Blog Archives
Naomi Nash: The Mystery of the Ball Python
In the captivating children’s book Naomi Nash: The Mystery of the Ball Python by Jessica Lee Anderson, our nearly nine-year-old protagonist, Naomi, together with her brother Nolan and her friends Taylor and Emma, unexpectedly become the caretakers of a snake discovered at a construction site. Naomi, a snake aficionado, yearns to have a pet of her own. In the serpentine Fin, she sees a potential companion, but she must first ensure the snake’s needs are adequately met and that he does not already belong to someone else.
Naomi Nash: The Mystery of the Ball Python is an exceptional addition to children’s literature. Crafted with a keen understanding of a child’s perspective, it emanates vibrancy and curiosity. This text is characterized by concise chapters interspersed with dynamic illustrations. Illustrator Alejandra Barajas delivers masterful visuals, including details like the shadow cast by a puppy gate riddled with tiny holes.
The narrative is an enthralling blend of fun and educational content. Readers are treated to a wealth of information on snakes, supplemented by a comprehensive glossary, practical snake safety tips, and thought-provoking discussion questions, such as, “What are some instances where events don’t transpire as Naomi anticipated?” Naomi, aware of the diverse opinions on snakes, respectfully shares her fascination with others.
This engaging book boasts amiable characters and a wealth of knowledge about snakes. It serves as an excellent resource for any child wishing to overcome their fear of snakes or other animals. The book elegantly underscores the idea that while snakes may differ from conventional pets like dogs or cats, they nonetheless hold the potential to be beloved companions.
Pages: 113 | ASIN : B0BBYV3ZP7
The Forgotten Treasure
Isabel Ricardo’s The Forgotten Treasure is an enchanting fantasy novel inspired by captivating myths and folklore. Set within a treasure hunt, the story uncovers a wealth that transcends mere material worth and delves into the realm of profound knowledge. This pursuit spans multiple sects and kingdoms, traversing the vast tapestry of time itself. Presently, a group of enterprising young individuals, Mike, Kelly, Sarah, and Andy, find themselves entrusted with a clue that leads them through the hallowed halls of museums and monuments, beckoning them ever closer to the final treasure. Yet, even they remain blissfully unaware of the intricacies unfolding around them.
The author crafts a narrative that seamlessly integrates explanations for the events taking place by deftly weaving together historical facts, fiction, and mythical elements. The prose flows with elegance and clarity, captivating readers with its fluidity. I was entranced by the author’s skillful employment of evocative phrases on numerous occasions. The book’s relentless pace, replete with daring escapes and perilous predicaments, imbues the entire adventure with an exhilarating, spine-tingling quality. Notably, the interactions between the young protagonists and their unwavering dedication to their quest are truly commendable. Throughout the story, an ever-present allusion to “The Lusiads,” an epic poem by Portuguese poet Luis Vaz de Camoes, lends an additional layer of depth and richness. The manner in which the narrative unfolds, gradually unveiling the arduous and protracted journey in search of the forgotten treasure, greatly appealed to me. The unexpected twists and turns along the way ensured a consistently engrossing read. Nevertheless, it should be acknowledged that, on occasion, certain actions displayed a degree of predictability. Furthermore, while exploring the intricate tapestry of historical facts and references within the narrative, I discovered the need for supplementary research to fully grasp their profound significance.
I wholeheartedly recommend The Forgotten Treasure to avid readers who relish fictional works grounded in the realities of life. This book will undoubtedly captivate adventure seekers and mystery enthusiasts alike, piquing their curiosity with its tantalizing blend of excitement and enigma.
Pages: 316 | ISBN : 1949868923
Now and Forevermore Arabella
A child moved from foster home to foster home since she was discovered abandoned at a young age. Twelve-year-old Amanda’s deepest wish is to have a family of her own. Suddenly, Amanda finds her situation reversed and begins to discover the truth about her origins, starting with the revelation of her actual name: Arabella. Soon, the life Arabella has always dreamed of seems to be a real possibility as she discovers more about her family. But all is not sunshine and roses, as a deadly danger from the past threatens to unravel the happiness of Arabella’s new life. Can Arabella hope to find peace and justice, or will her existence be forever shadowed by the mysterious forces that turned her young life upside-down?
