versatile tools to positively influence their children’s development. Varisano’s work stands out for its effective blend of psychological theory and practical application, making it a valuable resource for both children and parents in nurturing positive character development.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0CLK1CMQW
Meet the Cronimoes
Meet the Cronimoes stands out as an imaginative and delightful read, especially notable for its young author, four-year-old E.J. Cooper. This book introduces readers to a whimsically diverse cast of monsters, each uniquely crafted from the vibrant imagination of Cooper. These creatures range from the playful, who enjoy tickling and sniffing stinky feet, to the helpful, assisting those who can’t reach high places. Some, intriguingly, are content doing nothing at all.
E.J. Cooper’s talent in creating a monster-filled world is commendable, capturing the hearts of young readers and igniting their imaginations. Complementing Cooper’s creativity, illustrator Sam Saddle effectively brings these characters to life with striking and colorful illustrations. The book serves as an engaging tool for parents and educators to discuss with children their favorite monsters and even encourages them to design their own Cronimoes, exploring their potential looks and behaviors.
While the book is rich in imagination and character, I feel it might have benefited from a slightly more defined storyline or various challenges for the monsters to navigate. I believe such elements could have provided deeper engagement with these creatively conceived characters. Nevertheless, this does not detract from the book’s splendor and charm. A particularly delightful touch is the inclusion of original drawings by its young author E.J. Cooper, which add an authentic and endearing quality to the book. These illustrations, both humorous and charming, are likely to resonate with both young readers and adults alike.
Meet the Cronimoes is a vibrant celebration of youthful creativity and imagination. Its appeal lies not only in the inventive characters and vivid illustrations but also in its potential to inspire young minds to explore and create. Both entertaining and stimulating, it’s a commendable addition to any young reader’s collection, promising to spark creativity and laughter in equal measure.
Pages: 29 | ASIN : B0CNX2KJ4F
ELIZA JANE FINDS HER HERO
Eliza Jane Finds Her Hero, co-authored by Eliza Kelly and Debra Whiting Alexander, is a poignant and uplifting tale that follows a ten-year-old girl grappling with Tourette syndrome. As she navigates her path to self-discovery, she aspires to be her own hero, accompanied by her devoted chihuahua. This narrative is a testament to the power of kindness and the strength found in embracing one’s uniqueness, portraying a world where every individual’s distinctiveness contributes to life’s rich tapestry of adventures.
Kelly and Alexander have combined their expertise to craft a story that resonates with readers of all ages. Their portrayal of a young protagonist with Tourette syndrome shines a light on an often misunderstood condition, fostering awareness and empathy. However, the book goes beyond mere awareness, offering a positive and encouraging perspective on the challenges associated with the syndrome. The narrative is enriched with vivid, engaging illustrations that captivate the reader’s imagination and enhance the overall experience. The authors have skillfully balanced a narrative tone with accessible language, making the book a suitable and enjoyable read for both children and adults. The inclusion of humorous and relatable characters injects levity into the story, balancing its more serious themes.
At its heart, Eliza Jane Finds Her Hero is a story of empowerment. As Eliza Jane embarks on her journey, her courage and resilience serve as an inspiration. The book’s concise length and brisk pacing ensure a compelling read, all while imparting a significant and valuable lesson about acceptance and the inner strength that lies within everyone.
Pages: 62 | ASIN : B0CLL251XC
The Holiday Adventures of Susie & Johnny Grilled Cheese
Susie & Johnny Grilled Cheese: A Holiday Adventure by Erin Dullaghan Jones is a delightful children’s book that captures the essence of the holiday season. This narrative, set in a fanciful treehouse, follows Susie and Johnny as they embark on a journey through various cultural festivities, including Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. The story adeptly weaves themes of diversity and cultural richness, making it an engaging read for young audiences. The book adeptly illustrates the joys of giving and the values of gratitude and kindness. This is showcased through the characters’ involvement in a secret gift exchange and their commitment to community volunteering. The narrative is sprinkled with scenes of holiday cheer, ranging from decorating their treehouse to the simple pleasure of baking cookies, underlining the importance of family and togetherness during the holiday season.