Now and Forevermore Arabella by Carolyn Summer Quinn is the highly engrossing tale of a young girl’s search for answers. A story of a cruel fate reversed, Arabella’s transition from the foster system to finding her true home is a story with incredible emotional depth. Arabella struggles to discover who she truly is and to uncover the deadly mystery of her past. Her fight to recall the events of her young life draws the reader in, while the love and protection of those around her are truly beautiful to behold.
I applaud the author for bringing attention to a social injustice that is tragically all too common. This amazing story takes place in only a short period of time, less than three weeks. That the author manages to include such authentic emotions is admirable. I hope there is more to Arabella’s story to come so readers can continue to follow her journey.
This story is suitable for readers aged nine and up who like a thrilling mystery with a deeply emotional plot. This book has mild language, drug references, and heavy themes such as kidnapping and violence toward children that are handled well by the author. Now and Forevermore Arabella is a riveting tale of justice, hope, and finding the true love of family. This is a story certain to touch the hearts of readers.
Pages 168 | ASIN : B09B8TBQW3
She’s Still Here
Kate Sablowsky just moved to Iowa with her famous news anchor mom, Maria Silver. Following the move, Kate starts the seventh grade at Ravendale middle school, where she discovers more than just a cast of kooky teachers. She quickly finds out that she has a gift passed down that allows her to see and speak with the dead. With this skill, she meets Jane, a shy girl who loves chemistry but who died a tragic death in school over 20 years ago. Jane is not fully sure of why and how she died; is there possibly a killer on the loose? You can find out in the first installment of the Kate Sablowsky Paranormal Investigator Series, She’s Still Here by Caitlin Alexander!
This exciting book is a much-welcomed refresh to the middle-grade detective/horror genre. It has all of the simple but entertaining qualities of a classic Nancy Drew mixed with the spookiness of John Bellairs’ works.
Alexander’s writing is simplistic in language but has enough complexities in the plot to make the book appropriate for the targeted audience. As an adult reading this, I was still thoroughly entertained and engaged. Throughout the book, Alexander hints that the killer may still walk amongst the school halls, but all is not what it seems, and I appreciated that final twist to make the book less predictable.
Seeing as She’s Still Here is the first book in a series, I am hoping to see Kate’s character grow and evolve. I feel that Kate comes off as a bit shallow and unwilling to embrace small-town life at the start. The characters encounter typical teenage social situations and struggle to adjust and fit in with peers. Middle-grade readers will be able to relate and sympathize with the characters’ feelings as they navigate middle school. These themes are mixed into the storyline seamlessly next to the paranormal mystery and adventure components.
She’s Still Here by Caitlin Alexander is a gripping paranormal mystery and adventure novel for middle-grade readers that a wide age group can enjoy. I look forward to reading more books in this series.
Pages: 184 | ASIN : B0BHFDRYVW
The Haunted House On Raven’s Roost
Susanna Grant and her three children, Elias, Signe, and Morgan, move from Los Angeles to Ravens’s Roost in order to be closer to her parents and sister. The small town on the Atlantic coast is surrounded by a chain of hills and mysterious legends. One such myth that arouses the curiosity of children in the neighborhood surrounds an old house with creaky old gates on top of one of the hills. The story is that this house is haunted. As Halloween approaches, this small town’s children and adults are excitedly preparing for the holiday. On the long-awaited day, the children create a plan to go up with their costumes to the spooky house to go trick or treating and find out if there really are ghosts hiding there.
The Haunted House On Raven’s Roost is a children’s book thriller involving witches, ghosts, pirates, haunted houses, and hidden treasures. It is fast-paced with easy-to-read short chapters. Perfect for preteen and middle-grade readers. If I could add anything to the story, it would be to better describe the characters. I believe that the reader’s imagination expands when reading the description of the people, images, and situations that make up the narrative. But, on the other hand, history teaches us the lesson of not jumping to conclusions.
The Haunted House On Raven’s Roost is a suspenseful mystery book lovingly written by Jim and Ann Sheridan; it brought back memories of my childhood: when my grandfather would tell me bedside stories before I went to sleep. I recommend this book to my children to relive and create new memories. It brings the delicious feeling of peace when grabbing a hot chocolate and opening a good book on a Sunday morning.