Erin Dullaghan Jones’ writing style is heartwarming and festive, making Susie & Johnny Grilled Cheese: A Holiday Adventure an ideal choice for holiday reading. The characters of Susie and Johnny are well-crafted to embody the spirit of the holidays, engaging in activities such as putting up decorations, acknowledging diverse cultural traditions, exchanging gifts, and enjoying culinary experiences with family. The vivid illustrations in the book play a crucial role, drawing readers into the magical world of the story and enhancing the experience of Christmas and the holiday spirit. The conclusion of the story, celebrating the arrival of the New Year, leaves readers with a sense of hope and optimism for the future.
This book is a charming addition to any young reader’s library, particularly for those who enjoy stories that celebrate the spirit of the holidays, underscored by diversity, kindness, and family themes.
Pages: 49 | ASIN : B0CLKZMT5R
God is LOVE Personified
The Secret Life of Bears teaches children about the importance of having a relationship with God, what it looks like, and how it feels. What was the inspiration for the original and fascinating idea at the center of the book?
In many ways this book is an autobiography written for children to understand. It demonstrates what God has taught me over the many years of our relationship. I don’t claim to have a closer relationship with God than anyone else. But he and I do have a unique relationship. As we all do, one way or another.
The art in this book is fantastic. What was the art collaboration process like with illustrator Mohamed Daamouche?
Mohamed was a delight to work with! We had a few cultural issues to resolve in the beginning, but Mohamed had a fantastic attitude when I requested changes. I had thought through what I wanted most of the illustrations to look like. In other cases I knew what I wanted illustrations to convey and what they should include, but didn’t quite know how it all should look. I wasn’t sure Mohamed could make a “cute” worm, or show God sprinkling snow on the earth from above with Baby Bear making snow angels below. But he did it!
Given that Mohamed is from Morocco and that his first name is Mohamed, I made sure from the very beginning that he knew this is a Christian book and felt no obligation to take the job. He said he wanted the job anyway. Thank heavens! He did a great job!
What were some ideas that were important for you to share in this book?
God is LOVE personified. He is also GOOD personified. He created each and every person and everything. And, believe it or not, he can be lots of fun to be with.
What is the next book that you are working on and when will it be available?
There are several books in my queue to be written, including:
More Team Bear books
a. The next book – Baby Bear grows up enough to know that he is Cubbie Bear, and he gets into lots of mischief. How does Jesus handle all his shenanigans?
b. The second new Team Bear book includes Cubbie’s new little sister, Cutie Bear, creating a whole new dynamic in the family. Cubbie isn’t too sure he’s happy with this development, so what does Jesus do now?
c. Their circle of friends include:
i. Harey – the rabbit, which keeps growing until it’s big enough that it’s clear that it really is a hare
ii. Sheepish – the lamb
iii. Sir Oliver – a smallish tan bear
iv. Nocey – a larger brown bear
v. Moosie – a moose, of course
vi. Moosarella – the tiniest moose on record at just three inches tall
How does Jesus deal with them all as they interact like normal kids?
Caedon’s Camel – Going back to the time when giants roamed the earth, Caed (Caedon) is the biggest and best giant on the island of Bandon. His most important job is to scout around the entire island to make sure everything is as it should be. The island being rather large, Caed gets tired of walking such long distances and buys a large, sturdy camel that is strong enough for him to ride. Caed, however, does not count on the irascibility of camels. They spit truly stinky stuff, supposedly for more than 100 feet. Eeeww! It smells so awful that you don’t want to get in the way of one of those mouthfuls of yuck! Plus, Caed finds his camel to be quite stubborn and move only when it wants to. Caed quickly becomes exasperated with his untrustworthy ride. But being stubborn himself, Caed refuses to give up, and the story shows how Caed ends up taming his camel. Or – is it the other way around? Does the camel wind up taming him…? Take a read when this book is done and see how it works out. And be sure to note, Jesus does show up in the story!