Pages: 122 | ISBN : 1481723464
Jodie’s Adventure on Driftwood Island
Young Jodie and her best friend Sarah look forward to adventures in nature on magical Driftwood Island. With beautiful rainforests, intriguing shipwrecks, and historic sacred places, the possibilities are truly endless on this protected island close to Australia. But as the holiday progresses, Jodie finds more twists and turns than she ever could have imagined. And when disaster strikes, Jodie must act quickly to save the wildlife of Driftwood Island from a sinister plot.
The best books are stories that not only have incredible characters and wonderful plot developments but also something new for the reader to learn. Jodie’s Adventure on Driftwood Island by Diane Fagan ticks all the boxes. I immensely enjoyed spending an afternoon learning all about national parks in Australia alongside Jodie and her friends. Courageous Jodie, who struggles with grief and bullying, is a girl I immediately connected with. I loved seeing the story unfold as Jodie’s path intersects with many others on mysterious Driftwood Island. Reminding me of many happy childhood hours spent reading Nancy Drew mysteries, this third entry in the series is an instant favorite.
The overall story of acceptance, healing, and protecting the environment is a well-written tale of hope. Though there are themes of grief and mortality, these themes are presented gently with the goal of finding peace in a world that can be difficult to understand while making a positive difference in the lives of others in need.
Suitable for ages ten and up and all who love a middle-grade mystery on a wintry afternoon. This engaging children’s book has excellent plot development and a meaningful story. I simply can’t wait to see more from this promising author as Jodie’s adventures continue to unfold. Jodie’s Adventure on Driftwood Island is a perfect addition to any home library, a story of hope and healing, of harmony and love.
Pages: 160 | ASIN : B099MQHZ1D
The Princess, the Knight, and the Lost God
Kassie is a princess of a whimsical world called Chess Mountain. On Chess Mountain, the residents are all chess pieces, and Kassie’s parents rule over them. Princess Kassie is a beloved member of the royal family, and it is her birthday. Kassie is excited to spend the evening with friends and family and celebrate her twelfth birthday. But not everything goes as planned, and Kassie is whisked away to Earth to complete her twelfth-year mission and to protect her from harm.
The Princess, The Knight, and the Lost God by Victoria Winifred is a unique novel about chess. While on Earth, Kassie must hide from evil Originals and make an impact in the lives of others. What better way to do that than to teach and improve her classmates’ chess game? Kassie must navigate Earth’s strange habits and traditions while watching her back for those who might harm her. She makes friends and helps them better their lives by teaching chess, and Kassie learns to stand up for herself against bullies while taking time to understand their challenges.
Winifred has created a unique world centered around chess, which shows her passion for the game. She weaved a story about lovers of chess and how it affects their lives. While the premise might seem a little silly at times, the story is exciting and entertaining all the way until the end. There are many twists and turns that await the reader throughout this story.
The Princess, The Knight, and the Lost God by Victoria Winifred is a captivating children’s chapter book. Young chess lovers will enjoy how Winifred weaves chess terms and strategies throughout the story while sticking to the fantasy genre. With memorable characters and an exciting plot older, elementary and middle school-age children will find this book a wonderful addition to their reading collection.
Pages: 226 | ASIN : B0BLT4PGSZ
Above Us
Above Us by Angela Herrera is a bilingual story with beautiful imagery that explores what’s above us. From our hands in the air giving high fives, to bubbles floating in the air to what clouds look like in the sky and even the universe, we look into the endless possibilities of how children view the world around them. The author invites readers to use their senses when exploring their surroundings, from touching to hearing to seeing, making this a great sensory read for young readers.
Herrera’s words are illustrated by Alvaro Agurto and provide readers with bright, colorful images with different shapes that will immediately captivate children’s attention. I appreciate that this book is in English and Spanish as kids are sponges and will take in what they learn, and a second language will be added to the list. The author encourages children to count the balloons, say the colors of the images in the book, and to even use their imagination when it comes to looking at clouds in the sky.
Above us is a mentally stimulating and interactive read that is perfect to read to little ones as it will get the creative juices flowing and have you look at the world around you from a different perspective. I highly recommend this book to young readers and can see this on bookshelves in libraries and schools.
Pages: 36 | ASIN : B09XRDP4FN
LITERARY TITAN 