The Half-a-Tater – For centuries the people of Feynamoor have lived solely on potatoes. Isolated geographically from other countries, they know nothing else. Planting and harvesting potatoes all had to be done by hand. It was backbreaking work as farmers labored from dawn til dusk, sometimes even working into the night by moonlight or torch. Even so, farmers were not able to grow enough potatoes to feed everyone well and often people went hungry. Imagine their delight when Chester T. Chatterbox somehow makes his way to Feynamoor with his invention called the “Tater” that seems to mechanize the entire potato harvesting process. Chatterbox demonstrates how the machine works and farmers are satisfied that it works as described to them. Potatoes still must be planted by hand, but with the hard labor of harvesting taken care of, farmers hail Chatterbox as a hero and gladly raise the funds to buy Taters from him.
Alas, however, Chatterbox is a con man and the Tater in reality only harvests half the crop, which leaves the people of Feynamoor no better off than they were before. Farmers are furious! They’ve lost their money, which was in precious short supply to begin with. More to the point, they couldn’t figure out how they got fooled. How did Chatterbox make it look like it worked? What will they do now? Check out the book when it’s done to see how they find a way forward! And, yup, Jesus shows up!
Author Links: GoodReads | X (formally Twitter) | Facebook | Website
Children are naturally drawn to stories of cuddly creatures, and this book weaves the tale of Papa Bear, depicted as the embodiment of Jesus’s love. He is the most lovey-dovey Papa Bear ever. Children are invited to experience the profound bond between Papa Bear and Baby Bear through easy-to-understand, engaging text paired with vibrant illustrations. This bond beautifully mirrors the unparalleled relationship we share with God.
What does a relationship with God feel like, especially for a child? This narrative captures it perfectly. Papa Bear, representing the all-loving, all-powerful, and all-intelligent nature of Jesus, becomes a guide and protector. Every moment with him is a lesson that everything good, pure, and true is encapsulated in his very being. Through Papa Bear’s eyes, Baby Bear learns the unwavering truth of Jesus’ complete and powerful love.
Christian children’s book enthusiasts will find The Secret Life of Bears reminiscent of classics such as The Tale of Three Trees, All Day Long, God Loves Me, and Everywhere I Go, God is With Me. It resonates with the comforting messages in Never Fear, God is Near and Mad, Glad, or Sad, and God is For Me. And just like the beloved Jesus Loves Me (Cuddle and Sing Board Book), and its companion titles, our story emphasizes the omnipresent love of Jesus in a format young children can grasp.
In the vast ocean of children’s books about a relationship with God, The Secret Life of Bears is a beacon of hope, love, and the eternal bond between God and His children. Welcome this heartwarming tale into your home and let it nourish your child’s faith, one page at a time.
Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park
In Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park, Marc Polett crafts a narrative that celebrates the joys of childhood and the splendor of nature. On a delightful summer day, young Lily embarks on an outdoor adventure, encountering new friends and discovering the enchantment of the world around her. This narrative offers readers a glimpse into Lily’s magical experiences and the wonders of everyday adventures.
The book distinguishes itself with its gentle, rhyming prose that transports readers to a vibrant world where friendship and the beauty of nature reign supreme. The illustrations are particularly noteworthy, radiating warmth and an appreciation for life’s simple pleasures. Each page is a testament to the joy of childhood, reminiscent of national parks and the untamed beauty of the outdoors. These visuals complement the narrative and evoke a sense of nostalgia and a deep connection to the natural world. The portrayal of animals in the story adds a layer of charm, emphasizing the value of stepping away from the mundane and embracing the outdoors. The narrative effectively communicates the significance of friendship and the therapeutic qualities of nature, making it a compelling read for both children and adults. It serves as a gentle reminder of the importance of disconnecting from our busy lives and finding solace in the tranquility of nature.
Lily’s Wondrous World: A Day in the Park is an ode to the simple joys that life offers. The story’s seamless blend of visual artistry and lyrical storytelling makes it a delightful read for individuals of all ages. For those who cherish the companionship of animals, the allure of friendship, and the beauty of the great outdoors, this book is a heartwarming journey back to the essence of joy. As readers turn each page, they’ll find themselves immersed in a narrative that celebrates the wonder of living and the timeless appeal of nature’s embrace.
Pages: 57 | ASIN : B0CP38355P
LITERARY TITAN 